Why Traditional Service Businesses Should Embrace Digital Media Advertising
If you’re in a traditional service industry, roofing, plumbing, HVAC, foundation repair, landscaping, you might be used to relying on word of mouth, radio, yard signs, local newspapers, or even phone book listings. And while those methods may have worked in the past, the reality is this:
Your competitors are moving online.
And your customers are already there.
Social media advertising and direct-to-consumer video content are changing the game for service businesses, and the ones that get on board now are going to win more trust, more leads, and more market share than ever before.
Let’s break down why and how.
1. Your Customers Are Scrolling, Not Flipping
Today’s homeowners aren’t flipping through the Yellow Pages, they’re scrolling through Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. That’s where they look for recommendations, see ads, and build trust in a brand before ever making a phone call.
If your business isn’t showing up in their feed, someone else’s is.
Social media ads put your brand directly in front of the people who need you, using location targeting, age demographics, and interests. It’s incredibly effective—and affordable.
2. Video Builds Instant Trust
Service jobs often require a leap of trust from customers. They’re inviting you into their homes, relying on your expertise, and investing their hard-earned money. That’s why video is so powerful, it puts a face to your business and allows potential customers to see who you are, what you do, and how you treat your clients.
A 30-second video showing your team on a job site or a customer testimonial can be the difference between someone scrolling past or sending a message.
3. You Don’t Need a Huge Budget to Compete
One of the biggest misconceptions about digital marketing is that it’s expensive. In reality, targeted Facebook or Instagram ads often cost less than a weekly newspaper ad, and they deliver better, measurable results.
You can start small:
• A simple intro video about your services
• A few short testimonials from happy clients
• Before-and-after shots of your work
• A Facebook ad targeting people in your ZIP code
The key is consistency and quality.
4. Your Competitors Aren’t Doing It Well (Yet)
While some large competitors might be dabbling in digital, many traditional businesses still haven’t embraced social media advertising fully, or they’re doing it poorly. That’s your opportunity.
By investing in professional visuals, good messaging, and a little strategy, you can instantly look more trustworthy, more professional, and more modern than others in your space.
5. Direct-to-Consumer Advertising = Faster Conversions
With traditional marketing, you’re hoping people remember your name when they need you. With direct-to-consumer ads, you’re reaching people who need you right now. Whether it’s through Facebook Ads, Google Ads, or short-form video content, you’re putting yourself in the path of immediate business.
Final Thoughts: The Time to Start Is Now
If you’re in a trade or service industry and haven’t invested in social media advertising or professional video content, you’re missing out on the most powerful tools available to grow your business.
The good news? It’s not too late. And you don’t have to do it alone.
At Make Something Media, we help businesses like yours stand out, build trust, and connect directly with the people who need your services most, through smart, high-quality content that works.
