Want to Build Your Woodworking Business? Here’s How!

You did it. You finally have your very first commission for your woodworking business, and you’re so excited.

But now, what do you do next?

In other words, how can you set yourself up for success to make not only your woodworking skills but your business stand out from the rest?

You’re in luck.

This article is going to outline some key tips that will help you go from one commission to full-time woodworking.

We’ll have some tips about:

• Cultivating customer loyalty through great customer service
• Creating an online brand through websites and social media
• Turning each client into future business through referrals and email nurturing

These are the fundamentals that are going to change what may have just been a hobby into a thriving source of income.

Develop Great Customer Service

Offering great customer service is important when it comes to cultivating customer loyalty.

A good way to begin is to offer great service even before your client asks.

For a woodworker, that might look like this: whenever you finish a project for a customer, have a conversation with them about protecting the long-term quality of their investment.

Cover how they will care for the piece and where they should store it.

Learn how the piece reacts to moisture by using a pinless moisture meter, like one from Wagner Meters, so you can share information that will prepare your client for how best to care for the piece.

Depending on the finish, wood is a dynamic and breathing material. If not stored properly, it can absorb or release excess moisture, compromising both the integrity and beauty of the piece.

Giving your client clear instructions about how to care for a piece is a great way to show them that you care. And when you go above and beyond to impress a customer with your care for their success, you’re many times more likely to turn those customers into “evangelists” for your business.

Create an Online Brand

Being present online is one of the best ways to find new potential customers.

Start with the basics, like creating a simple website if you don’t already have one.

Buy a domain that is short and that reflects your brand.

Then, you can use a website builder like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace to create a captivating website that tells clients exactly what you offer and compels them to action.

You can even set up an e-commerce store to help sell your work!

But an online presence isn’t just about selling your work online or building a website. Nowadays, having a social media presence is crucial to giving potential customers a view into what your business is all about.

You can pick from many different social media platforms, but some helpful ones to start with might be Instagram and YouTube. Start small, do what you can, and take pride in your work.

On your platforms, consider documenting your work. People love to see the process of how something gets made, and it’s also a great way to showcase your craftsmanship.

You can do this in a long-form format on YouTube, or short-form on Instagram reels or posts. Whatever way you choose, take advantage of all the potential for growth that comes with growing your social media presence.

Turn Current Clients Into Future Business

It’s important to strive for growth in your business, and one of the best ways that a business can grow is through great word-of-mouth marketing.

Every time you complete a project, ask your client if they know anyone who might appreciate your work as well. Also, ask them to keep you in mind for future work.

Furthermore, nurturing your clients through an email campaign is a good way to remind clients about your work every few weeks. Include pictures of your current pieces and stories that they might be interested in hearing.

Sometimes, all it takes is a reminder that you exist for someone to click through to the e-commerce site you created and purchase one of your exquisitely made pieces.

Now What?

Take the time to prioritize customer service, build an online presence, and cultivate your current clients to help lead you to future clients.

At the end of the day, remember that your craftsmanship also speaks for itself. Keep your pieces looking beautiful so that they display the true quality of your work for years to come.

And remember to invest in a pinless moisture meter to make sure your thousand-dollar commission doesn’t self-destruct in your client’s space.

For more information about the importance of moisture meters, check out this moisture meter buyer’s guide.

Last updated on May 24th, 2022