7 low-cost ways to gain new pet sitting clients

Developing and sustaining an awesome client base isn’t easy; it takes hard work, commitment and planning. However, it is possible to attract and maintain a healthy list of pet sitting clients without spending a huge amount.

Indeed, there are many different ways to spread the word about your pet sitting business but some will require a robust budget. Whether you’re just starting out, or you’ve been up and running for a while, but you’re watching your pennies—here are a few ideas on how to gain new clients without breaking the bank.

7 economical ways to attract new clients

Certainly, a common mistake new pet sitting businesses make is that they leave it until last to think about how they will attract clients. This can be soul destroying. Just imagine putting all your effort into setting up a new business and deciding what services to offer and then realising you have no clients, not even any potentials, in your pipeline.

So, don’t leave it until the last minute to find clients, start recruiting clients early on. This way, when you’re ready to get started your clients (furry and human) will be waiting.

Here are a few ideas on low-cost ways to gain your very first pet sitting clients or attract new customers down the track.

1. Shout from the rooftops

Word-of-mouth has to be one of the cheapest ways to promote your business and gain new pet sitting clients. So, whether you’re at the hairdresser’s, in the bank, or grabbing a coffee from your local cafe, start spreading the word about your business.

Talk to everyone, share your passion for pets and showcase your kind-hearted and caring nature. Without a doubt, the next time someone visits your local café and mentions they need a pet sitter it’s likely you’ll be top of mind.

2. Be super social

What did we do before social media? Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are great tools for self-promotion. Just don’t be too self-centric!

Be creative and try a few different strategies until you find the types of posts that work best for you. If you’re wondering what sort of content you should post, check out similar businesses. Some really simple ideas include: offering pet advice, answer common pet-sitting-related questions, or showcase local pet-friendly places and spaces.

You might decide to play around with a little ad spend, but either way, be active, engaging and consistent.

3. Blog

When it comes to blogging, there are two options. You can create your own blog and house it on your business website or you can blog for other people and publishers. Both avenues are a great way to get your business name out there in the community.

Of course, a benefit of creating your own professional blog is that it’ll help your website rank higher in Google search – providing you choose your keywords wisely.

Creating a blog is a great way for local pet owners to get to know you. You can share your expertise and show what a huge pet lover you are. Plus, if people become familiar with you and your blog, they’ll know just who to contact if they’re ever in need of a pet sitter.

4. Get out and about

Attend local events – pet and otherwise. Whether it’s the school fete, a local pet talent show or the community markets, get out and about and engage with potential clients. If there’s a pet stall at your local market, why not ask if you can leave a pile of your business cards?

After all, putting a face and a personality to your pet sitting business can be a very effective way to be remembered.

5. Join a pet sitting site

Sites such as Mad Paws, Pet Cloud and Paw Shake are always on the lookout for new pet sitters. Most of these sites are free to join and can be a great way to start your business. Certainly, listing your services on a pet-sitting site could be another string to your bow.

6. Network with local pet businesses

Networking is great for business and personal success. However, if, when you think of networking, people in suits and awkward conversations over posh dinners, come to mind—think again!

Successful networking can be as simple as having regular conversations and recommending people you know. Check out this great read about how to effectively network for your pet sitting business. (Believe me, it’s a particularly great read if the idea of networking scares the pants off you!)

7. Create your own flyers

There are many economical online tools that can help you create and design your own business flyers. These can be used for a local letterbox drop or can be pinned to the notice board in your local supermarket or community hall. Certainly, finding new clients for your pet sitting business is all about being seen.

What genius (and low-cost) methods have you adopted to promote your pet sitting business?

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash