Startup question?

[louingalls]

I recently retired from the IT industry and interested in starting a small lawn service business. I created a small personal style flyer introducing myself,etc? I passed out 50 some in my neighborhood yesterday but have not had any responses?

My question is it better to attempt for personal appeal or should I create a "professional" brochure with company name,etc. What has been successful for others starting up.

My attempt is just a part time business that will keep me busy a few days of the week.

[nodakmower]

try about 5000 flyers, business cards and finally the best way is the local newspaper

[LBLC_LCO]

Definitely pass out way more than 50 fliers.

You can also try craigslist. It works for some guys, just have to be careful and use good judgment on who the possible sh**bags are.

[THC]

I don't pick up weekly maintenance after the season has started, everyone that wants a LCO has one already. Mind you I stop advertising too.

[HighGrass]

Do something simple. One sheet, one side. "LAWN MOWING" then underneath give a quick,"I am mowing in your neighborhood etc. Mail them to every eligible house in the areas you want to cover. Then wait. People won't call right away. SOme will, but some will call maybe weeks later. The more flyers you send out, the great your chances of getting more accounts. Find house that are for sale...leave a flyer and card in the garage door or front door if no one is home. The more humping you do, the more you'll get.

[HighGrass]

I don't pick up weekly maintenance after the season has started, everyone that wants a LCO has one already. Mind you I stop advertising too.

Not with me. I get referrals and keep my eyes peeled as much as possible. There are ALWAYS opportunities if you want to take the time to explore or exploit them.

[louingalls]

Thanks. The one I create was very simple and intended to appeal locally, ie:

... recently retired professional seeks to provide lawn care services...

.. homeowner in area for 25 years, etc.

I though simple personal appeal might work?

I obviously need to put out more flyers. I posted a new thread on here re. SAMPLE flyers other pros have used for us newbies? Also would be helpful if there was a forum with "cool" logo templates. Everything I find on the net is a come on to buy or suscribe. Nothing is "free".

[MowHouston]

When advertising with flyers less is more.

Your goal with a flyer is to get the customer's attention, not give them something to read.

1. Use colored paper. Hot pink and yellow work good.
2. Use something to get their attention. Something like "STOP!" or "ATTENTION!"
3. Create a problem: "Tired of mowing your lawn?" or "Want to spend more time with your friend and family?"
4. Create a solution: "ABC Lawn Care offers professional service in your area."
5. Give them your contact info
6. Possibly put a coupon on the back for extra incentive.

Think about what you do when you read an ad in the newspaper or see a flyer on your door. When people are getting home from work and see something stuck on their door, the majority of people don't want to mess with a lot of reading.

Also. Flyers and doorhangers tend to have about a 1% - 2% response rate. Theoretically 100 flyers = 1-2 calls (not customers, calls)

If you're in Raleigh consider using craigslist, its free. And no matter how many of these jokers say "You'll only get tire kickers and cheapskates", it works great.

Also, because you are in a metropolitan area, consider creating a website and advertising with Google or Yahoo. Depends on how serious you are about it all.

Good luck.

[Frantic Freddy]

I could help get your website up and running as well as help with a logo. If you are interested let me know. I am a 'noob' too but am very computer savy. :usflag:



You can see my site I built here. www.pleasehelpmylawn.com

[louingalls]

Thanks for the link. I sent you an email (jd)?