#47 The Trade Industry Has A Victim Mentality

In this episode of the Off The Tools Podcast, Wayne Bettess and Andy Jones tackle a mindset that holds far too many tradesmen back: victim mentality. From blaming cheap competitors, the economy, customers, VAT, tax, accountants, staff, lead platforms and “the race to the bottom”, too many trade business owners give away their power instead of taking ownership of the business they are building. Wayne and Andy break down why it is only a race to the bottom if you choose to run in that race — and why the real opportunity in 2026 is to compete on value, not just price. They discuss why customers are willing to pay more when the experience around the job is better: faster communication, proper booking confirmations, on-the-way messages, clear pricing, good software, strong reviews, professional branding and a business that feels reliable from start to finish. Inside this episode, we cover: • Why “race to the bottom” is often an excuse • Why cheap competitors are not your real problem • How to compete on value instead of price • Why customers pay more for a better experience • Why answering the phone and communicating properly matters • How victim mentality shows up in pricing, VAT, tax and staffing • Why blaming customers keeps tradesmen stuck • Why your current customers may not be your future customers • How better systems and software help you charge more • Why business owners need to think like problem solvers • Why surrounding yourself with the right people changes your standards • Book recommendations for mindset, ownership and resilience This episode is perfect for plumbers, heating engineers, electricians, builders, gas engineers and trade business owners who feel frustrated with the market, pricing, customers or competition — but know deep down they need to take more ownership. Because the truth is, two businesses in the same town, doing the same trade, in the same economy, can get completely different results. The difference is usually mindset, standards, systems and the willingness to take responsibility. It is only a race to the bottom if you choose to compete at the bottom. Stop blaming the market, the customers, the government, the accountant, the competition or the economy. Take ownership, build more value, improve the customer experience, charge properly, and surround yourself with people who are moving forward — not moaning from the sidelines. Key Takeaway