Starting your own service business is exciting, liberating—and let’s be real—a little terrifying. Whether you’re an electrician, plumber, junk removal specialist, or any other skilled service professional, you know your craft inside and out. But getting customers? That’s a whole different challenge.
Many new service business owners face the same struggles: You’re great at what you do, but no one knows about you yet. You don’t have a big budget for marketing—maybe no budget at all. You’re competing with bigger, more established companies. You’re not sure what to focus on first to actually get paying customers.
The good news? You don’t need thousands of dollars in advertising to start landing work. This guide will walk you through the right first steps to get paying customers quickly—without making rookie mistakes that could cost you in the long run.
The First 5 Things Every Service Business Must Do to Land Clients Fast
Before you spend a dime on advertising, here’s how to set up your business the right way and start getting leads now.
1. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is the number one free marketing tool for service businesses. Whenever someone searches for “electrician near me” or “best plumber in Murfreesboro,” Google prioritizes local businesses with strong Google Business Profiles. If you don’t have one, you’re invisible to potential customers.
To get started, claim your profile at Google Business Profile. Fill out every section, including your business name, contact information, services, and hours. Add real photos of you on the job to build trust. Most importantly, encourage happy customers to leave reviews as soon as possible.
Businesses with at least 10-15 positive reviews rank higher and get significantly more calls than those without.
2. Get Visible in Local Facebook and Nextdoor Groups
Homeowners, renters, and business owners constantly ask for recommendations in local groups like Murfreesboro Buy/Sell/Trade, community help groups, and Nextdoor service recommendations. These groups are a goldmine for free, organic leads—if you use them correctly.
Don’t spam “Hire me!” posts; nobody likes that. Instead, engage in conversations naturally by answering questions, providing tips, and showcasing your expertise. When someone is looking for your service, have happy customers tag you in the recommendations. People trust real community members’ recommendations more than they trust ads.
3. Leverage Referrals from Your Network
Your first customers will often come from people you already know—but you have to ask. Tell friends, family, former coworkers, and neighbors that you’ve launched your business. Make it easy for them to refer you by giving them your phone number, website, or social media links.
Consider offering a small incentive for referrals, like a discount on a future service. Word-of-mouth referrals are the fastest way to build trust when you’re just starting.
4. Make It Effortless for People to Book You
Customers won’t chase you down to give you money. If booking a job is complicated or slow, they’ll hire someone else.
Set up a dedicated phone number and email for your business. Use text messaging—most people prefer it over calling. Consider a simple online booking form to capture leads 24/7.
Speed is everything. If you respond within 10 minutes of an inquiry, you’re four times more likely to close the job.
5. Start Building a Credible Brand—Even on a Budget
Looking professional isn’t optional, even when you’re just starting. A few key steps can help you establish credibility quickly.
First, ditch the personal email and use a business email with your domain name. At a minimum, set up a simple website or landing page with clear contact information. Use social media as a credibility tool by posting regular updates, before-and-after photos, and customer testimonials.
A professional look builds instant trust, which leads to more sales.
The Smartest Way to Market Your Business Without Breaking the Bank
Once you’ve got the basics set, here’s how to start attracting a steady stream of paying customers.
SEO Basics: How to Get Found Online for Free
Search engine optimization (SEO) helps your business appear in search results when people look for your service. Start by using location-based keywords in your online profiles and website, such as “Murfreesboro junk removal” or “emergency electrician in Nashville.”
Regularly update your Google Business Profile with posts and photos—Google rewards businesses that stay active. The more positive reviews you get, the higher your business will rank in local searches.
The Power of Reputation and Reviews
Reviews make or break your online presence. When someone is deciding between two service providers, they’ll almost always go with the one that has the best reviews.
Follow up with happy customers and make leaving a review as simple as possible. Send them a direct link to your Google Business Profile and ask for a review. Aim for 10 or more reviews as soon as possible to start building credibility.
Businesses with strong reviews generate more leads—even at higher prices.
From Side Hustle to Full-Time—The Next Steps to Scale Right
When Should You Go All-In on Your Business?
Not sure if you’re ready to quit your job and take your business full-time? Here are three signs it’s time:
- You have consistent income from your business for at least three to six months.
- You’re turning down work because you don’t have the time.
- You have a marketing plan in place to keep leads coming in.
If you’re still in the early stages, use your current job to fund your business growth. The transition to full-time should be strategic, not rushed.
When and How to Invest in Professional Marketing
DIY marketing is fine in the beginning, but eventually, it limits your growth. When you’re ready to scale, investing in professional marketing will take your business to the next level.
The first things to invest in are a professionally designed website that converts visitors into leads, paid advertising to generate a steady flow of inquiries, and a full branding package to differentiate your business from competitors.
The businesses that invest in professional marketing early are the ones that scale faster and more profitably.
Final Thoughts: The Business You Build Today Determines Your Success Tomorrow
Start strong with the right foundations—get customers, build credibility, and generate revenue.
Generate revenue the smart way—without resorting to bad marketing tactics.
When you’re ready to grow, invest in professional marketing—and scale faster.
If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, the right marketing strategy will help you go from scraping by to thriving. When you’re ready to take the next step, let’s talk strategy.
Need help mapping out your growth plan? Contact Raine Digital today.