Launched in 2009, Houzz has become a go-to space in the online world for customers to find ideas, inspiration, and even a contractor. There are about 400,000 contractors angling for the 20 million unique monthly visitors at the site, and only capturing a few jobs from the site can set off a new referral network for any paint Pro.

But you can’t take advantage of the opportunity unless you build a Houzz profile, says Liza Hausman, VP of Community for Houzz. “Every day you wait to put up a profile is another day you basically say ‘no’ to new opportunities,” she says.

She offers paint Pros the following advice on how to create a Houzz profile:

Simply get started … The profile immediately puts your business in front of 20 million unique users a month, and it’s FREE. Don’t worry that it’s not perfect. You can always revisit it and add more content over time.

Include LOTS of photos … Houzz is very much a show-me platform. Consumers want to see images of your work. Even an image taken with your phone is better than no image at all. If you later want to upgrade your portfolio, the site actually includes a directory of local photographers who can help you with the job.

Write a unique business description … When penning this portion of your profile, do it as if you were talking to a prospective client about what it’s like to work with you; highlight your approach and why someone should hire you. Give a clear sense of what it’s like to work with you.

Include reviews from satisfied clients … Don’t underestimate the value of a good review. If you have them, include them. If you don’t have them, go get them. A truly happy customer will be willing to help you out, but you have to ask.

For an expanded story on the benefits of using Houzz, read the September issue of inPAINT^TM magazine either in print or online at inpaintmag.com.