Before you slap a logo on the side of your ute, there are a couple of things that you should consider when starting a business in any trade. Building your business from scratch can be tough, but it can also be very rewarding. Austates have been in business for over 25 years, and as tradies ourselves, we know the ropes when it comes to the important parts of setting up your business. Here is our list of tips for your first steps into starting your own business as a tradie.
Business Basics
Just like any business, you will need to do some necessary groundwork. Setting up your ABN and applying for a business name are must do’s when it comes to building your own business. You will need to have an idea of the legal requirements when it comes to your field as well- are there any licenses or contracts that you need to have in place? Each trade will vary slightly with their requirements, so make sure you research what’s necessary before you get started and invest in the gear you need. This will save you time and money if you can’t meet these requirements immediately.
Budgeting
Yes, it seems dull, but it will save you from the massive headache that not budgeting would cause you. Budgeting for all of the expenses that will go into your first few months or year of business will help you to get an idea of whether you are ready to make the move into a business of your own. These expenses will, of course, vary slightly depending on your trade but generally it’s to be expected that you will have general business expenses (e.g. registering your business name), equipment, rent if you are to have a fixed office, utilities for said fixed office, marketing and advertising expenses, wages if you are to hire others, uniforms, equipment maintenance and many other things that are sure to pop up along the way. Make sure that you have a firm grip on these numbers and a realistic outlook on your potential revenue for the year to keep your business functioning in the long term.
Spread the Word
Any seasoned tradie knows at least one guy, who knows another guy, who knows another guy who can help you get a job done. Spreading your brand name through word of mouth can travel quickly when you have a great reputation and an established name, but when you’re just starting out, you have to begin by promoting yourself first before anyone else does. Setting up a presence online is a good start, and can help people who may never have known you existed, discover your business. Starting with a website, Facebook page and, Google My Business are all virtual billboards that tend to be low cost and high return in most tradies lines of work.
Getting your Kit Together
For any trade, you’ll need a good set of tools. This is one of the most important investments, besides your own working knowledge, that you will bring to your business. Having the right equipment for any job, irrespective of industry can be make or break when it comes to being a strong competitor in what may already be a pretty crowded market. Bringing your tools on site shouldn’t be a hassle and having a simple and safe way of getting them there is just as important as having them in the first place. Having a ute canopy or toolbox is the perfect way to keep your equipment organised, safe and accessible.
At Austates, getting your gear together for any job is our speciality. If you’re making your first moves in business, we are one of the best starting points to get yourself ready with a vast range of equipment and ute solutions from smaller boxes to full on canopies. Contact us today to get started on your journey.