How to Stand Out From Other Service Specialists (Even in a Crowded Area)
Being one service specialist among many in New Zealand can feel tough, especially in popular cities and towns. But standing out doesn’t mean shouting the loudest; it means being smart, genuine, and focused on what makes you uniquely helpful. Here are ten practical ways to shine bright in a crowded market and attract the right local clients.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Highlight Your Unique Story
Your background, why you do what you do, and your local connections make up your unique story. Clients want to hire people, not just faceless services.
Weirdly enough, sharing your real journey and values can turn casual browsers into loyal customers.
Example: A Wellington painter who started as a tattoo artist uses storytelling on her Yada profile to connect personally with clients who appreciate her artistic eye.
2. Build A Trusted Online Presence
Even in small Kiwi communities, people check online before hiring. A strong, consistent presence on platforms like Yada, Google Business, and trusted directories helps you appear reliable.
Make sure to upload clear photos, detailed service descriptions, and collect reviews.
Example: An Auckland handywoman boosted enquiries after updating her Yada profile with real photos and client testimonials.
3. Provide Transparent, Competitive Pricing
Clients value upfront, honest pricing over surprises or vague quotes. Use Yada’s no-lead-fee model to offer clear and fair rates.
If you charge a bit more, explain why - expertise, warranty, or premium materials all matter.
Example: A Tauranga electrician highlights his price fairness alongside glowing Yada ratings, attracting clients willing to pay slightly more for quality.
4. Leverage Word-of-Mouth and Referrals
In New Zealand’s tight-knit communities, one referral can spark many new clients. Ask happy customers for referrals and make it easy for them.
Consider subtle referral incentives like discounts or thank-you vouchers.
Example: A Christchurch cleaner offers a $20 discount to clients who successfully refer others, which doubled her bookings over six months.
5. Focus On Excellent Customer Service
Prompt replies, clear communication, and friendly attitudes stand out when many specialists treat clients like just another job.
Yada’s internal chat supports this by keeping client-specialist communication direct and private.
Example: A Nelson gardener regularly checks in with clients via Yada chat and quickly answers questions, boosting repeat business.
6. Showcase Your Best Work Visually
Photos are worth a thousand words. Share before-and-after shots on Yada, Google, or social media.
Real work pictures with simple captions make your expertise tangible and trustworthy.
Example: An Otago deck builder’s photo gallery on his Yada profile led directly to three local referral projects in one month.
7. Specialise And Niche Down
Trying to be 'everything to everyone' makes you blend in. Instead, specialise in a niche or service where you can be the best.
Weirdly enough, narrowing your focus can actually increase client enquiries because you’re seen as a true expert.
Example: A Hamilton carpet cleaner specialised in eco-friendly, hypoallergenic cleaning, attracting families and businesses specifically looking for that service.
8. Be Active In Local Community Groups
Participate in local Facebook groups, business forums, or community webpages to share advice and softly promote your services.
Avoid hard selling; focus on giving genuine value and building relationships.
Example: A Wellington electrician shared safety tips on a community group and saw steady local business growth from new contacts.
9. Partner With Other Local Specialists
Team up with complementary but non-competitive businesses for referrals and joint offers.
Property managers, real estate agents, or other trade professionals can be steady referral sources.
Example: A Tauranga painter regularly gets work from referrals by collaborating with local renovators and builders on Yada.
10. Keep Updating Your Skills And Profile
Stay ahead by learning new techniques or certifications and reflect this in your online profiles and listings.
Clients notice specialists who invest in improving their craft and are more likely to choose them.
Example: A Christchurch plumber promoted his new gasfitting certification on Yada and landed contracts from clients seeking specialized skills.