As a sole trader, it can seem a little like your ability to grow your business can be capt. What are the next big steps you can take to grow your one-man band? For many businesses, it is a dream and ambition for you to own your own business, especially since there are 3.6 million sole traders in the UK. So what opportunities are available for sole traders?
A Sole Trader Can Hire Apprentices
Even though some may think sole traders can only work SOLO – think again. You can legally still be a sole trader and take on an apprentice. Working with an apprentice gives you the opportunity to expand horizons, take on more work and begin to grow your business, as well as allowing you to pass on your skills and knowledge to someone else.
New Isn’t Always Better, Utilise Existing Customers
When your business is going for growth, it can be easy to forget about the people who helped your business become what it is now. Just because they’ve used your services or bought from you once doesn’t mean they should stop. Entice them back with promotional offers, or convert them to brand ambassadors – keep reading to find out more about brand ambassadors.
Create A Network To Collaborate With
Just because you are sole trader doesn’t mean you have work by yourself. Work with other businesses in your area that complement your business. For example, if you’re a plumber fitting a new bathroom, work alongside a carpenter who you can recommend to do other jobs around a client’s house – and they can do vice versa for you in return.
Create Some Brand Ambassadors
Potential customers are a more likely to use your business if it’s been recommended by a friend. So why not turn your customers into brand ambassadors? Give them a discount on products/service if someone they recommended buys something from you. That way they’ll be singing your praises and getting you more customers in the process.
