If 2024 has felt like a bit of a grind, you’re not alone.
High interest rates, inflation, and recession-like conditions have made the building and trades scene challenging, especially across Australia and New Zealand.
But here’s the good news: things are set to change as interest rates start to dip and housing projects ramp up again. Governments are putting major investment into housing and infrastructure, and with better mortgage affordability on the horizon, 2025 is looking like it’ll be a busy, rewarding year for the industry.
So, how do you make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running? Let’s talk about a few essentials to help you get set up for a cracking year.
1. Get Your Crew in Top Shape
You’re only as strong as your team. Finding the right crew is the bedrock of a smooth operation, and getting everyone up to speed now means you won’t be scrambling when jobs start coming in hot next year. Here’s how to lay the groundwork:
- Hire Smart: Now’s the time to attract skilled people who are a good fit for your business. With a solid team in place, you’ll have confidence that every job will run smoothly.
- Upskill and Train: Got some downtime? Use it to build up skills in areas like safety, compliance, or even new construction techniques like green building. This’ll make your team more versatile and efficient when things ramp up.
Having a well-oiled crew means fewer delays, better quality work, and an easier time keeping your clients happy. And remember—good people stick around when they feel valued and have room to grow.
Bonus: Here’s How to Keep Your Top Tradies Onboard
2. Set Up Efficient Processes and Systems
The right tools and processes can be your best mates when it comes to saving time, staying organised, and making your jobs profitable. If you’ve been buried in paperwork or constantly chasing down payments, it might be time to streamline your approach with smart software.
Why NextMinute Can Make the Difference
If you’re not on a job management platform yet, consider NextMinute. Here’s why:
- Job Scheduling and Tracking: Keep all your jobs, timelines, and changes in one place. No more last-minute scrambles or lost project details!
- Automate Invoicing and Payments: Say goodbye to cash flow headaches. NextMinute’s invoicing helps you get accurate invoices out quickly to keep the cash rolling in.
- Reduce Admin Time: Less admin means more time on the tools or lining up new work. Plus, with everything at your fingertips, it’s easier to answer client questions and keep everyone in the loop.
Start a 10-day free trial here.
Investing in job management software now can give you back hours every week—time you can use for more productive work or a well-earned knock-off.
3. Lock in Key Suppliers and Partners
With demand about to soar, getting your suppliers and subcontractors sorted now could be a game-changer. Whether it’s reliable timber suppliers, electricians, or concreters, strengthening your relationships with these key partners will mean smoother jobs and quicker turnarounds when things pick up.
- Negotiate Good Rates Now: If you’re able to secure consistent work with suppliers, lock in those rates early.
- Build Goodwill: Reliable communication and timely payments go a long way in cementing good working relationships. If you’re using software like NextMinute, it’ll be easier to keep track of who’s paid and when, so everyone’s happy.
4. Forecast and Plan Ahead
While it’s tempting to take each job as it comes, looking ahead and planning your workload in advance will make all the difference in 2025. Take a bit of time each month to:
- Set Sales Targets and Goals: Knowing how much work you need to keep things ticking over means you can actively line up jobs rather than scrambling at the last minute.
- Schedule Regular Breaks: Don’t forget to block out breaks to avoid burnout. Planning time off means you’ll be refreshed and ready to take on jobs with full energy.
5. Stay Agile and Adaptable
2025 is looking busy, but we all know how quickly things can change. Staying adaptable in your processes, open to new tech, and ready to shift gears when needed is what will set the best apart.
6. Invest in Marketing Your Business
With competition ramping up, 2025 will be a prime time to stand out with some targeted marketing. Consider:
- Refreshing Your Brand: Update your website, social media, and business cards so they reflect where you’re headed.
- Customer Reviews: Use the quieter time to ask past clients for reviews to build credibility and trust for new clients.
- Networking and Local Presence: Join local builder associations, attend trade events, and connect with suppliers or complementary businesses.
7. Get Finances in Shape Now
Cash flow can be one of the biggest stressors for small businesses, especially in trades.
Ensuring you’re financially prepared means:
- Setting Up a Buffer: If the end of the year is slow, save where you can to create a safety net for the busy season.
- Review Your Pricing and Payment Terms: Ensuring pricing is updated means no surprises when business picks up.
8. Stay on Top of Compliance and Safety Regulations
With new projects on the horizon, ensuring your business complies with the latest safety and industry standards is essential. Take this time to:
- Review Safety Protocols: Make sure all employees are trained in safe practices and that you have clear documentation.
- Check Licensing and Certifications: Ensure any licensing or certifications are up to date, especially if there are changes in local or national regulations for 2025.
- Test and Tag Your Tools: Make sure all your electrical tools and equipment are tested and tagged by a licensed sparky.
Final Thoughts
Setting yourself up for a thriving 2025 starts now. The more you invest in your crew, streamline your systems, and lock in reliable suppliers, the smoother things will go when work picks up. With some prep and the right tools, you can make 2025 your best year yet.
