Tip #13: Make your business a success in 2019 – Our Advice on Starting a Business

Have you always had ambitions to work for yourself?  Could 2019 be the year you take the leap into self-employment?   Becoming a sole trader can be daunting, but get it right and a rewarding career beckons, with the perks of being your own boss attractive to many in the building services sector.  

How can I make my Trades Business a Success in 2019?

Whether you are setting up shop for the first time, or want to re-focus your existing business, here are our top tips for success:   Do things by the book – Read this blog about your legal responsibilities as a sole trader, tax and insurance.   Keep accurate records - this will help you to understand how much work really costs you, preparing you for upcoming expenditure and enabling you to price work more accurately.  Read this blog for more tips on pricing work   Download an app - You can download apps which enable you to invoice, quote, records receipts and payments and track your schedule on the go – Smarttrade is designed specifically for the trades.   Get paid – Get a mobile card machine so you can take payments there and then.  The Smarttrade app turns your smartphone into a card payment machine.   Be a loyal customer – Build relationships with local suppliers to get the best deals.   Be recognisable – make sure your branding is consistent and clear.  In big cities, an estimated 3,000 per hour will see your van, so make sure it displays your branding and contact details.  Read this blog for van branding tips.   Have an online presence – A professional, appealing and mobile friendly website is vital to the success of the modern business.  Social media is a simple and effective way of showing off your work and connecting with local businesses.  Review sites, such as Checkatrade and Rated People are another route to market.  Download our free guides to websites, social media and marketing   Network - Join local business networks in order to meet potential customers and other companies that could help you. Trading services can be a good way of getting support (marketing, sign writing etc.) without dipping into your profits.  Manufacturer training courses and trade exhibitions are another way of meeting people and finding out about the latest developments in your sector.   Visit our guides section for loads more free advice!