1) Forge Strategic Alliances: Don’t limit your marketing efforts to conventional advertising. Establishing strategic alliances with other businesses can lead to rapid growth and success. Collaborate with builders, real estate agents, or other relevant professionals to expand your customer base.
Risk management is also a fundamental role for successful trade businesses. Ensure you have sufficient tradie insurance in place at all times to cover your risks.
2) Harness the Power of Word-of-Mouth: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about your services. Additionally, ask them if they know anyone needing your assistance and request their contact information. Implement referral or incentive programs to incentivise word-of-mouth promotion further.
3) Invest in a Responsive Website: In today’s digital age, having a responsive website is essential for attracting potential customers. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, as many people use smartphones for online searches. A professional website is a cost-effective marketing tool showcasing your services and contact information.
4) Create a Free Google My Business Profile: Boost your online presence by creating a Google My Business listing. This platform helps customers find and review local businesses and improves your search engine ranking. Take advantage of customer reviews and engage with them to enhance your online reputation.
5) Network with Other Tradespeople: Networking is not limited to corporate hotshots; it’s equally essential for tradespeople. Connect with other professionals in your industry through local business associations and online communities. These connections can lead to valuable partnerships and generate fresh leads for your business.
6) Leverage Social Media: Utilize social media platforms to connect with potential customers. Engage with your audience by sharing updates and work-in-progress photos, responding to inquiries promptly, and encouraging comments and reviews. Focus on one or two platforms to establish a solid online presence.
7) Use Vehicle Signage: Make your vehicle a mobile advertisement for your business by prominently displaying your company name, logo, and contact information. Take advantage of the visibility when driving to and from work or parked at job sites.
8) Implement Letterbox Drops: Stroll nearby neighbourhoods and distribute flyers or colourful magnets to potential customers’ letterboxes. Adding attractions increases the chances of your promotional material being kept and visible in their homes.
9) Gather Customer Testimonials: Request feedback and testimonials from satisfied customers. Use their positive experiences to reassure potential clients about the quality of your services. Obtain written permission before using their testimonials in your marketing materials.
10) Provide Multiple Contact Options: Offer customers various ways to contact you, including social messaging platforms, email, and contact forms on your website. Consider automated email responses to acknowledge their inquiries and specify when they can expect a reply.
11) Offer Multiple Payment Choices: Adapt to changing consumer preferences by providing diverse payment options. In addition to cash, checks, and credit cards, consider mobile payment methods such as Tap and Go, PayPal, or support for smartphone payment systems like Apple Pay and Android Pay.
Developing a comprehensive marketing plan is one aspect of building a successful trade business. Consider seeking guidance from a business coach experienced in the trades industry to develop a holistic business strategy that promotes growth and enhances your marketing efforts.
