1. Get Visible Online
First things first—if people can’t find you, they can’t hire you. Setting up a strong online presence is essential.
Start with:
- A basic website with your services, contact details, and testimonials.
- A free Google Business Profile so you show up in local search results.
- Social media pages (Facebook and Instagram are especially effective for trades).
Most customers today start their search for a tradie online—don’t miss the opportunity to be found.
2. Use Social Media to Share Your Work
Visual platforms like Facebook and Instagram are ideal for showcasing your projects. Trades clients want to see results—before and after photos, videos, or time-lapse jobs can make a big impression.
Post ideas:
- Job completions.
- Tool tips or trade insights.
- Team highlights.
- Behind-the-scenes stories.
Use local hashtags and tag locations to reach a wider audience in your service area.
3. Build Trust Through Testimonials and Reviews
Customer feedback can be one of your most powerful marketing tools. Prospective clients often make decisions based on Google reviews and word-of-mouth.
Request reviews:
- At the completion of each job
- With a simple follow-up text and review link
- By offering a small incentive, like a future service discount
Don’t forget to respond professionally to every review, positive or negative—it shows reliability and customer care.
4. Get Certified and Promote Your Credentials
Clients feel more confident hiring certified professionals, particularly for licensed trades. Having nationally recognised qualifications improves credibility and can even help you secure higher-value jobs or tender contracts.
With Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), you can turn your existing skills and on-the-job experience into formal qualifications—without having to sit in a classroom.
Explore trade-specific RPL pathways:
- Carpentry Trade Licence
- Plumbing & Drainage Licence
- Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
- Concreting Licence
Once qualified, proudly display your certifications on your website, quotes, and social media.
5. Network with Local Businesses
Referrals are gold in the trades industry. Establish connections with local builders, real estate agents, and other trades for mutual business opportunities.
Ideas to build partnerships:
- Offer referral discounts.
- Join local business groups or chambers of commerce.
- Sponsor local events or sports teams.
These partnerships help grow brand awareness and develop long-term job pipelines.
6. Run Simple Local Ads
You don’t need a big budget to run effective ads. With a few dollars a day, you can promote your business on Facebook or Google and reach nearby customers who are actively searching for your services.
Keep ads simple:
- Use clear offers (e.g. “Free On-Site Quote” or “Emergency Plumber in Brisbane”)
- Target a specific postcode or radius
- Include strong visuals and a call to action.
Test and adjust over time to maximise your return on spend.
Marketing your trades business doesn’t have to be complicated. With consistent effort, a clear online presence, and formal recognition of your skills, you can increase trust, win more jobs, and grow a reputation that speaks for itself.
If you’re ready to level up your business and get formally recognised for your experience, let Skills Certified Australia help you take the next step.
