Does posting on social actually bring you work—or just grief? In this Toolbox Talk I break down exactly how sparks, plumbers, builders (any local trade) can use TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Google to win real customers—without dancing or spending all day editing.

🔌 Ready-to-Use Social Media Content Pack for Electricians - https://toolboxtalkforelectricians.kit.com/products/socialmediaEmail Nails x 10. - https://toolboxtalkforelectricians.kit.com/products/email-nails-x-10

What you’ll learn:

• Lead-gen vs. “free tools” (personal brand) — pick your goal first

• Bio optimisation (Linktree, contact options, service area)

• How to geo-target locally (location tags, keywords, groups)

• Hooks & CTAs that get enquiries (and what to show customers)

• Hashtags that matter (and where they don’t)

• Handling haters & bad reviews like a pro

• Building an email list (easy newsletter ideas that convert)

• Repurposing one post across TikTok/IG/Facebook/Google

• When YouTube long-form makes sense for high-value jobs

Quick wins:

• Show outcomes (before/after sockets, boards, lights), not just tidy cable clips

• Add your town + “electrician” in profiles and captions for local SEO

• Ask for a Facebook/Google review on the day (include town name)

• Post little and often (even 1 short per week beats silence)

If you want more templates/copy ideas, check the links in the description and steal my prompts. 👍

How do you build a profitable niche inside the electrical trade? In this Toolbox Talk, James shares his route from NTL/Sky installs to running a TV/AV-first business—mounting TVs, multiroom audio, IRS/MDU systems and data—plus the real talk: dyslexia, 21 jobs by 21, going self-employed, crash-course qualifications (City & Guilds/NVQ), customer experience, subcontracting, pricing, getting stung, VAT/accountants, the pandemic hit, hospital with COVID, burnout, and the comeback—systems, friends, and saying “no” to bad jobs. If you’re an electrician or trainee wondering whether to niche down (AV, data, audio, satellite, TV mounting), this chat is your roadmap—mindset, mistakes, and the wins.Like/subscribe for more Toolbox Talks and tag a spark who needs this.
#Electrician #ToolboxTalk #AV #TradesBusiness #MentalHealth

Today we flip the script and talk to Drew (ERG Builders) — a builder who went from being kicked out of school to running a 15-person crew. No fluff, just site truth: pricing, clients, back-office pain, hiring, mental health, and the eternal builders vs sparks banter.You can find @ergonsite here - https://www.youtube.com/@ergonsite/videosThank you to @ThePodCollective for the amazing Studio and equipment What’s insideApprenticeship → first company by 20Price work, sites, and why he went soloWord of mouth vs paid directories (and why he binned them)Quote strategy (never cheapest, never dearest—bang in the middle)Back-office reality: paperwork, cash flow, VAT, CISNightmare client stories (scope creep, late payers, material “mystery”) + fixesKeeping a team happy and paid; growing without losing standardsHonest chat on trades mental health & boundariesIf you’re a spark, builder, or any trade running jobs, this will hit home.Like the chat? Subscribe for more real-world trade talks.

Fresh from the ELEX show, I’m answering the BIG question: how do you get more Google reviews—fast—and rank at the top of local search?Google Business Master Class - https://gumroad.com/a/748252307/bcxnyQR Code Generator - https://qrcodecreator.com/This is the exact, field-tested system I use (no fake reviews, no spam). It works because it’s easy for customers and timed right.What you’ll learnThe perfect moment to ask (and why “after the invoice” fails)The 10-second in-person ask that gets yes on the spotHow to make a QR code that opens your Google review form directlyWhat to say if customers “don’t know what to write” (keyword tips: trade + town)The best time of day to send a follow-up textWhy you should reply to every review (with ranking-friendly keywords)Quick check: how to see where you rank using an Incognito searchCopy-and-paste scripts1) In-person ask (at handover)“If you’re happy, would you mind leaving a quick Google review? It really helps local customers find a reliable electrician in [Your Town].Scan this and it opens straight on the review box.”2) Text/WhatsApp follow-up (same day, early evening)“Thanks again for today. If you could spare 30 seconds for a Google review it really helps us grow: [your Google review link]A line like ‘Electrician in [Your Town] installed [job] professionally’ is perfect. Appreciate it!”3) If they say ‘what should I write?’“Something simple like: ‘Found [Your Business] on Google. Electrician in [Town] fitted [service]—on time, tidy, professional.’”4) Your public reply template“Thanks, [Name]! Great working on your [service]. If anyone in [Town/Area] needs a reliable electrician, we’re happy to help.”How to make a direct review link / QRGoogle Business Profile → “Ask for reviews” → copy your short linkDrop that link into any QR generator → print/stick in your handover pack or on your invoicePro tip: Every month, open an Incognito window and search: electrician [your town]. Note who’s ahead of you. What photos, reviews, and keywords are they using? Borrow what’s working—ethically.If this helped, hit like and subscribe for more small-trade growth tactics.

📺 How to Make Money as a Trainee Electrician (Legally!) | Earn While You Learn 🔌💷Downloads Data Sheet Download here - https://toolboxtalkforelectricians.kit.com/earn5 Tools All Electricians Need to Be A Good Apprentice - https://youtu.be/U37qDC6glKIQuote & Auto Invoice - https://toolboxtalkforelectricians.kit.com/products/quote-auto-invoiceAre you training to be an electrician and wondering how to start making money before you're fully qualified? In this episode of Tool Box Talk for Electricians, I break down 9 legal jobs trainee electricians can do right now to earn while learning – without breaking regulations or cutting corners.Whether you're an apprentice spark, a college student, or just getting started in the electrical trade, this episode is packed with real-world advice, stories, and practical tips from someone who's been through it all.⚡️ What You’ll Learn:The best-paying jobs you can do legally as a traineeHow to stay safe, insured, and within UK regulationsTools you should carry for solo jobsHow to turn small jobs into a reliable side hustleWhy public liability insurance is a must🛠 Legal Jobs Covered:LED lamp replacements 💡Swapping socket & switch faceplates 🔧Replacing light fittingsInstalling surface trunkingMinor fault findingPAT testing (after a course)Smart home installs (Ring, Nest)Battery smoke alarm installs 🔋Helping other trades (CCTV, AV, data)📥 FREE PDF CHECKLISTWant a free downloadable checklist of these 9 jobs?👉 Grab it here: https://toolboxtalkforelectricians.kit.com/earn👷‍♂️ About Me:I’m Ben Poulter, a self-employed electrician sharing real stories, advice, and business tips to help electricians build better careers. Whether you're just starting out or ready to go self-employed, this channel’s for you.👍 Like, Subscribe & Hit the Bell if you found this useful – and share with a mate who's learning the trade!#ElectricianLife #TraineeElectrician #ApprenticeSpark #ToolBoxTalk #EarnWhileYouLearn #ElectricianPodcast #UKSparks #ElectricalJobs

🚨 Finding an electrical apprenticeship or improver job in 2025? It’s harder than ever — but not impossible.This video is for you if you're:A student leaving college with your electrical ticket but no site experienceA mature career-changer trying to break into the tradeSomeone tired of sending out 100 CVs with zero callbacksI’ve been in the game for over 20 years, and in this episode, I break down EXACTLY what I would do today to land my first job as an apprentice or improver.👉 Spoiler alert: It’s not about fancy CVs or luck. It’s about putting yourself in the right place at the right time — on purpose.Here’s what you’ll learn in this video:The mistakes 90% of apprentices make when applying for jobsWhy wholesalers are your secret weapon to getting your foot in the doorWhat to say (and what NOT to say) when you finally meet a sparkie or contractorHow to stand out without experience by showing initiative, reliability and effortWhy you should never work for free — and what to ask for instead💬 Real talk: No one starts out knowing it all. We were all “useless” at first. But the ones who succeed are the ones who show up, ask questions, and get stuck in.⚡ Whether you’re 16 or 46, this advice applies to you.🔗 Check out the full podcast playlist here for more trade business advice:https://linktr.ee/toolboxtalkforelectricians🎧 Listen to the full podcast "From Apprentice to Boss" on all major platforms — for electricians who want to earn more, reduce stress, and gain back time.📩 Need a download to help figure out what to charge or how to improve your chances of getting work?➤ Join the Facebook Group: Tool Box Talk for Electricians➤ Or drop me an email and I’ll send the free download your way.💡 This episode includes:Why sending out CVs doesn’t work anymoreHow to network through local electrical wholesalersWhy confidence beats qualifications every timeHow to become “someone they want to keep”🔧 Whether you're looking to get hired or want to eventually go out on your own, this is your playbook.👇 Drop a comment below — what are YOU struggling with in your journey to becoming an electrician?👍 Like the video if this helped📲 Share it with someone in college or trying to get in the trade🔔 Subscribe so you don’t miss the next real-world episode that could change your careerOther content you might like:Secrets to Success: Connecting with CustomersHow to Price Electrical Work ProperlyDo You Really Need to Be NIC Registered?👷‍♂️ You’re not just learning a trade — you’re building a future. Let’s get it right, together.#ElectricianJobs #ApprenticeLife #ImproverSpark

Electricians — ever feel like you're doing everything right but still spinning your wheels?This week’s been manic — late nights, nonstop work, and it’s got me thinking: Why are so many sparkies burning out or giving up? I made this video because I've been there — 20+ years of running my own electrical business without going back to being employed. I want to share the real stuff that makes the difference: how to get regular work, earn decent money, and build a business that doesn’t break you.Whether you're a newly qualified electrician wondering what to charge, or a few years into your journey and thinking, “Why am I still not busy?”, this one's for you.In this video:The hard truths about running your own electrical businessWhat to do when you're not getting enough workHow to stop doing jobs for free and charge what you're worthWhy customer relationships are the backbone of a successful trade businessMy advice for anyone who's ready to quit self-employment (and what to do instead)💡 Want to know how I got constant recommendations and regular work without spending loads on ads? It’s all in the way you run your business — and I’ll show you how.👇 Drop your questions in the comments — or email me directly if you’re stuck. I’ll do my best to answer or point you in the right direction.🔗 More videos to help you grow your electrical business here:https://linktr.ee/toolboxtalkforelectricians✅ Need a simple download to work out what you should be charging as a self-employed electrician?Join the Toolbox Talk Facebook Group or email me — I’ll send it over!👷‍♂️ This channel is for self-employed electricians who want to:Reduce stress 💥Earn more money 💷Gain back their time ⏱️Subscribe for weekly real-talk videos, tips from the tools, and guidance to help you go from Apprentice to Boss in your trade business.🎙️ Also check out the podcast:From Apprentice to Boss: Electricians' Journey to Independence🎯 Don’t forget to like, comment, and hit the bell so you don’t miss the next video that could help you turn things around.👇 Drop a comment if this hit home, or tag a mate who needs to hear it.

Book A Call Here - https://kingsbridge.referral-factory.com/uVIka8eD

Being a tradesman comes with risks — and sometimes, things go wrong. Having a good insurance policy isn’t just a box to tick; it’s your safety net when the unexpected happens.

🔑 Why Insurance Matters:
✅ Protects you against costly claims & damages
✅ Covers tools, vans, and materials if stolen or damaged
✅ Keeps you legally covered if accidents happen on-site
✅ Helps you sleep easy, knowing you’re protected

I’ve seen too many sparkies, plumbers, and builders learn this the hard way — don’t be one of them. If you’re self-employed, investing in proper cover is a no-brainer.

Ever had a customer who just won’t stop complaining? No matter how good the job is, some people always find something to moan about! In this video, I’m sharing my worst customer complaints, how I deal with them, and tips to protect yourself from the nightmare clients.

🔹 What You’ll Learn:
✅ How to handle difficult customers professionally
✅ The most common complaints and how to avoid them
✅ When to stand your ground vs. when to compromise
✅ Tips to protect your reputation & get paid

💬 What’s the worst customer complaint you’ve ever had? Let’s hear it in the comments!

#ElectricianLife #CustomerComplaints #TradesmanStruggles #NightmareClients #SelfEmployedProblems #SparksLife #ElectricianStories

How I Find Work as a Self-Employed Electrician! 💡⚡

Are you struggling to get work as a self-employed electrician? In this video, I’ll share the exact strategies I use to keep my calendar full and customers happy. Whether you’re new to the trade or just looking to grow your business, these tips will help you attract more clients and build a solid reputation.

✨ What you’ll learn:

• How to market your electrical services effectively
• The power of word-of-mouth referrals
• Using social media and online tools to find jobs
• Why a professional Google Business Profile is crucial
• Networking with other trades for steady work
• The importance of follow-ups and customer retention

💬 Let me know your favourite strategies for finding work in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on succeeding as a self-employed tradesperson.