How to get more tree surgery work: marketing tips
Practical ways tree surgeons can get more customers and better jobs, from Google and reviews to pricing online, local leaflets and seasonal work.
RoughFigure3 min read
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If you’re wondering how to get more tree surgery work, you’re not alone. Lots of tree surgeons are good at the work and struggle with the marketing. The good news is that tree surgery is a local, high-value service, so a few simple things done well can fill the diary.
Be easy to find on Google
Most people looking for a tree surgeon search Google for “tree surgeon near me” or “tree surgeon in [town]”.
- Set up your Google Business Profile properly, with the right category, service area, photos and hours. Our Google Business Profile checklist covers it step by step.
- Collect reviews every week. Ask every happy customer. See how to get more Google reviews.
- Have a page for each service on your website: tree felling, crown reduction, stump grinding, hedge cutting and emergency work.
Show what you do
Tree surgery is visual. Before-and-after photos and short videos of rigging, dismantling or a tidy site at the end of the day show skill and professionalism better than any description. Post them on your website, Google profile and social media.
Make customers feel safe
Customers worry about damage, safety and cowboys. Show the things that reassure them:
- public liability insurance;
- qualifications and certificates;
- membership of trade associations, if you belong to any;
- how you protect lawns, driveways and property;
- that you check for protected trees and nesting birds.
Give a price before the visit
Homeowners often have no idea whether tree work costs $390 or $3,900. If you can give them a rough range on your website, they’re more likely to contact you, and less likely to waste your time if it’s out of budget. Read should tradesmen put prices on their website? and see an instant estimator built for tree surgeons.
Use your jobs to win the next ones
When you’re working in a street, the neighbours are watching.
- Leaflets through nearby doors: “We’re working at number 12 this week. Need anything looked at while we’re here?”
- Clear van lettering and a QR code for an instant price.
- A tidy site. A clean finish is your best advert.
Build relationships that bring repeat work
- Estate and letting agents need regular tree work on managed properties.
- Landscapers and gardeners often need a tree surgeon for jobs they can’t do.
- Schools, churches and businesses need regular tree checks.
- Past customers may need more work in a year or two. A friendly reminder brings them back (only to customers who agreed to hear from you).
Plan for the seasons
Winter can be a good time for tree work, and storms bring emergency call-outs. Make sure customers know you work year round and handle emergencies. See winter work ideas for gardeners and landscapers for more seasonal ideas.
Answer fast, and follow up
Customers often contact several tree surgeons. Reply quickly, and follow up every quote. Many jobs are won by the firm that kept in touch.
Questions
What’s the best way for a tree surgeon to get customers?
For most, it’s a strong Google Business Profile with plenty of genuine reviews, plus a website that shows your work and gives a rough idea of price.
Should tree surgeons use lead sites?
They can help, especially when starting out, but compare the cost per won job and build sources you own too. See Checkatrade alternatives.
How can I get more commercial tree work?
Contact local letting agents, property managers, schools and landscapers, and make sure you have the insurance and paperwork they’ll ask for.
