MLM Directory

Marketing tips?

I am designing a website for my dad's plumbing company and we are also looking for other inexpensive and/or free ways to market his company. It is not a new company (he's been in business for 21 years) but he wants a way to boost customer base, both commercially and residentially. Other than free web ads and building a website, what other ways can he market his company? From a customer standpoint, what things do you like to hear when searching for a plumber or any contractor? And what things would be ideal to see on a plumber's website?

Public Comments

1. Hi Rita - There are SO many stories about scammers out there. Looking for a plumber or other contractor can be scary, especially for single women. Here are my suggestions: -"Established in 1987." (this is REALLY important) -I'd want to see testimonials from actual customers (you wouldn't have to put their full names on the website - - something like "Joe's Plumbing is who we've called for 18 years, every time we need any work done! -Bobbi R." or "Joe is professional, reliable, and is always on time - he's a lifesaver! -Kim B.") - put at least one picture of your Dad on the site... a picture of him on the job, another pic of what he looked like when he first started the company, a current pic, a picture of his work truck, etc. People want to know who they're going to get. As for marketing his business, word of mouth generally works the best in this type of industry. You might consider offering a referral discount (for example: if a customer refers another NEW customer, they get $10 off their next visit), to encourage word of mouth advertising. I hope that helps! Good luck!
2. personally I would do geo targeted ppc ads this is the best since the ads would be placed directly infront of potential people in need of plumbers searches are done everyday and having a spcific ads to that specific user can dramatically increase your or dad business
3. Don't limit yourself to just a website - run local classified ads on Craigslist, Kijiji, write a blog, participate in Do-it-yourself forums locally, advertise in Home shows ( get a booth), Yellow Pages, brochures, Post Office bulk delivery of brochures, asking satisfied customers to refer their friends -plan a campaign. Most of the above is free, by the way or costs very little.
4. My company we design about 3 - 4 websites a day both small and large. You need to do the following: Make sure all the pages are good quality content Have at least 200 - 600 words on each page You should have testimonials from past and present clients. Make sure you have sign up areas on your site and giveaway plumbing tips. This is just some of the things you can do, Check out this free ebook, this will give you plenty more ideas you can do. www.boostyourbusiness.com.au If you need a hand with the website design I would be happy to help. Cheers Col
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