How to Succeed on ServiceSeeking: A Tradie's Guide

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, success on ServiceSeeking.com.au is within reach if you know how to leverage the tools and features at your disposal.

This guide will walk you through the key strategies and tips to help you thrive on our platform, ensuring your business grows and prospers.

You're currently reading our main guide, but don't miss out on more in-depth tips, tricks, and strategies by checking out the sub-articles linked below.

Definition of Terms: ServiceSeeking Edition

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s clear up some essential ServiceSeeking terms you’ll encounter on our platform.

• Leads: Potential jobs or customers who have expressed interest in your services. These are your opportunities to land work.
• Jobs: The actual projects posted by clients, which you can bid on by submitting a quote.
• Quote: The price estimate you provide to a client for a specific job.
• ROI (Return on Investment): The benefit you gain (in terms of profit) from the money spent on a paid ServiceSeeking.com.au membership.

Understanding these terms will give you a clearer picture of how the website works and where to focus your efforts.

Why Having an ABN is Crucial for Your Trade Business

On our platform, tradies with an Australian Business Number (ABN) are prioritised, increasing visibility and job-winning potential.

This 11-digit identifier enhances credibility, ensures legal compliance, and can open doors to bigger job opportunities. Having an ABN allows tradies to avoid PAYG tax withholding, claim GST credits, and register an Australian domain.

To qualify, you must be starting or running a business, but not working as an employee. The application process is free and straightforward, requiring basic details like a Tax File Number and business start date. 

What You Need to Know About Our Pricing System

One of the first decisions you’ll make on ServiceSeeking.com.au is choosing the right membership package. Our platform offers different levels of access, each tailored to different business needs.

Here's a breakdown:

There are also plans to add attractive add-ons to these packages, including a booking feature and national trade credentials check, as well as business analytics to help you track your success.

The Value of Paid Membership: Why It Pays Off for Tradies

While it’s possible to set up a free business account on ServiceSeeking.com.au, investing in a paid membership can significantly boost your chances of success. Here’s why:

• Free Membership Pros: Your business is published in the public directory, and customers can still find you. However, you can’t contact customers directly, which limits your ability to win jobs.
• Paid Membership Pros: With a paid membership, you’ll have access to exclusive leads and the ability to bid on jobs. Plus, businesses with an ABN (Australian Business Number) tend to attract more serious clients and see higher-quality leads. This is because customers prefer working with verified, professional tradies.

Ultimately, a paid membership gives you more control, access, and credibility, which leads to higher chances of securing jobs.

New to ServiceSeeking? Here’s How to Succeed Early

Just signed up? Great! Now, let’s talk about how to set yourself up for success in those crucial early days.

1. Optimise Your Profile: Ensure your profile is complete with relevant information, high-quality photos, and a clear description of your services. First impressions matter.
2. Build a Reputation Without Reviews: As a new tradie, you may not have reviews yet. Don’t worry—start by offering competitive quotes and delivering top-notch service. Once you've completed a few jobs, ask satisfied customers to leave a review.
3. Use Discounts to Gain Traction: Offering a slight discount on your first few jobs can help you build a base of happy clients, who will then refer you to others.

What to Do If You’re Not Winning Enough Clients 

If you're finding it tough to win jobs, don’t be discouraged. Here are some tips to improve your success rate:

• Improve Your Pitch: Make sure your quotes stand out. Personalise your message to the client, be clear about what’s included, and highlight your experience.
• Follow Up: Many businesses stop at sending one quote, but successful tradies make it a point to follow up within 24 hours. Remind the customer you're still interested, and ask if they have any questions.
• Set Reminders: Stay on top of your leads by setting reminders to follow up. A quick message or call can make all the difference.

How to Stand Out in a Competitive Market

(Image source: Deposit Photos)

In a crowded industry like house painting or renovations, standing out is crucial. Here’s how you can stand out in a competitive market:

• Be Proactive: Push for a yes or no answer after submitting a quote. Don’t assume a client has chosen another business just because they haven’t responded.
• Follow Up With a Purpose: A polite, professional follow-up shows you're committed. Always remind the client that you're happy to assist with any queries.

Little touches like saying “please” and “thank you,” using the client’s name, and delivering quotes when you say you will go a long way in building trust.

Good Sales Tactics for Tradies and Why Customers Appreciate Them

Customers notice and appreciate good sales tactics. Here are a few practices that can set you apart:

• Punctuality: Always show up on time.
• Professionalism: Dress appropriately, communicate clearly, and maintain a respectful attitude.
• Documentation: Provide written quotes and keep proper records of agreements. It makes everything transparent and professional.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Membership

To sustain growth on our platform, renew your membership and consider upgrading to a higher plan as your business expands.

The added features of higher-tier packages, like wider coverage or more categories, can unlock more opportunities and keep your momentum going.

Real Stories About Winning Leads

Tradies across Australia have transformed their businesses by using ServiceSeeking.com.au.

Winning leads is about more than just landing jobs. Tradies like Carlo, Bruce, and Bakri show that success comes from consistently delivering quality service, building trust, and effectively using our platform.

From flexibility to follow-ups, these real-life stories highlight key strategies for growing a thriving business.

How to Secure Payment from Clients

(Image source: Deposit Photos)

One of the biggest concerns for tradies is securing payments. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Clear Contracts: Make sure everything is in writing. This includes the scope of work, deadlines, and payment terms.
• Follow-Up Process: After completing a job, send a polite reminder about the payment. Ensure clients know what’s expected, and don’t hesitate to use our platform's features to track invoices.

How to Get Feedback

Lastly, customer reviews are gold on ServiceSeeking.com.au. The key to getting feedback is simple—ask for it! After completing a job, send a message asking the customer to leave a review.

Just remember, legally you can’t offer incentives for reviews, but clients are usually happy to help if they’re satisfied with your work.

By following these strategies and making the most of our platform’s features, you’ll be well on your way to finding success as a tradie on ServiceSeeking.com.au.