Starting a pooper scooper business is an exciting venture, but landing those first clients can be challenging. In 2024, with the growing demand for pet waste removal services, there are numerous effective strategies to help you secure your initial customers. From leveraging social media platforms to utilizing local advertising and community networks, there are various ways to get your business off the ground. In this guide, we’ll explore proven methods to help you attract and retain your first 10 pooper scooper clients, setting a strong foundation for your business’s success.
This guide is only going to talk about free or low cost methods to getting dog waste removal clients. If you want to accelerate your growth check out the Poop Scoop Millionaire community to get access to step by step guides on running Facebook & Google ads, optimizing your website, and SEO tips.
1.) Reach Out To Your Network
Go through your phone, email, and social media contacts to compile a list of people who know you. Inform everyone in your area that you’ve started a dog waste removal company and ask if they know anyone who might benefit from your service. Personalize each message to avoid coming across as creepy or pushy. If you have difficulty getting sign-ups from your contacts, consider offering free services in exchange for referrals or Google reviews.
My favorite strategy for network outreach is to offer free services for 2-3 weeks in exchange for a google/review, and let them know if they enjoy the service they are more then welcome to sign up for paid service at the end of the free trial. (This works for both people you know, and people you don’t know.)
Best case scenario, you get a customer without spending money on advertising, worst case scenario you get a online review, which will help you attract and sell more customers in the future.
2.) Post in Free Facebook Groups
Almost every major region in the USA has free Facebook groups you can join to promote your new business. Do a search on Facebook for some of the following groups:
- Buy/Sell/Trade + City Name
- Craigslist of + City Name
- City + Market
- Shop + City
- Swap & Shop + City
You can also search for dog related groups in your area as well as small business groups.
We recommend posting in each group 2-3x a week. Many dog owners don’t know this service exists, so if you can create a funny or memorable post there is a high likelihood it will start getting shared across social media and help you land your first few customers.
We still get customers from posting on free groups!
3.) Setup a Google Business Profile
Having a google business profile is a MUST-HAVE for any local service company. This will give customers a place to check out your business for free, even if you don’t have a website.
The Google Profile Below Generated 118 Phone Calls for Free Last Month!!!!!
Having a well optimized Google Business Profile will also allow you to start showing up in the “map” section of google when potential customers search for “pooper scooper services, dog waste removal, pet waste removal, dog poop pick up company, or other related keywords.”
All These Calls are 100% Free!
Just because Google Business Profiles are free, it doesn’t mean they don’t require work. The more time you spend optimizing and filling out your profile, the more likely it is to rank in the map section of Google.
Here are some quick tips to optimize your Google Business Profile:
- Fill out as much information as possible. The more the better!
- There isn’t a category for pooper scoopers yet, so use waste management.
- Start collecting as many customer reviews as possible & respond to those reviews.
- Upload pictures, company updates, and special offers on a regular basis.
- Try to use commonly searched keywords in your business description, services, and review responses.
There are many other factors that go into ranking your google business profile, that I outline in the SEO course on PSM. Those mentioned above are the easiest to implement for beginners, and should give you the best bang for your buck.
Here is the link to register your profile: https://www.google.com/business/
Warning: You will have to verify your business is legit to get a Google Business Profile
Previously Google would verify your business by sending a post card with a special code to your business address. Now, Google typically uses video verification to approve your profile. This typically involves taking a video of street signs by your address, showing your cleaning equipment, business cards, or other items that help prove your a legit business.
Final Thoughts on Getting Your First 10 Pooper Scooper Clients
Securing your first 10 pooper scooper clients is a pivotal step in establishing your business. By leveraging your existing network, utilizing local Facebook groups, and optimizing your Google Business Profile, you can effectively attract and convert potential customers. These strategies not only help you gain initial traction but also lay the groundwork for sustained growth. Remember, persistence and consistency are key. As you build your client base, continue refining your approach and exploring new avenues for marketing and customer engagement.
