subject: Staying On Top Of The Contracting Game [print this page] One of the most important things when it comes to staying in business as a contractor is knowing how to keep ones name out there. There are thousands of contractors and sub contractors, and thats why its easy to get swept under due to lack of work. But if the company name can maintain visibility then contractors and sub contractors alike, should have no issues with getting enough work to keep themselves in business.
Create a Local Presence
Its no good attempting to become a household name if the business isnt even known in the local area yet. To get ones name in the public eye its necessary to create a solid base, or local presence. This can be done by making visits to local businesses and making some enquiries. Carry out some basic advertising like putting a poster in a shop window or by buying some advertising space within a local newsletter.
Become known in the local area before expanding outwards:
Phonebooks
This may seem like a very old-fashioned idea, but the truth is many people still hunt for their contractors in the phonebooks. Any company, no matter how small or how large, should always have their contact details in the telephone directory. It may be hard to compete with the bigger companies on this front, but even if it gets you, one job then it will have been worth it.
Online Directories
Think of an online directory like an online phonebook. The way it works is that the site has a database of businesses and sub contractors which anyone can view. Some directories may even have the facility where people who are looking for businesses to carry out a certain piece of work are able place an ad. The great advantage of good directories is that people can search very easily for contractors by type and by area. There is also an inherent assumption that a contractor listed on a good directory is reputable as it would have been vetted before being included.
Website
The physical world is now moving to the online world, and its imperative that no business gets left behind. In this modern world, every small and large business should have a website. A website can be a place to post customer testimonials, rough price quotes, products, and even pictures from previous projects to demonstrate the companys good work.
Many people will be thinking that employing a website designer will cost a lot of money. Theres no doubt that some website designers do cost a lot of money, but there are also hundreds of free website design programs which require absolutely no technical knowledge at all. Try and make your own website before investing in professionally-designed sites in the future.
Value of the Newspaper
The value of a newspaper shouldnt be underestimated because the fact is that many older people still favour the newspaper over the internet. Always make sure that you have a presence in a local or regional newspaper because many older people will look here for contractors.
