Proven strategies for plumbers, electricians, builders, and all tradespeople to attract more customers and grow their business
The trade industry is more competitive than ever. With thousands of plumbers, electricians, builders, and other tradespeople operating in Surrey and London alone, standing out and attracting new customers requires more than just doing good work – you need visibility and reputation.
Whether you're a sole trader just starting out or an established business looking to grow, this guide will show you proven strategies to get more customers and build a thriving trade business in 2024.
In 2024, if you're not online, you barely exist to potential customers. Here's how to establish a strong digital footprint:
This free tool is THE most important thing you can do for local visibility. When someone searches "plumber near me" or "electrician in Guildford", Google My Business listings appear at the top.
💡 Pro Tip: Businesses with complete Google My Business profiles get 7x more clicks than incomplete ones!
Don't ignore social media – it's where your customers spend hours every day.
Best for reaching homeowners 35+
Perfect for visual trades
You don't need an expensive website – even a simple one-page site adds credibility and provides essential information.
Online directories are where many customers start their search for tradespeople. Getting listed (especially with reviews) dramatically increases your visibility.
Most trusted in UK, but paid membership required
Free basic listing available
Pay per lead model
Quote-based platform
Many have free business directories
Join and share (don't spam!)
Neighborhood-focused recommendations
Clear Space Team offers FREE business listings for tradespeople on our popular website. Get your business in front of thousands of Surrey homeowners searching for trade services every month.
Word-of-mouth is still the #1 way trades get new customers – but you need to actively encourage it, not just hope it happens.
Don't be shy – ask happy customers to recommend you!
What to say:
"I'm glad you're happy with the work! If you know anyone else who needs [service], I'd really appreciate the referral. Word-of-mouth is how I grow my business."
Encourage referrals with incentives:
Build relationships with complementary trades:
92% of customers read online reviews before hiring a tradesperson. More positive reviews = more customers. It's that simple.
Send a follow-up text or email with direct links to your Google, Facebook, or Checkatrade profiles.
Ask when customers are happiest - right after you've finished a great job, not weeks later.
"Would you mind leaving a Google review? It really helps my small business." works better than a generic ask.
Thank people for positive reviews. Address negative ones professionally and offer to make things right.
Fake reviews violate platform terms and can get you banned. They're also illegal in many cases. Build genuine reviews organically – it takes time but it's worth it.
Your van is a moving billboard. Make it count with clear branding, phone number, and website.
Put up a sign when working - neighbors will see and remember you.
Target specific neighborhoods with professional flyers. Include an offer to encourage calls.
Leave cards in relevant shops, community centers, coffee shops (with permission).
Target specific postcodes with ads for as little as £5/day. Highly effective for local trades.
Google Local Services Ads appear at the very top of search results. Pay per lead, not click.
Sponsor local sports teams, school fetes, or charity events. Great for brand awareness.
Offer free advice articles to local newspapers/websites - positions you as an expert.
Start by getting your FREE business listing on Clear Space Team's website. It takes 2 minutes and could bring you new customers this week!
✓ No credit card required ✓ Takes 2 minutes ✓ Start getting leads today