If you’re asking “how do I grow my trade business in the UK?”, you’re already ahead of most. Whether you’re a plumber, electrician, plasterer, decorator, or builder, growing your business isn’t just about working more hours—it’s about working smarter, attracting better clients, and building a business that lasts. If you’re on a budget you can check out our list on the best low-cost ways to advertise your trade services.

Grow My Trade Business: The Series

This guide is designed as pillar content to help you level up every aspect of your trade business. Each section links to more in-depth articles for when you’re ready to go deeper.

Let’s get stuck in.

The Website: Your Digital Shopfront

Your website is where people decide if they trust you—or move on to the next tradesman.

A professional trade website should:

  • Be mobile-friendly
  • Show what you do and where you work
  • Feature reviews and photos of real jobs
  • Make it easy to contact you

Social Media (Done Right)

Social media isn’t about dancing videos or hashtags—it’s about visibility.

Post:

  • Before and after photos
  • Short job stories (“Just rewired this 1930s kitchen in York”)
  • Client testimonials
  • Time-lapses or walkthroughs

Google Business Profile & Reviews

Google shows your business before your website. Make it count.

  • Claim and optimise your profile
  • Add job photos weekly
  • Ask for Google reviews
  • Reply professionally to all reviews

Word of Mouth & Referrals

Still the #1 way tradesmen win work—but you can supercharge it.

  • Ask for referrals actively
  • Offer referral rewards or thank-yous
  • Stay top-of-mind with email follow-ups

Print Marketing: Flyers, Business Cards, Site Boards

Print isn’t dead—especially if you target it locally.

  • Keep flyers clear, visual, and benefit-driven
  • Use quality business cards (with QR codes to reviews)
  • Site boards turn every job into an advert

Van Graphics & Branded Clothing

Your van is free advertising. Your hoodie builds recognition. Invest once, benefit daily.

  • Include web/Google profile info
  • Keep designs clean and readable
  • Use the same logo/colours everywhere

Photos & Visuals That Sell

Great visuals prove your skills and build trust—instantly.

  • Snap every job (before & after)
  • Use decent lighting and angles
  • Create a simple gallery on your site

Ways to Communicate with Clients

Fast, clear communication wins jobs.

  • Use click-to-call buttons on your site
  • Respond to quotes quickly
  • Send updates and ETA messages
  • Set up email auto-replies or WhatsApp Business

Cross-Trades & Referral Partnerships

Work with others who serve the same clients:

  • Builders refer electricians
  • Plasterers refer decorators
  • Landscapers refer driveway fitters

Set up referral swaps and create trust chains.

Sponsoring & Local Events

Show your face in the community.

  • Sponsor a local kids’ team
  • Run a raffle for a free service
  • Host a DIY advice stall at village day

Build visibility where you live and work.

Job Boards & Trade Platforms

Sites like:

  • Checkatrade
  • MyBuilder
  • Rated People

…can fill your diary—but be selective and control your costs.

Track What’s Working & Adapt

Don’t just do stuff. Track:

  • Where jobs come from
  • Which posts or flyers worked
  • How people found you

Double down on what works. Ditch what doesn’t.