How to find a good local business or tradesman
Almost everyone will find that at some point in their lives they will be faced with a job they cannot do themselves and will have to hire a local tradesman or other local business. These problems could be anything from emergency plumbing to electrical wiring or landscaping. Other types of local businesses that you may end up looking for include real estate and property services, and those that work in the finance and money industry.
Regardless of the type of business you are looking for you can find them in a number of different ways. Of course, you could look through your local telephone directory, but that simply lists businesses and does not tell you much about them. You could also talk to friends, family members and neighbours to see if they have any recommendations. However, one of the best ways to find a trusted, recommended tradie or other local business is to use a local directory.
Different types of local directories
Before diving into the first local directory you find, you should be aware of the different types of directory available.
The first type is very similar to listings in a telephone book. Any local tradesman or business can enter their details for people to see. Unfortunately, as with a telephone book, there is no way to know if these businesses are recommended by anyone or what their reputation is like.
The second type is more of a user-generated, review type directory, where users can post the information of tradies and businesses that they have dealt with and their experiences.
The third and probably the best type of directory is one where local businesses are carefully screened and interviewed before being offered a place in the directory. This type of directory ensures that it only lists the best of the best, and does not list anyone who is unethical, inexperienced, or just not up to par.
Types of tradesmen and local businesses contained in local directories
Of course, every local directory will be different and some will contain more types of businesses than others will. For example, a directory may list everything from builders to landscapers to hairdressers and beauticians, whereas another may concentrate specifically on the building industry.
Most directories will at least include an extensive list of home maintenance and emergency services such as
- Heating & air conditioning
- Antenna services
- Appliance repairs
- Cleaners
- Plumbers
- Electricians
- Painters
- Gardeners and landscapers
- Gutter cleaning
- Locksmiths
- Pest control
- Glass repairs
- Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms.
Another common category often found in local directories would be real estate and property services such as
- Building inspectors
- Mortgage brokers
- Conveyancers
- Real estate agents
- Utility connections
- Interior designers
The third most common section includes financial services such as
Need help finding local businesses?
If you want to find local businesses, access our our Tradebusters Connect Top 3 Local Choice directory. Their details are highly recommended Top 3 Local Choice business owners are listed on this site and you can contact them directly.