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Improving Your Chances Of Success As A Tradesman

Posted on by Nova Blogger

 

You can become a more successful tradesman by improving your interpersonal skills, professional skills, and your business skills. This will allow you to compete more effectively in your chosen market.

Building Trust

When it comes to interpersonal skills, learning how to build trust with your customers is important. Trust is key for your success as a tradesman, it means that your customers will listen to you and take your advice, plus they are more likely to recommend you to their friends and family. Building trust comes from you being reliable and punctual and doing quality work on a consistent basis. Talk to your customers, and get to know them as people. People are more likely to buy services from someone they know and trust.

Skills

Then focus on improving your professional skills as a tradesman. To do so, make sure you get all the necessary qualifications required to perform your trade. Then keep updating your qualifications by going on regular courses. Try to gain work experience in areas that you are newly qualified in, so that you get plenty of practice before doing it alone.

As a tradesman you are running your own business, so if you are looking to become more successful you should start mastering the core business skills that all business owners need. They are accounting, marketing, and administration. Start by dividing your business into these three areas, and then focus on specific things to do in each area that when combined, will improve your overall chances of success.

Accounting

The first business skill to begin with is accounting. It is important to have an understanding of finance and how to use capital in the most effective way. If you have not already done so, it is a good idea to write a business plan, so you can get an overview of your business and its financial landscape. You should also learn about bookkeeping and budgeting to give you a better understanding of how cash flows in to and out of your business, so you become aware of your main sources of income and your major expenses. This knowledge will come in handy when it comes to cutting unnecessary expenses.

Marketing

Next comes marketing. You need a clever marketing strategy that involves both online and offline marketing tactics to increase your brands awareness. The best place to start here is by gaining a better understanding of your existing customers. Keep track of how you acquire new customers so as to understand where your customers are coming from, that way you can focus more of your marketing efforts there.

Partnerships

To increase your potential customer base, consider forming partnerships with other tradesmen in a separate niche so you can both have access to each others customers. Join as many relevant professional organisations as you can and advertise your membership on all your stationery and marketing material so as to improve the professional image of your business.

Administration

Last but not least comes administration. You have to efficiently manage the day to day operation of your business. That means you must have systems in place that deal with everything form taking appointments to sending out client invoices. Technology can be very helpful here – there are plenty of business software suites and apps, both online and offline, available to automate the majority of your administrative tasks. The key is to stay on top of things so your business can run smoothly while you are on site.

In summary, increasing your chances of success as a tradesman comes down to improving upon a variety of skills. With a bit of planning and effort these skills can easily be learnt and put into practice, so as to give your business an advantage in your niche.

 

 

 

Getting Started In The Window Cleaning Business

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The window cleaning business is an attractive sector to consider when thinking of setting up a business. It is a popular micro business choice because it can be started and operated as a one person operation, which you can then grow as you get more business. The start up costs are relatively low, and so too are the overheads. There is usually a constant demand all year round for the service, which means there is the potential to earn a steady living throughout the year. Also there is also plenty of scope for growth, you can start as domestic cleaner and then move onto commercial accounts once you have developed your brand.

However you must make sure that you enjoy working outdoors as it can be tough when the weather is not very nice. You also need to be reasonably fit, as as the job requires a lot of physical activity. Once you decide it is suitable for you, then the first step is to do some market research to identify the areas of demand, the competition, and any gaps in the market that you could potentially fill.

Research 

Next you need to decide if you want to go it alone or join an existing franchise. If you decide to go it alone then you must choose whether to set up your business structure as a sole trader or limited company, as they both have pro’s and cons.

Having done your research and found an area to operate in, now comes the process of getting your business ready to operate. This means getting the necessary equipment, training and licenses. The federation of window cleaners and the British window cleaning association, run courses which should equip you with the necessary skills to begin your journey.

Equipment 

You could start with a bucket a squeegee and a ladder, but due to the risks associated with working from heights, it is better to invest in a window cleaning pole system that allows you to work safely from the ground without a ladder. Also you will need to have a vehicle to carry your equipment and travel to customers. The majority of the equipment you need can be leased to begin with so as to keep your start-up costs down, then as your business grows you can buy whatever equipment you feel is necessary.

Trade Associations 

After you have the necessary equipment, you should join the relevant trade associations and ensure that you comply with any current government regulations that apply to your industry. Then you must get the relevant insurance, especially public and employer liability insurance.

Marketing 

Next comes the process marketing your business in order to get your customers. A website can help promote your brand, so too can the use of the various social media channels. If you are targeting a particular area then it may be a good idea to take out adverts in the local papers, as well as to do a door to door leafleting campaign.

Decide how your customers will pay – will it be cash after the job, or on a monthly subscription where they pay up front for the month? Set your prices to include all your costs and a reasonable profit margin. It is best to compete on quality of service as opposed to just price, as word of mouth from satisfied customers will bring in more business.

Organising Your Rounds 

Once you are up and running, you need to organise your rounds. You must keep some form of customer diary and database to help you keep on top of things. You can use software specifically designed for the window cleaning business, or you can develop your own system using a simple spreadsheet program.

Make sure you prioritise you customer rounds based on the size of the job and the time it takes to get to the site, try not to book too much work for each day, and leave space in your day for unforeseen things. Remember to treat your customers well, and your window cleaning business should thrive.

Four Steps To Launch Your Own Landscaping Business

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In today’s busy world, there will always be homeowners and companies who don’t have the time or expertise to manage their landscapes. Currently the UK landscaping industry employs about 60,000 people with an annual turnover of around £3 billion and it is growing, so starting your own landscaping business can be a rewarding journey. There are a few ways into the industry, you can buy an existing business with clients, or you can buy a franchise of an established brand name, or you can set your own up. With so many potential services to offer from basic garden maintenance to advance landscape design, it should be possible to find a niche.

Here are four quick steps to help you launch your own landscaping business.

  • Do Some Research: 

You need to get to know the landscaping industry in order to find out if any opportunities exist. So it is advisable to spend some time carrying out research both online and offline. You can use the internet to find out about current trends in the horticultural and landscaping industry. Do a detailed analysis of the various market segments and the types of landscaping services that can be offered. Then you want to carry out some offline market research to determine your potential target area, what is available in your target area, what is lacking, and whether there is a need for the service you plan to offer.

It’s then time to write a business plan. This will help check the viability of your idea, focus your research efforts, and later it can serve as a working document for your business. It will allow you to define your target customer, which will make your marketing campaign more effective. Writing a business plan will also help you to define your goals, so you are clear as to where you want the business to go. Once that is done, then its time to move on to step 2.

  • Get Some Funds:

All new ventures require some for of start-up capital. You would have an idea from your business plan how much this is. Now you have to decide whether or not you are going to raise the capital yourself or borrow it. If you decide to raise it yourself, you may want to start saving monthly towards it or getting extra work to pay for it. However if you decide it is best to borrow it, then once your business plan is finalised, it would be a good idea to contact your local business start-up agency to find out what type of finance is available and how to apply. Then it is on to step 3.

  • Prepare For Launch:

Once you have the money, it is time to choose a business structure and name, then start the launch process. A great way to stay organised during this time is to put together a start-up checklist that includes all the necessary steps you must take, then tick them off as you complete each step. Brush up on skills and qualifications, and join any relevant trade organisations to get industry contacts. Make sure you get the necessary insurance, permits and licenses as well as health and safety certificates, that you need to operate legally.

You need to decide whether it is best to buy or lease equipment. It might be a good idea to lease equipment to being with, and then buy when business picks up. Choose equipment that will help you get work done quicker and better, for example, investing in professional property measuring equipment so you can offer personalised price quotes to potential customers. Go for low maintenance equipment as this will save you money later, you can ask other established landscapers for their recommendations on specific brands.

Have a website / blog made to showcase your work and for online booking and enquiries. At the same time get your business logo, business cards and promotional items made so they can be to be given out to potential customers. Advertise in online directories and use social media channels to engage with potential customers in your area, and don’t forget to set up an email marketing system so you can inform customers of any promotional offers.

Then its on to step 4, the final step.

  • Launch:

It is time to open for business. Spread the word, and shift your focus to the day to day running of a business. This includes all the necessary admin, accounting and marketing tasks. Try to brush up on basic accounting skills for doing your bookkeeping, and inter-personal skills to help you communicate better with potential and existing customers. Finally, make sure you define the scope of intended work and set up contracts to include agreed work and payment terms for each job.

Safety Tips For Roofers and Scaffolders Working At Heights

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As a roofer and or scaffolder the majority of your work involves working at high elevations, and working from heights represents one of the biggest safety challenges in the construction industry. Slipping and falling from heights or objects falling from heights cause serious and fatal injuries every year. So it is very important to follow a strict code of practice with regards to health and safety, in order to minimise the chances of workplace accidents.

All roofers and scaffolders in the UK are required by law to hold a valid CSCS card as proof that you have obtained the required training. This involves passing the CITB Health, safety & environment (HS&E) test, which demonstrates that you have a minimum level of health, safety and environmental awareness before going onto any site.

Risk Assessment:

Before undertaking any work at height, a proper risk assessment must be carried out to highlight measures that need to be taken in order to prevent any potential accidents. The recommended health and safety risk management approach involves five steps, first check for any potential hazards that are commonly associated with falls, then decide who could be injured and how. Next consider whether there are already measures in place to deal with the risks, then record your findings. Finally perform a regular review to account for any significant changes that may take place, and ensure that precautions are in place to deal with any new risks.

Basic Safety Tips:

In addition to performing risk assessments, there are some basic safety tips that can be adopted to prevent injuries on the job. All Roofers and scaffolders must use the required PPE equipment when on site, and this equipment should be kept in good working order at all times. Hard hats must be worn at all times when working on site, and non slip shoes should be used when working on ladders or scaffolds to improve grip. When the weather is not good, such as when it is very windy, or raining or snowing, it can be dangerous to work at heights, and so it should be avoided at these times.

To stop objects falling onto people below, heavy equipment should be hoisted up as opposed to being carried by hand. Ladders and scaffolds should always be secured to prevent them moving. Don’t move scaffolds or ladders when others are working on it. Scaffolds should be fitted with guard rails to protect from falls, and toe boards to prevent falling debris, tools or building materials.

Scaffolding & Roofs:

Scaffolds and roofs should be cleaned at the end of shifts so as to remove any debris that might cause slipping. Also, it is essential to remove any equipment that is not in use from working surfaces so as to prevent people tripping on it. Loads on scaffolding and ladders should be kept well below the maximum weight capacity. When working on fragile roofs, safe access must be provided and a platform combined with safety nets should be used beneath the roof. Some form of safety harness should be worn so as to protect in the event of any falls.

Health & Safety Regulations:

It is your duty to protect yourself, your employees and members of the public from potential hazards. Therefore it is important to understand and practice the regulatory requirements that apply to your industry. The ‘Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations’ (1992) covers all aspect of the workplace while the ‘Work at Height Regulations’ (2005) covers all aspect of working at heights. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and charges.

For roofers and scaffolders, working at height and the risks that come with it are a part of the job. However many of the situations that lead to accidents can be avoided by following the appropriate health and safety practices. In the end it comes down to assessing the workplace for potential hazards, and using the appropriate safety equipment and practices.

Quick And Easy Tips For Choosing The Right Van For Tradesmen

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Finding a suitable van for your business can be tricky. There is a lot to choose from, so some time must be spent researching the various options available. First of all try and decide on your budget before you start looking so as to avoid spending more than you can afford.

 

Leasing A Van Or Purchasing One:

After deciding on your budget, you must choose between leasing a van and purchasing one outright. This decision has to be made carefully as both options have their pro’s and con’s. Your current financial position will be a key factor in choosing.

For example, if you are on a tight budget then leasing might be the best option as it does not require a large payment upfront in comparison to buying a van. You can spread the costs over a fixed term contract by making monthly payments. Also, as you are renting the van, you won’t have to pay for maintaining the vehicle. On the downside, leasing often includes mileage restrictions and the overall payment at the end of the contract might end up being more than the cost of buying upfront.

If however you can afford the upfront costs then buying a van might be the way to go, either a brand new one or a second hand one. It is important to remember that as the van is yours, you are responsible for the cost of maintaining the van together with all the vehicle taxes/licenses and insurances that you require. However you can claim capital allowances for the cost of your van and in so doing reduce your income tax bill.

 

Picking the Right Van For Your Business:

The next thing is to decide what you will need the van for, so as to ensure you pick the right van for your business. Think about how much you will use it and how you will use it, so as to make sure it is the right size and type for your business needs.

 

Various Sizes Of Vans:

There are various sizes of vans, the smallest are the car sized vans, which are best for small loads. Then comes the micro vans which can carry a bit more equipment. Next is the light vans such as transit vans that can carry a large amount of equipment. Finally you have the panel vans which can carry the most amount of equipment.

 

Choosing The Van:

When it comes time to choose the van, make sure you take someone with you who is knowledgable about vans. They will help guide you as to what to look for and what to avoid. Also you must make sure you carry out a thorough inspection of the vehicle you intend to buy as well as a test drive, in order to make sure everything is in good working order.

 

Getting Your Van Ready:

Once you find the perfect van for your business, it is then time to get your van ready. This usually involves customising the interior to suit your needs, as well as branding the exterior to market your services. Getting your branding right is important, you are on the road most of the time and so potential customers will see your van, it can be one of the cheapest forms of advertising. The most common way is to use removable vinyl signs. Choosing the right colours, fonts and logos will help you stand out from the crowd.

 

In summary, finding the right van for your business is a task that requires some careful thinking. There are lots of vans to out there to choose from, but finding the right one means having a plan of action that considers all the variables. By spending some time asking yourself some key questions before you start, you can avoid buying a van that does not match your needs.

 

Strategies To Grow Your Window Cleaning Business

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For many successful businesses the decision to grow is one that they will face at some point. Having proved that your idea works, you now have to decide if it is time to do more of what’s working or not. There are many reason to grow a business, these range from the desire to increase profits to the desire to sell the business at a later stage. How you actually go about the process will depend on your reason. Here are a few well established strategies for growing your existing window cleaning business.

 

  1. Make use of existing customers

There are 2 ways to do this. The first is by asking your current customers for referrals in return for a discount. There is nothing better than word of mouth advertising, it is a great way to increase your client base without much effort or cost.

The second is by offering improved and new services to your existing customers. Ask existing customers for feedback on how you could provide a better service for them, and then by making use of technology or better equipment you could make the required changes. You could try changing your pricing structure, to persuade one-off users to become repeat users of your service, by offering them some form of bundle discount. Also you could contact former customers who have not used your service for a while and try to get back.

 

  1. Get new customers

Although this may require some expenditure, finding new customers is another tried and tested strategy for growing a business. There are many options when it comes to finding new clients, but it is wise to start with the lowest risk strategies. For example if your primary customer base consists of just private clients, then you may decide to target the corporate market by approaching a few companies in your area to offer them your services. Then there is the option of partnering with another business in a related field, for example partnering with gardeners or painters. This will be mutually beneficial as you can have access to each others customer bases, and you can offer them your services.

You could also use the internet to find new customers and it won’t cost you much to advertise and promote your window cleaning business. If you don’t already have one, then put up a website to showcase your business and the services you offer. Then get your business and website listed in the relevant trade directories in your area. You need to join the various social networks and forums so as to interact with your potential audience.

 

  1. Develop a product

One way to grow your business is to develop a product that solves a problem or fills a need for your market. It requires plenty of market research to define a niche and produce a product development plan. Nowadays, the manufacturing of these products can be outsourced to contract manufacturers, so you don’t need your own production unit. This makes it easy to go from idea to product in a short period of time.

Another alternative is to become an affiliate or distributor for someone else’s product. You would sell their product for a commission, and they fulfil and dispatch the order from their warehouses. This means you wont need to buy any inventory or store any goods, and so involves less risk than making your own product.

 

Growing a window cleaning business can be a very rewarding process, higher profits and a larger market share are often the result. However to be successful, it requires a combination of timing, funding and plenty of planning. It is important that the growth is well managed, so that it does not reduce the profit margins and increase risk for your existing business.

A Look At The Skills And Training Needed To Becoming A Qualified Plumber

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In order to become a plumber you need certain personal skills combined with professional academic and practical training. To begin with you should have good problem solving and good customer service skills. It is important to have a working knowledge of English and Maths as there are plenty of calculations involved. Plumbers usually work regular hours such as 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, however some may decide to do overtime or on-calls if they are available.

There are 2 routes to getting a nationally recognised qualification as a plumber, and they are to study or to find an apprenticeship.

 

Study:

a. Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating –

For those that decide on studying, if you are new to the construction industry you can start by taking the level 2 NVQ award in Plumbing and heating. During your study you will cover a range of knowledge and skills across areas including domestic hot and cold water systems, central heating systems, sanitation systems, environmental technologies and matters of gas safety. This course lasts 18 months and includes mandatory work experience

b. Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Domestic Plumbing and Heating –

Level 3 is ideal if you are working within the plumbing and heating trade and have a great deal of technical skills and knowledge. You work with minimum supervision and have a good record of safety, fault correction and ensuring that work meets the required standard. The level 3 Diploma has a range of options including hot and cold water systems, drainage, solar heating, oil and gas fired appliances and also water and recycling systems. It also covers the ACS safety assessment requirements . These are needed in order to register with the Gas Safe Register, which greatly improves your chances of getting more specialised jobs.

 

Apprenticeship:

An apprenticeship can also be a good route to take to becoming a qualified plumber. They provide the right balance between theory and practical work based experience. They involve both study and 30 – 37.5 hours a weeks work for 2 years. You usually spend one day learning in college four days working applying what you have learnt, in the end leading to either a level 2 or 3 NVQ qualification.

a. Intermediate Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeships –

This involves installing and maintaining domestic heating and plumbing systems.

b. Advanced Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeships –

This involves electrical work on domestic plumbing and heating systems and their components.

 

Newly qualified plumbers can expect to earn £18k on average with a Level 3 NVQ qualification. Then £25k per year on average after 5 years work experience. For those that are self employed they can expect to earn on average £30k per year. Having become a qualified plumber you can also progress into a variety of roles within the domestic plumbing and heating industry. These include: ventilation and heating engineer, specialized plumbing or heating engineer, and project development manager.

Working in the plumbing industry has its many rewards, however there are no short cuts to becoming a qualified plumber. It takes between 3 to 5 years of practical work and academic study. It is important to have a good understanding regulations as well as the practical skills to tackle potential jobs in order to be qualified as a plumber.

 

 

 

Creative Ways To Market Your Services As A Tradesman

Posted on by Nova Blogger

 

Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience to become a self employed tradesman, the next step is to get the word out. OK that said, here are some strategies that should give you maximum bang for your money.

 

Traditional Marketing Strategies

  1. Promotional Materials:

    Even though this strategy is not new, it can still be used as part of a portfolio of strategies. You can have branded stationary such as business cards, pens, or notepads, printed and handed out to prospective customers by hand. Combined with this you can have leaflets printed to be distributed by direct mail.

    Another tried and tested method is that of taking out adverts in local newspapers, local directories or listings. This will also allow you to target a particular catchment area at a time.

  1. Joint Ventures:

    Teaming up with other trades people that offer complimentary but different services can be mutually beneficial. It will allow you to access their customer base, providing them services that they can’t get from their existing trades person. In turn they will have access to your customer base. This way you don’t compete with each other, instead you cooperate to offer a wider range of trades services which will benefit both your customer bases.

  1. Word of Mouth:

    It is often said that the best form of advertising is word of mouth. With this in mind you can make use of your existing customer base to get referrals from them. This can be done by offering them either a discount or a small gift for recommending you to their friends or family.

 

Online Marketing Strategies

  1. Website:

    Currently most people look for products or services using the internet. So it is essential that you have a website that showcases your business and the services it offers. It does not have to an expensive custom designed site, it can be a simple do it yourself one. The main thing is to have an internet presence that is informative and well maintained. This will give prospective customers a feel for the sort of work you do. If you have the time you could add a blog that gives them relevant tips and news about your industry.

  1. Social Media:

    Having a presence on social media sites is also a must. You can do this by joining the likes of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. These sites will allow you to get your business noticed by large numbers of people. By providing regular content that you either create yourself, or have created on your behalf, you can engage potential and existing customers and in so doing create a community around your brand. It is this ability to communicate directly with your target market that makes social media so powerful for businesses.

 

Marketing yourself as a tradesman doesn’t have to be challenging. You can do this by combining traditional marketing techniques with new online marketing techniques, and it need not cost a lot. The key is to choose a few strategies and apply them consistently.

 

 

Suggestions For Landscapers And Gardeners to Keep Busy During The Winter Months

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There are few things that can be as challenging to a landscaper or gardener as the winter months. Work is totally dependent on the weather conditions, and there is also the problem of less day light hours within which to work. However even with these limitations, many gardeners and landscapers are still able to run their business successfully during the winter season.

Here are some useful tips for getting through the winter months.

 

Suggest Potential Work to Existing Customers:

There are still plenty of jobs that can and should be done during the winter months, so it is worth identifying winter tasks and discussing these with your clients during the summer months. The winter is a great time to tackle well stocked gardens that are overgrown. Trees, shrubs and hedges can be pruned as the frozen ground can make it easier to get equipment to the trees without destroying the turf.

You can offer to remove garden waste, and carry out structural work such as repairing / put up fencing or laying patios. If the weather is really bad then you could take up snow ploughing to clear drive ways and paths. Lawns still need to be mowed so the grass doesn’t get too long as it may cause snow mould when there is heavy snowfall.

This is a great time to test the soil and repair any lawn that has been worn out during the summer months. Fallen leaves need to be cleared to reduce disease and moss growth. Trees and shrubs in particular fruit trees are best pruned when they are dormant to remove any dead material. Also vulnerable plants will need to be protected or moved into a green house so as to avoid the heavy frosts.

Brush Up on Skills:

This can be a great time to update your qualifications. Taking courses will enable you to add new skills, which you may use in the summer months to get additional work. So look for specific courses that will compliment your existing skills and services, or courses that will open up new areas of opportunity and improve your knowledge base. It is also a great time to attend industry shows to keep up to date on the latest trends in your industry.

Take Time Off:

The winter season can also be the best time to take your annual holiday. You can use that time to rest or you can use that time to do your planning for the year ahead. This time can be spent on organising your business with tasks such as budgeting & bookkeeping, or updating your marketing documents and website. You can use the time to maintain any equipment that may have stopped working during the season. Supplies that are needed for the next season can be ordered so they will be with you in time for the next season.

Do Something Else:

There is also the option of getting involved in other parts of the horticultural industry, such as buying and selling Christmas trees, delivering logs for wood burners and fireplaces. If you are are good at making things, you could have a go at making garden ornaments or bird houses for sale online.

If none of these are suitable and you have other skills, then taking temporary work in a related field such as being a handyman may be the best solution.

 

So while it can be the most challenging time for gardeners and landscapers, the winter months can also provide opportunity for those who are prepared to be innovative and flexible.

 

 

 

 

Getting Started As a Self-Employed Tradesman

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There are many benefits to working as a self employed tradesman, such as the freedom to choose when you work, what type of work and who you work for. However going it alone also means you are totally responsible for your success.

Here are a few tips to get you up and running the right way.

Qualifications and Experience

In order to get work a a self employed tradesman, you have to have the right qualifications and work experience.

Taking an NVQ course will teach you the skills and give you the necessary qualification you need to begin your career. It is a good idea to take a range of courses in different trades, as this may improve your chances of getting work. Take regular training courses so a to keep your skill-set up to date. If there are any trades that you are qualified for but have no experience, then getting some work experience through temporary or contract work will fill that gap.

Another alternative to training is to seek out an apprenticeship. Here you get both a recognised qualification and the necessary work experience at the same time.

Setting Up as a Sole Trader

A good idea is to put together a realistic business plan that gives you an idea of how much you will need to start-up and how you will run your business going forward. It is important to factor in all your start-up costs, such as the essential equipment you need to start. Having the correct equipment is key to ensuring that work can be done to a professional level in a safe and efficient manner.

You must then set up a legal structure for your business. One of the easiest options is to become a sole trader, it is cheaper and involves less administration and you can start straight away. It is then time to contact HM Revenue & Customs to register as self employed.

Next comes the necessary permits and licenses. You should contact the relevant trade associations to find out what licenses and permits you need in order to comply with regulations. At this stage you will also need to get some tradesman insurance to cover your equipment and for public liability and accidents.

Marketing Your Services

Once you are set up legally, then the next thing to do is to get the word out. Most of your business will come from word of mouth referrals, but in order to get the ball rolling you will have to do some advertising.

Depending on your budget it would be wise to a combination of offline advertising and online advertising. For your offline advertising it would be better to put small adverts in your local papers and local shop windows, than advertising in national directories. There will be less competition and it will be cheaper and more effective to begin with.

For your online advertising you can post in local listing sites and directories, and use social media to spread the word. You can also set up free a web-page which showcases your services and skills as well as any photo’s of jobs you have done. Once your business takes off you can then look at having a professional website designed.

Managing Your Business

Once you have your first clients, then your attention should be on the day to day running of the business, and this will involve keeping records. You should have a routine set up that is a combination of basic bookkeeping and diary management.

You need to file all your receipts and payments slips as well as record any incoming and outgoing transactions on a daily basis. Staying on top of this will make it easier when it comes time to complete your yearly HMRC self-assessment. You could hire a bookkeeper or accountant to do this but they will charge for it.

Dairy management is important so as to beware your availability for new work and to avoid double booking on prior appointments. It also ensures you have a record of what was done and how long jobs are taking.

In summary, getting started as a self employed tradesman is just like starting any other business, in that it requires a bit of planning and preparation. However once you are up an running you can look forward to interesting and varied career.

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