The Power of Networking in the Striping Business

Building strong relationships with property managers, contractors, and real estate professionals is key to success in the parking lot striping industry, as networking drives referrals, repeat business, and long-term growth.

đź“– 4 min read

By Jordon Sargent | 2025-02-28

#B2B Sales#Networking#Parking Lot Striping

The Power of Networking in the Striping Business: How Relationships Drive Sales

When it comes to success in the parking lot striping industry, technical skills and high-quality equipment are essential, but they’re not enough. The real game-changer? Networking. Building strong relationships in real estate, property management, and commercial contracting can create a steady pipeline of inbound leads and referrals, helping your business grow exponentially.

Let’s explore how leveraging connections can drive sales and set you apart from the competition.

Why Networking Matters in the Striping Industry

1. The Power of Word-of-Mouth Referrals

  • Studies show that 92% of consumers trust referrals from people they know, making word-of-mouth marketing one of the most effective ways to generate leads.
  • Property managers, real estate investors, and general contractors talk to each other. When they find a reliable striping contractor, they share that information with colleagues who need similar services.
  • Case in point: A property manager at a major shopping center needs a last-minute re-stripe before a grand opening. If you’ve built trust with them, you’ll be their first call—and they’ll likely refer you to others.

2. Real Estate and Property Management Connections Bring Recurring Business

  • Property managers oversee multiple locations, meaning one good relationship can lead to dozens of striping jobs annually.
  • Example: A commercial real estate investor who owns multiple shopping centers needs fresh striping before listing a property. Your name gets passed along, and suddenly, you’re handling multiple projects across their portfolio.
  • Tip: Regularly check in with property managers—not just when you need work. Offer value, share industry insights, or simply ask how their properties are holding up.

3. Commercial Contractors Are Goldmines for Consistent Leads

  • General contractors working on new builds or asphalt maintenance projects constantly need striping services. If you’re on their go-to list, you can land repeat business.
  • A 2023 survey found that 70% of general contractors prefer working with subcontractors they’ve used before, so establishing reliability and consistency can lock in steady work.
  • Pro move: Join local contractor associations or attend trade shows where these key decision-makers gather.

How to Build and Leverage Your Network

1. Attend Industry Events & Trade Shows

  • Conferences, Chamber of Commerce meetings, and commercial real estate expos put you face-to-face with potential clients.
  • Bring business cards, have a polished elevator pitch, and follow up after the event.

2. Utilize LinkedIn & Social Media

  • Engage with property managers and contractors on LinkedIn. Comment on their posts, share valuable insights, and establish yourself as an industry leader.
  • Post before-and-after photos of your striping projects—visual proof of your expertise can spark interest.

3. Offer Incentives for Referrals

  • A simple referral program (e.g., "Refer a property manager and get 10% off your next service") can encourage existing clients to spread the word.

4. Partner with Complementary Businesses

  • Build relationships with paving companies, sealcoating contractors, and signage providers. They often need striping services and can refer clients your way.
  • Mutual benefit: You refer them for asphalt repairs, they refer you for striping—a win-win strategy.

Success Story

One of my first jobs was a business park that was managed by a property management company. To restripe the parking lot, the total cost for the owner was $900.

Instead of treating it as a one-off gig, I nurtured the relationship with the property manager by delivering top-tier work and staying in touch. Within a year, this property manager referred me to many other locations, driving more than $35k in first-year revenue from this client alone.

The secret? Building trust, maintaining communication, and always delivering exceptional service.

Conclusion: Network Smarter, Not Harder

Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards—it’s about building meaningful relationships that translate into steady sales.

In the striping business, your next big job isn’t coming from a cold email. It’s coming from someone who knows and trusts you.

Invest in connections with property managers, contractors, and real estate professionals, and watch your inbound leads and referrals take off.

Looking to grow your striping business?

Start by strengthening your network today! 🚀

Jordon Sargent

Jordon Sargent

Jordon brings nearly a decade of top-performing B2B sales experience to 1-800-STRIPER® of Salt Lake City, where he applies his strong work ethic, integrity, and leadership to help area property owners. A dedicated entrepreneur and community advocate, he also leads a nonprofit initiative supporting families in need and enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife and three sons.

1-800-STRIPER of Salt Lake City