In 2024, having an attractive website seems like a necessity for every professional. However, many craftsmen face a paradox: their brand-new website doesn’t generate any leads or projects. Indeed, having a stylish website isn’t a guarantee of success. Let’s explore together why things aren’t working and what truly motivates users to take action and contact you.
Example: A roofer’s website
1. The Visibility Problem: Is Your Website Really Being Seen?
- a) Lack of SEO Optimization
A ‘beautiful’ site is not enough. Without optimization for search engines (SEO), your site can be invisible to potential clients.
- Check if you’re using the right keywords (e.g., “roofer [your city],” “urgent roof repair”).
- Ensure your content is rich and relevant.
- Work on your title tags and meta descriptions.
- b) Lack of Local Presence
Searches for roofers are often local.
- Are you listed on Google My Business?
- Do you have online customer reviews?
- Are your address and service area clearly indicated?
Concrete example: A roofer in Nantes tripled their quote requests in six months after optimizing their Google My Business profile and encouraging clients to leave reviews.
2. Content: Are You Really Speaking to Your Clients?
- a) Lack of Targeted Content
Your site should answer specific questions potential clients might have.
- Explain the different types of roofs you handle.
- Detail your services (repair, installation, maintenance).
- Provide information on the materials you use.
- b) Lack of Social Proof
People look for proof of your expertise.
- Include detailed client testimonials.
- Show before/after photos of your projects.
- Share case studies of complex projects you’ve completed.
3. User Experience: Are You Making It Easy to Get in Touch?
- a) Complex Navigation
A ‘beautiful’ site can sometimes be difficult to use.
- Ensure your menu is clear and intuitive.
- Check that your pages load quickly.
- Make your site responsive for a smooth mobile experience.
- b) Unclear Calls to Action
Make it easy for visitors to take action.
- Place your phone number prominently.
- Add a simple and accessible contact form.
- Include a visible call button on mobile devices.
4. Trust: Are You Inspiring Confidence Online?
- a) Lack of Transparency
Potential clients want clear information.
- Display your prices or at least a price range.
- Clearly explain your work process.
- Show your certifications and insurance.
- b) Lack of Community Engagement
Show that you’re involved in your community.
- Share local news related to your trade.
- Highlight your participation in local events.
- Showcase your actions in favor of sustainability.
5. Competition: Are You Really Standing Out?
In a competitive market like roofing, standing out is crucial. But to do this effectively, you first need to understand your market and your competitors.
- a) In-depth Competitor Analysis
Understanding what your competitors are offering is key to standing out effectively.
- Identify your main local competitors.
- Analyze their websites, services, and communication.
- Study their prices and positioning – this is ESSENTIAL!
Concrete action: Create a comparison table of services and prices from your main competitors. Identify opportunities to differentiate yourself, whether through unique services, more attractive pricing, or better service quality.
- b) Defining a Unique Value Proposition
Once you understand your market and competitors, you can define what makes you unique.
- Highlight your specific expertise (e.g., specialist in historic roofs).
- Explain what sets you apart (responsiveness, extended guarantees, use of innovative materials).
- Emphasize your innovations or unique techniques.
Example: A roofer in Lyon stood out by offering drone diagnostics, providing faster and more accurate quotes than competitors.
- c) Promoting Professional Certifications
In the construction sector, professional certifications play a crucial role in differentiating from the competition and gaining client trust.
- Obtain recognized certifications like Qualibat, which certifies your technical skills and reliability.
- Become RGE (Recognized Environmental Guarantor), a certification particularly important for clients seeking financial aid for energy renovation work.
- Highlight certifications specific to certain types of roofs or materials (e.g., certification for solar panel installation).
The Importance of Certifications:
- They reassure clients of your professionalism and expertise.
- They set you apart from uncertified competitors.
- They can grant you access to certain markets (public contracts, projects eligible for government aid).
Conclusion: Turn Your Website Into a Lead-Generating Machine
A ‘beautiful’ website isn’t enough to generate leads. Users are looking for a trustworthy professional who is easy to contact and clearly addresses their specific needs. By working on your visibility, content, user experience, trustworthiness, and differentiation, you will significantly increase your chances of attracting clients through your website.
Remember: an effective website is a living tool that requires constant attention and adjustments.
Navigating the complex world of digital marketing while managing your roofing business may seem like a tall order. That’s where the expertise of a specialized agency like Linkeo comes in. Specializing in creating high-performance websites and setting up targeted advertising strategies for local construction businesses, Linkeo will support you every step of the way. From SEO optimization to online reputation management and custom ad campaigns, Linkeo covers all the bases needed to turn your website into a true lead generator.
However, it will require some effort on your part, especially in providing content (photos of projects, pricing, certifications, etc.) and above all, delivering quality work on-site to earn recommendations!