A survey of 500 UK tradespeople, conducted by The Leadership Factor on behalf of ElectricalDirect, asked how tradespeople promote their services. 

While 5% of plumbers think that they should do more to market their business, 58% rely mainly or exclusively on word-of-mouth recommendations. This means that 63% of plumbers don’t have their own website, and 74% are not on any social media channels. In fact, almost four fitths (79%), of responding plumbers admitted that they don't know how to market their business.

These are the most and least common forms of marketing UK plumbers favour: 

  • Word-of-mouth recommendations
  • Flyers/leaflets
  • Own website
  • Social media marketing
  • Directory review services (e.g. Checkatrade, TrustaTrader, Yelp)
  • Posters (e.g. on noticeboards, in shops)
  • Network with other tradespeople
  • Business cards
  • Email marketing
  • Sponsor local businesses
  • Search marketing (Search Engine Optimisation, Pay Per Click advertising)
  • Signage (e.g. on your vehicle, outside a property you're working at)
  • Sponsor local sports teams
  • Attend industry events
  • Local press ads (classifieds)

ElectricalDirect asked creative and media agency Jaywing for its top three tips for UK plumbers wanting to expand their business: 

1) Have an online presence 

“In today’s world, the vast majority of people will turn to the internet as their first port of call when looking to hire a tradesperson. Therefore, it’s really important that you are visible online, and that involves a few different digital marketing methods.  

“Set up a website that details your services, credentials and contact details; create social media accounts and post about your best work; and register for local listings services, like Google My Business.” 

2) Collect and visualise case studies 

“Customers are heavily influenced by image-led content, so remember to photograph your best jobs to visually display your services. Before and after images are good for showing the impact you can have, and these can be used both on your website and social media channels to spread awareness.” 

3) Actively seek reviews 

“One in nine tradespeople say that they are heavily reliant on review websites for their business, and the importance of positive feedback cannot be overstated. Trust is critical in the industry, with customers wanting to know they can feel safe with tradespeople in their homes, and be confident that the job will be done well.  

“Ensure you continuously ask clients to leave comments on sites such as Google My Business, to create positive associations for your company, and draw people to your services.”