Why your diary is empty next month (and what to do about it today)

Why your diary is empty next month (and what to do about it today)

You’ve checked your calendar and realised next month is looking bare. No jobs booked, no enquiries, just empty spaces staring back at you. If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Many tradespeople face quiet periods, and the question on everyone’s mind is: How to get more work as a tradesperson?

The good news is, there are actions you can take today to start filling your diary, from quick fixes like contacting past clients, to longer-term strategies such as professional marketing. By the end of this article, you’ll hopefully have a clear plan to attract new customers, secure repeat business, and build a stronger trades business.

Steps to take if you’re low on work

When your diary is empty, fast action is key. These steps can help you generate job leads and bring in work quickly, even if the solution is more short-term.

Revisiting past customers

Your existing customer base is one of the easiest ways to get work fast. Reach out to previous clients via email, SMS, or phone and let them know you have availability. A friendly message, even asides from talking about work, will remind them of your services can trigger repeat business.

Asking for referrals

Word of mouth is a tool that has passed the test of time, and is still as valuable today when it comes to gaining new customers. Ask satisfied clients for referrals and testimonials, and make it easy for them to share your contact information with friends, neighbours, or property managers. Positive reviews on your Google Business Profile also increase trust and improve your chances of being found in search results.

TradePal websites and social media help advertise your recent reviews, giving prospective clients confidence that you’re a trustworthy, quality company.

Offering time-sensitive promotions

Special offers or limited-time deals can encourage homeowners to book quickly. Promote these via your website, social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, or through local flyers. A well-timed discount or package deal can make the difference between a quiet month and a full diary.

Marketing: the long-term solution to more work

Short-term fixes help, but sustainable growth comes from marketing done well. Effective marketing increases visibility, builds brand awareness, and positions you higher in search results when potential clients look for services in your local area.

Websites

A professional website done well has the potential to be a hub for new leads. TradePal builds custom, mobile-friendly websites with built-in SEO, images of your work, and easy-to-use contact forms. This ensures homeowners searching for “plumber near me” or “electrician in Manchester” can potentially find your offerings.

Digital

Digital marketing covers your Google Business Profile, SEO and other online tools that connect you with potential customers.

Branding

Consistent branding, from van livery to business cards, builds trust and ensures strong first impressions. TradePal helps tradespeople create professional branding that matches their website, reinforcing your credibility with homeowners and property managers.

Search Engine Optimisation

Local SEO helps your business appear in Google searches and Google Business Profile listings. With the right keyword research and content, homeowners in your area can find your services before your competitors. TradePal manages SEO for tradespeople, crafting an effective SEO strategy with the goal of ranking your business high on the Google search engine rankings.

Social media

A strong social media presence keeps your trade business visible to potential clients. Regular posts, customer engagement and videos of your work showcase quality and professionalism. TradePal manages social media marketing across platforms like Facebook and Instagram, helping tradespeople maintain engagement with their audience and reach new homeowners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a sole trader manage all this marketing alone?

Yes, but it’s time-consuming and can eat into the hours that could be spent on jobs. TradePal’s packages give sole traders the tools and support to manage websites, emails, social media, and reviews efficiently.

Do I need both a website and a social media presence?

Ideally, yes. Your website provides a professional hub, while social media platforms keep your trade business visible and accessible to new and repeat clients.

Who are TradePal

TradePal offers marketing and business tools specifically for tradespeople across the UK, including plumbers, electricians, carpenters, decorators, and more. We provide professional websites, digital marketing, branding, SEO, social media, and more, all aiming to grow your customer base and maximise job leads.

Whether you’re a sole trader in Bristol or a growing team in Manchester, TradePal helps tradespeople work smarter, boost visibility, and attract more new customers. Contact us on 020 4572 0845 or via our website to start winning more work today.

Key Findings

• Revisiting past customers and asking for referrals can generate immediate job leads.
• Special offers can motivate homeowners to book during quiet periods.
• A professional website and SEO ensure your trade business appears higher in search results.
• Social media marketing builds brand awareness and keeps you visible to potential clients.
• TradePal provides all the tools and support tradespeople need to manage marketing and grow a sustainable business.