Here are some general tips for tradies to help improve their business and day-to-day operations:
1. Keep your tools organised and maintained
- Regularly clean and service your tools to ensure they’re in top condition, which will save you time and money in the long run.
2. Invest in quality over quantity
- Spend money on high-quality tools and materials to deliver better results and avoid costly repairs or replacements later.
3. Prioritise safety
- Always follow safety protocols, wear appropriate PPE, and ensure your worksite is safe for both you and your clients. Use your Tradie Diary to record your pre-starts and safety parameters.
4. Communicate clearly with clients
- Be transparent about timelines, costs, and any potential issues. Clear communication builds trust and reduces misunderstandings. Keep a record of your communication in the client communication section of your Tradie Diary.
5. Manage your time effectively
- Plan your day in advance, allocate time for each task, and stick to your schedule to avoid overbooking or project delays.
6. Keep up with industry trends
- Stay informed about new tools, technologies, and regulations in your trade to maintain a competitive edge.
7. Use job management software and records
- Streamline your business operations by using apps or software to manage quotes and invoices. Use your Tradie Diary to manage scheduling and client communications.
8. Build a strong network
- Develop relationships with suppliers, other tradies, and local businesses. A good network can lead to better deals and more referrals.
9. Keep detailed records
- Document your work with photos and notes, track expenses, and keep detailed job logs for reference in case of disputes or future work. The Tradie Day Log works as a tool to keep all information about each job in the same place.
10. Offer great customer service
- Go the extra mile by being polite, punctual, and professional. A good reputation spreads quickly and can lead to more work through word-of-mouth.
11. Set clear payment terms
- Establish upfront agreements with clients about payment schedules, deposits, and final payments to avoid misunderstandings and ensure smooth cash flow. Record notes of payment due dates in your Tradie Diary and follow up if needed.
12. Offer warranties or guarantees
- Provide clients with a warranty or guarantee on your work to build trust and demonstrate confidence in the quality of your services.
13. Be punctual and reliable
- Always show up on time and meet deadlines. Reliability is key to building a positive reputation in your community.
14. Stay organised with your finances
- Regularly review your expenses, manage your cash flow, and consider using accounting software to track your income and outgoings. You can also record notes on the go so they don't get forgotten with Tradie Day Log.
15. Keep learning and upskilling
- Continuously improve your skills by attending workshops, gaining new certifications, or learning about emerging techniques in your trade.
16. Protect yourself with the right insurance
- Make sure you have adequate business insurance to cover yourself for liability, accidents, and potential risks on the job.
17. Ask for customer feedback
- After completing a job, ask clients for feedback on your work. Use this input to improve your service and encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews. Note a date in your Tradie Diary roughly 2 weeks after job completion to follow up with the client for feedback and a review.
18. Showcase your work
- Take high-quality before-and-after photos of your jobs and share them on your website or social media to attract new customers.
19. Be flexible but firm
- While it’s good to be adaptable, set clear boundaries to avoid being taken advantage of. Stand firm on pricing and scope of work if clients request additional services. Record any variations in your Tradie Diary so there is no confusion about what was requested or changed.
20. Maintain a positive attitude
- Approach each job with a positive, professional attitude. Clients will appreciate your enthusiasm, and it can make the workday more enjoyable for you as well.
These tips can help tradies maintain a well-organised, efficient, and successful business while also improving client satisfaction.
