HOW TO BECOME A TRADESPERSON AND WORK FOR YOURSELF

According to the Office of National Statistics, from 2008 to 2016, the number of self-employed workers rose from 3.7 million to 4.6 million, of which 30% were full-time skilled tradespeople. If you're interested in a new career or eager to begin your own business, learning, a trade may be the best choice for you. However, before you dive into your new venture, there are a few things you should consider.

Gain relevant experience and qualifications

Becoming a self-employed tradesperson isn't for the weak-hearted. It will take a lot of patience and perseverance. You'll need to take on a lot of training and learning. The best advice you could get is from a fellow tradesperson that is working for themself. If you're lucky enough to find a tradesperson that will take you under their wing, it would be even better. Not anyone can become a tradesperson: you'll require the right level of experience and skill to be able to complete jobs alone and keep your customers satisfied. If you're unable to find a tradesperson, then you'll have to map out a game plan. According to the National Careers Service, to qualify for a trade job, here are the best means:

• Earn while you learn with an apprenticeship
• Take on a college course 
• Train on the job

Handle your finances well

Learning to manage your money will be significant throughout your journey. Whether you're training and learning to run independently or work for an organisation, there will undoubtedly be many costly expenses. For example, if you're planning on taking a course, it will most likely cost you. This is another reason why you should map your journey out. It will provide you with a sense of calmness as you won't have to worry constantly about running through your savings. Managing your finances may be your biggest battle throughout your journey. As the saying goes, "Save your money so it can save you someday.". Keep your expenses to a minimum; if something is non-essential, dont buy it! Also, be sure to pay your suppliers. Dont leave any invoices unpaid as it will turn your significant relationships bitter.

Invest in tools and equipment 

If you're looking to work for yourself, you'll need your own tools. While you can hire tools, it would make much more sense financially to buy them. Have the right tools is crucial so breaking the bank to attain them is entirely reasonable. The right tools will help you complete a job efficiently and to an excellent standard.

Insurance for your business

The right insurance protects not only you but also the public also. Public liability insurance covers injuries, death or any mishaps as a result of your work. It is highly recommended you add to this cover with a plan for your tools and professional indemnity. Insuring your tools is vital because the cost of replacing them could affect your work. Public liability insurance ranges from £90 to £280.

Types of trades you can pick up:

Plumber

Starting wage: £16,000

Potential wage: £45,000

Electrician

Starting wage: £18,000

Potential wage: £42,000

Roofer

Starting wage: £14,000

Potential wage: £35,000

Plasterer

Starting wage: £13,000

Potential wage: £31,000

Carpenter

Starting wage: £15,000

Potential wage: £41,000

Paint & Decorator

Starting wage: £14,000

Potential wage: £30,000

Gardener

Starting wage: £15,000

Potential wage: £31,000

Glazier

Starting wage: £12,000

Potential wage: £30,000

Start marketing your business

Once you've picked up some momentum and you're finally confident in your work, it is time to marketing to a broader audience. Your first few clients will probably come from word of mouth, so you must leave them amazed with your work, so they continue spreading the word. You can start advertising through leaflets or by signing up for a trade directory like Thumbsup Services. You can also hire a freelancer and create a website to collect leads. Once you create your website, you can start running Facebook ads or even pay-per-click advertisement.