Super Low Cost Marketing: How a 25¢ NFC Tag Can Transform Your Contracting Business
You’ve probably dropped a quarter in a vending machine, parking meter, or couch cushion without thinking twice. But what if I told you that same 25¢—in the form of a programmable NFC tag—could be the smartest marketing tool you’ve ever used?
That tiny tag has the potential to drive more reviews, generate more leads, simplify customer experiences, and even streamline how your team works. All it takes is a little creativity, a smartphone, and a willingness to tap into some modern tech.
So What Is an NFC Tag?
NFC stands for Near Field Communication. Think tap-to-pay on your phone. These small stickers or buttons—often less than an inch wide—can be programmed to open a specific webpage when tapped by a smartphone.
Programming an NFC tag does require a special phone app. I used an Android phone and a free app called "NFC Tools" to program the tag.
But beyond that -- when it comes to how the general public can interact with and "read" your tags - there are no apps to download. No typing in URLs. Just tap and go.
Best part? These tags cost as little as 25¢ each. That means you can test out a handful without breaking the bank.
It’s the simplest, cheapest way to add automation to your marketing.
Make Google Review Collection Effortless
Get more reviews without the awkward follow-up. Program an NFC tag to link directly to your Google Review page. Just program your tag, add it to a clipboard, and when you ask for the review at the end of the job - ask them to simply "tap to leave a review" using yoru NFC tag.
- One tap from a customer takes them straight to the review form—no searching or typing.
- Great for tech-hesitant clients because it feels simple and instant.
- More reviews = more trust = more calls coming in.
Turn Your Business Cards into Lead Magnets
Traditional business cards? They're often tossed. But add an NFC tag, and you’ve got a digital hook.
- You can add a "vCard" so your contact details get added straight into their phone.
- Link it to your estimate form, project gallery, or even a quick intro video.
- It gives a memorable, high-tech first impression.
- No more relying on someone to manually type your URL later—they can act right now.
Collect Leads at Events Without Lifting a Pen
Trade shows and home expos are prime real estate for lead gen. But no one wants to fill out a clipboard anymore.
- Place NFC tags on your table signage or printed materials.
- Tap to sign up, get an estimate, or download a free resource.
- Pair it with a QR code for full coverage across all phone types.
Turn Your Truck Into a Touch-to-Call Billboard
Your vehicle is already advertising for you. With NFC, it becomes interactive.
- Stick a weatherproof NFC tag on a side window or bumper.
- Leads can tap it to call, read your reviews, or schedule a service.
- Perfect for when you're parked in neighborhoods or commercial lots.
Simplify Internal Tasks for Your Team
NFC isn’t just for customers. Contractors using Footbridge Media’s home services business management tools can use tags to streamline internal workflows.
- Tap to open IPP forms or link directly to your Footbridge dashboard.
- Keep everything on one badge or clipboard.
- No logins, no confusion—just tap and go.
Build Tap-to-Estimate Shortcuts Anywhere
Make it dead-simple for potential clients to ask for an estimate or contact your with a single tap.
- Place NFC tags on flyers, magnets, or jobsite signs that link to your estimate request page.
- “Tap here to get a quote in 60 seconds” beats “Call us today!” every time.
- Great for print marketing ROI tracking too—use different URLs to see what works.
- Add with equipment stickers for fast service calls.
- Add to referral magnet to simplify the referral process.
You don’t need expensive software or a massive ad budget. You just need a smarter way to connect.
If you’re ready to level up your contractor marketing game and take action on easy wins, consider grabbing a pack of NFC tags. Test them. Stick them. Track what works. Sometimes, the most powerful tools are also the smallest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most smartphones can program NFC tags using free apps like “NFC Tools.” You just open the app, choose a URL or action, and tap to write to the tag.
Try vehicles, clipboards, uniforms, leave-behind materials, business cards, and yard signs. Indoors or out, NFC tags work just about anywhere.
Both are useful, but NFC is often faster and more seamless. QR codes require opening the camera and aligning the code. NFC works with just a tap.
"Contractor Marketing Tips And Tricks" - The Footbridge Media Podcast
About Chris Lonergan
Chris Lonergan has over 13 years of contractor marketing experience with Footbridge Media. With a background in web design, print design, content creation, and online marketing, Chris is focused on providing quality marketing and business solutions in the construction and service industries - helping small business owners to more efficiently manage their companies and grow their operations.
Chris Lonergan has previously contributed to and/or been featured in PM Magazine (Plumbing & Mechanical | Contractors x Engineers), theNEWS (ACHR - Air Conditioning | Heating | Refrigeration), Turf Magazine (For Landscaping and Green Industry Professionals) Service Roundtable's blog, inPAINT Magazine, the SMB Marketing Agency Show, and the Green Industry Podcast. Chris is also a past SGI/CertainPath breakout session presenter.
