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Why Social Services will Kill your Home Care Business
Unfortunately this story from my client is not the first time I’ve heard it. My clients tell me similar stories every day. The common denominator is incompetence from staff at social services.
The latest show of incompetence could have sent my client under if they were not so organized. Basically they had been chasing a £5,500 payment that was overdue. At the beginning of the week my client received an email which read a little like this……..
Dear xxxx
We acknowledge your email chasing the payment of ÂŁ5,500 for client xxxxx
We have to inform you that your account is actually ÂŁ58,500 in arrears to us overpaying you in 2021. Therefore we have deducted ÂŁ5,500 from the balance and ask you to pay us the sum of ÂŁ52,500.
Please contact our Debt recovery tea, at xxxxx to make payment.
Luckily my client has been working with me for sometime now and is super organized. She knows this isn't the case so no need to pannick.
He reply was a little like this….,
Dear xxxx
Thank you for confirming you owe us ÂŁ5,500 which is still outstanding. Please see correspondence our our conversations dated xxxx As you can see we spoke in depth about your lack of communication and late payments, It was agreed on xxxx the account would be brought up-to-date and you clearly confirm the balance is zero on date xxxx with NO Historical debts owed by either party.
Her reply was shocking to say the least which read a little like this.
Dear xxxxx
Actually we don’t owe you £5,500 and you owe us £58,000 now, please make payment ASAP.
As said I’ve heard hundreds of stories like this over the years so it wasn’t surprising. My client has me to talk things through so she doesn't pannick.
Can you imagine being a small provider of care with no-one to help you?
What would you do if you got a letter telling you to pay ÂŁ58,000 that was overpaid 4 years ago?
Even if you know you don’t owe the money it’s still a worry. The £5,500 the council owe is wages for staff. It affects cash flow and causes headaches.
Its why you need Private Clients and to come away from working with Local authorities
The hassle local authorities give care providers isn’t worth the headaches and sleepless nights. Yes we can Scale & Grow our care companies quickly on a tender but when you don’t get paid, what’s the point?
But we tender because we can’t market cost effectively. We can’t afford expensive marketing agencies to win an hour of care a week, that doesn’t work out financially.
But What if I told you that you can market for Private paying clients cost effectively?
You might be thinking, "How can I possibly market my home care business to private paying clients without breaking the bank?" Well, fear not! Here are three cost-effective marketing strategies to help you attract and retain private paying clients:
1. Build a strong online presence
In today's digital age, your online presence can make or break your business. Having a professional, easy-to-navigate website is crucial for showcasing your services and building trust with potential clients. Make sure your website highlights your unique selling points, displays positive client testimonials, and includes a clear call-to-action (such as a "Contact Us" form). Additionally, maintain active and engaged social media profiles to connect with your audience and share valuable content.
2. Leverage local SEO and online reviews
Optimize your website for local search engine optimization (SEO) to increase your visibility in local online searches. This includes using location-based keywords, creating a Google My Business listing, and gathering positive online reviews on platforms such as Google and Yelp. Potential clients are more likely to trust and choose a home care provider with positive reviews and a strong local online presence.
3. Network and collaborate with other local businesses
Build relationships with other local businesses that cater to your target demographic, such as senior centers, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. Offer to provide workshops, presentations, or informational sessions on the benefits of home care. By positioning yourself as a thought leader and building connections within your community, you'll increase your chances of attracting private paying clients and gaining referrals.
Remember, marketing to private paying clients doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. By implementing these cost-effective strategies, you'll be well on your way to scaling and growing your home care business with happy, loyal clients.