With the internet, a new era of business has arisen. In response, marketing strategies are evolving. For contractors, internet marketing has emerged as a smart, necessary approach to connecting with and gaining clients.
Related Blog: Attracting Your Ideal Customers: Inbound vs. Outbound Marketing 101
What is Internet Marketing?
Internet marketing is a technique that attracts clients to your business using technology, social media platforms, and actionable content through blogs and website information. The days of cold calling, relying on word-of-mouth, and outbound advertising are waning. This is where online marketing picks up, catering to the masses where they live and work: online.
How is Online Marketing Profitable for Contractors?
It Broadens Your Reach
Word of mouth advertising used to be invaluable. And while it still counts for a lot, it is no longer enough. People look to the internet for everything these days. When they find what they need and what they like, they share it with their friends, and the world. That’s why it is imperative to have a strong, quality online presence.
For example, on social media, tweets linking to stories about the value of curb appeal could lead a cement contractor to a hefty list of new clients. Or a simple Facebook post reminding people that now is the time to check the function of air conditioning units might bring in more work for HVAC contractors.
Blog entries about buildings or remodels done for large companies are also a good way to let people know you’re out there. It shows them not only what you can do, but also who else is hiring you.
It Puts a Face to the Name
People want to see what they are spending, or thinking about spending, their hard-earned dollars on. When it comes to investing in the appearance and function of their homes and businesses, people want to know exactly who they’re putting their trust in. Marketing through the internet adds a human element to your business.
Before making big decisions like which contractor is right for them, consumers seek out as much information as they can get. They want to see who is behind the credentials and exactly what they have to offer. Internet marketing gives it to them in a way that a yellow-book advertisement never could. It gives you opportunity to introduce yourself, your business, and highlight your work.
Having an attractive website that shows clients specific projects you’ve worked on allows your work to speak for itself. Paired with pictures of job sites and completed projects, it gives people the chance to see for themselves that you are the right contractor for them.
A regularly updated blog also brings a lot of attention to your business. Providing information, tips, even instructional posts about small projects clients can do on their own, will drive them to your business. When someone searches topics such as, “How and When to Hire a Contractor,” and lands on your blog, the information on your website may convince them to hire you.
It Gives You a Competitive Edge
Businesses know to keep an eye on their competitors. They grasp for the attention of clients over others. Online marketing is a huge step in edging out your competition by drawing customers to you. A well-monetized website, structured and helpful information, promises of a job well done and proof to back it up, all in one easily accessible spot are what clients are looking for. It’s also what allows you to step up and rise above your competition.
The ever-increasing desire for quality information that is easy to find provides a unique opportunity to bring clients to you. Websites, blogs, and social media accounts allow contractors to attract and hold the attention of countless potential consumers. Whether you are a general contractor and deal with whole building projects or a sub-contractor focusing on specific mediums, marketing through the internet can effectively and efficiently draw in prospective clients and give them a reason to stay.
To learn more about what internet marketing can do for your business, contact us at Nextiny Marketing!
