TaskRabbit, Local Listings, or Direct: Getting Clients for Your Errand & Concierge Business
As a personal errand runner, shopper, or concierge, you often start by finding clients through platforms like TaskRabbit or local online listings. But how much should you rely on these, and when is it smarter to focus on getting clients directly? This guide breaks down how to balance platform work with building your own client list for lasting success.
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The Quick Answer
Start by listing your personal errand and concierge services on popular platforms like TaskRabbit, local online directories (Google Business Profile, Yelp), or even senior care aggregators like Care.com. This is how you get your first clients and build up initial reviews. At the same time, set up your own simple business website and a way to take direct bookings. Once you have a good number of positive reviews, slowly shift your marketing efforts to bring clients directly to you. Getting direct clients means you keep all the money (no platform fees), you get their contact information, and you can build strong, lasting relationships that lead to repeat business.
Side-by-Side Breakdown
Here's a look at your main options for getting clients:
* **TaskRabbit/Similar Gig Platforms:** These platforms offer a huge pool of potential clients, making it great for quickly getting started and building initial reviews. Expect to pay 15-30% of your service fee to the platform. They handle payments and basic client communication, but you typically don't own the client's direct contact information. Ideal for one-off tasks like furniture assembly help or quick errand runs.
* **Local Online Directories (Yelp, Google Business Profile, Nextdoor):** These are free or low-cost ways for people to find you locally. Clients contact you directly, so you pay no platform fees and get their full contact info. You'll need to respond to inquiries and manage your own bookings. Building good reviews here boosts your local reputation. Great for recurring local errands, pet sitting, or light handyman services.
* **Senior Care Aggregators (e.g., Care.com):** If you offer senior companion or support services, these sites can connect you with a very specific group of clients. They often require background checks and may involve fees (e.g., a membership fee or a percentage of your first bookings). You typically gain the client's direct contact info and build a direct relationship after the initial match.
* **Your Own Direct Booking Website:** This option means zero fees to a platform. You own the client relationship, their email address, and can offer personalized packages (e.g., a discount for booking 5 hours of service). You'll need to market yourself (e.g., local flyers, social media, word-of-mouth). You can set up a simple website using tools like Squarespace or Wix ($15-30/month) and use a scheduling tool like Acuity Scheduling or Calendly ($20-40/month) to manage appointments.
When to Prioritize Platforms & Local Listings
When you are just launching your personal errand, shopping, or concierge business, focus heavily on platforms like TaskRabbit or setting up a robust Google Business Profile. These options provide immediate visibility. TaskRabbit's system, for example, can actively push your profile to potential clients, helping you land your very first tasks and gather essential reviews even if you're brand new. Ensure your profiles are complete and professional: use a clear photo, write a detailed description of all your services (e.g., 'grocery shopping and delivery,' 'post office runs,' 'senior check-ins,' 'dry cleaning pickup'), set fair and competitive rates, and always reply quickly to messages. These steps are key for getting picked by clients on any platform.
When to Invest in Direct Clients & Your Own Website
Once you have completed 20-30 tasks or services and have a solid 4.5-5 star average rating across platforms like TaskRabbit, Yelp, or Google, it's time to put more effort into getting direct clients. A direct booking means you save the 15-30% platform fee. For example, if you charge $50 for a service, keeping the full $50 instead of $35-$42 adds up quickly. If you complete 10 direct jobs a month at $50 each, that's an extra $500 in your pocket (or $6,000 a year) compared to relying solely on platforms.
More importantly, you get the client's email and phone number. This lets you build an email list for repeat business, send holiday greetings, or offer special package deals (e.g., 'book 5 errands and get the 6th free'). You don't need expensive tools. A simple website with a free scheduling link (e.g., Calendly's basic plan) can work. If you grow, a client relationship management (CRM) tool like HoneyBook or Zoho CRM (starting at $30-50/month) can help you manage contacts, invoices, and appointments without double-booking.
The Verdict
Using a mix of client sources is the smartest strategy for a personal errand or concierge business. Start with platforms and local listings to quickly build your reputation and get initial work. Then, as your positive reviews grow, increase your efforts to bring in direct clients through your own website, local marketing, and word-of-mouth referrals. Your long-term goal should be to get about 60-70% of your work from platforms and local listings, and 30-40% directly. This balanced approach protects you. If a platform changes its rules, fees, or algorithms, you won't lose all your business. You control more of your income and client relationships, leading to a more stable business.
How to Get Started
1. **List on Key Platforms:** Sign up for TaskRabbit (taskrabbit.com/become-a-tasker) and create a strong Google Business Profile (business.google.com). If applicable, consider a site like Care.com for senior services. Fill out your profile completely with clear, friendly photos and a detailed list of every service you offer.
2. **Build a Simple Website:** Use an easy website builder like Wix (wix.com) or Squarespace (squarespace.com) to create a basic site. Include your services, prices, areas you serve, and contact information. Add a clear 'Book Now' button that links to your chosen scheduling tool (like Calendly or Acuity).
3. **Start Collecting Direct Contacts:** After a service, ask satisfied clients if they'd prefer to book directly next time to potentially save on platform fees. Always give them a simple business card with your website and phone number. Encourage them to refer friends and family directly to you for special offers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I list my property on both Airbnb and VRBO?
Yes. Use a channel manager (Hospitable, Lodgify, Guesty) to sync your calendar across both platforms and prevent double bookings. This is standard practice for experienced hosts.
What is the total Airbnb fee charged to guests?
Airbnb charges guests a service fee of 14–16% on top of your nightly rate, cleaning fee, and taxes. This means a $150/night listing appears as approximately $175–180 to guests before taxes. This affects your competitive positioning — factor it into your pricing strategy.
Do I need a business license to operate a short-term rental?
In most jurisdictions, yes. Many cities require a short-term rental permit, business license, and hotel/transient occupancy tax registration. Airbnb collects and remits occupancy taxes in many markets automatically, but you are still responsible for your business license. Check your city or county regulations before your first booking.
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