Lead Generation for Service Businesses: A Blueprint

Local businesses depend on "High Intent" leads. If my pipe is bursting, I need a plumber NOW. I don't care about your brand story.

The King: Google Local Services Ads (LSA)

These appear above the search results. They show "Google Guaranteed" badges. You pay per Lead, not per click. This is the holy grail for local service. Optimize your profile: Get reviews. Reviews are the ranking factor.

Google Search (PPC)

Bid on "Plumber near me." Not "Plumbing tips." Use Negative Keywords. Exclude "free", "how to", "job", "salary", "training". You don't want people looking for jobs; you want customers.

Facebook Ads (Demand Generation)

Search waits for problems. Facebook creates desire. Great for: HVAC (Seasonal tune-ups), Dentists (Teeth Whitening offers), Landscaping. Show the "Transformation." Dirty driveway vs. Clean driveway (Pressure Washing).

Speed to Lead

This cannot be overstated. If you call a lead back within 5 minutes, you are 20x more likely to close them than if you wait 30 minutes. Automate the follow-up text. "Hey, I'm under a sink but I saw your missed call. How can I help?"