If your entire lead generation game is posting Facebook ads, you’re probably overspending for low-quality clicks that don’t turn into real customers. Not that Facebook ads are bad, they’re just not a stand alone strategy for building your client pool, unless your client pool is crickets.
The good news? There are better ways to get attention, start conversations, and bring in leads who are actually interested in what you do. And they don’t all rely on pouring more money into a single platform.
Whether you want to build around your Facebook ad strategy or start a new lead generation game, we have some ways to create a more balanced (and effective) lead generation plan, from the basics to building strategies that actually work.
What Is Lead Generation And Why Does It Matter So Much?
Think of it like this: Lead generation is the modern version of someone walking through the door, browsing the shelves, maybe asking for a quote, and boom: you have a potential customer.
Today, the “door” might be your website, a social media post, a Google search, or even a link in an email. But the goal is the same: attract people who are interested in what you offer and guide them toward becoming paying customers.
So why does lead generation matter?
- No leads = no customers. Without people showing interest, there’s no one to sell to and no way to grow your business.
- A smart lead generation plan saves you money. When you’re attracting the right people, it costs less to convert them into customers.
- It brings in better leads. You spend less time chasing people who aren’t a good fit and more time closing deals with those who are.
Whether you’re a local shop, a restaurant, a contractor, or a consultant, you need a steady stream of interested people finding you and that takes more than just boosting the occasional Facebook ad.
Know Who You’re Trying to Reach With Your Lead Generation Game
Before jumping into any lead generation tactics, take a moment to think about your current customers and the ones you want to find next. Imagine:
- Who needs what you offer and will get really excited about it?
- What kind of problems, or pain points, are they trying to fix?
- Where do they hang out online when they’re not scrolling through cat videos?
- What would make them stop and say, “Hey, that’s exactly what I need!”?
Of course, you’ll still want to know the basics—like their age, location, and other demographics—but getting into the mindset of your ideal customer makes choosing the right strategies much easier and much more effective.
Pick the Right Lead Generation Tactics for Your Business
1. Social Media Content (That Does More Than Just Look Good)
Posting on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or TikTok isn’t just about staying visible, it can actively support your SEO, build trust, and drive traffic. Don’t forget, a lot of younger people search on social media instead of Google today.
Make your posts work for you by posting helpful content — like tips, how-tos, before-and-afters, and behind-the-scenes looks – and using keywords naturally in captions and alt text (yes, it helps with SEO). Be sure to link back to your site when possible (blog posts, contact page, lead magnets) and don’t forget to include calls to action like “DM us for a quote,” “Visit the link in bio,” “Comment to learn more”.
2. Valuable Content Can Win You Customers While You Sleep
Educational blog posts, how-to videos, or downloadable resources give people a reason to land on your site and stick around. Even better? These assets keep working long after you post them. Search engines and AI bots reference blogs and websites that offer valuable content which is a great way to find new customers who are interested in what you’re offering.
Pair your content with a simple next step (like “Download the full guide” or “Book a call”) to convert casual visitors into leads.
3. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Is Still An Important Part of Your Lead Generation Game
Ranking well on Google is still one of the most powerful (and cost-effective) ways to bring in qualified leads. If someone’s searching for “interior home renovations in Barrie” and your site shows up, they’re already halfway to calling you.
Focus on the terms your audience is actually using and questions they’re likely to ask, not just industry language, and make sure your content gives valuable advice. Remember, a lot of people use voice search to find information (make friends with Siri, Google and Alexa) so using conversational language can help your business show up for them.
4. Landing Pages That Actually Work
Think of a landing page like a friendly salesperson who’s focused on one thing: helping a visitor take the next step. Instead of sending people to your general homepage where they might get lost, a good landing page has one clear offer, whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, downloading a guide, or booking a consultation.
The goal? Make it super simple for visitors to say “yes” without distractions or confusion. When your landing page is clear and focused, more people follow through and that means more leads for you.
5. Targeted Emails That Keep Customers Coming Back
The truth is, targeted emails can be one of your best tools, especially when they’re reaching people who already know and like your brand. Think about it: returning customers spend more and buy more often than new ones. Sending thoughtful, relevant emails to past buyers or people who’ve shown interest in your business keeps you top of mind and makes it easy for them to come back when they’re ready.
Good targeted emails aren’t about blasting everyone on your list. Instead, they’re personalized, relevant, and timed right, offering helpful info, special deals, or updates that match where someone is in their customer journey.
6. Google Ads and LinkedIn Ads Can Focus Your Targeting For Lead Generation
Instead of relying just on Facebook ads, try paid channels that match intent or professional targeting. Google lets you capture people actively searching, finding the right people at the right time. LinkedIn can help you reach decision-makers by job title, industry, and company size. Use these platforms when your audience is well-defined or when you want to catch people mid-decision.
7. Retargeting Ads Keep Your Leads From Forgetting You Exist
Not everyone will convert on the first visit to your website. Retargeting ads let you re-engage people who’ve already shown interest without starting from scratch. Keep these ads simple, focused, and friendly. You’re reminding, not chasing.
8. Word Of Mouth Is Still A Valuable Part of the Lead Generation Game But Now It’s Done Online
Happy clients will talk about you but they’re more likely to if you make it easy for them. A simple referral system (with a discount, gift, or thank-you) can turn your best customers into your best marketing tool. Add a request in a follow-up or thank you email to post a review on your Google Business page and make sure to respond to everyone that posts there.
9. Webinars, Workshops, Events And Trade Shows Are Great Lead Generators
Live events—whether online webinars, in-person workshops, or trade shows—are fantastic ways to connect with potential customers face-to-face (or screen-to-screen). These events let you show your expertise, build trust, and have real conversations that go beyond a quick ad.
To get the most out of these events, talk them up on your social media channels ahead of time. Share sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes posts, and countdowns to build excitement. Offering a little incentive, like a giveaway, discount, or exclusive content, can also encourage more people to sign up or visit your booth.
When people commit their time to attend, they’re showing real interest. That makes these leads high quality and worth nurturing long after the event ends.
10. Free Trials, Samples, or Consultations
Let people experience what you do through a free intro call, downloadable demo, or even a 7-day trial. Giving someone a no-pressure way to check you out often leads to a stronger relationship down the road.
Make It Easy For People to Take the Next Step So You Finally Win The Lead Generation Game
Once someone’s interested, don’t make them jump through hoops. Keep things simple and straightforward so they don’t lose interest.
That might mean a quick form that doesn’t ask for their life story, a clear button to book a call, or a page that’s easy to find and use. Even something as simple as a direct link in your social post can make all the difference. If you make people work too hard just to get in touch, they’ll probably click away and you don’t want that.
Ready to Upgrade to a Smarter Lead Generation Game? Give 3SIXTY Marketing Solutions a Call
If you’re feeling stuck, or you’re spending money on ads and not seeing results, it might be time for a different approach. At 3SIXTY Marketing Solutions, we help businesses design lead generation strategies that actually make sense based on who you’re trying to reach and what they really respond to.
Let’s build something that works better than just another Facebook ad. Get in touch today and let’s talk about what’s next. Call 647-250-1494, or book a free consultation and let’s start improving your lead generation game.
