How to Get More Plumbing Leads (14 Effective Methods in 2024)
Aug 22, 2024
In this article we will show you 14 proven ways to generate more plumbing leads. Read on to learn more.
Plumbing Lead Generation Tips
There are many ways to generate more leads for your plumbing business but we have limited the list below to the 14 most effective.
1. Get Listed in Free and Paid Local Directories
Listing your plumbing business in local directories is a crucial step for increasing visibility. Here’s a list of recommended free and paid directories in the USA:
Free Directories:
Google Business Profile: Essential for appearing in local Google searches and Google Maps. Learn more about setting up a Google business profile.
Yelp: Widely used by consumers to find local services.
Bing Places for Business: Microsoft's alternative to Google Business Profile.
Yellow Pages: The online version of the classic Yellow Pages directory.
Manta: Focuses on small businesses and local services.
Nextdoor: A neighborhood-specific platform that allows you to connect with local customers.
Thumbtack: Allows service professionals to connect with customers seeking specific services.
Paid Directories:
Angi (formerly Angie’s List): A well-known platform where consumers read reviews and hire service professionals.
HomeAdvisor: Connects homeowners with service professionals, offering paid leads.
Houzz: Ideal for contractors and service professionals in home improvement and remodeling.
BuildZoom: Specializes in connecting customers with contractors, including plumbers.
BestPlumbers.com: A niche directory specifically for plumbers, offering both free and paid listings.
These directories help potential customers find your services when they search online. Start with free options, and as your business grows, consider investing in paid directories to increase your visibility further.
2. Use Social Media
Social media platforms are powerful tools for reaching potential customers and building your brand. Each platform offers unique ways to engage with your audience and generate leads.
Instagram: Instagram is a visual platform that works well for service businesses. Share before-and-after photos of your work, and use Instagram Stories to engage with your audience.
Learn more about getting leads with Instagram.
X (Formerly Twitter): Use X to share quick tips, promotions, and updates. It’s a great way to engage with your local community and keep your business top of mind.
Learn more about getting leads with X.
Facebook: Start by creating a dedicated Facebook page for your business. Share customer testimonials, promote special offers, and engage with your audience through posts and comments. Building a community around your page helps foster trust and keeps your business in front of potential customers.
Learn more about getting leads with Facebook.
LinkedIn: LinkedIn is ideal for connecting with other professionals, especially if you offer commercial plumbing services. Use it to network with property managers, real estate agents, and other contractors.
Learn more about getting leads with LinkedIn.
YouTube: Create videos that show before-and-after footage of your work and provide tips on common plumbing problems. These videos not only demonstrate your expertise but also help educate potential customers, making them more likely to choose your services.
3. Optimize Your Website for SEO
Search engine optimization (SEO) is vital for making sure your website shows up first in Google when potential customers search a keyword like "Plumber CITY." Here’s how to get started:
Local Keywords: Focus on local keywords relevant to your services, such as “plumber in [city]” or “emergency plumbing services [city].” Include these keywords in your page titles, headers, meta descriptions, and throughout your content.
Content Creation: Create blog posts that cover one topic at a time. This ensures your content is focused and informative. Also, make sure to interlink your blog posts to help readers navigate your site and improve your site’s SEO.
Mobile-Friendly Design: Ensure your website is responsive and works well on mobile devices. Many customers search for services on their phones, so a mobile-friendly site is essential.
Page Speed: Optimize your website’s load time. Fast-loading websites rank better and provide a better user experience.
Learn more about getting leads with SEO.
4. Email Marketing
Email marketing is a cost-effective way to keep in touch with potential and existing customers. Here are some tips for effective email marketing:
Segment Your List: Divide your email list into segments based on customer behavior, such as new customers, repeat customers, or those who haven’t used your services in a while. This allows you to send more personalized and relevant content.
Content Ideas: Send newsletters with helpful plumbing tips, seasonal maintenance reminders, and special promotions. Educational content can keep your brand top of mind and encourage repeat business.
Automation: Use email automation tools to set up drip campaigns that nurture leads over time. For example, you could send a series of emails to new subscribers, gradually introducing them to your services and encouraging them to book an appointment.
Learn more about getting leads with email marketing.
5. Focus on Generating Positive Reviews
Positive reviews are critical for building trust with new customers. Here’s how to encourage more positive reviews:
Ask Directly: After completing a job, ask satisfied clients to leave a review on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Most customers are willing to leave a review if asked directly.
Follow-Up: Send a follow-up email or text message with a link to your review page, making it easy for customers to leave feedback.
Incentivize: Consider offering a small discount or incentive for customers who leave a review, but ensure this doesn’t violate the platform’s guidelines.
To maximize the impact of your reviews, focus on the following platforms:
Google Reviews: Google Reviews are critical for local SEO and visibility. High ratings on Google can boost your business’s placement in local search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you.
Trustpilot: Although traditionally used by e-commerce businesses, Trustpilot is increasingly valuable for service providers. A strong profile on Trustpilot can enhance your credibility and attract customers who value highly-rated businesses.
Yelp: Yelp is a trusted platform for finding local services. Having a solid presence on Yelp with numerous positive reviews can significantly improve your reputation and attract more local customers.
Facebook Reviews: Many potential customers check Facebook for recommendations before making a decision. Positive reviews on your business’s Facebook page not only build trust but can also be seen by the reviewer’s network, increasing your reach.
Angi (formerly Angie’s List): Angi is specifically designed for home service providers. Earning positive reviews on this platform can differentiate you from competitors and attract high-quality leads who are serious about finding reliable services.
6. Use Subsync to Get Geo-Specific Plumbing Leads
Finding super targeted plumbing leads has never been easier, thanks to Subsync.
In the SubSync CRM, go to the "Find Leads" tool > "Find New Leads" and enter a local area.
In this case, we will search Long Beach, California.
On the map that displays, you can draw a box around the houses in a local area you want to get targeted solar leads for. In this example, we drew the targeting box around the Willmore area.
The tool then generated a list of 300 potential plumbing leads in the Wilmore area that contains their name, address, email, phone number, credit score, income level, home value and more.
You can now select the leads in the list you want to contact and add them to the SubSync CRM to track how you contacted each customer and if they responded.
You can also auto-dial every number in your list, automatically email each lead, and much more using SubSync.
Check out their more detailed guides:
7. Put Up Flyers in Your Local Area
Traditional methods like putting up flyers in your local area can still be effective. Here’s how to maximize their impact:
Target Specific Areas: Focus on neighborhoods where you want to generate more business. Distribute flyers in community centers, libraries, or local bulletin boards.
Clear Message: Ensure your flyer has a clear, concise message with a strong call to action. Include your contact information and any current promotions.
Eye-Catching Design: Use bright colors and bold fonts to make your flyer stand out. Consider including a special offer or discount to entice potential customers.
8. Use Paid Advertising
Paid advertising is a powerful way to generate immediate leads by targeting potential customers where they spend their time online. Here’s how to make the most of paid advertising:
Google Ads: Google Ads is one of the most effective ways to generate immediate leads. Focus on high-intent keywords like “emergency plumber near me” to target customers who are ready to hire. Use ad extensions to include additional information like your phone number, address, or links to specific pages on your website.
Facebook Ads: Facebook Ads allow you to target specific demographics and locations. Use them to promote special offers or seasonal services, reaching potential customers directly in their newsfeed. You can also retarget users who have visited your website but didn’t convert, keeping your business top of mind.
9. Purchase Leads from Trusted Lead Sellers
Buying leads from reputable companies can provide a steady stream of new customers. Here’s what to keep in mind:
HomeAdvisor: Connects you with homeowners looking for specific services. Leads are generally high-quality, but it’s important to respond quickly.
Angi: Similar to HomeAdvisor, Angi offers leads for a fee, and it’s well-known for its large user base.|
Thumbtack: Allows service professionals to connect with customers based on specific job requests. It’s particularly useful for niche services or specialized plumbing jobs.
While these leads can be more expensive, they’re often well-vetted and ready to convert, making them a valuable investment during slower periods.
10. Network with Other Contractors in Your Area
Building relationships with other contractors, such as electricians, HVAC specialists, or general contractors, can lead to valuable referrals. Here’s how to start:
Attend Local Business Events: Join local business networks or attend events where other service professionals gather. This is an excellent way to meet potential partners and build relationships.
Referral Partnerships: Set up referral agreements where you refer clients to each other. This can help both businesses grow while providing added value to your customers.
Collaborate on Projects: Work together on larger projects that require multiple types of services. This not only strengthens your network but also expands your service offerings to clients.
11. Direct Mail
Direct mail is a traditional marketing method that can still deliver excellent results, especially for local service businesses. By sending targeted mail to potential customers in your area, you can increase your visibility and drive new business.
Postcards and Brochures: Send out postcards or brochures that highlight your services, special offers, and contact information. A well-designed postcard can grab attention and lead to more inquiries and appointments.
Targeted Campaigns: Focus on specific neighborhoods or demographics that are most likely to need your services. This can increase the effectiveness of your direct mail campaigns and ensure you reach the right audience.
Follow-Up: Consider following up with a phone call or email to those who received your mail. This personal touch can help convert recipients into leads.
12. Door Knocking
Door knocking is a proactive way to introduce your services directly to potential customers. It allows you to make a personal connection and offer immediate assistance, which can be particularly effective in neighborhoods where there’s a known need for plumbing services.
Target Specific Areas: Focus your efforts on neighborhoods with older homes or areas that have recently experienced weather events that could cause plumbing issues. These are prime locations where residents may be more in need of your services.
Introduce Yourself: When knocking on doors, introduce yourself and your business in a friendly, non-intrusive way. Offer a brief explanation of your services and how you can help with any plumbing issues they may have. Bringing along some printed materials like flyers or business cards can also help leave a lasting impression.
Special Offers: Mention any special offers or discounts you’re currently running to incentivize homeowners to consider your services. For example, offering a free plumbing inspection can be an excellent way to start a conversation and potentially identify issues that need addressing.
Follow-Up: If the homeowner isn’t ready to commit right away, ask if you can follow up with them in the near future. Collect their contact information and ensure you follow through with a call or visit later.
Learn more about getting leads by door knocking.
13. Cold Calling
Cold calling remains an effective way to generate leads by reaching out to potential customers directly. It allows you to introduce your business to people who may not be actively searching for plumbing services but could still benefit from them.
Prepare a Script: Before you start making calls, prepare a script that outlines the key points you want to cover. Your script should be concise, highlighting who you are, what your business offers, and how you can help the person on the other end of the line.
Targeted List: Build or purchase a targeted list of homeowners in your service area. This list should include details like phone numbers, addresses, and any other relevant information that can help you tailor your pitch.
Be Personable: Cold calling is often more successful when the caller is personable and engaging. Start the conversation by asking if they’ve experienced any plumbing issues recently, and offer solutions tailored to common problems.
Overcome Objections: Be prepared to handle common objections, such as homeowners being too busy or not interested. Have responses ready that address their concerns and gently steer the conversation back to how you can help.
Follow-Up: Like door knocking, follow-up is critical in cold calling. If a potential customer expresses interest but isn’t ready to commit, make sure to follow up with a call or email to keep the conversation going.
14. Optimize Your Website for Conversions
Getting traffic to your website is just the first step. To turn visitors into leads, your website must be optimized for conversions.
Clear Calls to Action: Every page on your website should have a clear call to action, whether it's a "Contact Us" button, a form to request a quote, or a phone number
prominently displayed. Make it as easy as possible for visitors to take the next step.Simple Navigation: Your website should be easy to navigate, with a clean layout that guides visitors to the information they need quickly. Avoid clutter and ensure that all essential information is easy to find.
Trust Signals: Include trust signals such as customer testimonials, industry certifications, and positive reviews on your website. These elements help build trust with visitors and encourage them to choose your services.
Fast Load Times: Ensure your website loads quickly. Slow websites can frustrate users and lead to higher bounce rates, meaning potential customers leave your site before taking any action.
Mobile Optimization: With more people using mobile devices to search for services, your website must be fully optimized for mobile use. A mobile-friendly design ensures that your site looks and functions well on smartphones and tablets, which can increase conversions from mobile users.
By focusing on these areas, you can improve your website's ability to convert visitors into leads, ultimately driving more business and increasing your revenue.
We hope that you now have a better understanding of how to generate leads for plumbers.
If you enjoyed this article, you might also enjoy the following articles:
