LEAD GENERATION CHECKLIST

Social media contests are a great way to attract potential customers. Create a contest with a prize that appeals to your target audience, such as a gift card or a free service. Check local regulations before running a contest.

Making videos and uploading them to Facebook groups can help you get in front of your audience. Add video to your social media planner, share useful information about your industry, and post regularly.

Offer a freebie on your website in exchange for visitors' contact details. Advertise the offer everywhere, from the footer of your emails to your social media profiles.

Direct mail still works if it's done the right way. Every piece should build on the one before it and create urgency with a limited offer. Focus on a smaller area instead of trying to cover a large region.

Your customers are probably already in local Facebook groups, like buy and sell, garage sale or community groups. Join in, offer value that isn't selling, and become someone the group relies on.

Take a look at your brand and see if it needs a refresh. A strong brand grabs the attention of the right customers, makes it clear what problems you solve, sets you apart from everyone else, and makes it easy to get in touch.

Don't forget the people already on your list. They may not know everything you offer, so remind them what else you do and show them the services they might not be aware of.

Consider buying an existing business or its customer list if they're closing up. Reach out to those customers and let them know you'll look after them just as well as their previous provider.

Referrals are one of the best ways to get high-quality leads at a low cost, but most service businesses don't ask for them enough. Make it a habit to ask for referrals before and after every job.

Find businesses that serve the same customers but don't compete with you. Offer their customers a preferred customer discount and extra care. It gives them a reason to use you, and costs you nothing.