Simple Marketing Moves for Service Pros

Date: August 1, 2025

Running a service business is demanding enough without adding "marketer" to your job title. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a full-time marketing department to make a real impact. A few small, consistent marketing efforts can dramatically increase your visibility, referrals, and repeat business. Whether you're in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or waterworks, this guide is designed to give you quick wins that actually fit into your busy week — and your budget.

These five simple strategies focus on building trust, staying visible, and making it easy for customers to choose (and re-choose) your services.

1. Keep Your Google Business Profile Updated

Your Google Business listing is often the first impression potential customers get — and a well-maintained profile can set you apart instantly. Make sure:

Your hours, service area, and phone number are always accurate
You add new project photos or team pictures every few weeks
You respond to customer reviews — especially the positive ones, which build credibility

Bonus tip: After a successful job, politely ask satisfied customers to leave a review. These reviews help improve your local search rankings and reassure potential new customers that you’re the real deal.

2. Send a Monthly Email (Like This One!)

Email marketing isn’t just for big companies. A short, helpful email once a month can:

Remind past customers you’re available for follow-up work
Share seasonal service tips or promotions
Highlight a featured product, tool, or successful project

You can even automate these through free or low-cost tools like Mailchimp or Constant Contact. A friendly, well-timed email — even just one paragraph — can keep your name top-of-mind.

3. Use Before-and-After Photos

You don’t need professional photography skills to show off your work. With just a smartphone, you can:

Take a quick shot before and after an install or service call
Share it on Facebook or Instagram with a short caption
Add it to your Google Business profile or job gallery on your website

This kind of content shows potential customers what you’re capable of and reassures them that your results speak for themselves.

4. Add a Referral Program

Word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful marketing tools in any trade. Encourage happy customers to refer you by offering:

A discount on their next service
A small gift card or service credit
A thank-you note that shows your appreciation

Make sure customers know how to refer you — whether it’s giving them a shareable link, a magnet with your info, or a stack of referral cards.

5. Make It Easy to Contact You

This might sound simple, but it’s often overlooked. You could be losing jobs if your contact info isn’t easy to find or your voicemail is outdated. Double-check that:

Your website has a visible "Call Now" or "Schedule Service" button
Your voicemail clearly states your name and callback time
Your Facebook, Instagram, and Google profiles all have correct phone numbers and emails

If people can’t reach you easily, they’ll move on to someone they can.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need fancy tools or big budgets to grow your service business. These five strategies — done consistently — will help you stay visible, build credibility, and generate more business from the customers you already impress every day.

Need help getting started? Your local Coburn’s team can provide you with print-ready materials, digital branding support, or product features you can promote. We're here to help you market smarter — without the stress.