Most likely, you had no idea what you were getting into when you initially started out in business for yourself. The fact that tradies typically aren’t taught to run a (successful) business can cost you later when you’re neck-deep in the experience.
In this article, we share the three areas that tradies most frequently overlook. In addition, we share some top tips for preventing these issues from arising.
Communication
Good communication is the beginning and the end of making a lasting impact on clients.
The majority of clients simply don’t know what to anticipate when working with a trade business. As such, it can be useful to send a text or email informing them of what to anticipate rather than letting them create assumptions (which are frequently wrong).
The likelihood of no-shows can be decreased with a brief SMS confirmation and reminder sent 30 minutes before an appointment. This simple action can help you to save time, money, and stress.
In addition, the client will benefit if you send an email stating your expectations and any prerequisites (such as clearing an area you’ll be working in or emptying the cabinet where the pipes are) before you start a task.
Pro Tip #1: Make a list of text and email messages you could use right now to inform your clients.
While you’re here:
You may require business insurance if you operate a small business with workers or are a self-employed tradesperson.
However, trade insurance is available to any self-employed individual who works in a trade, such as a plumber, electrician, tiler, or builder.
Depending on your needs and those of your firm, a specialised business insurance policy for tradespeople can include various cover options.
You can customize a policy to the unique risks facing your company and add additional coverage levels and forms. You can purchase policies to protect you if you’re working alone or have a team of staff.
Finance Management
In most trade firms, quoting and billing are the major pain points, but you need to make money to support the lifestyle you are trying to build!
Sadly, this is not always sufficient motivation. Many business owners struggle to find the time necessary to quote and invoice clients promptly and effectively.
Thankfully, there are many software-based invoicing applications available that can help you build a system that will assist you in submitting quotations and invoices as soon as possible following some basic setup.
Pro Tip #2: By integrating this software with your communication system, you can increase the number of contracts you land and establish a steadier cash flow.
Promotion
Neither of the aforementioned areas will become a problem if no one has ever heard of you! Even companies that often rely on word-of-mouth marketing need to use additional strategies to raise awareness of their offerings.
There are a number of low-cost methods for promoting your company. Social media, websites, and Google My Business (formerly known as Google Business Profile) are all excellent, low-cost options that you can use to advertise your business.
Your website will need frequent updates to guarantee that your customers are receiving the proper information at the right time. Regular posting is required on social media, Google My Business, and other platforms.Pro Tip #3: Schedule a monthly block of time to plan and produce content to extend your company’s online presence.