As a trainer, your reputation in the local community is one of the most valuable assets for growing your business. While expanding your digital footprint is important, building strong, real-world connections with local pet owners and businesses can set you apart from competitors.
Here are five strategies to help you increase your visibility and become a go-to resource for training services in your area.
1. Partner with Local Pet Businesses
Build relationships with local pet stores, groomers, veterinarians, and pet-friendly cafes. Consider offering joint promotions, such as discounts for clients referred by these businesses, or hosting in-store dog training demonstrations. Creating a referral network with these local businesses can help you gain more exposure and credibility among pet owners who trust these establishments.
2. Host Free Dog Training Workshops
Free workshops or demonstrations allow potential clients to see you in action while showcasing your skills. Host these events in local parks, pet stores, or community centers to meet new pet owners. These events can be simple, like a 30-minute session covering basic obedience tips or leash training advice. Use these workshops as an opportunity to share your business cards, hand out flyers, and offer special discounts for attendees who book a consultation on the spot.
Pro Tip: Create a QR code that links to a contact form that an attendee can fill out to be added to your newsletter and to find out about future workshops.
3. Sponsor Local Events or Charities
Sponsoring a local pet-related event or charity can increase your visibility in a way that feels organic and community-focused. For instance, you could sponsor a local animal shelter fundraiser, a pet adoption event, or even participate in a community pet walk. Make sure your brand name and logo are prominently displayed in event materials and encourage attendees to follow your social media accounts to stay updated on future events and offers.
A thought about sponsorship: Many sponsorship opportunities are affordable contrary to popular belief. Sponsorship will encourage organizers to include you in future opportunities or to share your business information with other organizers. Word of mouth amongst other event planners, organizers and business entities is a good thing.
4. Collaborate with Local Influencers or Pet Bloggers
In today’s world, influencers hold sway, even on the local level. Identify local pet bloggers, pet influencers, or even micro-influencers (with smaller, but highly engaged followings) to collaborate on content. Offer to do guest posts, provide free training sessions in exchange for reviews, or team up for an Instagram takeover where they document their experience with your training techniques. This can expand your reach to new audiences who may not have otherwise heard of you.
5. Attend and Participate in Pet-Friendly Community Events
Don’t wait for clients to find you—go out and meet them! Participate in local farmers’ markets, pet festivals, or outdoor events that welcome pets. Set up a booth, offer free quick consultations, and hand out brochures about your services. This proactive approach puts you in front of your target audience and helps you build personal connections with potential clients.
By integrating these strategies into your overall marketing efforts, you’ll strengthen your presence in the local community and create valuable relationships that can drive more business your way.