Are you good at what you do but not so great at running a business? Here at Real Trade Business Solutions we don’t think skilled tradesmen should be penalised for not being expert entrepreneurs. If you’re providing a quality, professional service, that should be all a business requires. Except … it’s not. In today’s competitive capitalist climate, it isn’t enough to simply be good at what you do. A well-run business behind the scenes and coherent business plan is also vital to ensure maximum customer satisfaction and exceptional service delivery. From developing a marketing strategy to a growth projection chart, we understand it can all be a little overwhelming but luckily for you, we can help.
Every company needs a clear business plan which acts as a general guideline as you progress. Creating them requires some time and effort but in the long run they are worth it. From researching your target market to developing several short and long term goals, your business plan will include everything you need to get started on your business mission. No matter how good you are, every skilled tradesman who wants to also be a successful businessman needs to lay the ground-works before they start out. Real Trade can work alongside you every step of the way to help you create a business plan which you understand, agree with and can apply directly to your business.
Marketing is increasingly important in business as the number of companies grows year on year. It’s important to stand out from the crowd and be noticed by potential customers. Whether you choose to base your marketing strategy around traditional billboard methods or more modern digital marketing techniques, the power of advertisement shouldn’t be underestimated. Neglect this and you’re leaving yourself at a severe disadvantage. And no, it’s not enough to just write your name, business name and contact details on the side of your van. We’re living in a population endlessly inundated with advertising, so you’ll have to do more than that to get potential clients’ attention.
One of the most important aspects of any marketing strategy is building a brand. In the case of skilled tradesmen, you are the brand. We want to help you build your business around your skills, capabilities and personality. Make yourself the face of your own company and see how people respond to a personable, relatable business. We are tired of living in a corporate world and many people now seek out local, independent suppliers and services. Take advantage of this trend and use yourself as your key marketing strategy.
There are also simple ways of dealing with the day to day running of your business which will leave you free to do what you do best: your trade. We recommend you:
- Keep the size manageable – only take on the tasks you know you can do in the time you have quoted the client.
- Hire an assistant with caution – if you pride yourself on your skill, make sure everyone representing you is upholding the business reputation.
- Hire an accountant –if you’re not good with numbers, hire someone who is and take that extra pressure off yourself.
- Allow yourself time to reflect– give yourself at least one afternoon off each week to take stock of where your business is, what bookings you have in the future and how you need to organise your time.
- Stick to your business plan – true, things change over time and you do need to be flexible to an extent. But you made your business plan the way you did for a reason. Use it.
- Hire a small business coach – these are experts in business, although not necessarily in your field, who you can employ to give you a few lessons and pieces of advice about successful business trading.
Whether you’re a new business, established but struggling to secure clients, or feeling snowed under by the day to day management of your company, contact Real Trade Business Solutions for personable, practical help. From helping you devise a business plan to creating a marketing strategy which highlights your strengths as a skilled tradesman, we will be there every step of the way to make sure your business is as profitable and successful as possible.