How to Build Relationships with Other Local Businesses

thelocalink
Sep 3
3 min read

Running a small home service business takes more than just hard work—it takes strong connections. While advertising and word-of-mouth referrals from customers are important, one of the most overlooked strategies for growth is building relationships with other local businesses.

These partnerships can lead to steady referrals, bundled service opportunities, and a stronger reputation in your community. Here’s how to start building business relationships that actually make a difference.

1. Look for Complementary Businesses

The first step is identifying the right businesses to connect with. You’re not looking for competitors—you’re looking for services that complement yours. These are businesses that serve the same customers you do, but in different ways.

For example:

A landscaper might partner with a pest control company or irrigation specialist.
A house cleaner could build connections with carpet cleaners, window washers, or even organizing professionals.
A handyman might partner with a plumber, electrician, or HVAC technician.

These partnerships make sense because when a customer needs one of these services, they often need another. By working together, you create a network of trusted providers your customers will appreciate.

💡 Pro Tip: Make a list of the services your customers usually ask about that you don’t provide. That’s your starting point for building connections.

2. Cross-Promote Services

Once you’ve identified businesses you want to partner with, the next step is promoting each other in ways that feel natural and beneficial. Cross-promotion doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about making it easy for customers to discover both of you.

Here are a few ideas:

Share printed materials: Keep each other’s business cards, flyers, or brochures in your work vehicle or office to hand out to customers.
Social media shout-outs: A quick post or story highlighting a partner’s work not only helps them but shows your audience that you’re connected and supportive.
Service bundles: Team up to create seasonal or package deals (like “Spring Refresh: house cleaning + carpet shampoo” or “Fall Ready: gutter cleaning + roof inspection”).

💡 Pro Tip: Customers love bundled services because it saves them time and stress. It also positions you as someone who can provide solutions, not just services.

3. Attend Local Networking Opportunities

In-person networking is still one of the most effective ways to build relationships. Local chambers of commerce, trade associations, or small business meetups are excellent opportunities to meet potential partners. Even community fairs, charity events, or farmers’ markets can be great spots to connect.

When you meet other business owners, keep the focus on building relationships, not just pitching your services. Ask about what they do, what kind of customers they serve, and how you might be able to support them.

💡 Pro Tip: Prepare a short “introduction pitch” that explains who you are, what you do, and what type of partnerships you’re interested in. Keep it conversational, not salesy.

4. Share Knowledge and Resources

Partnerships aren’t just about exchanging referrals—they’re about building trust. One of the best ways to do that is by being helpful without expecting anything in return.

Some ideas include:

Sharing industry tips: If you read an article that could help another business owner, pass it along.
Lending tools or equipment: If you have a specialized tool another business doesn’t, offering to share builds goodwill.
Collaborating on projects: Sponsor a local event together, or donate your services to a community cause as a team.

These small gestures make a big difference and help you become a trusted ally in your business community.

💡 Pro Tip: Always look for ways to provide value first. People remember generosity, and it often comes back to you in the form of referrals or opportunities.

5. Use Local Platforms to Connect

While face-to-face networking is powerful, online tools can make connecting easier and more consistent. Local business directories, Facebook groups, and platforms designed specifically for small service providers can help you find the right people.

These platforms allow you to:

Expand your visibility in your community
Discover and connect with other small businesses
Build a network where referrals and partnerships are just a message away

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just list your business online—engage. Comment on posts, share tips, and show support for others. Activity and authenticity build stronger connections than just dropping your name.

Final Thoughts: Growing Together

When small businesses collaborate instead of competing, everyone wins. You create new opportunities, strengthen your reputation, and build a support system that helps your business thrive.

That’s exactly what we had in mind when we built LocaLink. Our platform helps homeowners connect with trusted local service providers while giving small businesses like yours a place to network, share referrals, and grow together.

👉 If you’re ready to build stronger business relationships and attract more customers, check out LocaLink today. It’s time to grow smarter—together.