How to Get More Clients as a Tradesperson

Referrals are the best leads — pre-qualified and trusting. Maximize them: **Ask explicitly**: "Know anyone else who needs work done?" Ask at completion when they're happy. **Make it easy**: Business cards, referral links, simple explanation of what you do. **Thank referrers**: Card, gift, or discount on future work. People repeat rewarded behavior. **Stay in touch**: Annual check-in keeps you top of mind when friends ask for recommendations.

Most clients search online before calling. Be findable: **Google Business Profile**: Free, essential. Complete profile, photos, posts, reviews. **Simple website**: One page is enough. What you do, where you work, how to contact. **Social media**: Pick one platform your clients use. Consistent posting beats occasional perfection. **Directories**: Checkatrade, MyBuilder, Bark, local directories. Where your clients look. Key: Consistency. Regular updates signal an active, trustworthy business.

Trades are local. Market locally: **Branded van**: Moving billboard in your area. Keep it clean. **Yard signs**: "Work by [Your Name]" at job sites (with permission). **Leaflets**: Target specific streets or estates. Track response rates. **Local sponsorship**: Sports teams, community events. Builds goodwill. **Partnerships**: Estate agents, property managers, other trades for cross-referrals.

Reviews are the new word of mouth. Build them systematically: **Ask every happy client**: Immediately after job completion. Make it easy with a direct link. **Follow up**: Reminder email a few days later if they haven't reviewed. **Respond to all reviews**: Thank positive reviewers. Address negative reviews professionally. **Display reviews**: On your website, van, quotes. Social proof sells. Goal: 50+ Google reviews. This improves search ranking and conversion.

Other trades are referral sources, not just competitors: **Complementary trades**: Electricians partner with plumbers, painters with plasterers. **Subcontracting**: Larger contractors need reliable subs. **Trade associations**: Events, directories, credibility. **Suppliers**: They know who's busy and who's good. Be on their referral list. Build genuine relationships. Refer work to others, and it comes back.