If you own a local business to your area, you have probably experienced the struggle of marketing to a geographical area. Acquiring local customers can be difficult depending on the service you provide, but no matter the service you’re able to boost your business by having a sales funnel. It’s important to make it easy for your customers to find and interact with you.
When most people hear of a sales funnel they automatically think it’s only for an online business, but that is not the case. You have many ways you can market to your local community while creating a worthwhile funnel that will convert into more sales or customers.
Website
One of the main places that someone will look for your business is online. Having a website that is easy to find and filled with all of the information that they need, including a place to contact you is important. Make sure that it’s mobile friendly as that is how 85% of people are going to look you up.
When they’re on your website ask yourself, “what is the one thing I want them to do when they seek me out”?. Your answer will then guide your next steps. If you would like them to call in and book an appointment, make sure your phone number is visible everywhere. If you would like to get their email, create an opt-in or free offer to capture their email address. If you would like them to visit your location, make sure you have a map with your location clearly visible.
The most important thing is for you to make it convenient for them to reach out to you. Simplicity is always better in the beginning. Once they are your customers, then you can ask for a bit more.
Online Presence
Your website is a good place to attract customers and filter them through, but you should have an online presence in other areas as well. Likely if you’re a service based business you will be listed on Google, Yelp or Facebook. Make sure that you have a presence on all three and that you monitor the activity on all of them.
On Google, ensure that you comment on all reviews – negative and positive and include special offers when you think is necessary. Yelp should be treated the same way. Facebook is an opportunity to send your audience to your website, monitor your reputation and make sure that you’re getting people into your funnel.
Follow-Up
Once you have directed people to your website or they have signed up for your funnel your job is not done. In fact, it’s just begun. You now need to nurture your leads and create follow-up sequences for email and telephone. Keep them up to date with weekly newsletters and follow up after their experience by telephone. Offer them specials or bonuses and let them know what is going on in your business. They signed up for your newsletter for a reason, they’re interested in what you have to offer.
Sales funnels are very effective when done correctly and can really boost your local clients and business awareness. It’s important to set up some sort of funnel for your business and start providing value to your customers to establish yourself as an expert in your field.
If you’re having trouble with funnels, we’re here to help and you can schedule a consultation call here.
Lisa M Gale Digital Marketing helps service professional business owners improve their online presence and visibility to attract new clients. We develop systems and processes to improve digital marketing efforts and help entrepreneurs reach their business goals. Download your Digital Marketing Made Simple for free here >>
