For years, word of mouth was king when it came to finding a builder or tradesperson. But times have changed. A recent survey by MyJobQuote found that 67% of homeowners rely on social media as their primary research tool when looking for construction and trade services—far outweighing personal recommendations or company websites.
Udi Regev, co-founder of BetterSpace, sees this shift as a game-changer:
“Social media is no longer just for networking—it’s a trust-building tool. Homeowners want to see real projects, real reviews, and real interactions before they commit. If you’re not online, you’re invisible.”
Facebook: The Go-To Platform for Hiring Tradespeople
Despite competition from newer platforms, Facebook remains the top choice for checking out businesses. A massive 71% of respondents said they’d look up a tradesperson or company on Facebook before reaching out, while only 11% would turn to Twitter.
Why Facebook? The platform allows users to:
- Read reviews from past customers
- See photos of completed projects
- Ask for recommendations in community groups
- Contact businesses directly
“It’s about credibility,” says Regev. “A well-maintained Facebook page with positive reviews and active engagement tells potential clients you’re reliable. It builds confidence before they even pick up the phone.”
What This Means for Tradespeople
For builders, designers, and other trades, having a social media presence is no longer optional—it’s a must. But that doesn’t mean you need to be everywhere. A focused, well-managed profile on key platforms like Facebook can make all the difference.
According to the survey:
- 67% of homeowners use social media as their first research stop
- Only 16% rely on personal recommendations
- Just 11% visit a company’s website first
- A huge 66% of respondents had hired a tradesperson directly through social media
“Social media is the new front door of your business,” Regev adds. “Make it welcoming, keep it updated, and let your work do the talking.”
Getting Started: A Quick Checklist for Tradespeople
- Set up or update your Facebook business page with accurate contact details and services
- Post regularly—share project photos, tips, and customer testimonials
- Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages
- Encourage reviews from happy clients to boost credibility
- Join local Facebook groups where homeowners look for recommendations
The bottom line? If you want to be where your customers are, you need to be on social media. The next time a homeowner searches for a trusted tradesperson, will they find you—or your competition?
