Sure, you’re good at the job, but getting seen online? That’s a different kind of work. Most customers now expect to find tradespeople on Google, Facebook, or local directories before they even pick up the phone. If you’re not visible there, someone else is, and they’re getting your jobs.
Marketing for tradespeople helps you get found where customers are already looking. From Google Business Profiles to social media and reviews, it builds trust, improves visibility, and attracts more local work. Best of all, it does so without relying on cold calls or chasing referrals. At TradePod, all our digital marketing efforts are undertaken by our partner, b4b.
This guide presents five easy ways to find local work through clever, trade-specific marketing. Our marketing partner helps you achieve this without adding to your administrative tasks.
1. Get Found on Google When It Counts
When someone types “electrician in Portsmouth” or “emergency boiler repair near me”, they’re ready to book. That’s your moment to show up, and your Google Business Profile is what gets you there.
Why it Matters
- Displays your reviews, contact details, and photos directly in search
- Puts your business on Google Maps so customers know you’re nearby
- Increases local rankings when kept updated with keywords, service areas, and photos
Most trades skip the admin, but simple things like this are what’s costing them jobs! Updating your listing weekly with a new photo or responding to a review shows Google that you’re active and trustworthy.
b4b helps TradePod members manage their profiles, so they can be found more easily by the right people at the right time.
2. Show Real Work to Build Real Trust
People hire people they trust. When your work’s out there — be it in photos, reviews, job updates, etc. — you become the name they recognise and the one they’re more likely to call.
How to Build Trust Online
- Post before-and-after photos of recent jobs
- Share reviews and thank-yous from real clients
- Stay active in local Facebook groups
Social content doesn’t need to be slick; it just needs to be honest (honest)! Regular updates show what you do and how you work. It helps people feel confident picking up the phone.
b4b helps TradePod members stay visible online and handles everything from content ideas to real referrals.
3. Make Your Website Pull Its Weight
If your website’s not bringing in leads, it’s not doing its job. A strong trade website needs to be simple, quick, and easy to use, on mobile and desktop.
Every Trade's Site Should Include
- A clear list of services (e.g. “emergency roof repairs”)
- Real photos from real jobs
- A mobile-friendly layout that loads quickly
- Click-to-call buttons or short enquiry forms
- Google-friendly text with local keywords
You don’t need to do it alone. b4b helps TradePod members build simple, effective websites that convert views into calls.
Want a peek at what works? Take a look at the TradePod blog for examples.
4. Save Time with Done-for-You Marketing
Let’s face it; when you’re quoting, ordering materials, and getting the job done, there’s not much time left for writing posts or asking for reviews.
That’s where TradePod's marketing partner steps in.
b4b is here to support TradePod's members with practical, ready-to-go marketing that keeps you visible while you’re on the tools.
What b4b Help With
- Scheduling Facebook posts with real job updates
- Writing Google review requests that your customers will respond to
- Tweaking your Google Business Profile to boost visibility
- Providing branded photos and content if you don’t have your own
- Taking care of the admin so you stay focused
In addition to the above, TradePod also host Trade Talk and Coffee Club; these are informal events where members can share ideas and discuss what’s working.
Sometimes the best tips come from the person sitting next to you.
5. Get Referrals That Lead to Real Jobs
Some of the best work doesn’t come from ads. It comes from mates, neighbours, or the guy across the corridor who saw your van with the great branding.
That’s the power of a real community.
At TradePod, you’re not just renting space. You’re joining a group of like-minded tradespeople who support each other and pass on work that fits.
How Members Benefit
- Real referrals from other trades on-site
- More exposure through our partner network
- Built-in trust from working alongside others
- Chance to cross-promote with people who do complementary jobs
- Local jobs passed on that might not be right for someone else
Whether you’re using our workshops, secure storage, or just need a desk, the TradePod Community makes sure you’re not going it alone.
Get Found. Get Booked. Keep Building.
Getting more local work shouldn’t mean losing evenings to admin. When your business is online, gets trust from reviews, and connects with those wanting your skills, you stay busy without chasing leads.
That’s what TradePod is built for.
We provide virtual offices and co-working spaces to help your business stand out in key areas.
And behind the scenes, b4b brings the expertise with:
- Websites that convert
- Search rankings that matter
- Smart campaigns that turn clicks into calls
It’s a full-circle setup that lets you stay focused on the tools while the leads come in.
Call 01425 563777, get in touch today, explore our memberships or simply drop by for a chat. Let’s help you win more of the work you want, without the hassle.