What is RPL, and how does it work?

RPL stands for Recognition of Prior Learning . It's a process where your skills, knowledge, and experience are assessed to determine if they meet the requirements for a particular qualification. RPL can be a faster and more efficient way to get certified than completing a traditional training course.

Do I need a trades licence to start my own business?

If you plan to do the trade work yourself, then yes, you will need a trades licence for certain types of projects or any work that can only be carried out by someone with the required trades licence. Even if you don't plan to do the work yourself, it's still handy to have the proper qualifications so you can understand what your tradies are doing.

Do I need to register my business?

Yes, if you don’t have one already, you'll need to register your business name and get an ABN.

How do I find customers for my tradie business?

To find customers for your tradie business, you can advertise through social media, local directories, and get found online by listing your business on Google Maps . Remember, word of mouth is also a powerful tool, so make sure you provide excellent service and ask satisfied customers to recommend you to their friends and family.

How much does RPL cost?

The cost of RPL will depend on the qualification you are seeking and the RPL provider you choose. However, RPL is often more affordable than completing a traditional training course, as it does not require you to pay for classes or materials.

10 ways to build a successful career as a tradie

1. Increase Your Network

Networking is essential for building a successful career as a tradie. Attend industry events, join trade associations, and connect with other professionals in your field. Building relationships with other tradies and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities, referrals, and valuable advice.

2. Specialise in a Niche

Specialising in a niche can help you build a successful career as a tradie. By focusing on a specific area, you can develop deep expertise and become known as an expert in your field. Specialising in a niche can also help you differentiate yourself from the competition and attract more customers who are looking for a specific skill set.

3. Develop Your Business Skills

As a tradie, you are not just a skilled worker but also a business owner. Developing your business skills is crucial for building a successful career. Learn how to manage your finances, market your services, and manage your time effectively. Investing in business skills will help you build a successful and sustainable career.

4. Offer Excellent Customer Service

Providing excellent customer service is essential for building a successful career as a tradie. Customers want to work with someone who is reliable, professional, and responsive. Make sure you communicate clearly, show up on time, and follow up after the job is done. Building a reputation for excellent customer service will help you attract more customers and build a loyal client base.

5. Stay Up to Date with Industry Trends

Staying up to date with industry trends is crucial for building a successful career as a tradie. Attend trade shows and conferences, read industry publications, and follow industry leaders on social media. Keeping up with industry trends and best practices will help you stay ahead of the competition and provide the best possible service to your customers.

6.Embrace Technology

Technology is transforming the trades industry, and embracing new tools and technologies can help you become more efficient and even better manage your cash flow. From project management software to mobile apps that help you manage your finances, there are many ways technology can help you streamline your business and improve your service offering.

7. Seek Mentorship

Mentorship and training are essential for building a successful career as a tradie. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career. Look for training programs that can help you develop new skills and stay up to date with industry trends. Investing in mentorship and training can help you build a successful and fulfilling career.

8. Prioritise Safety

Safety should be a top priority for all tradies. Make sure you are following all safety protocols and procedures to keep yourself and your clients safe. Attend safety training sessions, invest in safety equipment, and prioritise safety on every job site. Building a reputation for prioritising safety can help you attract more clients and build a successful career.

9. Make sure you have the right qualifications and licences

Many trades require licences to legally work in the field. Obtaining the right licences for your industry can help you gain credibility and trust with clients, and can also help protect you from legal and financial risks. To get a licence you’ll usually need nationally recognised qualifications to demonstrate your specialised knowledge and skills in a particular area. For example, a welding certification can show that you are trained in the latest welding techniques and can handle complex welding jobs.

If you’re a skilled worker with experience in the trades industry but lack the necessary qualifications, Skills Certified can help fast-track your certification process via our partner RTOs through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). With RPL, you can demonstrate your existing skills and knowledge to obtain the relevant qualifications needed to advance your career and obtain your trades licence. This process can save you time and money, allowing you to focus on building your career as a tradie.