Time-Tested Lead Generation Strategies to Increase Leads
Discover proven, time-tested lead generation strategies—PPC, referrals, local SEO and more—to drive inquiries and grow your service-based business.
Increasing Leads (Time-Tested Strategies)
1. Advertising using Pay-Per-Click (PPC) – How to advertise using Google Ads
Why use it?
PPC allows you to put your business in front of people actively searching for your services. You only pay when someone clicks, so every dollar goes toward driving targeted traffic—and you can turn campaigns on and off instantly to suit your budget.
Example (Service-based business):
A local lawn-mowing company runs a Google Ads campaign targeting keywords like “lawn care near me” and “weekly mowing service.” They set a daily budget of $20, bid on long-tail phrases (“affordable lawn mowing Logan”), and send clicks to a landing page offering a first-time customer discount.
Effectiveness:
-
Highly measurable: Track impressions, clicks, and conversions in real time.
-
Immediate results: Ads start showing within minutes once approved.
-
Scalable: Ramp budgets up or down based on performance.
Tip:
Start with a small daily budget ($10–$20) to test which keywords and ad copy perform best before scaling up.
Hints & Tips:
-
Use long-tail keywords (e.g. “commercial office cleaning Brisbane”) to reduce cost-per-click and reach ready-to-buy prospects.
-
Implement negative keywords (e.g. “DIY,” “job”) to filter out unqualified traffic.
-
Write two or three ad variations and A/B test headlines and calls-to-action.
-
Link ads to a focused landing page (not your homepage) that matches the ad’s promise.
-
Set up conversion tracking (phone calls, form fills) so you know exactly which ads drive sales.
-
Use ad extensions (call, sitelink, location) to increase real estate on the results page and boost click-through rate.
2. Word-of-Mouth Advertising
3. Benefit From Your Car Signage/Car Wraps
4. FREE Stuff – Give It Away!
Why use it?
Everyone loves freebies. Offering something free—samples, trials, templates—draws prospects in, builds goodwill and allows you to demonstrate value risk-free.
Example:
A garden-maintenance service hands out free 15-minute soil-testing kits at local markets. Interested homeowners then book a full landscaping consultation.
Effectiveness:
-
High lead volume: Free offers drive large opt-in lists.
-
Trust builder: Demonstrates confidence in your service.
Tip:
Limit quantity (“First 100 only”) to create urgency and manage costs.
Hints & Tips:
-
Collect email addresses in exchange for the freebie
-
Showcase before/after results alongside the free offer
-
Bundle a value add (e.g. “Free gutter inspection with every window clean”)
5. Attract Them with Coupons & Discounts
Why use it?
Time-limited coupons give prospects a nudge to try you now rather than later, overcoming the inertia that stalls many service purchases.
Example:
A home-organizing business sends direct-mail postcards with “20% off first room declutter” expiring in 14 days.
Effectiveness:
-
Boosts short-term bookings by 30–50% during the promo period
-
Easy to track ROI via coupon code redemptions
Tip:
Use an online promo code for easy digital tracking—no printed materials needed.
Hints & Tips:
-
Clearly state the expiry date
-
Limit to first-time customers to protect margins
-
A/B test discount levels (e.g. 10% vs. 20%) to find the sweet spot
6. Offer Specials & Promotions
Why use it?
Beyond standard coupons, “specials” package your services in an attractive bundle—making it easy for customers to perceive extra value.
Example:
A carpet-cleaning service offers a “Living Room + Hallway” bundle at a 25% discount versus booking rooms separately.
Effectiveness:
-
Increases average transaction value by encouraging larger bookings
-
Differentiates you from competitors who sell only piecemeal services
Tip:
Rotate specials monthly to keep repeat visitors checking back.
Hints & Tips:
-
Feature your special prominently on your homepage banner
-
Leverage countdown timers to heighten urgency
-
Use customer testimonials specific to the bundled services
7. Luring Customers with Competitions & Contests
Why use it?
Contests generate excitement, social engagement and rapid list-building—all while putting your brand front-and-center.
Example:
A mobile car-detailing service runs an Instagram photo contest: “Post your dirty car with #ShineOnMe for a chance at a free full detail.”
Effectiveness:
-
High social shares: UGC (user-generated content) multiplies reach organically
-
Lead gen: Entry requires email sign-up
Tip:
Offer a tangible prize (your core service) to attract genuinely interested prospects.
Hints & Tips:
-
Keep entry mechanics simple—no multi-step forms
-
Encourage tagging friends to amplify reach
-
Follow–up all entrants with a consolation discount
8. Pass It On – Viral Marketing
Why use it?
If you can incentivize customers to share your content or offers, you tap into exponential reach without proportional spend.
Example:
An HVAC service emails clients a “Refer-a-friend” link that gives both referrer and referee $50 off—shared via WhatsApp or social.
Effectiveness:
-
Network effect: Each satisfied customer can bring multiple new leads
-
Low ongoing cost once infrastructure is in place
Tip:
Use a trackable link so you can reward and measure shares accurately.
Hints & Tips:
-
Offer tiered rewards (e.g. $25 for 1 share, $75 for 3)
-
Make sharing a one-click action via social SDKs or email templates
-
Show a live leaderboard (optional) to gamify referrals
9. Maximize Your Email Signature File
Why use it?
Your email signature goes out with every message you send—turning routine correspondence into a mini-billboard promoting your services and offers. It’s free real estate that reinforces your brand and drives clicks.
Example (Service-based business):
A graphic-design studio adds a banner below their signature: “Need a fresh logo? Get 10% off your first project—click here.”
Effectiveness:
-
Passive exposure: Every email recipient sees your call-to-action.
-
Low effort: Update once, reap ongoing benefits.
Tip:
Keep your signature to 3–4 lines plus one small promotional banner—too much text will be ignored.
Hints & Tips:
-
Include one primary CTA (e.g., “Book a free consult”)
-
Use a trackable link (UTM parameters) to measure clicks
-
Add a small headshot to build personal trust
-
Rotate banners quarterly to spotlight new specials
10. Advertise In Local Newspapers
Why use it?
Community papers target hyper-local audiences who are often your best prospects. Ad rates are affordable, and readers tend to trust neighborhood publications.
Example (Service-based business):
A small plumbing company runs a quarter-page ad in the local community paper, featuring “Emergency Leak Repairs—24/7 Service” and a prominent phone number.
Effectiveness:
-
Credibility boost: Print ads convey stability and professionalism.
-
Targeted reach: You reach households in your service area directly.
Tip:
Negotiate multi-week packages for discounted rates and ensure your ad runs near relevant editorial (e.g., home-improvement section).
Hints & Tips:
-
Use bold headlines and minimal copy—readers skim quickly
-
Include a deadline or limited-time offer to drive action
-
Leverage a QR code to track digital response from the print ad
11. Try Some Local School Newsletter Ads
Why use it?
Parents and teachers read school newsletters for updates. Advertising here positions you as a community-focused provider and puts your services front of families who need local businesses.
Example:
A lawn-care service buys a small ad spot in the monthly PTA newsletter: “Summer Lawn Makeover—10% off for local families.”
Effectiveness:
-
Highly targeted: Reach households within specific suburbs.
-
Community goodwill: Aligns you with local schools and causes.
Tip:
Offer a “school family discount” to drive higher uptake among parents and staff.
Hints & Tips:
-
Keep graphics simple—newsletters often reprint in black-and-white
-
Include a short testimonial from another school parent
-
Sponsor a newsletter contest (e.g., “Best backyard before/after”)
12. Get Some Free Press Releases
A well-crafted press release can land free coverage in local news outlets, websites, and blogs—boosting awareness and SEO through backlinks.
Example:
A new home-organizing service issues a release about its grand opening and a community-service day organizing a local shelter.
Effectiveness:
-
Earned media: Free publicity that carries editorial weight.
-
SEO lift: Backlinks from local media outlets improve your Google ranking.
Tip:
Timely, newsworthy angles (awards, events, partnerships) are more likely to be picked up.
Hints & Tips:
-
Follow AP style for clarity and professionalism
-
Distribute via free services (e.g., PRLog, Online PR Media)
-
Pitch directly to local bloggers and community reporters
-
Include quotable soundbites from your owner/CEO
13. Neighbourhood Letterbox Drops
Why use it?
Dropping flyers or postcards door-to-door saturates your immediate area, ensuring every household sees your offer. It’s especially effective in suburbs with older demographics who still engage with print.
Example:
A gutter-cleaning business delivers 5,000 door-drops in a target suburb with “Book now for spring clean—$50 off.”
Effectiveness:
-
Wide visibility: Every home reached in a defined zone.
-
Control: You choose streets and timings for maximum impact.
Tip:
Use bright colors and clear headlines to stand out on the kitchen bench.
Hints & Tips:
-
Time drops at weekend mornings when people are home
-
Use a unique offer or coupon code to track response
-
Keep flyer design simple—avoid clutter
14. Put Flyers in Customers’ Hands
Why use it?
Hand-to-hand distribution lets you target high-traffic spots and explain your offer in person—boosting immediate interest and credibility.
Example:
A mobile car-detailing team hands out flyers at busy commuter parking lots offering “10% off for cars booked today.”
Effectiveness:
-
Personal touch: Recipients feel engaged rather than “spammed.”
-
Immediate action: On-the-spot bookings often occur.
Tip:
Train your distributors to be friendly, brief, and ready to answer basic questions.
Hints & Tips:
-
Focus on peak times (e.g., lunch hours, school drop-off)
-
Include a QR code for instant booking on smartphones
-
Offer a small giveaway (branded air freshener) to encourage holding onto the flyer
15. Get Online with Online Directories
Why use it?
Directories like Yelp, TrueLocal, and Yellow Pages still drive significant local traffic. Claiming and optimizing listings improves visibility and credibility in search results.
Example:
An electrician ensures their business appears in top local directories, complete with photos, service lists, and customer reviews.
Effectiveness:
-
SEO boost: Directory backlinks support your Google ranking.
-
Lead generation: Many users browse these sites when seeking services.
Tip:
Complete every field—hours, service areas, photos—to rank higher within the directory’s search.
Hints & Tips:
-
Encourage happy clients to leave detailed reviews
-
Keep your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistent across all listings
-
Use paid upgrades (featured placement) judiciously once ROI is proven
16. Why Not Barter and Trade Your Services?
Why use it?
Bartering lets you trade value with other local businesses—expanding your reach and saving cash while forging partnerships that can lead to referrals.
Example:
A bookkeeping firm offers 10 free hours of bookkeeping in exchange for a local print-shop’s design and printing services for their flyers.
Effectiveness:
-
Cost savings: You get needed services without cash outlay.
-
Cross-promotion: Each partner promotes the other’s services.
Tip:
Formalize trades in a simple written agreement to ensure fairness.
Hints & Tips:
-
Trade with businesses whose clients overlap but don’t compete
-
Set clear deliverables and timelines for both sides
-
Publicize the partnership on social media for added awareness
17. Do Some Direct Mail/Email
Why use it?
Targeted direct mail or email campaigns let you reach segmented audiences with personalized offers—driving higher open and response rates than generic blasts.
Example:
A physiotherapy clinic mails postcards to households over 50, highlighting a “Back-pain assessment special” with a trackable code.
Effectiveness:
-
Personalized: Custom messaging resonates deeply with specific demographics.
-
Measurable: Track redemptions, opens, and clicks easily.
Tip:
Segment your list by past behavior (e.g., lapsed clients) and tailor your message to their needs.
Hints & Tips:
-
Use variable data printing to personalize mailers (name, service history)
-
A/B test subject lines and offer types in email
-
Combine with retargeting ads to reinforce your message
18. Smart Reasons Your Business Should Sponsor Local Events
Why use it?
Sponsorships align your brand with community values, granting you visibility on event collateral—banners, programs, websites—and the goodwill of attendees.
Example:
A catering company sponsors the annual suburban fun-run, providing branded water stations and logo placement on race bibs and banners.
Effectiveness:
-
High visibility: Your logo and message seen by hundreds or thousands.
-
Emotional connection: Attendees associate you with positive community experiences.
Tip:
Negotiate perks like social-media shoutouts or complimentary exhibitor booths as part of your package.
Hints & Tips:
-
Choose events whose attendees match your ideal customer profile
-
Leverage sponsorship for PR outreach post-event (photos, quotes)
-
Offer on-site sampling or mini-demonstrations to engage participants
19. Have You Tried Door-to-Door Marketing?
Why use it?
Face-to-face interactions build instant rapport and trust, allowing you to address objections on the spot and book appointments right away.
Example (Service-based business):
A local locksmith team canvasses apartments, offering “Lock Tune-Up for $49—book today” door-to-door and scheduling on-the-spot service calls.
Effectiveness:
-
High conversion: Personal touch yields response rates of 5–10% versus 1–2% for mail.
-
Immediate feedback: Learn objections and refine your pitch in real time.
Tip:
Focus on late afternoons or weekend mornings when most people are home.
Hints & Tips:
-
Always carry branded ID and a simple leave-behind flyer
-
Keep your introduction under 10 seconds
-
Respect “No Soliciting” signs—target permissible areas
-
Offer a limited-time incentive to encourage instant booking
20. Free Clients with Active Referral Marketing
Why use it?
A structured referral program incentivizes your happiest customers to actively send business your way, generating high-quality, low-cost leads.
Example:
A massage therapist gives each client a $20 credit for every friend who books a full session using their unique referral code.
Effectiveness:
-
Up to 30% of new business from referrals for well-run programs
-
High-quality leads: Referred clients have higher trust and retention
Tip:
Promote the referral program at visit checkout and via post-appointment emails.
Hints & Tips:
-
Use simple referral cards or email links
-
Offer double-sided rewards (to referrer and referee)
-
Track referrals in a CRM or spreadsheet for transparency
21. Lead Providers and Pay-Per-Lead Services
Why use it?
Buying vetted leads from specialized networks can quickly fill your pipeline when you need growth, without upfront ad management.
Example:
An HVAC company subscribes to a pay-per-lead service that sends only “AC repair” requests within 20 km of their base.
Effectiveness:
-
Immediate lead flow: Plug into a steady stream of prospects
-
Budget control: Pay only for qualified, interested inquiries
Tip:
Start with a small lead package to test lead quality before scaling.
Hints & Tips:
-
Specify strict qualification criteria (location, budget, service type)
-
Negotiate capped lead volumes to control costs
-
Compare multiple providers monthly for best ROI
22. Lawn Signs – If Politicians Can Use Them, Why Not You?
Why use it?
Placing yard signs in neighborhoods where you’ve done great work advertises directly to neighbors—who tend to choose local service providers recommended by those around them.
Example:
A pest-control technician leaves branded “Smith Exterminators” signs in clients’ front yards for two weeks after treatment.
Effectiveness:
-
Hyper-local exposure: Neighbors see the sign and inquire.
-
Social proof: Visible evidence of satisfied customers nearby.
Tip:
Limit signs to high-traffic streets and ask permission before placing.
Hints & Tips:
-
Keep design clean with legible phone number
-
Remove signs promptly to maintain goodwill
-
Rotate sign locations every 2–3 weeks
23. Maximize Leads with Lead Groups (Networking Groups)
Why use it?
Regular attendance at B2B networking groups (e.g., BNI, Chamber of Commerce) generates referrals from non-competing businesses invested in mutual success.
Example:
A commercial cleaning company joins a local BNI chapter, delivering a clear “30-second pitch” each week to 20+ business owners.
Effectiveness:
-
Consistent referral flow: Members refer each other on scheduled cadence.
-
Relationship building: Trust grows over repeated in-person meetings.
Tip:
Send one well-targeted referral back to the group for every one you receive.
Hints & Tips:
-
Track your referrals given vs. received to demonstrate reciprocity
-
Always follow up within 24 hours on any lead provided
-
Bring business cards and one-pager handouts
24. Focus on Local Search Engine Optimization (Local SEO)
Why use it?
Optimizing for “near me” searches ensures your business appears when prospects look for services in your immediate area—essential for capturing on-demand customers.
Example:
A dog-walking service targets keywords like “dog walker Brisbane South,” adds local schema markup, and builds citations on local business directories.
Effectiveness:
-
High-intent traffic: Local searchers often convert at 50%+
-
Sustainable growth: Organic visibility reduces ad spend over time
Tip:
Optimize your Google Business Profile with accurate hours, services, and photos.
Hints & Tips:
-
solicit customer reviews on Google for higher map ranking
-
Ensure NAP consistency (Name, Address, Phone) across all listings
-
Embed a Google Map on your website’s Contact page
25. Use Targeted Ads on Facebook
Why use it?
Facebook’s granular targeting lets you reach homeowners by zip code, age, interests, and behaviors—perfect for service-based businesses wanting precision.
Example:
A kitchen-renovation contractor runs carousel ads to homeowners aged 30–60 within a 15 km radius showcasing before-and-after photos.
Effectiveness:
-
Cost-efficient reach: CPMs often under $5 in suburban markets.
-
Visual impact: Photo/video ads demonstrate craftsmanship.
Tip:
Use video ads with quick 15-second transformations to grab attention in the feed.
Hints & Tips:
-
Retarget website visitors with a “Book a free quote” ad
-
A/B test creative formats (image vs. video vs. slideshow)
-
Install the Facebook Pixel to track conversions and optimize
26. Focus on Creating Content with a Local Focus
Why use it?
Publishing blog posts, videos, or guides addressing neighborhood-specific needs positions you as the local expert and drives organic traffic.
Example:
A pool-maintenance company writes “Top 5 Pool Care Tips for Brisbane’s Summer,” shares it on social media and in local Facebook groups.
Effectiveness:
-
Authority building: Prospects trust specialists who understand local conditions.
-
SEO benefits: Localized content ranks for geo-specific searches.
Tip:
Interview local clients for case-study posts—adds authenticity.
Hints & Tips:
-
Include local landmarks or suburb names in titles (e.g., “Gold Coast Pool Tips”)
-
Repurpose content into short social videos for wider reach
-
Add a call-to-action at the end linking to your services
27. Promote Positive Customer Reviews
Why use it?
Showcasing stellar reviews across channels leverages social proof to reassure prospects and encourage them to choose you over competitors.
Example:
A physiotherapy clinic features rotating Google and Facebook reviews on its homepage and in email footers.
Effectiveness:
-
Trust amplifier: 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
-
SEO lift: Fresh reviews improve local pack rankings.
Tip:
Respond promptly to every review—thanking fans and addressing concerns.
Hints & Tips:
-
Use a reviews widget (e.g., Elfsight) to auto-display testimonials
-
Incentivize reviews with follow-up emails post-service
-
Highlight detailed reviews (those mentioning specific services)
28. Maintain Your Google/Bing My Business Page
Why use it?
An up-to-date business profile ensures accurate information in search and map results—key for capturing local leads and avoiding frustrated clicks.
Example:
A carpet-cleaning service regularly updates hours for holidays, posts weekly project photos, and answers customer questions on its Google My Business profile.
Effectiveness:
-
Higher ranking: Active profiles often appear above dormant competitors.
-
Enhanced features: Posts, Q&A, and booking buttons drive engagement.
Tip:
Post at least once per week—even a quick project snapshot counts.
Hints & Tips:
-
Monitor and reply to all reviews and questions within 48 hours
-
Use the “Offer” feature for limited-time specials
-
Add product/service menus and booking links if available
29. Posters, Flyers, Fridge Magnets & Promotional Materials
Why use it?
Tangible collateral keeps your brand top-of-mind—every time a prospect opens their fridge or walks past a community noticeboard. These low-cost items can deliver sustained visibility.
Example (Service-based business):
A home-organizing service distributes branded fridge magnets with its phone number and “Declutter Your Home Today!” tagline to new homeowners in targeted suburbs.
Effectiveness:
-
Longevity: Magnets stay on display for months.
-
Broad reach: Flyers in cafés or community centres catch foot traffic.
Tip:
Invest in durable, weatherproof materials for outdoor posters to maximize lifespan.
Hints & Tips:
-
Keep designs clean with large fonts and minimal text.
-
Use a single, compelling offer (e.g., “Book now & save $50”).
-
Place posters at supermarket entrances, libraries, and gyms.
-
Include a QR code that links directly to a mobile-friendly landing page.
30. Groupon Discounts
Why use it?
Partnering with deal-of-the-day sites like Groupon exposes you to a huge audience of deal-seekers and can generate a wave of new customers.
Example:
A massage clinic offers “1-Hour Deep-Tissue Massage for $39 (save $60)” via a Groupon deal.
Effectiveness:
-
Rapid influx: Many first-time clients booked within days of launch.
-
Cross-sell opportunity: Happy deal-customers often purchase full-price services later.
Tip:
Cap the number of vouchers sold to avoid overwhelming your schedule and devaluing your brand.
Hints & Tips:
-
Require advance booking to prevent no-shows.
-
Upsell add-on services at the time of redemption.
-
Collect email addresses during booking for future promotions.
31. Events & Exhibitions
Why use it?
Face-to-face engagement at trade shows or local fairs lets you demonstrate services, answer questions live, and collect leads on the spot.
Example:
A cleaning franchise staffs a booth at the regional home-improvement expo, offering free 5-point home-cleaning demos and on-event booking discounts.
Effectiveness:
-
High lead quality: Attendees are actively seeking solutions.
-
Brand credibility: An engaging booth builds trust.
Tip:
Offer an event-only special (e.g., “Book today, get a free oven clean”) to drive immediate bookings.
Hints & Tips:
-
Use live demos or videos to draw crowds.
-
Collect leads with a tablet sign-up rather than paper.
-
Follow up within 48 hours with a personalized message.
32. Local Business Networking & Card Shares
Why use it?
Swapping business cards at B2B mixers or sharing customer referrals with complementary businesses generates warm introductions.
Example:
A web-design agency teams up with a local SEO consultant: each refers clients whose needs fall outside their own services.
Effectiveness:
-
Mutual growth: Both parties gain credibility via endorsement.
-
Low cost: Card swaps and referrals require minimal spend.
Tip:
Carry a stack of branded two-sided cards that highlight both your services and the partner’s.
Hints & Tips:
-
Follow up promptly with new contacts via LinkedIn.
-
Host joint webinars or workshops to cross-promote.
-
Track referrals in a simple shared spreadsheet.
33. Team Up with Another Business
Why use it?
Joint promotions leverage each partner’s audience to expand reach—often at no extra cost if you split marketing duties.
Example:
A physiotherapist partners with a local gym to offer “Free posture assessments” at the gym; members then book follow-up sessions at the clinic.
Effectiveness:
-
Audience expansion: You tap into an established customer base.
-
Credibility by association: Partner endorsement builds trust.
Tip:
Choose partners whose clientele overlap but whose services don’t compete with yours.
Hints & Tips:
-
Create a co-branded flyer or social post.
-
Offer a shared discount code that tracks performance.
-
Plan a launch event (e.g., demo day) at the partner’s location.
34. Advertise on Gumtree
Why use it?
Classified-style platforms like Gumtree reach bargain-hunters and local shoppers looking for quick service deals.
Example:
A handyman posts a “Weekend Special: $99 Fix-It Hour” ad in the local Gumtree “Services” category.
Effectiveness:
-
Immediate traffic: Ads appear for up to 28 days and can be renewed.
-
Targeted reach: Users search by location and category.
Tip:
Refresh your ad title and photos every week to stay at the top of the listings.
Hints & Tips:
-
Include before/after photos of recent work.
-
Pin your ad for increased visibility (paid feature).
-
Respond within an hour to inquiries for best conversion.
35. Source Leads from Airtasker
Why use it?
On-demand task platforms like Airtasker connect you directly with people needing immediate services—cutting out the marketing middleman.
Example:
A removalist bids on local “Help me move house” tasks, offering packaged rates and customer reviews to win the job.
Effectiveness:
-
Zero upfront cost: You bid on tasks and pay a small commission only when you win.
-
High-intent: Customers have immediate needs and budgets.
Tip:
Build a strong profile with multiple 5-star reviews to improve your bid success.
Hints & Tips:
-
Offer ’look first’’ bids slightly under market to get initial jobs.
-
Provide photo evidence of previous projects.
-
Communicate quickly and professionally on the platform.
36. Business Cards
Why use it?
A classic touchpoint, business cards let prospects tuck your info into wallets and rolodexes—serving as a tangible reminder of your services.
Example:
A mobile car-detailer leaves branded cards on windshields (with permission) after each service, reminding customers how to book next time.
Effectiveness:
-
High retention: Cards often outlast digital reminders.
-
Cost-effective: Quality printing for under $50 per 500 cards.
Tip:
Use thick stock and spot UV or embossed logos to stand out.
Hints & Tips:
-
Include a QR code linking to your booking page.
-
Add a limited-time offer on the back to encourage action.
-
Never hand out plain cards—always pair distribution with a brief, friendly pitch.
37. Exposure with Shopping Centre Kiosks
Why use it?
Renting a pop-up kiosk or digital display in a high-traffic mall puts your brand in front of thousands of potential customers daily.
Example:
A tech-repair service sets up a weekend kiosk offering free device-diagnosis coupons and on-site quick fixes.
Effectiveness:
-
Mass reach: Shoppers spend hours browsing—keen to learn about services.
-
Interactive: Demonstrations draw crowds and collect leads via tablets.
Tip:
Choose weekends and holidays when footfall peaks for maximum ROI.
Hints & Tips:
-
Use tablet sign-ups to capture visitor details.
-
Hand out branded giveaways (screen-cleaning cloths).
-
Decorate with bright, backlit signage to stand out in busy corridors.
38. How To Sell On Facebook Marketplace & Groups
Why use it?
Facebook Marketplace and Groups offer local selling platforms where service offers can be listed for free—complementing paid ad strategies.
Example:
A private tutor posts in “Local Parents Network” groups: “Back-to-School Maths Special—First lesson $25.”
Effectiveness:
-
No ad spend: Organic listing in Marketplace can generate inquiries.
-
Community trust: Group members often recommend reliable providers.
Tip:
Include clear service descriptions, pricing, and a few testimonials to stand out.
Hints & Tips:
-
Post at optimal times (evening, weekends) when parents scroll.
-
Respect each group’s posting rules to avoid removal.
-
Reply promptly with a friendly greeting and booking link.
39. Host Free Workshops & Webinars
Why use it?
Offering no-cost, expert-led sessions showcases your skills, builds trust, and captures leads who attend to learn—many of whom convert to customers because they’ve already experienced your value firsthand.
Example (Service-based business):
A bookkeeping firm runs a free “End-of-Year Tax Prep” webinar for small-business owners. Attendees register with their email and phone number in order to receive the Zoom link and handouts.
Effectiveness:
-
High-quality leads: Attendees are actively seeking solutions you provide.
-
Authority building: Positions you as a trusted expert in your field.
-
Email list growth: Each registration becomes a contact for follow-up nurturing.
Tip:
Keep workshops to 45 minutes of content plus 15 minutes for Q&A to respect participants’ time.
Hints & Tips:
-
Promote your event via email, social ads, and local meetup groups
-
Collect registration data (job title, company size) to segment follow-up messages
-
Record the session and send a replay link to no-shows—capturing additional leads
-
Include a limited-time offer (e.g., 10% off first service) at the end of the workshop
40. Collaborate with Local Influencers
Why use it?
Partnering with neighborhood micro-influencers or community figures taps into their engaged audiences—giving you endorsement credibility and exposing your brand to new prospects.
Example (Service-based business):
A home-cleaning company teams with a popular local lifestyle blogger to create an Instagram Reel showing a “Clean Home Transformation,” tagging your service and linking to a “first-clean discount.”
Effectiveness:
-
Targeted exposure: Influencers’ followers often reside in your service area.
-
Social proof: Personal recommendations from someone followers trust drive inquiries.
Tip:
Start with micro-influencers (1–10K followers) who have higher engagement rates and lower fees than macro accounts.
Hints & Tips:
-
Provide a free service or discount in exchange for posts/stories
-
Supply a clear brief: key messages, hashtags, and calls-to-action
-
Track performance via a unique promo code or link for each influencer
-
Repost influencer content on your own channels to amplify reach and repurpose assets