Remember when having a website was enough?

Those days are long gone. Recently, I was chatting with Russell, a local double-glazing company struggling to get noticed.

His first job? Sorting out his Google Business Profile (yes, that's what they're calling it now).

Here's what worked for Russell:

• He started posting weekly photos of his actual work (not those generic stock photos!)
• Responded to every single review within 24 hours
• Added his exact service areas (not just "Greater London")
• Started using the Posts feature to share knowledge and tips

The result?  He's now booked weeks in advance. Not too shabby

Getting Found Locally (Without Breaking the Bank) 🗺️

Being visible in your local area isn't rocket science, but it needs some elbow grease.

Here's the thing – you don't need to be everywhere; you just need to be where your customers are looking.

Try this:

• Get listed in local business directories (but only the ones that matter)
• Team up with complementary local businesses (like estate agents if you're a cleaner)
• Create content about local events or news related to your industry
• Make sure your contact details are exactly the same everywhere (sounds obvious, but you'd be surprised!)

Real Customer Stories Sell (But Only If They're Genuine) 💬

Mike a garage door specialist in Essex, tried something brilliant.

Instead of just asking for reviews, he started taking "before and after" photos of every new garage door installed. He shared these on his social media.

The result?  His booking rate doubled in just six weeks.

Email Marketing That Actually Works 📧

Now, before you roll your eyes at another email marketing tip, hear me out.

The key is to be useful, not just promotional. One of our clients, a personal trainer, sends out a weekly email with:

• One quick healthy recipe
• A 5-minute workout anyone can do at home
• A client success story

Simple stuff, but his open rates are through the roof because it's actually helpful!

Building Trust Through Proof 🤝

Here's something most marketing blogs won't tell you – people are getting better at spotting nonsense.

That's why genuine social proof is worth its weight in gold.

What works now:

• Real photos of your team at work
• Actual customer testimonials (video ones are gold dust!)
• Industry certifications that actually matter
• Behind-the-scenes content showing how you work
  

Taking Action (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

Here's what I want you to do right now: pick ONE thing from this list.

Just one. Try it for a month. See what works. Then add another.

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a successful service business.

Need a Hand?

If all this sounds great, but you're thinking "I barely have time to make a cup of tea, let alone do marketing," give us a call.

We help busy service business owners like you get more customers without the headache.