With the pest control industry generating approximately $8.6 billion in total service revenue in 2017, there’s no denying the opportunity that’s available within this space.

While this number is encouraging, it should also remind you that there’s plenty of competition in your local market. If you want to rise above your competitors and grab a large piece of the pest control pie, it’s critical to focus on engagement.

Here are three of the best ways to engage with pest control customers:

1. Manage Your Online Reputation

With more than 80 percent of people trusting online reviews more than a personal recommendation, there’s never been a better time to turn your attention to managing your online reputation.

Positive reviews on sites such as Yelp and Google give prospects the confidence they need to rely on your business. If hundreds of other people like what you’ve done for them, it’s easier to convince someone else to take the leap.

Tip: no matter how hard you try, you’re likely to receive a negative review at some point. Respond to these in the same manner as positive reviews, all with the idea of finding a resolution.

2. Email Newsletter

Did you know that 59% of B2C marketers say email is their biggest source of return on investment (ROI)?

If you’re not taking advantage of email marketing, such as by regularly distributing a newsletter, you’re missing out on a big opportunity to engage with prospects and current customers.

For example, as warm weather moves into your service area, send an email reminder to customers about the pests they’re likely to see around their home. Not only does this provide them with professional advice, but it also keeps your brand at the top of their mind.

It doesn’t matter if you have a list of 100 or 1,000+, email marketing allows you to efficiently engage your audience.

3. Social Media

With approximately 3.48 billion people throughout the world using social media, this is an opportunity you can’t afford to pass up.

There are many ways to use social media to engage with customers, including but not limited to:

• Providing professional advice and guidance
• Answering questions
• Reminding your audience of common pest concerns
• Sharing coupons

The more experience you gain with social media the better you’ll understand what works, what doesn’t, and how to make the most of your time.

Final Thoughts

With so many ways to engage with pest control customers, you should never find yourself lost and looking for answers.

If you’re ready to take your engagement strategy to the next level, let the three methods above put you on the right track to success.

For more insights on marketing strategy that actually works for small business, connect with Jay Bean, Founder of FreshLime and Small Business Marketing Expert on LinkedIn and Twitter. If any of these tips have helped you or if you have anything to add, please comment below. We’d love to hear from you!