3 Simple Ways to Earn More Dog Walking Clientele
A dog walking business can be very lucrative. Pet owners outside the house for significant periods lean on this service to care for their furry friends. Some people might be unable to walk their dog for reasons such as a disability and therefore rely on walkers to give their fur babies the exercise they need. Also training by Sally Said So Puppy training Greensboro can also come handy.
Setting Your Business Apart
While your business has a clear need, expanding your reach can be challenging. Dog walking apps are becoming more popular, and local businesses will have strong relationships in your area, so you need to focus on what separates you from the crowd.
Referrals are crucial for any business. Happy clients tell their friends and family about your services, and suddenly you are flooded with messages. Discounts for referrals provide a great incentive too. Sometimes a customer will love working with you, but it won't occur to them to mention you to other people. However, if a financial incentive is involved, suddenly, it is far more appealing.
While you should never charge less than your worth, consider offering bundles or first-time customer discounts. Something as simple as paying half the regular rate for your fifth walk goes further than you might think. According to the ASPCA, first-year dog ownership costs exceed $1,000. Therefore, you'll probably have many clients that would greatly appreciate a deal.
Establishing an Online Presence
Of course, there's no point in offering all these services and deals if nobody knows you exist. You need an online presence. Creating a website can be time-consuming, and posting on social media daily or weekly might seem tedious, but those are the things potential customers will see when they research you. Consumers want clear, concise, and convenient information, and they'll lean on your website and social media to find out more about you.
A professional website is vital and should include your services, prices, contact information, and testimonials. Not only will it give you credibility, but it helps you reach a wider audience. Many website builders out there are user-friendly and will create a professional-looking website. Some are free, and others charge a monthly subscription, but the monthly rate is usually less than the cost of one walk.
Invest in a domain name. You might have to be selective with where you invest your money, especially at the beginning, but a website address that's easy to remember will not only make you more legitimate but also make it easier to find your site. Additionally, many website builders can build an app, which is a great way to help customers schedule walks and communicate with you.
Once you have a website and app, you must work on your social media presence. It allows you to interact more personally with clientele and has a broad reach. While you should be on as many platforms as possible, prioritize Facebook, which dominates all social media, with just over 65% of social media user share.
Partnering with Organizations and Raising Awareness
Partnering with local organizations and raising awareness of dog issues is another way to increase your brand awareness. Aligning your business with brands and organizations that align with your brand will help you immensely.
Try working with organizations like the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, which is an organization that researches and spreads awareness about pet obesity levels in the United States. In their 2018 research on pet obesity, they found that roughly 56% of dogs in the United States were overweight or obese. As a dog walker, your business offers pets the opportunity to get some much-needed exercise, thus perfectly aligning with your mission.
Increasing your customer base is stressful for any business owner, but it is possible. Utilizing the right resources and strategies will increase brand awareness and gain more clientele.
