I'm not strictly a tiler, but tiling is part of my (winter) work.
(I already have more winter work than i can manage, and it is all word of mouth)
Word of mouth is great, but we all have to start somewhere!
I wanted to try a new avenue, and wasn't sure where to start.
I was already doing exterior maintenance and cleaning for my own properties.
But with the property crash coming, i wanted another source of income.(and quick!)
I found pounding the streets pushing leaflets through the doors got me started.
What is did was make sure the leaflets didn't look "too" professional.
I know this may sound odd, but i didn't want people thinking i was an expensive company.
I also made my advert sound very personal. ie call Paul or Amanda...
I had plenty of business cards made up. I also asked friends to pin up some leaflets at their place of work.
I made sure my first quotes where super cheap, and the work first rate.
Whilst doing quotes, i made sure i applied no pressure to the customer what so ever.
I stressed to them that they were in charge, and it was up to them if the wanted me to do the work or not.
I found once i got one job, i soon had friends and family members.
Whilst on site, i made sure i was very polite and that nothing was too much trouble. (even if it was!)
On many of the first jobs, i hardly made a bean. But i viewed the longer term picture.
I was gaining experience, and a reputation.
I decided from day one that no corners would be cut even if it meant i lost money.
If i found unforeseen problems(not directly involved with what i was doing), i would either fix them for free or stop and ask the customer.
Of course i would make sure the customer was aware of any free fixes!
I firmly believe what goes around comes around.
There is enough cowboys out there just waiting to rip people off that, that my customers stick to me like glue.
I look after them, and they keep me booked up.
I have also found flexibility keeps the work flowing. I always watch other trades people work, and try and get tips.
I often get asked to do jobs way out of my range because they don't trust anybody else.
I know my limits, but sometimes it is fun to try new things!
I don't believe the variety of work from one day to the next.
As my experience grew, so did my confidence.
I was taking on ever bigger jobs, and more demanding customers.
I still don't advertise, but i have had the van recently sign written.
This was more to present a more professional image rather than gain more work.
You also have to remember that you are also an asset to your business.
Be friendly but not overly so (until you know them well), and respect their property.
So your attire is important, and also your van and equipment.
It doesn't have to be new, but nothing wrong with giving things a wipe now and then.
People do seem to be impressed by big and shiny tools. I think it gives then peace of mind that the job is being do correctly.
We know this ISN'T always the case, as a "fools with tools" and "all the gear, no idea" often applys..LOL...
Many new customers often mention "X said you are good and have all the right gear".
On that point, the right tools can actually save/make you money.
If you are quicker and/or do a better job, then you get more work and can do more work.
I did a few jobs for a letting firm and some builders.
They can be demanding (like wanting the work done yesterday), and you do have to chase for your money.
But each job, nearly always gives you a new customer/lead.
I now only do work for three development companies. They are at the very highest end of the market.
I get well paid by them before the property is sold, and handed over as the preferred contractor once it is sold..win win etc.
Biggest tip?
If a customer/quote doesn't "feel" right, walk away.
Your time is important, but some people don't understand this.
When you are starting up, it is hard to walk away from work.
But trust me when i say you won't earn much money from these people anyway.
You will just get grief and frustration.
NEVER discount once you have given a price. Your price should be the lowest you are prepared to work for any way.
It is rare, but if i am asked for a lower price, i always ask what part of the job they want me to leave out...
