How to Become a Female Handyman

The job of a handyman is usually limited to the male fraternity, with women being discouraged from taking on the role. In fact, studies reveal that 95.8% of handymen in the U.S. are men, and only 4.2% of women choose the profession.

But despite the male dominance and gender stereotypes, there is no reason why modern women should not (and cannot) learn the processes of maintenance, construction, and repair. Plus, it's common for things to stop working around the house. Knowing the DIY handy techniques would omit the need to call a professional or rely on a male member.

So, roll up your sleeves and read this guide to learn the skills you need to become a ‘female handyman.‘

Acquiring Basic Handyman Skills

Generally, there is no formal training required to become a handywoman. However, there are some approaches you can follow to speed up the learning process.

Where to Learn?

1. Have a Toolbox Ready

The essential possession of every handyman or handywoman is the toolbox. The toolbox should have all the basic items you need to learn the skills. Since they are expensive, we suggest purchasing them gradually and keeping them organized in a heavy-duty toolbox. Also, make sure to familiarize yourself with their use and protocols to ensure your safety.

2. Vocational Schools & Colleges

Several communities and vocational institutes for adults provide training in specific handyman skills like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC (heat, ventilating, and cooling). Professional institutes also offer a license in these trades for those who wish to turn their skills and interest into a career option.

3. Online Courses

Another way to learn basic handyman skills is to enroll in an online school. Free and paid courses are available on the internet, with comprehensive tutorials for honing your handywomen skills. Some online classes will also award a certificate after completing the e-course.

4. Watch DIY Videos

We all know that YouTube is a haven for students who want educational resources at their fingertips. Turn towards the video-sharing service and find a vast amount of informative tips and guidance to become competent in the skills. The biggest benefit of video tutorials is that you get to actually see the process instead of reading the instructions.

5. Find an Experienced Mentor

Professional handyperson or workshops are often looking for assistance in their daily tasks. Look at such opportunities available in your area. You will not get paid, but the chance to work with an experienced person and get hands-on training will be beneficial in the long run.

6. Help Out Non-Profits

Different non-profit organizations like Habitat for Humanity are working tirelessly to build homes for the homeless and less privileged. The entities are always in search of helping hands that provide assistance in their welfare programs. Consider volunteering if any such program exists in your city. This will expose you to various ‘handy‘ trades and skills - without spending a dime.

7. Work On Your Own Home

Last but not least, make your home the ‘institute‘ for your learning goals. As we all know, education begins at home for everyone! Use the space and make improvements or repairs whenever there is an opportunity. Sure, you will make mistakes! But the experiences will make you more self-reliant and confident to tackle different scenarios.

What to Learn?

The responsibilities of a female handyman would depend on whether they are training for domestic and DIY home tasks or commercial. But handyperson skills typically involve handling electrical, plumbing, and mechanical-related repairs or maintenance. Some key tasks include:

• Changing bulbs and fuses.
• Rewiring or repairing the electrical system of the premises.
• Maintenance of electrical fixtures and fittings.
• Ensuring the optimal functioning of mechanical equipment.
• Installing and updating the plumbing.
• Interpreting and fixing leaks.
• Painting and decorating.
• Assembling and installing furniture.
• Basic gardening and landscape maintenance.
• Keeping a check on the heating and cooling system.
• Measuring and installing tiles for floors and walls.

While these are the basic handywomen responsibilities, you can choose to become an expert in any as per your professional and revenue goals.

Careers For DIY-Friendly Handywomen

Female handymen have a lot of options if they would like to take their skills to a lucrative level.

Once you are confident about your abilities, you can start searching for jobs or temporary services on portals like Linkedin, Indeed, Craiglist, and TaskRabbit. Visit the page of USAJOBS.gov if you would like to work as a helper on a government project. But remember, jobs at the federal level are very competitive with an indefinite waiting period.

Another career possibility is to start your own handywomen business. Get a working permit and register your business as an LLC with the local government. Make sure to have insurance in place to cover potential accidents and mistakes.

After setting up, advertise your business to friends, family members, and the neighborhood. You can also set up your own website and promote your handywomen business. Use the power of social media to your advantage and actively post updates about your business on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter.

Blogs or YouTube videos are also a profitable way to show your creative side and earn a passive income stream. Just choose a niche, such as home improvement and DIY tips. Then create a blog page using a CMS like WordPress. Or register your channel on YouTube and start creating an engaging video or textual content.

Once you achieve a specific number of followers on your page, you can monetize the account and start earning payments from your content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Much Can a Handywoman Make per Month?

The handywoman salary varies on your expertise. However, Payscale estimates around $24.54 hourly pay for a handyperson.

2. Would a Woman Prefer a Handywoman over a Handyman?

Yes, a woman who lives alone would prefer having a female handyman to maximize their safety and comfort.

3. What Are the Benefits of Learning Basic DIY Skills?

The biggest benefit of learning a basic DIY skill is the savings of money. Home maintenance and repairs are expensive, and learning to do them independently can be the biggest cost-saving factor. Moreover, a creative DIY skill gives mental health a boost and evokes positive feelings.

Conclusion

It may be intimidating to learn the skills of a male-oriented domain. However, completing odd jobs around the house and even making it a career option can be a satisfying (and financially rewarding) experience.

Now that you know all about becoming a female handyman, its time to start the process and excel in the creative skillset.