From Zero to Fully Booked: How NZ Tiling Specialists Get Their First 10 Clients

Starting out as a tiling professional in New Zealand can be a bit daunting, especially when you're working to secure your first 10 clients. With the right combination of practical steps, local insights, and a genuine, friendly approach, you can steadily grow your reputation and bookings. This guide offers 10 tips tailored specifically for tiling specialists eager to build a flourishing business in Kiwi communities.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Tap Into Your Personal Network

Friends, family, and acquaintances can be your first clients and advocates. Offering discounted or trial tiling services builds trust and leads to word-of-mouth referrals.

A Christchurch tiler started by working within his local community, which quickly expanded to other neighborhoods.

Weirdly enough, these early personal links often turn into your most loyal client base.

2. Engage in Local Facebook Groups

Groups like “Auckland Home Renovations” or “Wellington DIY Projects” are buzzing with locals looking for trusted tilers.

Share images of your work, tips on tile care, and testimonials to build credibility without hard selling.

Neighbourly also provides a slower, but valuable community space where recommendations spread.

3. Create a Mobile-Friendly Website

An easy-to-navigate website featuring your services, pricing, portfolio, and testimonials helps establish professionalism.

Platforms like Wix or Google Sites offer affordable ways to get online quickly.

Including local examples and references connects you authentically with Kiwi clients.

4. List on Yada and Local Trade Directories

Yada helps you find clients directly without charging lead or commission fees, ideal for new tilers.

Its rating system rewards consistent service quality, improving your visibility.

Don't forget to register on TradeMe Services and other trusted NZ trade platforms.

5. Offer Attractive Introductory Offers

Encourage clients to try your service with discounts on initial tiling projects or package deals.

A Tauranga tiler boosted early bookings with competitive offers during off-peak seasons.

Think of it as your friendly invitation to showcase your skills risk-free.

6. Network with Builders and Renovators

Build relationships with local builders, renovators, and property managers to grow your referral network.

Attend trade expos and community meet-ups to raise your profile.

In smaller locations like Nelson, these partnerships are key to steady work.

7. Collect and Promote Client Testimonials

Ask happy clients for reviews and showcase their feedback on your website and social media.

In New Zealand, peer recommendations carry significant weight in hiring decisions.

A Christchurch tiler attributes much growth to positive client testimonials.

8. Share Tile Maintenance Tips

Post easy maintenance and cleaning tips on social channels to engage your audience.

Consistent helpful content positions you as an approachable expert.

An Auckland specialist grew local trust through regular social media posts.

9. Advertise Both Online and Offline

Place flyers or brochures in local hardware stores, cafes, and community boards.

Combine this with targeted Facebook and Google ads aimed at homeowners and renovators.

This mixed approach works well throughout New Zealand's urban and rural areas.

10. Stay Organised and Communicate Clearly

Use scheduling and invoicing software to manage bookings and client communication effectively.

Be professional and prompt to build long-term client relationships and referrals.

A Tauranga tiler emphasizes organisation and clear communication as keys to success.