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By Patrick McFadden December 11, 2024
Facebook advertising can be a powerful tool for mental health agencies seeking to connect with individuals in need of their services. However, creating effective campaigns in this sensitive field requires a unique blend of strategy, compliance, and empathy. This guide is designed to help mental health agency CEOs and owners navigate the complexities of Facebook advertising, offering a detailed roadmap to building successful campaigns.
By Patrick McFadden December 6, 2024
The search landscape is undergoing significant changes, and service-based businesses—like commercial cleaning companies, electricians, remodelers, and repair services—are feeling the impact. Google is prioritizing paid placements, while AI tools like ChatGPT are changing how consumers find and choose providers. These shifts are creating challenges for businesses relying on traditional search strategies, but they also present new opportunities for those willing to adapt. Here’s what’s happening and how to prepare for what’s coming in 2025.  What’s Changing in Search Google’s Prioritization of Paid Ads Local Service Ads (LSAs): These are now dominating the top of search results, especially for service industries like cleaning, electricians, and remodelers. LSAs prioritize businesses based on proximity, reviews, and ad spend, making organic rankings less impactful. Ads in the Map Pack: Google is integrating paid ads directly into the local map pack, further reducing visibility for organic listings. Generative AI in Search Results: AI-powered summaries often highlight paid advertisers and well-optimized businesses, leaving little space for organic results. Impact on Service-Based Businesses: Companies relying solely on organic rankings are seeing fewer inquiries. Increased competition in paid ads is driving up costs, making it harder for smaller businesses to compete. The Rise of AI Tools Like ChatGPT AI platforms are becoming a go-to resource for consumers researching services. These tools prioritize brand reputation and authority over traditional SEO factors like keywords and proximity. Impact on Service-Based Businesses: Businesses with a strong reputation and recognizable brand are more likely to be recommended by AI platforms. Those relying only on Google’s keyword-based ranking systems may struggle to stay visible. How Service Businesses Can Prepare for 2025 1. Invest in Targeted Advertising Paid advertising is a short-term solution to maintain visibility in an increasingly competitive online space. Here’s how different service businesses can use ads effectively: Commercial Cleaning Companies: Use Local Service Ads to target office managers and facility owners in your service area. Focus on Google Ads for terms like "daily office cleaning" or "floor waxing services near me." Electricians (Residential and Commercial): Promote emergency services through PPC campaigns targeting "24-hour electrician near me." Use LSAs to target high-intent customers for specific services like rewiring or panel upgrades. Remodelers: Target kitchen and bathroom renovation keywords in your local area through PPC. Highlight high-ticket services like custom home additions or luxury remodels. Installation/Repair Companies: Run ads promoting seasonal services (e.g., HVAC repairs in winter, appliance installation for holidays). Takeaway: Small investments in LSAs and PPC ensure your business stays visible while preparing for longer-term solutions. 2. Build a Brand That Works Across Google and AI Branding is critical for service-based businesses looking to reduce dependency on paid ads and thrive in the evolving search ecosystem. When customers recognize your business name, they’ll search for you directly, bypassing the competition. Here’s how to build a strong brand: Showcase Expertise Through Educational Content Create e-books or downloadable guides like: "5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Company." "The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Electrician for Your Business." "10 Signs You Need a Bathroom Remodel." Post blogs or social media content addressing common customer questions. Leverage Video Content For commercial cleaning: Show before-and-after videos of deep cleaning projects. For electricians: Film a walkthrough of an electrical upgrade explaining the process. For remodelers: Highlight completed projects with a virtual home tour. For installation/repair companies: Create tutorials or maintenance tips to build trust. Encourage Reviews and Referrals Launch referral programs offering discounts for successful recommendations. Ask satisfied customers to leave detailed reviews on Google and other platforms. Engage in Community Activities Sponsor local events or participate in trade shows to increase visibility. Partner with complementary businesses (e.g., real estate agents, interior designers) to expand your reach. Takeaway: A strong brand ensures your business ranks well in AI searches while also attracting direct inquiries. 3. Diversify Lead Generation Channels While Google remains a key player, diversifying how you generate leads reduces your dependency on any single platform. Here’s how service-based businesses can diversify effectively: Social Media Presence Use Facebook and Instagram to run targeted ads featuring testimonials and completed projects. Post short-form content on TikTok or YouTube Shorts to engage a broader audience. Email Marketing Send newsletters highlighting special promotions, seasonal services, or recent successes. Optimize Alternative Platforms Ensure your business is well-represented on Yelp, Angie’s List, and other industry-specific directories. Takeaway: A multi-channel strategy protects your business from over-reliance on Google’s changing algorithms.
By Patrick McFadden December 5, 2024
When it comes to local SEO, optimizing your title tag is one of the most impactful strategies for improving your rankings in Google. But here's the kicker – not everyone is getting it right. The common myth is that title tags should be kept short, simple, and to the point. But there's more to it than just keyword stuffing or hitting a "character limit." Let's break down why title tag optimization is crucial and how to make sure you're doing it right. Why Title Tags Matter for Local SEO A title tag is a key element in determining how well your site ranks in local search results. It appears at the top of your page and in the search results, making it one of the first things people (and search engines) see when they visit your site. The Mistake People Make Many businesses either don’t optimize their title tags at all or use generic terms that won’t help them rank. For example, a title tag like "Home" or just the business name isn’t going to do much to help your SEO. It's essential to strategically craft your title tags with the right keywords and location for maximum impact. Step 1: Use Keywords Wisely Start by identifying the most important keywords for your business. These should align with what people are searching for when looking for services you provide. For a Richmond, VA plumber, for example, “plumber Richmond VA” or “emergency plumbing Richmond VA” are great keywords. Make sure to include these in your title tag but avoid overstuffing it. Pro Tip: Use Google My Business (GMB) categories as a starting point. Your business category is likely already a keyword that can be incorporated into your title tag. Step 2: Add Locations to Target Local SEO thrives on location-specific keywords. Including the city or neighborhood in your title tag is key. For example, "Jim’s Electrical Services in Richmond, VA – Trustworthy Electrical Services" would be a great title tag to rank for services in the area. Pro Tip: Don’t limit yourself to just the primary city; include surrounding areas or neighborhoods where your business operates. It can broaden your reach and increase your chances of ranking for multiple local searches. Step 3: Make It Click-Worthy A title tag is more than just a ranking factor – it’s also a sales pitch. If your title doesn’t stand out, users will scroll right past it in the search results. Add an element that makes your title tag enticing and unique. Phrases like "trusted," "reliable," or "same-day service" can make a big difference. Pro Tip: Make sure the first part of your title tag includes the most important keyword and location, but reserve the end for something catchy that will encourage users to click. Step 4: Don’t Stress About the Length There’s no hard-and-fast rule for how long a title tag should be. The common misconception is that title tags need to fit within a 50-60 character limit. While Google does truncate title tags if they’re too long, don’t worry about maximizing your space – use as much as you need to properly optimize it. Here are the facts: 2022 research by Zippy shows that Google rewrites about 60% of the title tags in its SERPs. In 2021, Google’s John Mueller confirmed that the original title is still used for rankings even when it gets rewritten in the SERPs. Pro Tip: Use the ellipsis (three dots) to your advantage. Keywords and location information can go beyond what’s visible in the search results, still contributing to your rankings without affecting the display in search results. Come up with a compelling, click-worthy H1 that Google can use in the SERPs instead of your original keyword-stuffed title tag. Step 5: Don’t Overload with Brand Names This one’s a little controversial. For well-known brands, including the brand name in the title tag is a no-brainer. But for local businesses with less recognition, it’s often better to focus more on what the customer is searching for – not your brand. Pro Tip: If your brand name isn’t widely recognized or searched, skip it. Instead, focus on the keywords that will bring in traffic and increase your visibility in local search results. Final Thoughts: Optimizing Title Tags for Local SEO Success Optimizing your title tags is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve your local SEO rankings. By incorporating high-value keywords, targeting localities, and creating catchy titles that attract clicks, you’re giving your website the best chance to stand out in local search results. So, take the time to craft compelling title tags, and you’ll start seeing an improvement in both rankings and click-through rates. Remember, when it comes to title tags, it’s not just about fitting within a set character limit or inserting a keyword – it’s about crafting a title that’s optimized for search and enticing for the user. Stay focused on the key elements, including keywords, location, and user engagement, and you’ll be well on your way to dominating local search results.
By Patrick McFadden December 5, 2024
At first glance, the phrase "customer experiences" might seem like a clever rebranding of "customer service," but there’s a world of difference between the two. Customer service is about meeting expectations—answering calls, providing a product, or completing a task. Customer experiences, however, are about exceeding expectations, creating moments of delight, and building emotional connections. The shift from service to experience is not just semantics; it’s a strategic imperative that transforms businesses into customer-centric brands. Here’s how focusing on customer experiences—not just service—can help you stand out in any service-driven industry. The Difference Between Service and Experience Imagine two companies offering the same basic service: landscaping. One company answers inquiries quickly, mows the lawn, trims the bushes, and maintains the yard. This is good customer service. The other company, however, goes beyond the basics. They customize seasonal plans, proactively offer eco-friendly solutions, and anticipate the client’s needs before they arise. They deliver not just a neatly trimmed lawn but also a sense of pride and relaxation for the homeowner. This is selling a customer experience. Customer service keeps the wheels turning; customer experiences build loyalty and advocacy. Why Selling Experiences Matters In an increasingly competitive market, customers no longer just evaluate what you offer—they evaluate how you make them feel. Selling customer experiences addresses the core problems your clients face, fostering trust, ease, and satisfaction. For residential customers: It’s not just about mowing the lawn. It’s about creating a sanctuary where families can unwind, enjoy time together, and host gatherings without worrying about yard maintenance. For commercial customers: It’s not merely about maintaining the grounds. It’s about aligning with the company’s brand image and ensuring the property always reflects professionalism. For municipalities and institutions: These clients don’t just need grass cut and flower beds maintained. They need landscapes that reflect community pride and support public spaces where people gather. By focusing on the experience, you move from being a vendor to becoming an indispensable partner. Building Customer Experiences by Segment Creating transformative customer experiences starts with understanding your audience. Let’s explore how different industries can apply this principle. 1. Residential Customers: The Relaxation Seeker Homeowners often see landscaping as a chore that cuts into their precious free time. They want a yard they can enjoy without lifting a finger. Sell the Experience: “Transform your yard into a stress-free oasis with landscaping services designed to let you relax and enjoy your outdoor space.” Deliver the Experience: Offer flexible service plans, detailed consultations, and proactive maintenance schedules that eliminate homeowner guesswork. 2. Commercial Customers: The Professional Impressionist Commercial clients understand that a well-maintained property reflects their brand. They don’t want disruptions, and they expect reliability. Sell the Experience: “A pristine landscape speaks volumes about your business. We ensure your property always reflects your professionalism.” Deliver the Experience: Provide consistent service schedules, communicate effectively about seasonal needs, and offer tailored solutions that enhance curb appeal. 3. Construction Companies: The Deadline-Driven Builder Construction firms need landscaping services that are aligned with project timelines, whether it’s grading a site or laying sod before a grand opening. Sell the Experience: “Deadlines are tight, and first impressions matter. Our landscaping services keep your projects on schedule and looking their best.” Deliver the Experience: Guarantee on-time project completion with minimal disruption, backed by clear communication and detailed planning. 4. Municipalities and Institutions: The Community Caretaker Local governments and institutions must balance public perception, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Well-maintained parks, schools, and community spaces are essential. Sell the Experience: “Your community deserves beautiful, functional spaces. We partner with you to maintain landscapes that reflect local pride.” Deliver the Experience: Provide scalable solutions for parks, public buildings, and event spaces, ensuring reliability and community satisfaction. 5. High-Volume Clients: The Scalable Solution Seeker Large properties or campuses require consistent, high-quality landscaping on a large scale. Clients need flexibility without sacrificing quality. Sell the Experience: “From corporate campuses to university grounds, our landscaping services scale with your needs, ensuring every detail is covered.” Deliver the Experience: Maintain a team trained to handle large-scale projects with precision, offering services that evolve as client needs grow. How to Build a Customer Experience-First Brand If you’re ready to shift from selling service to delivering experiences, here’s how to start: Know Your Customers: Empathy mapping and segment analysis are essential. Understand your customer’s goals, frustrations, and what they value most. Tailor Your Messaging: Speak directly to their pain points and aspirations. Use language that shows you understand their challenges and offer solutions that resonate emotionally. Empower Your Team: Train employees to focus on building relationships, not just completing tasks. When a landscaper takes the time to understand a family’s backyard vision or a company’s branding needs, it fosters trust and loyalty. Deliver Consistently: Experiences only work if they’re reliable. Guarantees like “on-time service” or “eco-friendly maintenance” create a reputation for trustworthiness. Highlight Your Differentiators: Whether it’s sustainability, high-quality equipment, or responsive service, ensure your unique advantages are part of every interaction. The Takeaway: Experiences Build Loyalty Customers may initially choose your company because of price or availability, but they’ll stay because of the experiences you create. Transforming service into an experience fosters trust, loyalty, and advocacy—qualities that not only win new business but also keep existing clients coming back. So, stop selling customer service. Start delivering customer experiences that make your clients’ lives easier, their businesses more efficient, and their communities better places to live.
By Patrick McFadden November 22, 2024
As a Christmas light contractor, you’re no stranger to the infamous phrase, “Let me talk to my husband/wife.” While it may sound harmless, experienced salespeople know it’s often code for hesitation—or even a polite no. But how you handle this objection can make or break the deal. Here’s a guide to turning “I need to talk to my spouse” into a productive conversation that increases your close rates and builds trust with potential clients. Why This Objection Happens Price Concerns: Holiday lighting can be a significant investment, and clients might not feel comfortable committing without consulting their spouse. Decision Fatigue: Many families share decision-making, and the thought of making a high-ticket purchase solo can be overwhelming. Polite Rejection: In some cases, it’s a soft way to say no without confrontation. Understanding these underlying reasons is crucial to addressing the objection effectively. How to Respond: Strategies That Work 1. Invite Both Decision-Makers Early If you sense hesitation, preempt the objection by involving both partners from the start: Example: “I’d love to make sure everyone’s on the same page. When can I meet with you and your spouse to review your options?” This not only avoids miscommunication but also demonstrates your respect for their process. 2. Empathy and Understanding Clients often appreciate when you acknowledge their perspective: Example: “I completely understand. If I were making a big decision like this, I’d want to check with my spouse too. Let’s schedule a time to follow up—does tomorrow afternoon work?” Empathy builds trust and keeps the door open for further discussion. 3. Clarify the Real Objection Sometimes, “talk to my spouse” masks other concerns, such as pricing or uncertainty about your service. Address it head-on: Example: “What specifically would you like to discuss with your spouse? I’d be happy to provide more details or answer any questions.” This approach often reveals hidden objections you can address right away. 4. Use Humor to Disarm A little humor can lighten the mood and keep the conversation moving: Example: “Good idea—let’s call them now! I’m sure they’d love to hear more about how we can make your home look amazing this holiday season.” Humor makes you memorable and keeps the interaction friendly. 5. Follow Up Like a Pro Persistence is key in sales, and follow-up is your secret weapon: Example: “I’ll follow up with you after you’ve had time to talk. Does Friday morning or afternoon work better for a quick call?” Regular follow-up ensures you stay top-of-mind, especially as the holiday season gets busier. What to Avoid Assuming It’s Over: Dismissing the objection as a no can leave money on the table. High-Pressure Tactics: Pushing too hard may make clients uncomfortable and less likely to choose your services. Ignoring Underlying Concerns: If price or trust is the issue, address it directly. Real-Life Examples Many seasoned contractors shared their tips for tackling this objection: “Encourage clients to discuss with their significant other. It builds trust, and if they like and trust you, you’ll likely get the job.” “Ask what they’d like to discuss with their spouse—this uncovers other objections you can address.” “Most of my ‘talk to my spouse’ clients say yes after follow-up. It’s all about patience.” Why This Matters for Christmas Light Contractors The holiday lighting business is seasonal and competitive. Losing a lead to hesitation or miscommunication can be costly. By handling this common objection with professionalism, empathy, and persistence, you can: Build trust with potential clients Address their concerns proactively Increase your close rates during the critical holiday season Turning Objections Into Opportunities “Let me talk to my spouse” doesn’t have to be the end of the conversation. With the right approach, it can be an opportunity to show your professionalism, build trust, and ultimately win the sale. By involving both decision-makers, addressing objections directly, and following up persistently, you can turn this common objection into a win-win situation for you and your clients.  This holiday season, don’t let hesitation dim your success. Use these strategies to light up your sales process—and your clients’ homes!
By Patrick McFadden November 18, 2024
For commercial cleaning companies, Facebook Ads can be a game-changing lead-generation tool, but the strategy you use determines your success. One critical decision is whether to use Facebook lead forms or direct traffic to a landing page . Both methods have their strengths, and tailoring them to the cleaning industry can significantly improve results. This guide breaks down how to optimize these options, highlighting scenarios, tailored forms, and messaging strategies that resonate with businesses seeking cleaning services.  Option 1: Facebook Lead Forms Why Use Them? Facebook lead forms make it easy for users to submit information without leaving the platform. They autofill basic details like name and email, reducing friction and increasing submission rates. Advantages for Cleaning Companies: Low Barrier to Entry: Attract interest from businesses casually exploring cleaning services. Quick Information Capture: Ideal for getting basic details to start a conversation. Mobile-Friendly: Simplifies the process for users on mobile devices. Tailored Form Options for Cleaning Leads: To improve lead quality, include questions specific to commercial cleaning needs: Service Needs: "What cleaning services do you require?" (Options: Office Cleaning, Floor Care, Janitorial Services, Other) Facility Size: "What is the approximate square footage of your facility?" Frequency: "How often do you need cleaning services?" (Options: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, One-Time) Business Type: "What type of facility do you manage?" (Options: Office, Retail, Medical, Industrial, Other) Challenges: Lower Intent: Some leads may not be serious about hiring a cleaning service. Follow-Up Effort: Requires quick and effective follow-ups to qualify and convert leads. Best Practices: Use automation tools like chatbots or email sequences to engage leads immediately after submission. Pair the form with a compelling offer, such as a free facility cleaning evaluation or cost comparison analysis . Focus on trust-building elements, such as highlighting your background checks, training programs, or customer testimonials. Option 2: Landing Pages Why Use Them? Landing pages allow you to provide more detailed information about your cleaning services, differentiating your business and showcasing your expertise. Advantages for Cleaning Companies: Educates Prospects: Explain the benefits of your services, such as lower employee turnover, improved air quality, or cost savings. Higher Intent: Visitors who take the extra step to fill out a landing page form are more likely to be serious leads. Customization: Tailor landing pages to specific services like floor care or medical cleaning. Tailored Landing Page Content: A well-designed landing page for commercial cleaning should include: Headline: A benefit-driven statement like "Reliable Commercial Cleaning to Keep Your Business Running Smoothly." Visuals: Professional images of clean facilities or your team in action. Social Proof: Client testimonials and reviews from other businesses. CTA: Clear calls to action like “Schedule a Free Cleaning Consultation Today.” Form Fields: Ask for essential details such as business name, contact info, facility size, and cleaning frequency. Challenges: Higher Drop-Off Rates: The additional step of visiting a page may deter casual prospects. Cost Per Lead: Leads generated through landing pages may be more expensive, but they’re often higher quality. Best Practices: Optimize landing pages for mobile and ensure fast load times. Use benefit-driven messaging, such as “Lower Cleaning Costs with Our Efficient Team.” Highlight certifications or compliance standards, especially if you work with regulated industries like healthcare. Choosing Between Lead Forms and Landing Pages For One-Time Cleaning Projects: If you’re targeting businesses needing one-time or seasonal cleaning, such as post-construction or event cleanup, use Facebook lead forms . Highlight a specific offer, such as: “Need a spotless facility after your next event? Get a free estimate today!” For Ongoing Contracts: To attract businesses interested in regular cleaning services, such as daily office cleaning or weekly janitorial work, use landing pages . Create ads emphasizing long-term value, like: “Improve Employee Productivity with a Cleaner Workplace—Get a Free Cleaning Assessment.” Enhancing Your Facebook Ads Strategy Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features Businesses don’t just want cleaning—they want the outcomes. Highlight how your services solve problems, such as: Low Turnover Rates: “Keep your tenants happy with a clean and welcoming environment.” Cost Efficiency: “Save up to 20% on cleaning costs with our streamlined processes.” Health and Safety: “Protect your employees with eco-friendly cleaning solutions.” Build Trust with Visuals and Testimonials Trust is crucial for commercial cleaning. Include: Employee photos and videos showing your team at work. Testimonials structured around specific challenges you solved, such as: “Before hiring [Your Company], our floors always looked dull. Now, they sparkle, and our clients often compliment us!” Leverage Social Proof Highlight your positive reviews and share real stories of how you’ve helped businesses. For example: “XYZ Office struggled with inconsistent cleaning. After partnering with us, they’ve reduced employee sick days by 15%.” Use Retargeting Ads For users who visit your landing page but don’t convert, run retargeting ads featuring: Before-and-after images of cleaned facilities. Time-sensitive offers, like “Sign up for a monthly cleaning plan and get your first month free!” Automation and Follow-Up: Speed to Lead Whether you use lead forms or landing pages, quick follow-up is essential. Use tools like: Chatbots to respond immediately with questions about cleaning needs. Email Sequences to nurture leads over time, sharing tips and service highlights. CRM Systems to track and manage leads effectively. Tailor Your Strategy for Success For commercial cleaning companies, both Facebook lead forms and landing pages can generate valuable leads—but the right choice depends on your goals and target audience. Use lead forms for quick, high-volume lead capture and landing pages for more detailed, higher-quality prospects. By focusing on benefits, building trust, and following up quickly, you can turn Facebook Ads into a reliable lead-generation machine. Whether you’re targeting small offices or large facilities, this approach will help you attract the right clients and grow your business.
By Patrick McFadden November 12, 2024
The world of marketing can be overwhelming, especially when every agency claims they have the “secret sauce” to success. But after talking with a prospect who’d interviewed eight different firms, I saw firsthand the struggles businesses face in navigating this crowded market. Here are the hard truths we uncovered—and what you should know before choosing your next marketing partner. Truth #1: Most Firms Sell Tactics, Not Strategy “We’ll do blog posts, Facebook ads, and SEO for you every month!” It sounds enticing, right? But here’s the problem: too many marketing firms focus on selling tactics instead of explaining how those tactics fit into a bigger strategy. One firm told my prospect they’d handle “all the social media and blogging,” but never mentioned what they’d actually achieve through those actions. Uncovered Truth: Tactics alone won’t help your business grow. Look for an agency that can explain how their approach ties into a long-term strategy, rather than just listing what they’ll do. Truth #2: A Good Partner Asks Questions First In their interviews, my prospect experienced a range of approaches—from agencies that spent 90% of the call talking about themselves to others that actually listened. One firm didn’t even pause to ask about the prospect’s business goals before launching into their sales pitch. Uncovered Truth: A real marketing partner will ask thoughtful questions, listen to your unique challenges, and work to understand your goals before suggesting solutions. If they’re not asking questions, they’re not invested in your success. Truth #3: ‘Industry Specialization’ Can Be Overrated Specialized firms can be appealing—they know your industry, your competitors, your target audience. But when a prospect spoke to several industry-specific agencies, they found the same issue: these firms often rely on cookie-cutter templates instead of adapting to the unique needs of each client. Uncovered Truth: Industry experience is valuable, but it’s only useful if the firm tailors its approach to fit your specific goals. Beware of cookie-cutter solutions that may be designed to work “for everyone” but aren’t customized to work for you. Truth #4: Pricing Transparency Is a Must Most business owners would agree: transparency matters. But several firms gave my prospect little detail on pricing beyond a set monthly retainer and a vague description of services included. Worse, there was no clarity on how changes or add-ons would affect costs. Uncovered Truth: A trustworthy agency provides clear, upfront pricing and explains what’s included. They’re also open about any potential costs for additional services. If the price breakdown feels unclear or vague, it might be time to look elsewhere. Truth #5: Not All Engagement Metrics Are Created Equal One firm tried to impress my prospect with a plan to boost the time visitors spend on their website. But simply holding a visitor’s attention for longer doesn’t always translate to success. For example, a visitor spending more time on a contact page could indicate confusion rather than engagement. Uncovered Truth: The right engagement metrics should align with your goals. Choose a marketing partner who knows the difference and will prioritize meaningful metrics—like conversions and lead quality—that drive your business forward. Truth #6: Different Channels Work for Different Businesses  One of the most interesting insights the prospect uncovered was how certain marketing channels perform differently depending on the industry. For instance, visual, impulse-buy products (like custom closets) perform well on Facebook, where potential customers can see and act on a striking ad. Search ads might not convert as well for these products, as they aren’t usually something people look for proactively. Uncovered Truth: A smart marketing firm doesn’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach to channels. They’ll recommend channels that match your audience and objectives, rather than pushing a pre-set package. Truth #7: The Best Marketing Firms Focus on Long-Term Success A lot of firms push quick wins or short-term gains, promising immediate boosts in traffic or followers. But real growth doesn’t come from quick fixes; it comes from strategic, sustainable efforts. One firm promised my prospect they’d “double traffic in two weeks,” but when asked about long-term plans, they had little to say. Uncovered Truth: Look for a partner who talks about long-term growth and sustainability, not just short-term boosts. An effective marketing strategy requires consistency and a long-term mindset. Final Takeaway: Choose Wisely, Choose Thoughtfully The prospect’s journey through eight marketing firms uncovered a harsh truth about the industry: the right partner isn’t always easy to find. But when you do, it can make all the difference. So, if you’re on the hunt for a marketing partner, remember these truths. Look for someone who listens, values transparency, focuses on long-term results, and understands that your business isn’t like anyone else’s. A true marketing partner will help you grow strategically, not just sell you a set of tactics. In the end, the search may take time—but finding the right partner is worth it.
By Patrick McFadden October 29, 2024
As the holiday season approaches, Christmas light contractors are gearing up for their busiest time of year. With high demand for professional holiday lighting services, it’s crucial to stand out and maximize your visibility. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there are a few marketing strategies that can help you gain more customers and grow your business during this festive period.  In this blog post, we’ll explore two key marketing tips to help Christmas light contractors shine this holiday season.
By Patrick McFadden October 4, 2024
As seasons change, so do customer needs. Whether you run an HVAC company, landscaping business, or specialize in holiday decorations, keeping your Google Business Profile (GBP) updated with the right categories is key to staying visible and relevant during peak times.  For service-based businesses, seasonal shifts are not just about adjusting operations—they’re also about aligning your online presence with what customers are searching for.
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