How does a local service business generate leads?

All Work, No Pay - a podcast where we answer real questions asked by consultants, freelancers and business owners

Today I'd really like some advice around how a local service business, of any kind can generate leads.

Many of these businesses are very successful from IRL marketing only, but what about digital space? I know that right now, 90% of my business is word of mouth

Getting a consistent flow of potential clients coming to you is the dream.  Especially if you don't have to spend a load of time at boring networking events!  

So today I speak to the incredible Michelle L Evans, marketer extraordinaire at Microsoft and one of the most knowledgable and nicest people I've ever worked with.  And she tells us how she goes about bringing in leads for small service businesses that she meets - including strategies for building a community, standing out from the crowd and researching/stalking your potential clients.