Whether you are just starting your own handyman business or looking to add customers, marketing your business is vital for its continued growth. You don't need to hire an advertising professional to get the word out. Just follow these easy tips to deliver your message to potential customers.
Instructions
1. Determine your budget for marketing. While there are many free or low-cost marketing options, there are also options that reach more potential customers but cost a bit more. If you are just starting out and looking to build your clientele, marketing will probably be a larger part of your budget than if you are established and just want to add a few new customers.
2. Create your marketing message. You don't have to be a professional writer, just make a list of the reasons a customer would want to hire you. Here are some points to consider:
- What is your experience?
- What are your skills and specialties? Plumbing or electrical work? Remodeling? Carpentry? Be realistic about your experience and abilities. If you are not experienced in a specialty do not put it on your list of skills.
- Are you interested in working in only a certain geographical area?
- What will your rate be? Most handymen charge by the hour. While it is not necessary to list this on your advertising it can be helpful to customers who are making a choice.
- Do you have a contractor's license or any other special licenses?
- Do you have previous clients who would be willing to recommend you? Could you ask them for a written recommendation to include in your advertising and marketing efforts?
3. Create a marketing flier. No matter how you choose to use it, a flier is a great marketing tool for a handyman business. You can post it in public places such as building centers or community center bulletin boards, on telephone poles (depending on city regulations) or distribute copies in mailboxes in neighborhoods you are interested in working in.
Using a word processing program, compose your marketing message from Step 2. Be sure to include the following:
- Your name or your business name
- A contact telephone number (also include email if available)
- Your list of experience and skills
- Be sure to note that references are available if applicable
- Hourly rate
Print your flier and have as many copies as needed made at your local print shop.
4. Use low-cost online advertising. Using the information from your marketing flier, post your details online. If you don't have a computer at home check your local library for computer access. Here are some sites to try:
- Craigslist.com: In addition to being free, it's a very popular website for customers seeking home repairs.
- Handymanwire.com: Low fee to post your business details.
- Handyman.com
- Angie's List: you can't actually post to this customer-run review website, but if you have customers who are members ask them to post a review of your business.
5. Place a newspaper or telephone directory ad. This will be more expensive than the options in Steps 3 and 4, but has the potential to reach more customers. Check with your local newspaper and telephone directory for rates, and determine if this fits within your marketing budget. Use the details from your marketing message to create your ad, and be sure to include contact information.
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