Whether you’ve recently claimed a Business Page or have used Nextdoor’s business tools for some time, it’s always helpful to hear how other businesses are using and finding success with Nextdoor’s resources. We spoke to 5 business owners across the country to get their most effective tips for connecting with customers on Nextdoor.
#1 Make Local Deals simple
When it comes to creating a Local Deal, simple is successful. Be straightforward and make sure what you are offering is clear. According to Balanced Hart founder, Charlene Hart of San Mateo, CA,
“People are looking for that quick thing that they want. Is this what I’m looking for? Awesome. Is that the information that I need? Great... But that gets lost when you have too much to read.”
Try using this simple formula when you create your Local Deals:
- What are you offering
(Example: 10% off first purchase) - How are customers going to get your discount?
(Example: Use code NEIGHBOR or mention Nextdoor) - Are there any restrictions?
(Example: Only valid for first-time customers)
#2 Use softer call-to-actions in Business Posts
Instead of telling people what to do, engage with them so they take action. In other words, don’t make your ads feel like ads. This advice comes from Jay Wadwhani, co-founder of Painted Countertops LLC in Atlanta, GA. As a fairly new business, he’s found success using Nextdoor’s Neighborhood Sponsorships to reach new customers.
“In your posts, instead of explicitly saying, ‘Visit my website,’ talk to neighbors as you would a friend. [Say things like,] ‘What are your thoughts on this?’ ‘Tell me what you like better.’”
By making his messaging more conversational, Jay was able to lean on Nextdoor to connect with potential clients and grow word-of-mouth buzz around his business.
#3 Diversify your posts
There are many ways to use your Business Posts, but when possible, mix up your content so it’s more engaging to neighbors who see it. These are a few ideas from J&R Construction - a home construction and remodeling business in Lexington, KY.
“I try to mix the posts up - not just do typical after photos of bathrooms & kitchens. I would do decks, additions, show before and afters, and show photos of our design process.”
No matter what your business offers, Business Posts give you the opportunity to showcase all aspects of it. This keeps your content engaging and gives potential customers more ways to learn about your business and offerings.
#4 Get personal and use names
Whether you’re responding to a comment on your post or following up on a DM, simply using a neighbor’s name makes your interaction more personal and leaves potential customers with a positive impression of your business. Coco Hankerson of Atlanta, GA runs CoCo the Geek - an e-waste recycling business - and offers this advice:
“Communication is important. When someone responds to your ad, don’t just like it. Respond and use their name… I’ve been so successful because I know their names.”
Coco adds that when you as a business owner play your part in making your interaction more personal, potential customers will also play their part and be more inclined to use your services or buy your products.
#5 Be the expert in your neighborhood
Nextdoor’s business tools make it easy to connect with potential customers and clients at a hyperlocal level. For businesses like real estate where reputation matters, positioning yourself as an expert in the community goes a long way. Los Angeles real estate agent Clinton Brown says,
“Make sure you’re the expert in your neighborhood. Be willing to engage and help your neighbors. It’s a relationship business, and there’s no better place to build that in your community than on Nextdoor.”
Start positioning yourself as a neighborhood expert by introducing yourself to home buyers and sellers in your community, offering recommendations for other local services and businesses, and sharing advice on home and industry trends.
These are just a handful of ways other businesses have successfully used Nextdoor to reach local customers and clients and grow their business. Get started by claiming your free Business Page.
