Whether you want to be a tradesman online or find a tradesman online, there are plenty of sites these days that can help, but what are the benefits for tradespeople and consumers of negotiating and booking work online?
For tradesmen and tradeswomen the Internet has provided an unequalled opportunity to advertise for free, or in some cases at a small cost. In comparison to the expense of weekly print advertising and traditional telephone book advertising, a successful online advertising campaign can be very cost effective.
The end result can be less annual advertising overheads for the tradesperson and, if the tradesperson elects to pass on the saving, a better deal for the consumer.
With more and more Internet savvy tradespeople taking to online advertising, the competition is strong too – which means consumers can look for several bids or quotes for their job to ensure they get a reasonable price.
Tips for Advertising Online
If you’re a tradesman or tradeswoman who wants to find work or expand your business, you need to create a good online presence and promote your services via as many online avenues as you can. Here are some suggestions:
- Set up your own website – so long as you have a computer a lack of funds won’t prevent you from setting up your own business site. Search “free websites” and you’ll find a variety of options. Of course, if you’re still a little wobbly on your “web” feet, you might need to grab a twelve year old to assist you!
- Look for sites where you can register your business profile for free – like www.whatcanyoudo.com.au. Don’t be happy with just one site – free advertising is a gift; take as much of it as you can!
- Spend time expanding and perfecting your online profile. List your trade qualifications and experience and make a mention of any particular expertise or experience you have that not all of your competitors may have.
- Be contactable (be it via your email address or your phone number) and don’t forget to mention the area in which you work if it’s relevant – if prospective clients cannot see this they may pass you by.
- Check your email daily and respond promptly to enquiries from prospective customers – in an increasingly impatient society, simply being the first to respond can get you the job.
Tips for Finding a Tradesman Online
Obtaining quotes online is not a lot different to ringing around for quotes – it’s just easier. You can do it at any hour of the night or day. Another advantage is that you can do any negotiating by email and you’re less likely to get pushed into accepting a quote you’re not really happy with. Here are some tips on finding the right tradesperson online:
- Visit several job directories and locate appropriate tradespeople in your area. Read available profiles and put together a short list of those who have suitable skills and are in your area.
- Don’t just obtain one quote – get three or more.
- Provide a good amount of information about your job so the tradesperson can establish quickly if he or she is able to do the job. Most tradespeople will still want to physically view the job before giving you a final quote – but the more information you provide initially means you are less likely to be surprised by a price increase when they arrive to quote.
Whether you want to be a tradesperson online or find one, why not start at the WCYD site? It’s free to look for a tradesman online at WCYD – and it’s free to advertise your business.