A lot of tradespeople didn't start out on their own to waste hours chasing leads. You got into it because you're skilled at your craft — not because you love chasing people for work.
But here's the thing: doing quality work won't fill your schedule on its own anymore. Mates recommending you hasn't died, but it's unpredictable - particularly when the market slows.
So what actually works? Here are a few straightforward moves that shift the needle - without thousands of dollars.
Get Your Online Presence
If a potential customer Googles "local roofer" - are you anywhere to be seen? A surprising number of tradies still don't have a proper online profile.
It doesn't need to be a $10k custom site. A straightforward website that has real job photos, lists where you work, and has a clear way to get in touch - that's where you start.
A one-page setup that covers the essentials already beats the tradies who have nothing.
Google Maps - Still the Easiest Win
If you've been sleeping on your Google Maps listing, you're handing work to your competition. It costs nothing.
The map listings that shows up at the top when someone searches for a trade - those spots get the most calls. And getting there is mostly about not leaving your profile half-empty.
- Add pictures from actual jobs - not some generic handshake pic
- Build up your review count with genuine feedback - this is massive for trust
- Respond to reviews, good and bad - Google notices and so do customers
- Make sure your phone number and service area are correct
All of this adds up month after month. Tradies who stay on top of their profile consistently outrank the ones who set and forget.
Facebook and Instagram - It's Not Rocket Science
You don't need to become an influencer. What works for trades businesses online keep it dead simple.
Take a quick pic when you finish a job. Before and afters get the most engagement by far. A finished bathroom reno - that tells the story on its own.
Write a line or two about the job and move on with tradie marketing your day. Even once or twice a week is plenty. Every photo you share shows potential customers you're the real deal.
Customers believe photos of real work. An honest before-and-after does more for your business than any amount of fancy marketing - because there's no faking it.
Paid Ads - Worth It If Done Right
Spending money on online ads is effective for trades businesses - but it's not a set-and-forget situation. The common mistake is boosting random Facebook posts.
If you're going to invest in ads: make sure your website actually converts. Paying for eyeballs is pointless to a site that doesn't load properly.
Start with a small budget. Pay attention to what generates real enquiries. Double down on the winners and kill the duds quickly.
Reviews and Reputation - The Stuff That Actually Sells
One thing worth paying attention to: nearly every potential customer looks at what other people have said about you first. Someone with a stack of real feedback beats the competition over someone with zero social proof - even if their prices are higher.
Make it a habit to ask for a review after every job. Most customers are happy to help - they just need a nudge. Text them the Google review link and most will do it on the spot.
If you get a bad review, reply calmly and factually - how you handle criticism says more about your business than you'd think.
Wrapping It Up
Marketing your trades business isn't a second full-time job. The busy ones aren't doing anything magical - they've just covered the basics and stayed consistent.
Sort out your web presence. Let your jobs do the talking. Build your reputation with real feedback. When you put money into advertising, be strategic about where the budget goes.
You're already great at what you do - getting found online just needs a bit of attention to start working for you.