Getting customers

[RamseyReelRepair]

Hey guys so as most of you know I'm just starting up my reel repair shop. I've done about ten reels but they are mostly for people I know. I want more customers but I'm not sure how long that should take or what else I should do. I have a website up and I've got plenty of business cards. I'm sending out introduction emails to select charters in Georgia. Also my buddies that I have done work for are telling other people. I had one guy that owns a charter company say he was going to ship out 3 this week but now I'm not hearing from him. Am I doing something wrong or am I just not being patient?

West

[Benni3]

Business cards,,,,help!

[RamseyReelRepair]

Business cards,,,,help!

Sarcasm?

[whalebreath]

Join whatever local online communities you think suitable-maybe do some sponsoring or just put in time disseminating information in a friendly helpful manner to raise your profile-see if a sig line of your URL is acceptable.

Have you spoken to local tackle shops at all?

See if they'll accept some of your cards.

[Swami805]

Noting like word of mouth to generate business, keep everyone happy and word will spread. Will take time though. Any shops in your area? A good shop usually is backed up with service/repairs, they might need some help. Stick with it,best of luck!

[RamseyReelRepair]

There are actually a couple tackle shops in my area and none of them do reel repair so that might be a good idea. The guys at the table shops always refer people to someone an hour away. Maybe I can do like you said and give them some cards.

West

[xjchad]

I also post ads in the local Craigslist. Maybe start a Facebook and Instagram page to go with your website.

Speaking of your website, how hard was that? I've been wanting to make one for awhile.

[RamseyReelRepair]

Speaking of your website, how hard was that? I've been wanting to make one for awhile.

It's really not hard but it's time consuming. Also cheaper is not always better. I got a deal on mine and they take care of my domain and website in the same package but I do the design and managing. I also have to do all my own search engine optimization (SEO). It's definitely a lot harder doing that on your own but saves me about 30 a month.

West

[Swami805]

Might have better luck working with the tackle store instead of just giving them cards. They make a few bucks off you and can add a service for their shop. You won't make as much but it will save you a bunch of time and costs of dealing with clients,shipping etc.

[Shark Hunter]

Just be patient West.
It takes time. Once you get a charter boat, they will be lining up.

[Lunker Larry]

Like what has been mentioned, let the guys working at the tackle counters know. They are always getting asked about reel repair. Also let any local fishing clubs/organisations know you're in business. Once a few try you out the word gets out. Be prepared for a few surprises 
Good luck.

[akfish]

Send letters to the charter operators and lodges in your area.

[handi2]

Time will get you going. Join a local fishing forum if there is one.

Ive never advertised but have seen my name recommend in a couple of Fishing magazines.

I do over 1000 reels a year with most of them coming in the late winter and spring. Last spring it was 450 reels in 3 months working 7 days a week and reels coming from all over the USA.

Be careful it will become a job at times.

Keith

[RamseyReelRepair]

Thanks guys I'm working on the charters and I'll stop by the and talk with the shops. I guess I just want results quick. Appreciate the replies.

West

[Benni3]

Business cards,,,,help!

Sarcasm?

no my friend when I was doing pant and body work,,,it was nice to have