Notice Board and , what I thought was the door , I found a woman making tea . It turned out I was at number 9 by mistake … The confusion was due to the terrace housing and house number 1 having two back gates which threw out the sequencing . I really like the challenges that locksmithing offers . Each day is unique and presents a diverse range of tasks , making it difficult to predict what will come next . What you don ’ t know you can always learn .
Work-life Balance
In 2017 , East Cleveland Lock & Key expanded into alarms and CCTV , so now we handle both locks and security systems . I considered diving into the auto locksmithing side of things , but realised it ’ s too much to juggle everything . The balance I ’ ve found – 50 / 50 between locksmithing and security systems – works perfectly . It ’ s manageable and allows for valuable family time . I don ’ t want to miss out on my little one growing up . The plan for next year is to keep this balance and ensure I earn enough to live comfortably .
Advice to New Locksmiths
If you ’ re looking for training , check out Seth Ryden at Fortress LS Training School in Blackburn . He shares videos on the UK Locksmith Hub on Facebook , which are game-changing . Seth is always willing to help and answer questions . My advice : don ’ t hesitate to ask for help . Avoid offering 24-hour service ; it can take over your life . Don ’ t be afraid to turn down jobs that are beyond your skill set ; refer them to someone else . It ’ s all about passing it on . Locksmith work karma : what you give will come back to you twofold . Help others and they will help you .
When becoming a locksmith , in the early days you ’ ll find that you ’ re influenced by the people who help you , they will guide you well . One person that has really help me on my journey is Natasha from APECS – their products are excellent and she ’ s a great point of contact . For CCTV , I use Dahua CCTV from Mast Digital . They hold training days and always have someone available to help on the phone . Personal contacts make all the difference . I prefer this over dealing with big corporations .
Marketing My Business
I ’ ve found Instagram and TikTok to be invaluable for marketing . Video content really works . I make stories on busy days showing where I am and what I ’ m doing . It helps people see your business and build confidence before they hire you . Just forget about everyone else ( who is seeing your posts ) and don ’ t be shy . It ’ s free advertising , and everyone does it , social media is a marketing necessity .
Resources : The Locksmith Journal & Networking
I love reading the Locksmith Journal for updates on new products . Since I can ’ t always attend trade shows , it ’ s a great way to catch up . The articles from other locksmiths are helpful , and I often reach out to them to connect if we ’ re in the same area . Making other locksmith contacts is valuable , especially when you ’ re starting out , feel free to reach out to me . No question is silly .
Products – spoke to Natasha and just use them because she ’ s helpful and a point of contact APECS . Very good products . Dahua CCTV – Mast digital they hold training days , got a contact always on the end of the phone . I find that I need a personal contact . I don ’ t want to be chasing big corporations .
More information East Cleveland Lock & Key offers locksmith services , CCTV setups , and wireless alarm installations . As an NCFE level 3 qualified locksmith , they can help with everything from unlocking homes to fixing window handles . They also adjust UPVC doors and open jammed windows .
Services include :
• Replacement locks / door mechanisms
• High-security euro cylinders
• Window and door repairs
• Snapped key removal
• Faulty lock repair
• Door hinges and handles replacement
• Standard and mortice lock replacement
• Crime prevention measures ( eg . door and window jammers , safety latches )
www . eclk . co . uk 07376 474357 scott @ eclk . co . uk
DECEMBER 2024
15 locksmithjournal . co . uk