I’m starting up my own practice this season and had this idea to save some money on marketing. I was thinking of printing postcards and leaving them at people’s doorsteps instead of mailing them to save costs.
Do flyers or postcards actually work for getting clients?
And if you’re using printed marketing, what’s working best for you?
I tried a few different ways to get clients when I started. Here’s what worked best for me:
Google. Get your business on the map, set up a Google Ads budget (I did $10/day), and have a decent website. After three years, I stopped paying for ads, and clients still come in from my map listing.
Good clients referring me, plus a few connections with financial advisors.
Small ads in local newsletters or community association bulletins.
I mailed about 120 postcards once and only got one response.
Forget about the Yellow Pages and definitely avoid paid marketing services. When people need something, they usually just Google it.
An inside person on Facebook groups can be gold. Groups like ‘Local Airbnb Hosts’ or ‘Dog Lovers of [Your Area]’ often have folks asking for advice. If someone in the group mentions your name, you’ll get interest without having to do the promo yourself. It’s close to word-of-mouth and avoids breaking group rules on self-promotion.
Be careful—only USPS mail is allowed in a mailbox. People do put things in mailboxes, but technically it’s illegal, and all it takes is one person reporting it.
Zora said:
Be careful—only USPS mail is allowed in a mailbox. People do put things in mailboxes, but technically it’s illegal, and all it takes is one person reporting it.
Oh, good to know. I was thinking of leaving them on doorsteps. Would that make a difference?
I got lucky with a local leads group and made a strong connection with an estate planning attorney—that really boosted my business. I also set up a Google Business page and ask for reviews.
Client referrals, a few key partners (like attorneys or financial advisors), and a solid Google presence can go a long way.
If you focus on great service, clients will spread the word for you. Best of luck!
I joined a local BNI group. My practice was a side gig, and I made $50k from a $1,500 BNI investment. It was the only marketing I did—didn’t even have a website.
Jamie said:
I joined a local BNI group. My practice was a side gig, and I made $50k from a $1,500 BNI investment. It was the only marketing I did—didn’t even have a website.
I’ve thought about BNI, but I’m pretty socially awkward, lol. Want to get some experience under my belt before joining a room full of pros.