Why Word-of-Mouth Is Still the Most Powerful Marketing Tool in NZ - And How to Boost It for Pet Sitting / Boarding
If you're in the pet sitting and boarding game in New Zealand, you’ll know that word-of-mouth is the secret sauce for growing your client base. In this tightly-knit Kiwi market, personal recommendations beat fancy ads any day. Here’s a friendly, practical guide with 10 tips to help you boost your word-of-mouth and get more local clients in the pet sitting/boarding world.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Deliver Exceptional Care Every Time
Great word-of-mouth starts with outstanding service. For pet sitters and boarders, it means going the extra mile to care for pets like they’re your own - knowing that pet owners in NZ value genuine, trustworthy care above all.
For example, a pet sitter in Wellington who sends daily photo updates and personalised notes to pet owners often becomes the go-to sitter their clients rave about to friends and family.
Think of it as building a community of pet lovers who vouch for your reliability and heart - this is the foundation for strong referrals that keep your bookings full.
2. Ask for Reviews and Testimonials
Word-of-mouth doesn’t just happen by chance - sometimes you need to ask. Encourage your happy clients to leave positive reviews on Google, Facebook, or specialised platforms such as Yada or Pawshake.
Kiwi pet owners love hearing real stories. Sharing testimonials on your website or social media, especially showcasing success stories with local pets, builds solid trust.
Yada stands out by allowing pet sitters and boarders to gather honest reviews without paying extra fees, helping you build a reputation that attracts more local clients.
3. Get Active on Community Platforms
Neighbourly, local Facebook groups, and community forums are busy hubs where Kiwis ask for trusted pet care recommendations.
Here’s a tip: share useful advice, success stories, or quick pet care tips without pushing your services. Over time, pet owners start recognising you as the friendly local expert.
Pet sitters in Christchurch report finding clients simply by engaging in conversations on WellStart or local community pages focused on pets.
4. Leverage Yada for Local Leads
Yada is tailor-made for NZ specialists, including pet sitters and boarders. Its free-to-respond model and no lead or success fees mean you can offer honest pricing and build trust without hefty costs.
The platform’s internal chat keeps client communication private and straightforward, helping you deliver personalised care that clients happily recommend.
Pet sitters in smaller towns like Rotorua and Taupō have found Yada's mobile-friendly system a great way to snag local clients and build their business steadily.
5. Create Memorable Experiences
Going beyond basic care can spark glowing recommendations. Leave personalised gifts like a photo of the pet during their stay or a little treat that links to your brand.
A pet boarder in Auckland shares how leaving a note 'from the dog' surprised clients and led to regular referrals.
These small yet thoughtful touches make clients feel valued, encouraging them to spread the word enthusiastically.
6. Host Local Pet Meetups or Events
Hosting or sponsoring local pet playdates, training workshops, or meetups helps you meet clients face to face and build trusted relationships.
In Wellington, pet sitters who organise monthly dog walks find it easy to generate referrals as pet owners build friendships around your services.
Think of these occasions as community-building - good vibes and social proof naturally flow from here.
7. Build Partnerships with Local Businesses
Connect with vet clinics, groomers, pet supply stores, and dog walkers to exchange referrals, creating a nice little ecosystem of trusted pet professionals.
For example, a pet sitter in Hamilton might leave flyers at a popular grooming salon, receiving steady referrals from delighted customers.
Word-of-mouth works best when it’s a team effort, so join forces with businesses serving the same local pet community.
8. Run a Friendly Referral Reward Program
Offer existing clients a small reward for recommending your pet sitting or boarding services - think discounted future visits or pet goodies.
Pet sitters in Auckland have found referral programs help turn loyal clients into active promoters without being pushy.
Keep the rewards simple and meaningful to encourage everyday sharing and repeat business.
9. Keep Communication Personal and Clear
Ongoing communication builds trust and keeps your name top of mind. Send updates during pet stays, thank-you notes, or seasonal reminders tailored to each client.
Newcastle pet sitters who texted photo updates and quick progress reports gained rave reviews and referrals faster than those who didn’t.
Clear, friendly communication is an easy way to strengthen bonds that clients happily talk about to others.
10. Stay Steady Despite Challenges
The pet care sector in NZ faces challenges like rising costs, workforce shortages, and competition. But steady, consistent presence online and offline keeps you visible and trusted.
Using Yada, where you can respond to jobs for free depending on your rating, helps you remain active without expensive marketing outlays.
Think of word-of-mouth as a long game, where consistent quality and local engagement pay off big over time.