Your Guide to Starting a Trade Business in Ireland

Want to start your own trade business? This guide covers everything from creating a business plan to managing customer relationships and growing your brand.

Are you working on-site or under someone else but dreaming of running your own business? Many Irish tradespeople are taking the plunge into self-employment, enjoying the freedom of being their own boss while reaping the rewards of their hard work.

If you’re ready to make the move, here’s what you need to know and how Onlinetradesmen's 'The Everything App' can make your journey smoother. 

1. Choose Your Business Structure

In Ireland, most self-employed tradespeople start as sole traders. This allows you to keep all your profits after taxes, but you are personally responsible for any debts.

Alternatively, you can set up a limited company to separate personal and business assets.

What You Need to Do as a Sole Trader:

Register with Revenue: Use the Revenue Online Service (ROS) to pay taxes as a self-employed person.

Register Your Business Name: Use the Companies Registration Office (CRO) to register if you want a business name, which is required to open a business bank account.

How 'The Everything App' Helps:

Access easy-to-use invoicing and bookkeeping tools to manage your finances.

Stay compliant with tax requirements using digital records and business tools.

2. Sort Out Your Finances

Setting up your finances correctly is key to long-term success.

Insurance: Protect your business with tool insurance, public liability insurance, or other relevant policies.

Invoicing & Bookkeeping: Use The Everything App’s mobile invoicing and bookkeeping features to keep your cash flow on track and simplify tax compliance.

3. Get Certified

Depending on your trade, specific certifications may be required to work legally or to build trust with customers. Examples include:

• Safe Electric for electricians.
• RGII for gas installers.
• SafePass for construction workers.

4. Find and Win Work

When starting out, finding consistent work is a common concern. With Onlinetradesmen, you gain access to over €20 million in local job leads monthly across 350+ job types. These verified leads match your trade, making it easier to win new jobs and build your business.

5. Promote Your Trade Business

Your online presence matters. Here’s how you can stand out:

Social Media Marketing: Share your projects on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to attract new clients.

Online Portfolios: Use The Everything App to showcase your work professionally, with tools to upload photos and descriptions.

Digital Marketing Services: Let The Everything App grow your business online with targeted marketing campaigns that bring in qualified leads.

6. Stay Connected with Customers

Clear communication is vital to winning and completing jobs. With The Everything App’s CustomerChat and Site Survey Video Features, you can:

• Centralise all customer interactions, ensuring no message gets lost.
• Conduct virtual surveys to scope jobs remotely, saving time and hassle.

7. Overcome Loneliness as Your Own Boss

Being self-employed can feel isolating, but with The Everything App, you’re never alone.

Access a supportive network and community forums to connect with other trade professionals.

Share advice, ask questions, and feel part of a thriving community.

Why Choose The Everything App?

• €20M+ in local job leads monthly across 350+ trade types.
• Simple plan costs—no hidden fees or commissions.
• Business tools to grow your trade.
• Recruitment services to help you hire your next team member.
• Savings on essentials to improve your business and lifestyle.

The Everything App empowers tradespeople in Ireland to thrive as independent professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, it’s the ultimate partner for building a successful trade.

Ready to take control of your future? Join The Everything App today and make your move to independence with confidence.

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