So, you've got a fence contracting business and you're looking to get more people to call you. It's not always easy, right? There are a lot of fence companies out there. The internet is where most people start looking, so you need to make sure they find you. This guide is all about how to get more leads for your fence business, using strategies that actually work. We'll cover how to get noticed online, how to show people you know your stuff, and how to get those calls coming in.
Getting your fence business noticed online when people in your town are looking for services is super important. It’s like having a sign out front, but for the internet. Local Search Engine Optimization, or SEO, is how you make sure you show up when someone searches for "fence repair near me" or "new fence installation [your town name]". It’s not just about having a website; it’s about making that website and your online presence work hard to bring local customers to you.
Think about what people actually type into Google when they need a fence. They’re usually looking for something specific and close by. So, instead of just using general terms like "fencing services," you need to get specific. This means using keywords that include your town, city, or even neighborhood. For example, "wood fence builder in Springfield" or "vinyl fence repair Oakwood." You want to sprinkle these terms naturally throughout your website's text, page titles, and descriptions. This tells search engines exactly where you work and what you do, helping you connect with people who are ready to hire.
It’s about matching your business to the exact search queries of potential clients in your area. If someone searches for "affordable picket fence installation," and your website uses those exact words and mentions your service area, you're much more likely to appear in their search results. This kind of targeted approach means fewer wasted clicks and more potential customers who are genuinely interested in what you offer.
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is basically your free digital storefront on Google Search and Maps. It’s often the first thing people see when they search for local businesses. Make sure all the information is spot-on: your business name, address, phone number (NAP), hours of operation, and the services you provide. Upload high-quality photos of your completed fence projects – before and after shots can be really effective. Also, use the posts feature to share updates, special offers, or new projects. A complete and active GBP is a huge signal to Google that you're a legitimate, local business ready to serve customers.
People trust what other people say. When potential customers are looking for a fence contractor, they’ll often check reviews to see what past clients thought. Actively ask your happy customers to leave a review on your Google Business Profile, Yelp, or other relevant sites. Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and timely manner. This shows you care about customer feedback and are committed to good service. Positive reviews build trust and social proof, making it much easier for new customers to choose you over a competitor.
Here’s a quick way to think about the impact of reviews:
Think of your website and social media as your digital storefront. What you put out there tells people what you're about, and frankly, if they should trust you with their property. Creating content that shows you know your stuff is a big part of that. It's not just about saying you're good; it's about showing it.
Homeowners often look for ways to keep their fences looking good and lasting longer. Creating guides on fence maintenance is a smart move. You can cover topics like cleaning different fence materials, checking for loose posts, or simple repairs. This positions you as a helpful resource, not just someone trying to sell them a new fence. When people search for "how to fix a wobbly fence post" or "best way to clean vinyl fencing," and they find your detailed, easy-to-follow guide, they start to see you as an authority. It's a great way to attract people who might not be ready for a new fence yet but will remember you when they are.
Providing this kind of helpful information builds trust. People are more likely to call a company they feel has already helped them, even if it was just with advice.
Videos are incredibly popular, and they're a fantastic way to show off your work. Think about creating short videos that highlight finished projects. Before-and-after videos are particularly powerful. You can show a rundown yard and then, with a quick transition, reveal a beautifully installed fence. This visual proof is very convincing. You could also make short clips demonstrating specific techniques or explaining the benefits of different fencing materials. Keep them short, to the point, and easy to watch on a phone. High-quality visuals matter here; blurry or shaky footage won't do your business justice.
Realtors are always looking for reliable contractors to recommend to their clients. Writing articles or blog posts that speak directly to their needs can be a smart strategy. You could write about how a new fence can significantly boost a home's curb appeal and sale price, or discuss the types of fences that are popular in your specific neighborhoods. Frame it from the perspective of how your services help them sell homes faster and for more money. This shows you understand their business and can be a valuable partner. It's about building relationships with people who have a steady stream of potential customers.
When you're running ads online, it's easy to just throw money at the problem and hope for the best. But that's not really how it works, is it? You need to be smart about where your money goes. Precision targeting is key to making sure your ad spend actually brings in fence installation or repair leads.
First things first, you need to know exactly where you work. Are you serving just one town, or a few surrounding counties? Be specific. Most ad platforms let you draw out your service area on a map or enter zip codes. Don't just guess; put in the actual boundaries. This stops your ads from showing up to people who are too far away to hire you, saving you money and frustration.
Not all ad platforms are created equal when it comes to targeting specific locations. Google Ads is usually a top choice because it lets you get really granular with your location settings. You can target by city, radius around your business, or even specific zip codes. Facebook Ads also offers good location targeting, which can be great for reaching homeowners in specific neighborhoods. Think about where your ideal customers are likely to be and choose the platform that lets you reach them most effectively. For fence contractors looking to increase their online visibility, Google Ads can be a powerful tool.
Once you've defined your area, you need to make your ads sound like they belong there. Use the name of the town or county in your ad copy. For example, instead of "Fence Installation," try "Fence Installation in Springfield." Mentioning local landmarks or common neighborhood names can also help. It makes your business feel more familiar and trustworthy to people who live there. Think about what makes your area unique and weave that into your messaging. It's about speaking directly to the people you want to hire you.
Focusing your ad efforts on the specific areas you serve means you're not wasting money showing ads to people who can't become customers. It's about being efficient and smart with your advertising budget, making sure every dollar works hard to bring in qualified leads for your fencing business.
Social media might not be the first place someone looks when they need a fence installed, but it's a powerful tool for building trust and staying in front of potential customers. Think of it less as an instant lead generator and more as a way to nurture relationships over time. People aren't usually scrolling through Facebook thinking, 'I need a fence today!' but they might be planning a project or considering options. That's where you come in, consistently showing up and providing value.
For homeowners, Facebook and Instagram are your go-to platforms. These are visual spaces, perfect for showcasing your finished projects. Before and after photos or short videos of a completed fence installation can really grab attention. Don't just post pretty pictures, though. Share tips on fence care, explain different material options, or even introduce your team. This makes your business feel more human and approachable. Engaging with local community groups on Facebook can also be a goldmine. Look for groups where people ask for recommendations or discuss home improvement projects. Offer helpful advice, and when appropriate, mention your services and link to your website. This not only helps you directly but also allows for retargeting ads later.
When you're looking to land bigger jobs, like fencing for businesses, HOAs, or construction sites, LinkedIn is where you need to be. It's a professional network, so your approach should be different. Share case studies of successful commercial projects, highlight your company's reliability and experience, and connect with property managers, developers, and general contractors. Think about posting articles that discuss the importance of security fencing for businesses or the benefits of durable commercial-grade materials. This positions you as a knowledgeable professional in the commercial sector.
Showing up regularly is key. You don't need to post every single day, but aim for a consistent schedule, maybe 3-5 times a month at a minimum. This keeps your business visible and builds a sense of reliability. Use a mix of content: project highlights, team spotlights, customer testimonials, and helpful tips. Stories and Reels often get more views, so consider using those formats for behind-the-scenes looks or quick project updates. Respond to comments and messages promptly; this shows you're attentive and care about customer interaction. It's all about building that online presence so that when someone does start thinking about a fence, your company is one of the first they remember.
Building a strong social media presence takes time and consistent effort. It's about more than just posting ads; it's about creating a community, sharing your knowledge, and showing the personality behind your business. This consistent engagement builds trust, which is exactly what people look for when hiring someone for a significant home or business improvement project.
Here’s a quick look at what to focus on:
In today's world, people check out businesses online before they even think about calling. So, having a solid online presence isn't just a nice-to-have; it's how you get people to trust you enough to hire you for their fencing needs.
Your website is like your digital storefront. It needs to look good and be easy for people to use. Think about what someone looking for a fence contractor would want to see. They need to know what services you offer, see examples of your work, and find your contact information easily. A clunky, outdated website can make potential customers click away fast. Make sure it loads quickly, works well on phones, and clearly shows why you're the best choice.
What sets your fence company apart? Maybe it's your super-fast installation, your unique material options, or your commitment to eco-friendly practices. Whatever it is, shout it from the digital rooftops! Use your website and social media to tell your story. Before-and-after photos of your projects are fantastic for this. They visually prove the quality of your work. Also, consider short videos of your team in action or explaining a common fencing problem and how you solve it. This kind of content helps people connect with your business on a more personal level.
Don't just rely on your website. Get your business listed in as many relevant online directories as possible. Think Google Business Profile, Yelp, Angie's List, and any local business directories. Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent everywhere. This consistency helps search engines like Google see you as a legitimate and trustworthy business. It also makes it easier for people searching for fence contractors in your area to find you, no matter where they're looking.
Paid advertising can really speed things up when you're trying to get more fence jobs. It's not just about throwing money at ads; it's about being smart with where and how you spend it. Think of it as a direct line to people who are actively looking for what you do, right now.
Google Ads is a big one for a reason. When someone types "fence installer near me" or "wood fence repair," you want to be right there. It’s about showing up when the need is highest. You can set up campaigns that focus on specific services, like vinyl fence installation or chain-link repair, and target them to your exact service area. This way, you're not wasting money showing ads to people who are too far away or looking for something else entirely. Using negative keywords is also super important – things like "DIY" or "fence kits" can eat up your budget if you're not careful to exclude them. This targeted approach helps ensure your ad spend is focused on homeowners with a genuine interest in hiring a professional.
Google Local Services Ads are a bit different. They show up at the very top of the search results, above the regular ads. The cool thing is, you only pay when someone contacts you directly through the ad – it's a lead, not just a click. This can be a really cost-effective way to get in front of potential customers. Plus, these ads come with a "Google Guaranteed" badge, which can really build trust with homeowners. It's a great way to stand out from the competition and get those high-intent leads.
What about the people who visited your website but didn't call or fill out a form? Retargeting is your tool for bringing them back. You can show them ads on other websites they visit, reminding them about your fence services. It's like a gentle nudge to say, "Hey, remember us? We're still here to help with your fence project." This is especially useful because people often need time to research and compare options before making a decision. Keeping your business top-of-mind through retargeting can make a big difference in turning those interested visitors into paying customers. You can learn more about how these campaigns work on Google and Meta paid ad campaigns.
Paid advertising, when done right, acts like a magnet for people actively searching for fence services. It's about being visible at the exact moment someone needs a fence installed or repaired, and making sure your message speaks directly to their needs and location.
Building a strong fence business isn't just about getting new customers; it's also about keeping the ones you have happy and turning them into repeat clients and advocates. Think of it like tending a garden – you need to water and care for your existing plants to see them flourish.
Word-of-mouth is still incredibly powerful, especially in local communities. People trust recommendations from friends and neighbors way more than they trust ads. So, why not give people a reason to talk about your business? A referral program can do just that. It's a structured way to thank existing customers for sending new business your way. You can offer a discount on their next service, a small gift card, or even a cash bonus for every successful referral they send over.
Here’s a simple way to set it up:
This not only incentivizes your current clients but also shows them you appreciate their business and trust.
Don't let those customer email addresses just sit there! Your email list is a direct line to people who already know and like your work. Use it to stay in touch. Send out occasional newsletters with helpful tips on fence maintenance, seasonal reminders (like checking for winter damage), or even special offers exclusive to your subscribers. It’s a low-cost way to keep your company top-of-mind without being pushy.
Regular, helpful communication builds a connection that goes beyond just the initial project. It reminds people you're there when they need you again or when a friend asks for a recommendation.
Your job isn't really done when the fence is up. A quick follow-up call or email a week or two after the project is finished can make a huge difference. Ask them how they're liking the new fence, if they have any questions, or if there's anything at all you can do to help. This shows you genuinely care about their experience and aren't just looking to move on to the next job. It’s also a great opportunity to ask for a review or if they know anyone else who might need your services. Addressing any minor issues promptly can prevent bigger problems down the road and turn a satisfied customer into a loyal one.
So, we've gone over a bunch of ways to get more people to call you for fence jobs. It's not just about putting up a sign anymore; you really need to be online where people are looking. From making sure your Google listing is spot-on to sharing helpful tips on your website and social media, it all adds up. Remember, keeping customers happy and asking them to spread the word is still a big deal too. Don't get overwhelmed by all the digital stuff. Pick a few things that make sense for your business and start there. The goal is to get your phone ringing with folks who need fences, and by putting these ideas into practice, you're well on your way to making that happen.
Making your business easy to find online is key. This means using words people search for, like 'fence repair near me,' and making sure your business shows up on Google Maps. Also, having a good Google Business Profile and getting happy customers to leave reviews really helps.
Share your knowledge! You can write simple guides on how to take care of fences, make short videos showing your work, or write articles about how fences help homeowners. This shows people you know what you're doing and builds trust.
It's important to know exactly where you want to work, like specific towns or neighborhoods. Then, use ad tools that let you show your ads only to people in those areas. Make your ads talk about things that matter to people in that town.
For homes, Facebook and Instagram are great for showing off your work and connecting with people. If you do bigger jobs for businesses, LinkedIn is a good place to network. The main thing is to post regularly and interact with people.
Your website should be easy to use and look professional. Clearly explain what makes your company special, like guarantees or great customer service. Also, make sure it's easy for people to contact you, maybe with a simple form or phone number right on the page.
Keep in touch with your past customers! Send them emails with helpful tips or special offers. Also, create a program where you give rewards, like a discount or gift card, to customers who refer new clients to you. Happy customers are your best advertisers.
