For many trades and construction business owners across Australia, April can feel like a frustrating stop start month.

Between the upcoming Easter long weekend, school holidays, ANZAC Day, and unpredictable weather in some regions, the project pipeline often starts to slow. Jobs are delayed, clients are harder to reach (or on holidays), and teams might be stretched with time off or family commitments.

But this seasonal slowdown isn’t all bad news. In fact, it can be the ideal time to reset, prepare, and get ahead — so when work picks up again, you’re ready to hit the ground running.

Here’s how to make the most of the April pause:

Reconnect with Previous Clients

This is an easy win. Touch base with past customers to check in, offer seasonal services, or see if there’s any new work on the horizon. A friendly message (even a Happy Easter message!) or follow up call often opens the door to repeat work or referrals. It also means your previous happy clients will never forget you and act as a great referral.

Offer Pre-Winter Services

April is the perfect time to promote jobs like:

Roof and gutter inspections
Heating system checks
Stormwater drainage reviews
Insulation top-ups

Those in construction and trades understand that "prevention is cheaper than repair". These services are vital to avoid hefty repair bills down the road. Customers are more likely to book in now to avoid issues during the colder months.

Sort Out the Admin

Slower weeks are a chance to clear the backlog:

Catch up on quoting
Review supplier pricing
Prepare for the BAS deadline (28 April) if you're lodging quarterly
Organise tools, materials or stock
Tidy up the job schedule or CRM

It’s not glamorous, but it sets you up for smoother months ahead.

Update Your Online Presence

If your last Instagram post was from Christmas or your website still says "2023 specials", now’s the time for a refresh. Add recent project photos, request a few client reviews, and make sure your contact details are accurate. Scheduling a regular instagram

A sharp online presence can be the difference between getting that next call — or not.

Train and Retain Your Team

If things are quiet on site, bring the team together for short sessions on safety, quoting, or communication. It’s a good time to reinforce standards, share feedback, and keep people engaged when they’re not flat out.

You could even explore short online courses or certifications to build skills for winter work (like electrical safety, working at heights, or first aid refreshers).

Line Up Work for May–June

Use this time to:

Lock in forward bookings.
Revisit open quotes.
Send reminders to potential customers who said "get back to me in a few weeks".
In trades? Reach out to builders or contractors for subcontracting opportunities. In construction? Reach out architects and real estate agents for connections.

April may be slower, but May often brings a rebound — especially as clients try to use remaining budgets before the financial year ends.

Slowdowns are part of the cycle. What matters is how you use them.

Rather than stressing about fewer jobs on the board, see April as a chance to strengthen your business foundations. That way, when the phones start ringing again — and they will — you’ll be ready.

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April Slowdown? Here’s How to Keep Your Trade Business Moving