The world we live in and work in shifts continuously; your trade is no exception. So, whether you’re a plumber, electrician, or builder, things aren’t quite the same as they were ten or even five years ago. Your customers expect more, and you need to be a whizz on social media and a wearer of many hats. How people choose and trust a tradesperson is changing, too. But don’t panic; as ever, we’ve got your back. In this article, we’re sharing some insights into how trade industries and customer expectations are changing, as well as three tips to help you stay ahead when considering how to grow a trade business.
How to grow a trade business as your industry changes:
Homes Are Getting Smarter – And that means you need to as well!
From doorbells that talk to you and your visitors to heating that knows when you’re out, smart home tech is no longer just for fancy new builds. More customers are asking for retrofitted technology that makes home automation easier.
What does this mean for you? Whether you’re fitting kitchens or rewiring a house, clients might expect you to have at least a basic knowledge of smart systems and how they work, including installation and troubleshooting.
Tip: You don’t need to become an IT expert. However, a basic knowledge of smart thermostats, lighting, and security systems will keep you ahead of competitors. There might be some short courses online. YouTube is a wealth of knowledge. Or ask suppliers and manufacturers about product training, which is sometimes free of charge.
Renewables are on the Rise
Solar panels, heat pumps, and battery storage are becoming more common as people look for cost savings as energy prices rise. There’s a much greater interest in being kinder to the planet. Alternative energies are no longer just for the minority; many homeowners in West Sussex are asking for greener options.
What does this mean for you? Clients might ask your opinion on renewable installations or want to know if your work is future-proofed to run with solar or other energy-saving tech.
Tip: Get familiar with renewable options relevant to your trade. Electricians can look at EV charging points and solar systems. Plumbers might consider training in heat pump installation. Builders should understand how new builds can be made more energy efficient. Start small; knowing what to recommend (and what to avoid) can give you a competitive edge.
Digital Tools & Customer Expectations
Gone are the days of scribbled quotes and “I’ll pop round Tuesday, maybe Wednesday”. Instead, customers rightly expect professional service. The good news is that clear communication, easy appointment booking, and transparent pricing are much easier if you adopt some of the digital tools that will help you run your business more efficiently.
What does this mean for you? A slick-looking website, online booking, and clear quotes that clients can access online can be the difference between getting a job and losing it to someone else.
Tip: Use simple apps to manage appointments and send quotes and invoices. Many of the tools will work alongside our favourite cloud-based accounting system, Xero. It looks professional for your clients, but it’s a #winwin situation, as it also streamlines your admin processes. Check out this article from the archives, where we shared some of our favourite Apps for tradespeople.
There’s no doubt that the future of trade is bright as long as you’re willing to adapt a little. Customers want more than just a job well done. They want smart advice, eco-friendly options, and a professional service from start to finish. Embrace the changes one step at a time and reap the rewards of standing out from your competitors.
In the meantime, you know who to call if you need help sorting your books! Contact us HERE.