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Your first client as a contractor isn't a unicorn: finding serious requests in your trade

Residential service businesses: the right habits for finding clients, and how a network can send you qualified requests.
August 30, 2024 by
Your first client as a contractor isn't a unicorn: finding serious requests in your trade
Beau-frere a louer Inc., Daniel Lauzon
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Partners

You have your licence, your tools, your know-how. Only one thing is missing: serious clients, in your specialty, where you work.

Finding your first clients isn't magic. Here are the habits that work, and one way to receive requests that are already qualified: working with the Beau-frère à louer network.

The habits that work

1. Be easy to find

A complete Google Business Profile (trade, service area, hours, photos of your work) and a phone number that gets answered. Many homeowners choose the first company that calls them back.

2. Get your clients talking

Word of mouth is still your best salesperson. After every successful job, ask for an online review: it's what your next client will read.

3. Define your specialty and your area

"I do everything, everywhere" brings in requests you'll end up turning down. A clear trade and a realistic territory bring in the right ones.

4. Work with other companies

Companies that come across needs outside their field are looking for someone to refer them to. It's often the most reliable source of requests, and that's where our network comes in.

Why work with the Beau-frère à louer network

Since 2009, Beau-frère à louer has been taking care of its members' homes: small jobs, maintenance, inspections and maintenance plans. More than 2,500 clients served over the past three years, and a 4.4-star rating on more than 350 Google reviews. Some needs go beyond our field. For those, we want to be able to recommend, with full confidence, companies that share our standards.

  • Real requests, in your specialty: our inspections and our call centre bring specific needs to light, from homeowners who want the work done.
  • Respect for your trade: we won't ask you to slash your prices or work outside your licence. Requests are clearly described, with the address and photos when we have them.
  • Terms in writing from the start: specialty, area, rates, response times and payment terms.
  • A brand that reassures: when you arrive on behalf of Beau-frère à louer, the homeowner knows they're dealing with a recommended company.

The trades we're looking for

  • Electricians: a company holding an RBQ licence and a member of the CMEQ;
  • Plumbers: a company holding an RBQ licence and a member of the CMMTQ;
  • Roofers: roof replacement;
  • Paving and concrete: driveways, interlocking pavers, low walls;
  • Locksmithing and security systems: a company holding the required permit from the Bureau de la sécurité privée.

Common requirement: a valid licence or permit for the work involved, civil liability insurance, and a commitment to quality customer service. We work in Greater Montréal, Gatineau and Québec City.

How it works

  1. You write to us at partenaires@connect-forces.com : your company, your trade, your area, your licence number.
  2. We meet: a call to understand how you work, then a check of your licences, insurance and references.
  3. We sign a clear agreement: specialty, area, rates, timelines.
  4. We send you the requests that match your agreement.
  5. You do the work, and we follow up on client satisfaction.

Looking for a job instead? Beau-frère à louer is hiring too: find the job that fits you.

Key takeaways

  • Be easy to find, get your clients talking, define your specialty and your area.
  • Working with other companies is often the most reliable source of requests.
  • Beau-frère à louer is looking for licensed and insured electricians, plumbers, roofers, paving companies and locksmiths.
  • To get started: write to partenaires@connect-forces.com.

Connect-forces

Your next clients may already be among our members

Write to us: your company, your trade, your area. We'll get back to you personally.

Looking for a job rather than a partnership? Find your fit.

Connect-forces, the Beau-frère à louer network.

Your first client as a contractor isn't a unicorn: finding serious requests in your trade
Beau-frere a louer Inc., Daniel Lauzon August 30, 2024
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