How Service-Based Businesses in Kent Can Get More Leads Online

If you run a service-based business in Kent—whether you’re a plumber, electrician, landscaper, or personal trainer—you probably rely on word-of-mouth and referrals to get customers. But in 2025, that’s not enough.

People in Kent are searching for services like yours online every day. Whether it’s “best gardener in Canterbury” or “emergency locksmith in Maidstone”, customers are looking for fast, reliable, and local solutions.

So how do you make sure your business stands out and gets more leads online? In this guide, we’ll walk you through 7 powerful strategies to help your Kent-based business attract more customers, boost bookings, and grow revenue.

1. Get Found on Google (Local SEO Is a Must!)

When people search for “[Your Service] near me”, you want your business to show up at the top of Google’s results. That’s where Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) comes in.

How to Improve Your Local SEO in Kent:

✅ Claim Your Google My Business Listing – Add your business details, upload photos, and encourage customer reviews.
✅ Use Local Keywords – Include phrases like “Affordable boiler repair in Maidstone” or “Top-rated dog groomer in Ashford” throughout your website.
✅ Get Listed in Online Directories – Add your business to Yell, Checkatrade, and Bark to increase your online presence.

👉 Pro Tip: The more Google reviews you have, the higher you’ll rank. Ask happy customers to leave a 5-star review after using your service.

2. Build a Website That Converts Visitors Into Leads

Your website isn’t just a digital business card—it’s your most important marketing tool. If visitors can’t quickly find what they need, they’ll leave and book with a competitor.

Must-Have Features for a Lead-Generating Website:

✅ Fast & Mobile-Friendly Design – More than 60% of searches happen on mobile phones. Your website should load quickly and look great on any device.
✅ Clear Call-to-Action (CTA) – Use buttons like “Request a Free Quote” or “Book a Service Now” to guide visitors toward taking action.
✅ Easy Contact Options – Display your phone number, email, and a contact form on every page.
✅ Service Pages for Each Offering – Create individual pages for services like “Patio Cleaning in Dover” or “Emergency Plumbing in Folkestone” to help with SEO.

🚀 Bonus Tip: Add a Live Chat feature so potential customers can message you instantly!

3. Use Facebook & Instagram Ads to Target Local Customers

Paid ads on Facebook and Instagram are an affordable way to reach thousands of potential customers in Kent. With highly targeted ads, you can show your services to people in specific locations and with specific interests.

How to Run Effective Facebook Ads:

✅ Target Locally – Choose locations like Canterbury, Maidstone, or Ashford to reach customers in your area.
✅ Use Eye-Catching Images – Show before-and-after photos of your work or a happy customer.
✅ Include a Strong Offer – Example: “Get 20% Off Your First Cleaning Service in Kent – Book Today!”
✅ Add a Call-to-Action – Buttons like “Get a Quote” or “Send Message” make it easy for customers to contact you.

👉 Pro Tip: Retarget website visitors with ads reminding them to book your service!

4. Offer a Lead Magnet (Give Something for Free!)

People love freebies. Offering a lead magnet (a free resource or discount) encourages potential customers to give you their contact details so you can follow up and convert them into paying clients.

Examples of Lead Magnets for Kent Businesses:

✅ Plumbers – Free checklist: “10 Signs Your Boiler Needs Repair”
✅ Landscapers – Free guide: “5 Ways to Keep Your Lawn Green in Kent’s Weather”
✅ Personal Trainers – Free workout plan: “7-Day Fitness Challenge for Beginners”
✅ Cleaners – “Get 10% Off Your First Home Cleaning in Maidstone – Sign Up Now!”

Once they download your free resource or claim the discount, follow up with an email or phone call to book your service!

5. Leverage Customer Reviews & Testimonials

People trust real customer feedback more than any ad. That’s why positive reviews can make or break your business.

How to Get More Reviews:

✅ Ask Happy Clients – After completing a job, send a polite email or text asking for a review.
✅ Make It Easy – Send them a direct link to leave a Google or Facebook review.
✅ Offer Incentives – Give a small discount or enter them in a prize draw for leaving feedback.

🚀 Bonus Tip: Display customer testimonials on your homepage with their name, photo, and location in Kent to build trust.

6. Email Marketing – Keep Customers Coming Back

A simple monthly email can help turn one-time customers into loyal, repeat clients.

What to Include in Your Emails:

✅ Special Offers – “Book your annual boiler service now and save 15%!”
✅ Seasonal Reminders – “Spring is here! Time to book your patio cleaning service.”
✅ Local News & Tips – “5 Ways to Save on Energy Bills This Winter in Kent.”

Use free tools like Mailchimp or MailerLite to send emails and keep your business top of mind.

7. Use Video Marketing to Stand Out

Videos grab attention faster than text and help build trust with potential customers.

Easy Video Ideas for Kent Service Businesses:

📹 Behind-the-Scenes Video – Show how you complete a service
📹 Customer Testimonials – Record happy clients sharing their experiences
📹 DIY Tips & Advice – Give simple, useful tips (e.g., “How to Fix a Leaky Tap”)

Post your videos on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to increase engagement and reach more local customers.

Final Thoughts: Take Your Kent Business to the Next Level!

If you’re a service-based business in Kent, getting leads online doesn’t have to be complicated. By using these 7 proven strategies, you can attract more customers, grow your reputation, and increase bookings.

🚀 Quick Recap:
✅ Optimize your Google My Business & Local SEO to appear in search results
✅ Build a high-converting website with clear CTAs
✅ Run Facebook & Instagram ads targeting local customers
✅ Offer a free lead magnet to capture potential clients
✅ Collect customer reviews & testimonials to build trust
✅ Use email marketing to retain past customers
✅ Create videos to showcase your expertise

💡 Need help generating more leads online? We specialize in affordable website design and digital marketing for Kent businesses.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation!