How To Win More Contracting Jobs

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To be successful in business, you must attract new clients and get new contracts. A strategy to acquire more contracting jobs on an ongoing basis is essential for ensuring steady and sustainable business growth.

Contractors, no matter what industry or niche they are active in, have always depended on word-of-mouth and an excellent reputation to bring in new clients. These are excellent ways in which to generate new business but can’t be relied upon in isolation as a marketing strategy.

Fortunately, winning more contracting jobs can be easier than you think. Thanks to advancements in technology, you can now leverage new smart software to assist you in impressing clients and securing more jobs. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all strategy’ but there are several efficient ways to reach a wider audience and win more contracts that you can explore as follows:

1. Do some research

The first step to winning more contracting jobs is to conduct in depth research into your market. Up to date market knowledge is essential for keeping on top of what people want and expect from your services and what your competitors are doing – well and not so well – so you can learn from them and identify how you can do things better. (1)

If you are aware of businesses that you consider to be your primary competitors, do frequent competitor research. If they provide new services or innovations, you must work quickly to keep up. In relation to market research, ensure that you’re updated on any new laws, accreditations, or industry-specific developments that may impact your business.

Research will also help you accurately estimate new contracting jobs. Estimating plays a critical role in the business process of a contractor. Leverage free tools such as this downloadable estimate template from Jobber which can be fully customized to create a professional-looking estimate, converted into an invoice once approved, and delivered digitally for ease of payment.

Invest time in tailoring your estimates specifically to your client’s needs. Listen to what they want and identify how you can deliver this within the scope of your service offering. Keep an open dialogue with them to get their buy-in on what you are quoting for and use this part of the process to build a positive relationship with them where they feel that their business is valued. This will have the effect of making them want to do business with you. (2)

2. Strive to keep your clients

While you want more contracting jobs, most of the work will come from people you have already done business with. Thus, do not underestimate the importance of maintaining past and present connections.

The most effective method to do this is by regular interaction with your clients. Even if you have a one-month contract with a client, you should have a communication strategy in place to keep in touch with them once the job is over. The best way to do this is by using smart customer relationship management (CRM) software.

CRM software enables you to manage your tasks and clients’ contact information more effectively. The leading CRMs also include chat and email capabilities, allowing you to manage all your communication in one location. Apps such as Jobber mentioned above, allows you to do this with ease by automating much of the work that goes into this, saving you time on phone calls and email. A solid CRM platform is a must for any small business. (3)

3. Get referrals from previous clients

To get referrals, you must distinguish yourself from competitors in the industry. This is when constant communication becomes very beneficial. By maintaining contact with prior clients, even if it’s only to inquire about their well-being, you demonstrate that you’re a business who cares about them. If people appreciate and trust you, they’ll be more likely to suggest you to their friends.

Don’t be scared to put yourself out there if you want referrals. There are times when asking for referrals is the only means of acquiring them. So don’t only depend on people to put you forward if an opportunity arises—be proactive and ask for referrals when you need them.

4. Build your digital profile

Getting more contracting jobs may also be accomplished by making a user-friendly website to generate leads and encouraging your audience to connect with it. Your website should also include important details about your company’s credentials, like licenses and length of experience. This way, your potential clients can learn more about you.

Along with a website that contains details about your service, you can also leverage free social media platforms. Social media offers different promotion options for your service. You may use video blogs to document your contract activities. Additionally, you can post photos of your work and previous projects. Most social networks also include direct messaging, allowing you to engage with your potential clients in real-time. (4)

Conclusion

There are several opportunities to increase your contracting jobs. Keep in mind that a lot depends on how you present yourself. You want others to see you as an authority in your profession. Putting your name out to as many people as possible also helps land more jobs.

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