How to Build a Career as a Self-Employed Handyman
While it requires effort and organisation to establish yourself, being your own boss as a handyman allows flexibility and the chance to turn your practical skills into a service people will pay for. Follow these tips to build your career.
Get Trained Up on Key Skills
To provide a range of in-demand handyman services, invest time upfront in developing core skills. Take short courses at your local college or trades centre to gain qualifications and expertise in areas like:
- Basic plumbing
- Electrical work
- Carpentry
- Painting/decorating
Build up expertise in these key areas to be able to deliver a wide range of in-demand handyman services later.
Get Equipped with the Right Tools
Invest in acquiring a basic set of handyman tools and equipment to handle everyday requests. Focus first on versatile tools like:
- Cordless drill/drivers for drilling and driving in screws
- Full toolkit with hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers etc.
- Stepladders and mini scaffolding for access
- Tool belt to keep essentials on you
Add more specialised tools as needed for specific jobs like plumbing snake, tile cutter, stud finder etc. Having the right tools for tasks makes your work easier while showing customers you are a professional. Look for a good quality van from a local dealer – you’ll need a reliable vehicle to carry your tools and equipment around. If you live in the Borders region, look at used vans for sale in Edinburgh.
Create Your Handyman Business
Register as self-employed with HMRC and set up the legal and financial aspects of your handyman business:
- Choose a memorable business name and create a logo/branding.
- Set up a business bank account and accounting system.
- Get necessary insurances like public liability insurance.
- Understand VAT, taxes, and maintaining records.
Take time to formalise your business. This shows customers you are running a professional service.
Market Your Handyman Services
Promote your services in your local area through:
- Flyers through letterboxes describing your services.
- Local Facebook groups and community forums.
- Listing your services on handyman directories like Rated People.
- Offering discounts to introduce your business.
Focus on building a satisfied customer base through word-of-mouth referrals. Provide a great service and people will recommend you.
Develop Your Reputation
As you complete jobs, encourage happy customers to leave reviews on directories like Checkatrade to build credibility. Respond helpfully to any negative feedback. Be reliable in turning up when agreed and completing jobs properly. This professionalism will support your reputation.
Over time, a track record of good reviews will drive more local customers to hire you.
Offer a Menu of Services
Have a clear list of standard services you provide and rough prices. But also be flexible enough to quote for bespoke jobs. Your services may include:
- General repairs
- Flatpack assembly
- Hanging pictures/shelves
- Installing appliances
- Gardening/landscaping
- Painting/decorating
Take on jobs you feel capable of delivering well. It is better to be honest if someone requests complex electrical work you aren’t qualified for.
Provide Quality and Value
Focus on doing jobs properly and safely, not quickly. Give customers fair quotes and be transparent about your rates.
Work efficiently while maintaining high standards. This will encourage repeat business and positive word-of-mouth about the value you provide.
Following these tips can help build your reputation and career as a professional, trusted self-employed handyman in your area. Remember that providing consistent quality and care is key to growing through customer recommendations.
