Across Canada, trades workers ensure that the lights stay on, the water runs and the Canadian economy succeeds. The new class of blue collar contractors are taking their success into their own hands, using the power of the internet, promotional products and branded apparel to build a loyal customer base and stay busy. In this article, we’re breaking down a few powerful ideas for electricians and plumbers who want to reach new customers and build loyalty with their current clients.
These ideas can apply to all fields – no matter what it is you do, take control of your business and build a brand for yourself. Let’s get started!
In Canada, electricians are keeping one of the world’s largest grids working with 65% of Canada’s electricity coming from renewable sources and 80% from non-GHG emitting sources. Not only do we supply our own country, but we export 11% of our energy output to the United States.
If you’re an electrician, the old method of doing business would be to put an ad in the yellow pages and hope the calls come in. Today, electricians order custom printed uniforms like screen printed t-shirts, embroidered polo shirts and branded baseball caps. These professional uniforms let the customer know that you’re a professional and remind them of your company name.
Clever self-promoters are even reaching into the promotional products world to make an impression on their clients. Things like branded phone charging batteries or custom printed flashlights make great promotional gifts to help keep your company name on people’s minds when it comes time to call the electrician.
For Canadian plumbers, reaching out to clients is essential. The field is competitive but there is a ton of work for plumbers in maintaining aging sewage systems, installing plumbing into new buildings and handling day to day problems as they come up in residences and businesses. How do modern plumbers reach out to customers?
Building a brand is a surprisingly effective way to promote yourself as a plumber. From the famous slogan We’re number 1 in a Number 2 Business to the memorable logos of established plumbing companies.
Building a memorable brand means building a cohesive brand – the same colours, slogan and logo should be printed on your van, your magnets and your staff uniforms. Here are a few suggested brandable items for plumbers:
Custom printed tees are memorable and can be worn on the job.
Embroidered polo shirts give a more professional, high end look.
Custom baseball shirts can be added to your staff uniform.
Branded promo products like umbrellas, flashlights and custom printed mugs make memorable gifts for loyal customers.
The idea is that when the toilet is overflowing or the pipes need cleaning, your clients know exactly who to call at that moment. They’ve been using your mug for months, who else will they call?!
This method of branding will keep the phone ringing during the quiet months. Building a base of loyal customers to your plumbing or electrician company is just one of the modern ways skilled trade workers are ensuring their businesses succeed.