In this episode of The Kee to Growth podcast, host Jen McKee welcomes Ryan Redding, founder of Levergy, a full-service digital agency serving trade businesses across the US and Canada. Ryan shares his insights on the complexities of marketing in the trades industry, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy. Instead, effective marketing requires a comprehensive approach involving branding, customer service, and creating a quality customer experience. Ryan stresses the importance of understanding customer needs and preferences, using a relatable piano lesson metaphor to illustrate that businesses should focus on meeting specific customer requirements rather than simply competing with each other.

Ryan provides valuable insights into improving Google's presence, highlighting four main options: AdWords, Google Local Services, Google Maps, and organic search results. He recommends starting with a Google Business Profile for enhanced visibility and encourages the collection of customer reviews. The episode also explores the significance of content strategy in digital marketing. Ryan discusses Google's Helpful Content Update, which prioritizes unique, user-focused content. He advises that businesses produce informative and engaging content that genuinely adds value to the customer's experience, noting the impact of content strategy across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Moreover, Ryan delves into integrating PR and social media to enhance marketing efforts, citing Ripley PR as a successful example. He underscores the importance of starting with a compelling 'why' to attract quality employees and align business goals. The episode showcases Eco Plumbers and its CEO as a case study in creating a large, motivating vision that draws high-caliber employees. Ryan passionately discusses the necessity of having a purpose beyond monetary gain, reminding entrepreneurs to look deeper into their motivations and aspirations rather than merely focusing on financial success.

Additionally, the discussion touches upon selective partnerships, exemplified by Levergy's approach to working with high-performing clients willing to invest in themselves. Ryan also addresses the role of personal branding and social media despite his personal reservations as an introvert. He acknowledges their strategic benefits in building trust and business alliances. The conversation wraps up with insights into consumer decision-making, highlighting successful marketing strategies and brand loyalty exemplified by companies like Apple and Buc-ee's. With engaging anecdotes and practical advice, this episode offers listeners valuable marketing strategies for growth in the trades industry.

Timestamps:

00:00 I accidentally entered trades while consulting businesses.

04:36 Marketing success relies on addressing customer emotions.

06:29 Start with the customer for effective branding.

11:16 Google prioritizes helpful, human-first content now.

12:30 Organic ranking impacts map pack and platforms.

16:18 Train AI with your unique business knowledge.

19:02 Chosen company due to persistent marketing presence.

25:09 Impact of personal branding for business owners.

26:06 Dislikes social media, sees necessity in it.

29:27 Engaging campaign boosting connections and business KPIs.

33:24 Interviews with successful tradespeople about business strategies.

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Kee to Growth podcast, hosted by Jen McKee. Dive into the world of home service marketing as we unlock the secrets of building multimillion-dollar brands in trades like plumbing, HVAC, electrical, roofing, garage doors, and beyond. Whether you are a business owner, a marketer, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes action in this industry, this episode sets the stage for transforming your business's approach to social media and marketing.

Jen McKee, owner of Kee Hart Marketing, shares her journey and the experiences that led her to launch this podcast. Her agency specializes in social media marketing for home service providers across the US and Canada, helping them stand out and scale in competitive markets. Having won multiple American Marketing Awards and recognized as AHR 40 under 40 in 2024, Jen aims to shift the spotlight from her achievements to yours. This episode is all about empowering your brand's growth through strategic insights, personal branding, and effective social media presence.

In this kickoff episode, Jen offers a valuable piece of advice to jumpstart your marketing strategy—focus on visibility. Many home service businesses make the mistake of concentrating solely on conversions without first building a recognizable and trustworthy brand. Visibility is essential, achieved through consistent organic content that positions you as the go-to expert in your field. It's not about going viral; it's about making a sustainable impact through consistency, value, and relatability. Additionally, Jen teases the format of future episodes, promising engaging conversations with top marketers and business owners who will share their real-world strategies, successes, and even their failures.

Prepare to gain insights from the brightest minds in the trade services industry as the Kee to Growth podcast unfolds. Each week, Jen will host discussions with industry leaders to explore what's working in their marketing, their creative campaigns, and how they're achieving significant growth. Whether you're just beginning or aiming to scale, the content will be rich with lessons on personal branding, community involvement, and standing out in your market. Don't miss out on the latest episodes—hit subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with peers ready to elevate their marketing game. Join Jen McKee on this exciting journey of discovery and growth for your business.

Time Stamps:

[00:00:02] Introduction to Kee to Growth podcast

[00:00:36] About Jen McKee and Kee Hart Marketing

[00:01:19] Strategies for business growth and social media insights

[00:02:20] Importance of visibility in marketing

[00:03:14] What to expect in upcoming episodes

[00:03:57] Conclusion and call to action

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/