(This article appeared in the Spring 2022 issue of Pastry Arts Magazine)
By Amanda Schonberg, C.E.C.
If you’re looking for a new way to get more customers for your business, you should be using Thumbtack. Thumbtack is a website that connects businesses with consumers who need services. It’s a great way to find new customers, and it’s easy to use. In this article, we will discuss how to use Thumbtack in your business and how it can help you grow!
What is Thumbtack? Thumbtack is an online marketplace where people can find local professionals to help them with their needs. It’s like Craigslist and Angie’s List, but instead of just listing services available in a certain area, it also shows reviews from other customers who have used those companies before. So, you gain trust with your new consumers in order to serve them any better.
So how do you get started? Creating a listing on Thumbtack is free and easy to use as well. You just need to provide some basic information about your business, such as the services you offer, what areas you serve, and your contact information. You can also add photos and videos of your work to help potential customers get a better idea of what you do.
How can I use Thumbtack in my business? The great thing about Thumbtack is that it’s so versatile. You can use it to find new customers for your business, or you can use it to get more leads. You can also use it as a way to book appointments with potential customers. Once your listing is complete, Thumbtack will start matching you with potential customers in your area.
Because of the quality of Thumbtack, they do charge a “bidding fee” to connect you to new customers. I have found it to be totally worth it in my business and for my students. You can choose which jobs you want to bid on, and then send a custom proposal to the customer outlining the services you’re offering and the price. If the customer accepts your proposal, then you’re hired.
What I love is that they have excellent step-by-step videos walking you through the platform. You don’t pay anything to sign up and just by having a listing I have found that some customers will call you directly, so you avoid the fee altogether!
Since I started using Thumbtack, my business has grown exponentially. In the past month alone, I’ve booked amazing jobs from the site. So here are four tips on how you can get started on the platform and start to see success.
- Have clear, neat, and professional photos. A good picture of yourself as the owner is one thing that will help you to stand out. People love window shopping on the site, and the more pictures you provide, the better chances you help yourself. Your pictures should be in detail. Post your top sellers so that you know what attracts their eyes. It is helpful to also post photos of things you specialize in when listing yourself on Thumbtack. This will help you to stand out on the platform and show what makes you unique.
- Respond promptly. I don’t expect you to jump up within the minute, but just make it timely. There are a few hacks for making your response time easy, though. Number one is that you can have premade templates ready. A ‘template’ – meaning a pre-written response that you already have prepared – cuts down on the typing as well as the going back and forth with customers. Number two is you can download the free app; this way you can respond within the app as opposed to waiting for responses through your email.
- Be sure to update your listing regularly. Try to use the platform as often as possible; this is a good way for you to stay in front of people on the platform.
- Be very clear on your budget. Listing your budget is one great way to ensure that you attract only the clients you want to work with. Some people will send over a job without a budget – just be mindful to set clear expectations so your communication efforts are not in vain.
Thumbtack is amazing with advertising for their platform and getting you leads. Once you are set up, keeping your profile up to date is very easy. Thumbtack runs ads on multiple platforms to always ensure they are bringing their professionals (the name for business owners who are listed on their site) leads and business.
My students love having Thumbtack as an additional site to list their baked goods and pastries. Give the site a try and see how it can help you increase sales in your business.
Amanda Schonberg is a certified chef and bakery business coach. Her work has been featured by brands such as Wilton, NBC, FOX, and a host of others. Her monthly group coaching membership, The Entrepreneur Community helps bakers and sugar enthusiasts to make more money and create thriving businesses. She is the founder of Baking For Business, an online platform dedicated to sharing tips, recipes, and products to help bakers grow.
