The Federation of Master Builders

5 tips for keeping your construction business busy this winter

Published date: 20 November 2017

The festive season might be full of holiday joy, family bonding, and gift giving. But, it also brings a slow onset of business for most tradesman. For companies large or small, being able to maximize your business’ effectiveness during the off seasons is one of the pillars for a long and profitable career. Here are five top tips to help you have a jolly business in winter!

  1. Expand your services

When the cold weather sets in, some contractors are signalled to close up shop. However, adopting new services could lead to a highly rewarding season. Perhaps winter is the time to offer home renovation services like repairs and remodelling or even energy efficiency services – just make sure you have the professionals to do it and if you don’t it might be worth training staff.

  1. Create a seasonal promotion

During the holiday season, people may be splashing the cash, but it’s not exactly on home improvements. If you want to win more work, offering seasonal incentives could help persuade clients.  Try coming up with a special holiday discount that is only valid through your slow season, in order to create a sense of urgency. But, don’t go drastically slashing your prices as it will only come out at your own expense.

  1. Check in with your accountant

It’s hard to explore your financial data when you’re busy making ends meet. Winter is an excellent time to utilize your accountant, as they are an extremely useful resource beyond taxes. For example, you could work with your accountant to cut unnecessary expenses and explore options to increase your business’s value. It’s a great time to assess your data, develop goals and action plans ready for the New Year.

  1. Give marketing attention

When business is slow there’s nothing better than refocusing on marketing, particularly as it could help line up business for the New Year. If you don’t have a business Facebook page set up already, then now is the time to do it. If you do, consider focusing on increasing and enhancing your social media presence; showcase recent work and alert customers of new promotions. Refresh and update your website, even try and gather reviews. Here are some marketing tips for all tradesman.

  1. Keep warm and carry on

No matter how cold or wet the weather is, outside work may be unavoidable particularly if you’re working on a large project. You want to make sure that you and your team are all kept warm, so it’s time to layer up! Also, remember to have high visibility vests at the ready and even sturdy boots with a good tread for wet or icy surfaces.

 

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