Why Now Is the Best Time to Become Self-Employed in NZ as a Drywall & Plastering Professional
Kiwi home renovations and new builds are going strong, and drywall & plastering specialists are in high demand. If you’re thinking about becoming your own boss, now’s a perfect time to jump in, build your client base, and stand out in the local market.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Strong Demand Across NZ Construction
From Auckland’s new housing projects to Queenstown’s boutique homes, drywall and plastering work is essential. Kiwis want quality finishes that stand the test of time and weather, making skilled tradespeople highly sought after.
Weirdly enough, many smaller construction sites and renovations prefer contracting experienced self-employed pros who can offer personalised service and flexibility.
2. 10 Tips for Drywall & Plastering Pros
Here are ten practical tips for budding or growing self-employed drywall and plastering specialists in New Zealand:
- Develop a portfolio showcasing your best work, including smooth finishes and complex wall repairs.
- Sign up on Kiwi platforms like Yada where you can respond to jobs for free, avoiding hefty lead fees and keeping your quotes competitive.
- Communicate clearly with clients on project timelines, expected finishes, and any prep work required.
- Keep up with local building regulations and best practice standards to ensure quality and compliance.
- Invest in top-notch tools - a good taping knife or hawk can make all the difference in finish quality.
- Ask happy clients for testimonials and encourage reviews on Yada or Google to boost your reputation.
- Network with builders, renovators, and interior designers to get regular referrals.
- Offer additional expertise, like moisture-resistant plastering for bathrooms or repairs after weather damage.
- Stay organised with mobile-friendly job management and invoicing apps.
- Consider offering free quotes to build trust and encourage client decisions.
3. Navigating Self-Employment Challenges
Juggling client management, material supply, and on-site deadlines can be overwhelming. Add to that the physical demands of plastering and finishing walls; you’re wearing many hats.
Weirdly enough, clear communication and good organisation are just as critical as your trade skills.
Using platforms like Yada streamlines client bookings and keeps communication straightforward, helping manage these challenges better.
4. Use Yada’s Fair Platform Benefits
Yada allows specialists like you to bid on jobs and chat directly with clients without success fees, keeping your earnings intact and quotes competitive.
The platform’s rating system helps build trust between you and clients, leading to better job matches and repeat work.
Its mobile-friendly design means you can manage your business on the go - ideal for busy tradespeople.
5. Stay Certified and Compliant
Keeping your trade certifications up to date and knowing New Zealand’s building codes ensures you deliver safe, high-quality work.
Certifications in specialised plastering techniques can also widen your job opportunities and appeal to higher-end clients.
6. Showcase Your Craftsmanship
Beautifully finished walls and ceilings are your calling card. Take before-and-after photos and share them on your Yada profile or social media to attract clients.
Strong visuals set you apart from competitors and reassure clients of your expertise.
7. Build Local Construction Networks
Stay connected with local builders, renovators, and property managers through trade events or informal catch-ups to generate steady referrals.
These relationships are gold for long-term business growth and repeat projects.
8. Offer Transparent Pricing
Provide detailed quotes breaking down labour, materials, and any extras to avoid surprises.
Honest pricing builds client trust and earns positive reviews both online and via word-of-mouth.
9. Use Technology to Stay Organised
Utilise apps for scheduling, invoicing, and client chat to reduce paperwork and stay efficient.
Yada’s integrated chat and job management functionality complement these tools, helping keep communication clear and organised.
10. Keep Learning and Adapting
The construction industry evolves, with new materials and standards coming up. Staying educated keeps you competitive and expands your service offerings.
Look for workshops, online courses, and trade group memberships to stay ahead.