Tradies work hard. Whether you’re building, fixing, painting or wiring, you’re on the tools day in and day out. But when it comes to getting new jobs, the top types of social media ads for tradies can work a lot harder than word-of-mouth or a sign on your ute.
These days, Aussies scroll through Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to find good tradies. And if you’re not showing up, someone else will.
The good news? You don’t need to be a marketing expert. With the right social media ad, you can get seen by the right people, and get more work. We’ve worked with builders, plumbers, sparkies, landscapers and more. Here are the social media ads that actually work for tradies in Australia.
1. Testimonial Ads – Let Your Clients Do the Talking
One of the best ways to get new work is to show off your happy customers. A short video of someone saying, “They did a top job, showed up on time, and I’d use them again,” builds trust fast.
It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just real. You can film it in someone’s backyard or on-site. It tells future clients that you’re the real deal.
Here’s an example of one of our clients Video Testimonials: Situate Testimonial Video
✅ Best for: Builders, roofers, pool installers, anyone who gets clear results.
2. Before and After Videos – Show the Difference You Make
People love seeing a good makeover. If your work changes how something looks (like painting, concreting, or renovations), this is a must.
Show the “before”, maybe it’s broken tiles or an overgrown yard, then show the finished job. It gets attention fast and builds confidence in your work.
✅ Tip: Keep it short and post to Instagram Reels and Facebook Stories.
3. Process Videos – Show How You Work
A quick video showing what you do on-site helps people understand your trade. Whether you’re building a deck, laying turf, or fixing a roof, give people a peek behind the scenes.
It shows you know your stuff and helps people trust you more. It’s also great for younger workers who might want to join your team one day.
4. Offer-Based Ads – Give People a Reason to Act
Want to get more enquiries fast? Try ads with a simple deal, like:
- “Free quote this week”
- “Book now and save 10%”
- “Install slots available this Friday”
These ads give people a reason to act now. They’re great for filling gaps in your week or getting quick jobs locked in.
✅ Add a button that says “Call Now” or “Send Message” to make it easy.
5. Team & Culture Videos – Attract the Right Workers
Struggling to find good workers? Your next apprentice might be watching you online.
Show your team working hard, having a laugh, or wrapping up a big job. These videos show what it’s like to work with you. That’s how you attract solid people, not just customers.
✅ Example: “We’re looking for a second-year sparky to join our Brisbane crew. Hit us up if you’re keen.”
6. Time-Lapse Ads – Fast & Fun to Watch
Time-lapse videos are easy and fun. You can film a full job in just 20 seconds by speeding it up.
It could be a driveway pour, deck build or kitchen install, whatever shows off your work. Add music, your logo, and a quick message like “Need this done? Let’s talk.”
7. UGC-Style Ads – Real, Not Polished
These are ads that feel like they were filmed by a mate on their phone. They’re not too edited, and that’s why they work.
Even though we film on pro gear, we often make it look like UGC (user-generated content) because it builds more trust and gets better results.
✅ Example: “Just had the boys from Unreal Media out to shoot our latest project, unreal results!”
Why This Works for Aussie Tradies
Social media is where people are looking for help now, especially homeowners and small business owners. If they don’t find you there, they’ll call someone else.
Even if you only post a few strong videos, it helps you:
- Win trust
- Show your work
- Stand out from cheap competitors
Worried about the cost of video? Don’t be. We break it all down here:
👉 How Much Should a Business Budget for Video Production?
Want Help Making Your Ads?
If you’re not sure where to start, or just want someone to take care of the whole thing, we’re here.
We’ve helped tradies across Brisbane and beyond build strong video content that brings in leads.
👉 Check out our Social Media Marketing services
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to go viral or post every day. You just need a few solid videos using the top types of social media ads for tradies to show who you are, what you do, and why people should hire you.
The best tradie ads:
- Keep it real
- Get to the point
- Show the work
- Have a clear next step
Want a hand with it? Reach out. We’ll help you get the job done.
