Feedback and advice needed for new idea

[mattley23]

Hi all,

Im currently doing some research for a new business idea I have within the building trade. I currently run a business within the industry so am pertty clued up as far as knowledge from the inside is concerned.

Basically im wondering if, as consumers of tradesmens services (builders, plumbers, landscapers etc) you feel that there is any way the industry can be improved to you give all more confidence in tradesmen and make contacting them easier than just putting a pin in a directory?

I mean what problems have you experienced when trying to find a tradesman to do work you have needed at your property and how would you like to see things regulated or improved so you dont get stung or left dissapointed?

[creospace]

It's not a new idea you're thinking of and the company that's been at it for an age , I do all their IT :)

I also worked in the BRM industry as a network recruiter and trainer and complaints manager for 3 years

maybe we should talk?

[mattley23]

creospace, thanks for your reply but to be honest i didnt mention anything about my idea so how do you know its not new?? I was just after some feedback for some research im doing to aid my idea.

Having said that its near impossible to come up with a totally 'new' idea instead you have to do it better and slightly different than your competitior.

On another note, yeah maybe we should bang heads. Drop me a PM and let me know what you had in mind.

[Jayne]

When I look in the Yellow pages, I always go for the big ads, but not the ones with those 08 numbers. I look for those with addresses and local numbers. I like to know where I can find them if they do a bad job :lol:

I only use Yellow pages if anyone I know cannot recommend someone first. There should be a star system from customers run by the Yellow pages on quality or something which you can tell who are not cowboys.

Jayne

[fastfences]

Hi Matt,

My company is listed in a 'Trades Directory' (www.118trades.com) that only lists reputable traders after performing 3 reference checks.

Many other trade associations offer a similar service. Apart from referral work, my main source of contacts is via Yell.com and our local paper. If I were to need an elec or plumber, I'd use yellow pages or local directory and look for a trade association membership logo. I acknowledge that doesn't make them 'good' but it's a head start.
Cheers, Nigel

[creospace]

Well yes I have no exact idea but reading your text it is fairly oblivious and seeing as I've worked in that industry as a service provider for 3 years and prior to that within the actual industry as a trainer & quality control assessor of companies like yourself, I have a fairly good idea :)

Have pm'd you, I'm sure I could offer you as much advice/information as you need :)

Fed up with rogue builders? Looking for quality approved, insured and registered tradesmen?

Look no further than . . . .