7 Proven Ways to Get More Customers for Your Local Business in 2026

Running a local business is exciting, but attracting a steady flow of new customers can be challenging. Whether you own a restaurant, salon, clinic, or retail store, these seven strategies will help you stand out and grow.

1. Claim and Optimize Your Business Listing

The first thing potential customers do is search online. Make sure your business is listed on directories like Lentlo with accurate information:

Complete business name, address, and phone number
High-quality photos of your storefront and products
Updated business hours (especially for holidays)
A compelling description that highlights what makes you unique

A well-optimized listing can increase customer inquiries by up to 70%.

2. Encourage Customer Reviews

Reviews are the modern word-of-mouth. After every positive interaction, politely ask your customers to leave a review. Here is how:

Train your staff to mention reviews at checkout
Add a QR code at your counter linking to your review page
Respond to every review — both positive and negative
Never fake reviews — authenticity builds lasting trust

3. Leverage WhatsApp for Business

In India, WhatsApp is where your customers already are. Use WhatsApp Business to:

Set up a product catalog
Create quick replies for common questions
Send order updates and confirmations
Share special offers with broadcast lists

4. Invest in Quality Photography

A picture is worth a thousand words — and potentially thousands of rupees in revenue. Professional photos of your products, space, and team create instant trust.

Use natural lighting whenever possible
Show real people using your products or services
Update photos seasonally to keep things fresh

5. Run Hyperlocal Promotions

Target customers within a 5km radius with offers they cannot resist:

First-visit discounts for new customers
Happy hour deals during slow business hours
Referral rewards — give discounts when customers bring friends
Festival specials tied to local celebrations

6. Build a Community Presence

Be more than just a business — be a part of your neighborhood:

Sponsor local events or school functions
Collaborate with nearby non-competing businesses
Host free workshops or demos related to your expertise
Participate in local festivals and markets

7. Track What Works

Do not guess — measure. Use analytics to understand where your customers come from:

Monitor which listing platforms drive the most calls
Track foot traffic patterns by day and time
Ask new customers how they found you
Double down on what is working and cut what is not

Growing a local business takes patience and consistency. Start with one or two strategies from this list, master them, and then add more. The businesses that thrive are the ones that show up every day for their community.

Ready to get started? Make sure your business is listed on Lentlo with complete information and photos. It is free and takes just 5 minutes.