When I started my handyman business 3 years ago, I didn’t look like the typical handyman. I didn’t have much experience, I didn’t have a reputation to help spread the word, and I looked like I was 18.
Let’s just say customers weren’t sprinting to their phones in a mad dash to call me.
That’s why I knew I’d have to go through extra steps to make myself look professional. I had to find a way to look like I was actually an established business. Otherwise, what reason would a customer have to even trust me?
So, I spent some time branding my business. I did all the things necessary to make it appear as if I’d been doing this for a while. I went out of my way to differentiate myself from other handymen.
As it turns out, overcompensating for my weakness ended up helping my business tremendously.
Not only did the extra time branding my business convince customers I was worth hiring, but it increased my perceived value in their minds.
The fact that I looked like I was a kid didn’t matter anymore. I presented myself as if I had my shit together, and that was enough to convince them to at least give me a shot.
Of course, haveing a pretty logo designed and putting on a uniform didn’t get me customers by itself. I still had to put effort into generating leads. But it certainly helped close the deal on many occassions and it continues to do so.
That’s why in this podcast, I discuss the power of branding and tips for creating your brand. Whether you are just getting started or have been in business for a while, a great brand can take your business to the next level.
Here’s A Sample Of What I Cover in This Episode:
- 5 questions you must ask yourself before even naming your business.
- The steps I took and recommend to building a great brand on a budget.
- What a brand can do for your business.
- Tips for creating a brand that you are proud of and enjoy for years to come.
Here are some resources mentioned:
- Free video training to help you generate leads 24/7
- Fiverr.com – Get a decent log for just $5
- A logo design you love, or 100% of your money back at 99designs.com
(affiliate link)
As always, thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe in iTunes or Stitcher and leave me a review in iTunes!
Hello Big D
Great tips on branding got a lot of good information thanks. What’s your personal opinion on magnet vehicle signs vs. the vinyl decal style, as far as branding goes?
I would say good vinyl truck branding is far better than a magnet on your door and bumper. It looks much more professional. Unless you need to take them off regularly, vinyl is the way to go.
Dan, great podcast! I am prepping for my transition from a commercial construction job to starting a home service/handyman gig. Branding is something that never even came to mind beyond cards and craigslist advertising. I usually do handyman work for my landlord, friends and family, especially during layoff season and was fairly busy last time I did it. Branding will give me that extra edge. I also just read your blog on fear and what could be holding me back. Thank you so much for doing what you do.
Hey Richie! Glad I could help, man. I appreciate the comment.
Dan, I can’t believe you are just giving this stuff away! Talk about pay it forward. I was taking notes and have some great things to discuss with my handyman husband at our next weekly business meeting. This podcast really encouraged me in some steps we have already taken and in some small tweaks we can make to build things stronger and more streamlined for 2015. Thank you so much. I am really excited to keep going though the Academy. I keep hearing your story of how you got started in the Handyman business — I wonder if you share anywhere why you created THIS handyman startup? We would love to hear.
Hi Tara,
I’m glad you are finding the content helpful! Thanks for letting me know your interest in my story of starting Handyman Startup. I’ll be sure to include that in the next couple of episodes. Thanks for listening!
Dan
I’m 57 years old. I’ve learned and “relearned” several things reading your methodology. I can validate your suggestions to your subscribers based on my own findings (lessons learned the hard way) as it were. Advertising is a huge deal. Thanks for doing what you do!
Your welcome Jeff! Sounds like you’re getting some awesome results with your advertising.