10 Ways to Find Clients
Finding clients as a service specialist in New Zealand can sometimes feel like a full-time job in itself. But with the right strategies, you can attract a steady stream of local customers without shelling out on expensive ads. This guide offers ten practical and Kiwi-friendly ways to grow your client base authentically and effectively.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Set Up Your Google Business Profile (Free and Powerful)
Google Business Profile is a must-have for getting found locally. People searching for services like "plumber near me" or "cleaner Christchurch" rely heavily on Google results.
Complete your profile with clear business details, photos of your work, hours, and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews.
Example: A Wellington handyman saw a steady increase in enquiries after regularly updating his Google profile with photos and reviews.
2. Join Local Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are bustling with local people seeking recommendations or help with services. Groups like 'Auckland Locals' or 'Christchurch Buy/Sell' offer direct access to warm leads.
Participate by sharing helpful advice, answering questions, or showing quick job examples. Avoid hard selling to keep engagements genuine.
Example: A Nelson gardener regularly posts seasonal tips in local groups and gets enquiries as a result.
3. Leverage Neighbourly for Local Reach
Neighbourly, New Zealand’s community platform, connects locals in a thoughtful, slower-paced environment. It’s perfect for service specialists ready to build trust through helpful posts.
Make an introductory post explaining who you are and the services you offer to gain local visibility without being pushy.
Example: A Hamilton cleaner gained several first-time clients after posting about her eco-friendly cleaning services.
4. List on Free NZ Business Directories
Get yourself on popular directories like NoCowboys, Builderscrack, TradeMe Services, and Localist. Even a basic free listing gets you in front of locals actively searching.
These platforms often support photos, customer reviews, and direct messaging which helps convert enquiries.
Example: A Christchurch electrician doubled leads after creating profiles on multiple free directories.
5. Use Yada’s Growing Platform
Yada offers a smart local service marketplace in NZ, featuring no lead or success fees, private client-specialist chat, and a rating system fostering trust.
Responding to job posts on Yada can bring highly relevant and ready-to-convert clients.
Example: An Auckland dog walker credits Yada with most of her client base growth since joining.
6. Encourage Word-of-Mouth Referrals
In NZ, personal recommendations matter hugely. After finishing jobs, kindly ask satisfied clients to refer friends or family.
Make this easy with referral cards, social media tags, or small incentives.
Example: A Tauranga cleaner offers a $20 discount for successful referrals, motivating clients to spread the word.
7. Build a Simple Website or Page
You don’t need a complex website to look professional. A simple one-page site made in Google Sites, Wix, or Carrd with your services, contact info, and photos is enough.
Link your social profiles and directories to make it easy for people to check your credentials.
Example: A Dunedin carpet cleaner’s simple website helped convert referrals into clients by showing professionalism.
8. Share Helpful Tips, Not Sales Pitches
Regularly share simple advice, before-and-after photos, or common mistakes in your field on social media or community posts.
This builds trust and keeps you top of mind without seeming pushy.
Example: A Wellington lawn-care specialist shares seasonal maintenance tips in local Facebook groups, sparking enquiries.
9. Partner With Complementary Businesses
Connect with businesses serving the same clientele but offering different services, like real estate agents or property managers.
Quiet referral partnerships provide a steady source of clients over time.
Example: A Christchurch gardener swaps referrals with a local cleaner, benefiting both.
10. Use Physical Flyers and Community Boards
Low-tech but effective-posting flyers at local New World noticeboards, libraries and community centres can reach those less active online.
Keep flyers clear, friendly, and regional - people appreciate local connections.
Example: An Invercargill handyman gained regular bookings thanks to flyers pinned around local community halls.