Freelancing is the new trend in business. Nowadays, we see professionals from a diverse range of industries and trades hanging up their 9-to-5 work schedules in exchange for independent contract work that in many cases nets more income. With the freedom to dictate your own schedule and the prestige that comes with being self-employed, it is no wonder that more and more Australians are diving into working for themselves.
Freelance plumbing, for example, is one profession that provides business owners with the freedom of an open schedule and a great salary. Granted, plumbers can have very long days, and in some cases, are on call even when they are not scheduled to work. However, there are opportunities for those looking to turn their current gig into a more flexible, freelance setup.
Continue reading to learn more about how you can become a freelance plumber and take control of your own schedule.
Training And Work Experience
Training and experience give you the opportunity to learn some of the basics, to establish relationships with the right equipment hire companies, and to establish good business practices. Because plumbing is one of those trades which requires a person to work as an apprentice before being qualified, you should plan to spend a couple of years working with a plumbing company or under an experienced plumber to earn your qualification. Not only will you be prepared to handle the basic functions of the job, but you will also have established a reputation working with a qualified plumber, which will help you to move your own career in a positive direction.
Draft A Business Plan
After your training is complete, you have qualified and been working for a few years, you should draft a business plan before going out to work on your own. When drafting this plan, consider both short-term and long-term goals as it relates to building the business. Factors to consider are hiring other people as business picks up and finding a base for your business to operate from.
Know Your Speciality
Before you set out on your own, you should focus on a particular speciality. With a few years of experience under your belt, you will have worked on enough sites to have the training and experience to deal with a variety of plumbing issues. For example, some people will decide to become commercial plumbers or choose to work with pipe repair and drain cleaning. Whatever avenue you go down, differentiating yourself from other providers will make you more employable.
Build Your Website
While word of mouth is great, today’s business environment means that the number one way to find new customers is through a website that gives the public an idea of your services and contact information. If you do not want to hire someone to create a website, there are free website builders that can be used to build a professional looking website. Finding a way to advertise online is one of the best things potential freelancers can do to build their business in the early stages.
Generating Leads And Self-promotion
Consider linking your website to a social media page. While plumbing might not be one of the most glamorous industries, having a way to get exposure for your business and to relate to the public is crucial in building relationships with your customers. By developing relationships with your customers online, you create an air of transparency and trust between you and your clients.
Freelance Plumbing Success
Freelancing in any industry presents itself with the freedom to create your own schedule and to be your own boss. This freedom to work on your own schedule can be very liberating but it also comes with the need to be professional, dedicated and hardworking. Making sure that you have the knowledge, experience, and qualifications you need is crucial in getting your freelance career started. However, in order to be successful, you also need to take the initiative and stay motivated, regardless of how the market is doing. With the right approach to your freelance career, there’s no reason that you can’t have a long and successful future working for yourself.
