Simple marketing tactics that actually work
When you’re flat out quoting, running jobs, and keeping clients happy, the last thing you want to think about is marketing.
But if people can’t find you online, you’re missing out on work. Even when you’re the right person for the job.
You don’t need a big budget or a fancy plan. Just a few simple things done well.
Here’s how tradies across New Zealand can bring in more leads online, without spending a fortune.
1. Keep your Google Business Profile updated
This is one of the most underused but easiest and effective ways to get seen in local searches.
And it’s free!
Check that:
Your name, contact details and service areas are correct
You’ve uploaded recent photos of your work
You’ve replied to reviews and posted an update in the last month
It’s also worth asking happy clients to leave a review. It helps with rankings and helps build trust.
2. Make sure your website is working for you
Your website and SEO go hand in hand. If someone clicks through from Google, you want your page to be clear and helpful.
Take a look and check:
Does it clearly say what you do and where you work?
Are those words in your headings and page copy?
Is there a clear next step, like a phone number or contact form?
You don’t need anything fancy. Just a site that’s easy to read, looks good on mobile, and helps people take action.
Top tip: To see what people are actually searching for, start typing your service and location into Google, like plumber Tauranga. Suggestions will pop up with top searches. You could also try a free tool like Ubersuggest to get ideas and see how popular certain words are.
3. Use social media to keep your name out there
You don’t need to post every day or be a marketing guru. But you should use your social media pages to remind people what you do and why they should contact you.
Share things like:
Before and after photos of jobs (with client permission)
Common questions or quick tips
You and your team, so they get to know you
What areas you’re working in this week or next
Don’t overthink it. Just let people see you and the work you do.
4. Test a small Facebook or Instagram ad
If you’re ready to bring in a few extra leads, try a small local ad. Even $5 to $10 a day can help you get seen.
Start by:
Choosing a clear offer like “Get your heat pump checked before winter”
Using a photo of your work
Telling people exactly what to do next
You can target by location, age, and interests to make sure you’re only showing your ad to people most likely to book.
5. Make the most of community Facebook Groups
Local Facebook Groups are a great way to get your name out there. You don’t always need to talk about work. Just being part of the conversation helps people get familiar with who you are and what you do.
You could:
Answer questions, even general ones
Comment on local posts
Help out when someone needs advice
Over time, people start to recognise your name. So, when someone in the group asks for help, maybe with a reno or a plumbing problem, you’re already familiar and more likely to get tagged or recommended.
Also, check your personal Facebook profile. Can someone tell what you do if they click through? Add your business to the work section and make sure your contact info or business page is easy to find.
If your profile is completely private, you might be missing opportunities.
6. Team up with other tradies and local businesses
Some of the best leads come from people you already know. Like tradies on site, suppliers you deal with, or mates in the trades
Think about:
Builders who know a sparky or plumber they can rely on
Kitchen designers who need an installer they trust
Suppliers who know you do quality work and pay on time
Have a chat with other tradies, suppliers, and mates you trust. If you rate each other’s work, there’s no reason not to back each other.
7. Make it easy for people to contact you
You’d be surprised how many websites and Facebook Pages don’t have working links or forms. A potential client shouldn’t have to dig around to find a phone number.
Check that:
Your mobile number is clickable
Your email or contact form works properly
Your social media links go to your current website or booking page
If it takes too long to figure out how to book or get in touch with you, people will just go somewhere else.
8. Stay in touch after the job is done
Following up doesn’t mean hassling people. It helps them remember you when they need more work done or know someone looking for what you do.
You can:
Send a short message a few months after the job to check in and make sure they’re still happy with your work
Let them know about seasonal offers or availability
Ask if they know someone else who needs the same service
Need a hand with your marketing?
Pick a couple of things from the list above to get started.
If you’d rather get help with marketing, like your socials, Google Business Profile, or regular content, Shadow Administration can help.
