Featured tradesman: Sam Wise

Tell us about yourself

I used to work for South West Trains and Thames Water as a electrical designer - designing motors - before I got into the building trade. I went self employed about 3 years ago and started working for a general builder. Because I have a degree in electrical engineering I specialised in electrical work. My own company has been running for nearly 2 years now.

How did you come across MyBuilder?

I was actually looking for someone to do some plastering for me. I registered as a tradesman and found a plasterer through the site at the same time.

How difficult was it to get started on MyBuilder?

Getting the first couple of feedbacks was quite tricky because people tended to be looking for tradesmen who already had feedback ratings. I started out by quoting low but reasonable prices. This helped me get work and the feedback. Once I had feedback I could price my work normally.

How important do you think your profile is for engaging new customers?

It’s very important - most customers are sensible and want to learn more about a tradesman before hiring them. Even with good feedback, customers need to know what tradesmen specialises in and what qualifications they have.

Any hints and tips for some of the new tradespeople on the site?

Well you should add your work history and relevant qualifications. When I'm quoting on big jobs, people have asked for photos or examples of previous work. I feel that adding photos to my profile has helped get people the information they need.

Do you think that qualifications and professional memberships help you win work?

I think certain qualifications are important like being Gas Safe registered or Part P certified for example. Many homeowners know what the regulations are these days and would be inclined to go for tradesman who can prove they have the relevant qualifications.

Do you think that its better to specialising in a few trades is more beneficial than being a jack of all?

Definitely. When I first signed up I ticked a wide range of trades which I gradually reduced over time. I think this has helped me to attract more customers.

What approach do you use to attract customers successfully though the site?

I always send a message to new customers introducing myself and my company. I detail what the quote includes and anything else they might need to consider. Unless the job is really basic I always suggest a site visit before they click the hire button. This means I can give a more accurate quote and avoid any miscommunication.

Do you think your style of communication through the site has affected your response rate?

Most of my messages are fairly similar in the kind of the way they are structured - they’re fairly polite but quite informal. I think people get the impression that I’m approachable and easy going but obviously I am businessman, so you have to structure it quite carefully.

Has MyBuilder changed the way that you market yourself?

I use MyBuilder as a supplement to the other forms of advertising that I do. Most of the customers who call me direct out of the directories haven't heard of MyBuilder. When they ask to see my references I point them in the direction of MyBuilder because I have such a high feedback score.

How important do you think feedback is to those customers that hire you?

Very important. I find that customers will often accept a slightly higher price from someone who has a high feedback rating.

Do customers ever ask you to work outside the site and if so what’s your response?

Yes it can happen quite often and my answer is always no. I like the fact that you're held accountable for your work. Also, once a customer clicks the hire button they’re agreeing to me carrying out the work as described on the site for the price that I posted.

What difference has MyBuilder made to your business?

It’s made a huge difference. I could get all of my work for the year off MyBuilder if I wanted to and not advertise anywhere else but then I’m just tying myself to one place.