Find a Tradesman: 6 Ways to Check a Business's Online Footprint

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When you're looking to find a tradesman, ensuring they're legitimate is important and a must-do. An effective way to do this is by checking their online footprint. Here are seven key methods to verify a business’s credibility and avoid potential scams.

This blog tackles online footprints, but there's so much more to consider! Our ultimate guide provides a roadmap to help you find a tradesman for any job.

1. Check if They Have a Website

A professional website is often the first indicator of a legitimate business. Look for a well-designed, easy-to-navigate site with detailed information about the services offered, contact details, and customer testimonials. A tradesman's website should provide insights into their expertise and professionalism.

2. Verify Their ABN

In Australia, a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) is a must for any legitimate business. You can verify a business's ABN through the Australian Business Register (ABR) website. Simply enter the ABN provided by the tradesman to check if it matches their business name and status. This step helps confirm that the business is registered and operating legally.

3. Explore Their Social Media Presence

Social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn can offer valuable insights into a business's reputation and customer interactions. Look for the following:

• Facebook: Check their business page for reviews, ratings, and posts. A well-maintained page with regular updates and positive customer interactions is a good sign.
• LinkedIn: This platform can provide information about the business's professional network and endorsements from other industry professionals. It can also verify the credentials of the tradesman and their team.

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4. Look at Other Directory Sites

In addition to their website and social media, many tradesmen list their services on various directory sites such as ServiceSeeking, Yellow Pages, and True Local. These platforms often feature customer reviews and ratings, helping you gauge the quality of their work and customer satisfaction. Cross-referencing these reviews with those on other platforms can give a more comprehensive picture of the business's reputation.

5. Verify the Names of Owners and Key Personnel

To ensure the business is legitimate, try to find the names of the owners or key personnel. Once you have their names, you can do a quick online search to verify their identities and see if they match the business they represent.

6. Be Wary of Similar Names but Different Companies

One common trick used by illegitimate businesses is using a name similar to a well-known company to deceive customers. When researching, make sure to double-check the exact name of the business. Look for discrepancies such as different logos, addresses, or phone numbers. If you find any inconsistencies, it’s best to avoid that business.

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Other Relevant Factors

Beyond the basic checks, consider the following additional factors to assess the legitimacy and reliability of a tradesman:

• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Authentic reviews from previous clients can provide insight into the quality of work and customer service. Look for detailed reviews rather than generic comments.
• Portfolio of Past Work: A credible tradesman should have a portfolio showcasing their previous projects. This can be on their website or social media pages.
• Quotes and Contracts: Ensure they provide detailed quotes and written contracts outlining the scope of work, timelines, and payment terms. This transparency is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Lack of Online Presence: A business without a website or social media profiles may lack transparency or professionalism.
• Poor Reviews and Low Ratings: Consistently negative feedback or unresolved complaints are major warning signs.
• Incomplete or Inconsistent Information: Missing or inconsistent details about the business and its personnel can indicate a lack of credibility.
• Pressure Tactics or Unreasonable Terms: If a tradesman uses high-pressure sales tactics or offers deals that seem too good to be true, proceed with caution.

Taking the steps to ensure you find a tradesman who is both reliable and professional might require extra effort and time, but is worth it. If something feels off or too good to be true, it might be worth reconsidering.

Ready to take the next step? Check out our comprehensive guide for everything you need to know on how to find a tradesman.