2006-09-25 09:32:30 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Business & Finance ➔ Small Business
As welll as the posts already made (signwriting on van, on-site signs), word of mouth is good, as it implies happy customers. Keeping customers happy is a job in itself, and probably could do with a book.
Get in touch with local architects who may be commissioned for extensions, dormers etc (planning regs have made architects a necessary evil for all but the most simple project). Many local authorities have a commitment towards local businesses, and whilst they may have few obvious pieces of work (though an angle might be remedial works after vandalism), once you are "in" a lot of work will by pass the initial hassle of full competive tender and simply to put out to competitive quote. Registered social landlords (aka Housing Associations) are a source of repeat work as tenants have a nasty habit of trashing homes, (but note RSL.s can be notorious slow payers whereas most local authorities are very good.
Mailshots are the like are for people who think they want to build a business but are afraid to ask for it in person.
2006-09-25 12:01:57 · answer #1 · answered by Richard C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
start off with a decent size ad in the most popular paper and try to get other local business who are already establised (but not a conflict of interest) to sponser and support your new business...(they benefit too by free advertising and hence would be keen to support) then do a follow up ad soon after as reminder or a special offer. but do the usual also van painting...... signs on site, etd gud luck
2006-09-25 10:36:01 · answer #2 · answered by carol g 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yellow pages is a good place to start. The online yellow page listings are free.
Have you thought of joining an association such as ABC (Associated Builders & Contractors)? They list members by state for people to see.
Also, go to www.thebluebook.com, they list contractors by state and by category online and also print out books.
2006-09-25 09:42:59 · answer #3 · answered by ktan_the_siren 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yellow pages is a waste of time- you just get time wasters!- get on the local councils mailing list for planning applications - costs money but well worth it!!
good luck
2006-09-25 09:40:42 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Simple and Easy, Paint the Side of your business truck with the Number of your business. Soon you'll have more businees then you can deal with.
2006-09-25 09:40:05 · answer #5 · answered by allyrbaserbelong2us 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
being able to prove your a bonefide builder and not a cowboy
2006-09-25 09:37:15 · answer #6 · answered by srracvuee 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋