Well, a few days ago I actually got a lead.
So my first thought was: how much is this lead worth?
It depends on the location, but if the lead is in Los Angeles, I'd start by checking the going rates for a porta potty + hand washing station combo.
Then I'd consider selling the lead where the value is 25% of the total order value this lead would spend (if they convert).
Based on the prices in Los Angeles, the lowest amount this person would spend is $195 for a portable toilet and $222 for a handwash station ($417 total).
Not a hard rule, but leaving 4x revenue for the service provider gives them enough value on the table to continue working with you.
This means, I could comfortably sell this lead for $100 (given it's Los Angeles prices).
Here's why I'd give this lead away for free
The one thing that all successful lead gen directories have in common is deep relationships with local service providers.
For me, it's not just about quick cash at the start.
It's about building trust and positioning myself to start a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership.
That's why I'd give this lead away for free.
Because it's also a test.
The same way I want quality leads is the same way I want to know if a porta potty rental business owner can actually close the deal.
If a local porta potty provider can't convert a lead to a customer, I don't want to partner with them.
Simple as that.
This helps prevent future headaches, complaints and disputes about the "quality" of my leads.
If there's proof that they can convert leads into business, then I know it's up to me to filter the quality leads vs. low-quality leads.
Most importantly, I'm always a fan of giving value up-front to build trust.
This is all just a reminder that you should build the damn thing.
Even if you don't see success immediately and you forget about a site you built, at least you're allowing your future-self the opportunity to continue where you left off if you start seeing late results.
Since this lead came in, I've strongly considered rebuilding this directory but solely targeting "luxury porta potty rentals" which can cost up to $2000/day to rent (where the lead may be sold for $500 each).
But for now, I'm focusing on the comic book store directory.
A quick progress update on Comicbookstores.co
If you're in Ship Your Directory Pro, you know that last week I posted about comicbookstores.co in a niche subreddit that popped off.
Not only did it not get removed, but within 12 hours it started getting tons of traction.
It's been almost a week and now it's received 12k views, 166 upvotes, 79 comments, and 57 shares.
I received tons of amazing feedback to make improvements and even a few comic book shop owners who reached out and want to claim their listing!
Once I make improvements, I'll be building backlinks and sharing that full process in my private community.
If you're looking for a like-minded group of committed directory builders, I'd love to help you build your own profitable directories :)
Keep building,
Frey
