Being an independent contractor has its perks. You get to make your own hours, choose which projects to take on, and stay active.
That being said, the job takes a lot of hard work. Among your countless responsibilities includes finding new customers.
Gaining new customers is crucial to your success. Without a steady flow of projects, your business will lack the consistent income it needs.
Struggling to get new business? Don’t worry! Here are 5 of the best marketing tips for independent contractors.
1. Establish Your Brand
This is a crucial first step that too many independent contractors overlook. Even though it’s just you, you should establish your brand.
Start by determining what sets you apart from the competition. Do you have a unique approach that delivers unmatched results? Do you offer services no one else does? Are your prices competitive? Write down your selling points and use them in your marketing strategy.
When establishing your brand, you should also highlight your credibility. Get all the necessary certifications to show your customers that you are worth working with. (You can do this through the help of programs like this one for a general contractor license in NC.)
2. Create a Website
At this point, you should understand what your brand is all about. Now, it’s time to share your business with customers.
One of the best ways to do this is through a website. A website puts your business online where thousands of potential customers can find it.
In this day and age, if you don’t have a website, you’re falling behind. But even worse than no website is a subpar website. Your customers will run for the hills if they see that your website is poorly-made and hard-to-navigate.
So, make sure your website is the best it can be. It should look professional, be easy-to-use, and convince customers to call you.
Also, consider using SEO techniques to drive even more traffic to your pages. This includes starting a blog, contributing content to other blogs, and doing thorough keyword research.
3. Use Social Media
Your online presence shouldn’t stop at your website. Consider using social media to expand your reach even further.
You don’t have to open an account on every platform out there. Choose one or two platforms most relevant to your industry (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.) and focus on those.
Do your best to have a consistent presence. Share blog posts, updates, pictures, and specials you’re running. Users should find your content compelling enough to hire you. Or, at the very least, helpful enough to share with others (free marketing!).
4. Use Traditional Marketing Methods
So far, we’ve talked about the importance of your online presence. But, that doesn’t mean you should shy away from traditional marketing methods.
Traditional marketing is a great way to find new customers, especially those in your local community. Put up flyers, pass out business cards, or advertise in the newspaper. Many customers look for businesses like yours rather than a corporate contracting company.
5. Rely on Referrals
People want to use contracting services that they trust. They’re bound to trust your services when they hear good things about them from others.
You don’t want to beg your customers for referrals. But, encouraging them to tell their friends and family will help you score more business. Ways to do this include:
- Offer discounts to them and the new customers that they bring in
- Ask them to spread the word after they compliment your work
As an independent contractor, it’s on you to find new customers. If you don’t, you won’t be able to grow your business. We hope these tips help you land plenty of new projects!
