Running Your Trade
The business side nobody teaches you on the tools: pricing jobs properly, getting paid on time, handling time-wasters, taking card payments, and taking a week off without it costing you customers.
6 August 2026
How to Price a Job Properly (Without Undercharging or Scaring Customers Off)
Most tradespeople pick a day rate by guessing. Here's how to work out what your time is really worth and price every job with confidence.
Read more →6 August 2026
Can a Sole Trader Take a Holiday? How to Get a Week Off Without Losing Work
Most sole traders haven't had a proper week off in years — usually because nobody's answering the phone. Here's how to take one without losing customers.
Read more →14 July 2026
How to Take Card Payments as a Sole Trader (Without the Hassle)
Cash and bank transfer still work, but more customers expect to tap a card these days. Here's how to start taking card payments simply and cheaply.
Read more →14 July 2026
How to Handle Time-Wasters and Tyre-Kickers Without Wasting Your Day
Not every enquiry is a real job. Here's how to spot the time-wasters early, deal with them politely, and spend your time on the customers who'll actually book.
Read more →14 July 2026
How to Chase an Unpaid Invoice Without the Awkward Conversation
Chasing money you're owed is nobody's favourite job. Here's how to get paid on time without the cringe — and how to stop it happening in the first place.
Read more →13 July 2026
How to Handle Out-of-Hours Calls Without Working 24/7
Calls come in evenings and weekends whether you like it or not. Here's how to catch that work without being glued to your phone at 11pm.
Read more →13 July 2026
How to Get More 5-Star Reviews as a Tradesperson
Reviews are the best free advertising a trade can get — but only if you ask. A simple, no-fuss way to get more 5-star reviews from happy customers.
Read more →12 July 2026
Do You Need a Separate Business Phone Number as a Sole Trader?
Use your personal mobile for work, or get a separate business number? The honest pros and cons for UK sole traders — and what matters more.
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