Retainer
An ongoing monthly agreement where you pay a fixed amount for marketing services.
The Tradie Take
A retainer is like hiring an apprentice on a regular wage instead of calling a different sparky every time a light globe blows. The apprentice (retainer) learns your business, gets faster over time, and is always there. Project work is cheaper upfront but you start from scratch every time. A retainer builds momentum month after month.
Definition
A retainer is a monthly agreement where you pay a fixed fee for ongoing marketing services. Instead of project-based pricing (one-off fee for one-off work), a retainer covers continuous work like SEO maintenance, monthly content, citation building, and reporting. For tradies, a retainer model means predictable costs, no surprise invoices, and a marketing partner who is invested in your long-term growth rather than just delivering a project and moving on.
How It Works
- 1 You agree on a monthly scope of work and a fixed monthly fee
- 2 Work is delivered consistently each month (content, optimisation, reporting)
- 3 Results compound over time - month 6 is stronger than month 1
- 4 Most retainers are month-to-month with no lock-in contract
Tips for Tradies
- Make sure the retainer scope is clear - exactly what you are getting each month
- Month-to-month retainers keep the agency accountable - they have to earn their keep every month
- SEO retainers typically take 3-6 months to show real momentum