Carpentry is a highly competitive field. That is why it is critical to think strategically about the future. There may be plenty of journeyman carpenter jobs available right now, but what about tomorrow? You’ll need a consistent flow of work to keep your business going and to grow it.
There are several methods you can use to effectively promote and expand your carpentry business. Here is a list of 10 suggestions that you might be able to apply to your small business now or in the future.
Is your carpentry business ready to take off?
Before we go into the tips, let’s look at what you’ve already accomplished. If you want to grow, you need a solid foundation on which to build.
Being a successful carpenter relies on being an outstanding worker. You need to demonstrate that you are consistently professional, adaptable, and dependable. You must provide high-quality work on every project and meet deadlines.
Beyond general skill and professionalism, you should also be sure that your business itself is starting off on the right foot. Steps to do this may include:
- Developing a business strategy. You can use a simple business plan as a reference point. It doesn’t have to be more than a page long, but it can help you focus on your business goals and how you will achieve them.
- Developing a customer contract. Having everything in writing helps set client expectations and protects your business. You may have a lawyer draft a standard contract for you to use. Then, you simply need to amend the contents and have clients sign it before you start working.
- Making sure you have the proper licenses and permissions. It is critical for your business to follow the law. Make sure you have all the necessary carpentry licences and permissions to work in your state.
- Getting business insurance for carpenters. Business insurance can be a very important way to protect your company. Insurance allows you to concentrate on your work, while knowing that you are protected in the event of an unforeseen event.
If you’re confident that your business is ready to start growing, then it’s time to shift your focus towards marketing.
How to market and grow your carpentry business
1. Create a website
In many ways, having a website is a prerequisite for starting most small businesses. Customers will expect to find you online, and your site can be the starting point of your promotion and marketing efforts.
You don’t necessarily have to put a lot of money into this. A one- or two-page website may be all you need to get started. Today, DIY website builders such as Squarespace and Wix make it simple to get started. However, you can hire a professional to build and maintain your website if you don’t have the time or desire to do this yourself.
Whether you go the DIY route or hire a pro, your website should include:
- An overview of the services you provide. Include photos, if possible, so that clients can get an insight into the quality of your work.
- Information about yourself. Include information such as how long you’ve been a carpenter, where you’ve previously worked, and any credentials you hold. You should also attach a current clear picture of yourself.
- Client testimonials. Positive reviews boosts your reputation and demonstrate your professionalism and quality of work.
- Information about how to contact you. Make sure these stand out, whether it’s a phone number or an email address.
Working with a search engine optimization (SEO) specialist may be beneficial if you want to grow your business through Google searches. They can assist you in creating a keyword-rich website that is Google-friendly.
2. Establish a presence on social media
Social media is becoming more important for small business owners, including carpenters. This is another space to showcase your work and be found by your target clients. Your accounts could be used as a de facto website, where you post photographs of your work and answer inquiries.
It may be wise to create just one or two social media accounts for your business. If you sign up for everything, it can become too difficult and time-consuming to keep them all updated. Instead, focus on the top sites that your ideal customer uses. Post regular updates and consider advertising through the platform. Facebook and Instagram ads often work well for small business owners on a budget.
3. List yourself on a business directory
The internet is becoming more and more important for businesses as most customers use it to discover local businesses. Online company listings can help your searchability and compliment your website and social media accounts.
Start by submitting your business to Google Maps, Yelp, and other online business directories. Make sure to include all important details, such as your company’s name, phone number, and what your company does. The more locations you advertise your company, the more chances you’ll have to attract new consumers and set yourself apart from other carpenters in your neighbourhood.
4. Purchase business cards
Believe it or not, but there is still a need for business cards in our digital age. You never know when a possible business opportunity will arise, so keeping them on hand is a good idea. Business cards are an easy way to share your contact details on the fly and can help you make a professional first impression. When you finish a job, leave a few extra cards with the client that they can share with others looking for a carpenter or have your details on hand for future work.
5. Think about branded automobiles and clothing
Putting your logo and contact information on your work cars and the clothes you wear on the job accomplishes two goals. First and foremost, it gives you (and any team members) a more professional appearance. Second, it acts as a type of advertisement for all passers-by. This is the epitome of low-cost, high-impact marketing.
6. Clearly define your services
Clients have a wide range of options when looking for a carpenter. They may need a good “all-rounder” for many jobs around the house, or a specialist for a specific project. If they don’t understand what services you provide, they may look for a carpentry business that more clearly spells out their offering.
Clearly define the services you provide on your website, social media, and directory listings. You may make a point to check these a couple times a year to keep them up-to-date as you broaden your offering or begin to specialize in a specific niche.
7. Contact previous clients
Finding new customers is generally more expensive than keeping old ones. If a client is happy with your services, they will most likely utilize them again. While most individuals don’t renovate their homes every year, they may need other types of work. You might install a new fence one year, and repair the stairs the next.
Knowing this, you may contact past clients on a regular basis to remind them of the services you provide. For example, rafters, roofs, and fences are all excellent springtime business opportunities. You may also offer a discount to current customers to encourage repeat business.
8. Seek recommendations
Many company owners are hesitant to ask for references, but it is worth the effort. When a friend recommends something, people are more inclined to want to buy it, making it one of the most effective marketing approaches on our list.
Offering a reward for word-of-mouth referrals can help get the ball rolling. For example, if someone delivers you a full house remodel, you may offer them a gift or voucher. You might even offer a discount on future services in exchange for a discount. Even a passionate thank you note is a wonderful approach to express gratitude to someone who has sent you business.
Also, request favourable reviews on review sites such as Yelp or Houzz. These websites may assist potential consumers in finding you, as well as provide glowing testimonials for your work.
9. Sharpen your carpentry abilities
Even if you’re an expert in your field, there’s always something new to learn. If you’re looking to expand your carpentry business, you might want to look into professional carpenter courses.
Technical trade schools, carpentry colleges, and a variety of certification programmes are all options. These are excellent for establishing credentials. You may also attend a specialist lesson if you want to develop your abilities or branch out into a new carpentry sector.
10. Recruit new staff
Are you drowning in paperwork or wasting too much time taking phone calls from potential clients? It’s possible that you need to recruit an assistant or office manager. Having someone else manage logistics frees up your time so you can concentrate on the hands-on task.
Another pair of hands can also help you can manage extra work as it comes in. Apprentices or a partner with complementary abilities could mean that you can take on larger or more varied projects.
Regardless of how you promote your business, give yourself peace of mind with the correct carpenter insurance. Instead of worrying about everything that can go wrong, you can concentrate on growing your business and keeping your clients pleased. BizInsure can help you find and compare business insurance for your carpentry company.
