Social Media for Tradespeople: A Practical Guide

Social media can grow your business, but it needs doing right. Here's a practical approach for busy tradespeople.

Which Platforms

Focus on what works for trades:

• Facebook: Local community groups, business page
• Instagram: Visual portfolio of work
• Google Business: Essential for local search (technically not social media)
• LinkedIn: B2B and commercial work
• TikTok: Growing for trades, younger audience

What to Post

Content that works:

• Before and after photos
• Work in progress shots
• Tips and advice
• Behind the scenes
• Team and personality content

What to Avoid

Things that damage reputation:

• Complaining about customers
• Politics and controversial topics
• Poor quality photos
• Aggressive sales messages
• Inconsistent posting then vanishing

Time Management

You're a tradesperson, not a content creator:

• Batch content creation
• Schedule posts in advance
• Take photos during work (seconds, not minutes)
• Set specific times to check and respond
• Don't let it distract from actual work

Photography Tips

Better photos without being a photographer:

• Good lighting (natural is usually best)
• Clean the space before photographing
• Show scale with people or objects
• Multiple angles
• Wipe the camera lens on your phone

Engagement

Social media is social:

• Respond to comments promptly
• Thank people for shares and recommendations
• Join relevant groups and contribute
• Don't just broadcast - have conversations

Converting to Enquiries

• Make contact information obvious
• Respond to messages quickly
• Move serious enquiries to phone/email
• Follow up on all leads

Realistic Expectations

Social media is a long game:

• Results build over months and years
• Word of mouth remains more powerful
• Quality content beats frequent posting
• Focus on local audience