How Do I Find Clients For My New Care Business?
Is the worry about how quickly you can bring in business holding you back?
There is a lot to think about when you start a new business, especially in the care sector. While joining a franchise like Sylvian Care provides a proven framework for launching a successful business, one of the biggest questions we hear from prospective franchisees is "How will I find clients once I’m operational?".
It is a valid question. After all, investing in a home care franchise involves a big financial commitment, as well as a personal one, so you will naturally be worried about how quickly you can start bringing in paying clients. Understanding how you can generate revenue is essential for feeling confident in moving forward, which is why we make it a big part of what we offer both potential and existing partners here at the Sylvian Care franchise.
This question is especially important in today’s climate. The UK’s aging population is growing, with more people living longer, but not necessarily healthier, lives. While this means the demand for care services is rising, it also means competition is increasing. The challenge is not just finding clients but making you stand out from the crowd when they come to make their choice about which local service to use.
This is one of the biggest advantages of joining Sylvian Care: becoming part of a name which has been highly trusted name since 2014. With over 20 trading locations across the UK, and more opening all the time, the brand is recognised for its high standards of support and training, earning a spot in the Elite Franchise Top 100. This extensive experience equips franchisees with a clear roadmap for navigating the competitive home care market, helping them find clients and build a successful business. Not only that, but it also means our franchisees are perfectly equipped to offer the highest possible standards in care.
With that tradition of excellence already in place for you, success lies in how you market yourself and connect with your community. Here are three effective strategies for finding clients as a new franchisee:
Visibility: Leverage Marketing and Franchisor Expertise
To attract clients, you must make yourself visible. While providing excellent care is essential, no one will use your services if they don’t know you exist!
This is where your franchisor becomes invaluable. Apart from giving you a head start with a brand, website and marketing materials, the franchisor’s experience in what works (and what doesn’t) can save you a great deal time and resources, and offer you an incredible head start over going it alone. They’ll guide you on which activities to prioritise, helping you focus on efforts that deliver results.
Social media, local directories, and targeted advertising are vital tools to create awareness about your services. They allow you to reach families searching for care options and build trust through testimonials and community engagement.
Build Relationships Through Local Networking
They say people buy from people, and nowhere is this truer than in the care industry where clients are looking for people they can count on for their own, or their loved ones’ physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Home care is a personal and trust-driven industry, and nothing builds trust faster than personal connections. Networking in your local community is a powerful way to gain referrals and establish your business as a trusted name.
Attend local business events, join support groups, and engage with organisations that work with the elderly or their families. By showing genuine care and involvement, you not only raise awareness about your services but also position yourself as a key part of your community. People are more likely to choose a provider they feel invested in their area and committed to their well-being.
Understand Local Authority Contracts
Local authorities commission a large portion of care services through private providers, offering a huge potential source of clients. Demand oftens far outstrips supply, so there is a fantastic opportunity here, but it is one which should be approached cautiously. Many local authorities have been criticised for offering unsustainable rates that don’t allow providers to maintain quality care, or even cover costs effectively.
If you decide to pursue local authority contracts, carefully assess whether the terms align with your financial goals and service standards. While these contracts can offer stability, they shouldn’t be your only revenue stream. A balanced approach that includes private clients will provide a more secure foundation for your business.
Which is another area where joining a franchise can offer you a distinct advantage. You’ll be able to access advice from experienced leaders and fellow franchisees who have already navigated the sometimes tricky waters of public-private contracts and can give you invaluable guidance.
In Conclusion
Finding clients as a new home care franchisee may seem daunting, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. After all, we’ve done it, and we’re eager to share that knowledge with you. By leveraging your franchisor’s expertise, focusing on visibility, networking within your community, and carefully considering local authority contracts, you can create a robust and sustainable client base.
The demand for quality care is growing, and families are searching for trusted providers who deliver not just services, but peace of mind. With a strategic approach, you can position your business as the go-to provider in your area and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. My biggest piece of advice? Don’t go it alone if you don’t have to!
About the Author
Cristina Grancea, CEO of Sylvian Care, is deeply committed to empowering franchisees to succeed in the home care sector. With years of experience building a trusted care network, Cristina combines her professional expertise with a passion for creating care businesses that truly serve their communities. Her mission is to inspire purpose-driven entrepreneurs to build thriving businesses while making a positive impact on the lives of others.
