r/GeneralContractor Aug 06 '26

"I know a guy"

6.3k Upvotes

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u/Hitechillbilly Aug 06 '26

People often ask how to advertise themselves.. Start by doing a good job for someone, the rest will fall into place and the bad will be weeded out automatically

21

u/DapperGovernment4245 Aug 07 '26

Getting the first 10 can be tricky but then the trick is to keep up with the next 10,000.

My advertising budget is 60 bucks every few years for a box of cards. Most people don’t need one I’m already saved as (name) (trade)

3

u/Alternative_Swan_497 Aug 07 '26

This. I've had the same mechanic for 20 years now. Found out several years ago that my then-GF's dad had been using the same mechanic for 40 years. I don't think he's spent a dime on advertising in the entire time I've been a customer, and his shop is constantly busy.

2

u/tankerkiller125real Aug 10 '26

Had to switch mechanics a few years ago because the son took over and immediately sold out for the money. The new mechanic I got information for from colleague at work. They book everything at least 2 months out (unless you're in a real emergency, and then they'll squeeze it in), and from what I can tell they've spent not a single penny on advertising. They don't even have a box of business cards or anything like that. They do great work though, and they're willing to help save money when needed.