Social media can be a complex and confusing topic but unfortunately, it's also become an essential tool for small business owners. When potential customers are seeking to hire someone, the first thing they do is perform a quick search on the internet. If you have a non-existent presence online, chances are you're missing out on a lot of potential clients. 

Making social media work for you doesn't have to be complicated. You just have to know which platforms are best for your business as well as which activities are going to be the most cost-effective for your bottom line.  Here are three ways to make social media work for you as an independent contractor. 

1. Focus on Review Sites Like Yelp and Angies List 

Perhaps the most effective and easiest way to build your online presence is to focus on getting positive reviews on review sites like Yelp . People are more likely to buy from people who have positive testimonials plus, a site like Yelp is going to rank high in Google's search results. 

Start asking every single client that you work with to post a review on Yelp or another review site specialized to your specific trade. Incentive them by offering them a discount on your services or a gift card.

You can even give your customers business cards with something like,"Get 20% of your next service when you post a review on Yelp! Just write your review and email me proof to redeem." This will encourage people to write positive reviews about their experience and in the end, net you more exposure and clients. 

2. Use Twitter to Connect With Local People in Your Area 

Twitter is a great way to connect with potential clients. Spend time once per week following people who are in your area. Start posting helpful tips daily and implement hashtags related to your trade. Use a social media manager like  Hootsuite  to schedule social media once per week. 

Also, use the search bar located in Twitter to find people who need the services you provide. For example, search for a hashtag like "#needanelectrician" or something similar. You will find people in your area tweeting about how they need someone like you. Take this opportunity to tweet them and tell them how you can help them.

3. Get a Professional Website and Hire Bloggers 

Social media isn't just Twitter and Facebook ; it's blogging too. This option requires a bit of investing upfront but can pay dividends in the long run. Pay someone to create a professional website for your business with your address, logo, professional picture of you and a listing of your services.

Then hire a few bloggers to write articles related to the services you provide. Many bloggers are familiar with beginner SEO tactics like implementing keywords into their writing so that you can begin to rank in Google's search results. 

One last tip; try to make your domain name (website url) have your trade name and area in which you operate. For example, if you're a plumber in Arizona your domain could be, www.carlsarizonaplumbers.com. Now when someone searches for, "Plumbers in Arizona", your website will more than likely pop up. 

As a tradesman, just about anyone can use your service, it's just a matter of you being available when the need arises. And being available now means having your website, reviews, or social media site show in the search results when people look for your services online. Be prepared with these three simple social media strategies listed above. 

Are you a contractor looking to branch out on your own?  If so, contact us today for a free consultation so that we can help you get started.