How Does Thumbtack Work?

If you’re looking for a local service—like a handyman, wedding photographer, or personal trainer—Thumbtack makes it easy to find professionals in your area. The platform acts as a two-way marketplace: customers submit service requests, and local professionals respond with quotes or availability. For customers, it’s a streamlined way to compare and book trusted help. For professionals, it’s a lead generation tool designed to grow their business. Here’s a complete breakdown of how Thumbtack works, whether you’re hiring help or offering it.

What Is Thumbtack?

Thumbtack is an online service marketplace launched in 2008. It connects individuals who need services with local professionals who can provide them. With categories ranging from home improvement and personal wellness to events and tutoring, Thumbtack serves millions of users across the U.S.

The platform is designed to simplify the process of finding and hiring qualified local help. Instead of browsing classifieds or asking around for referrals, users can search, message, and book professionals—all in one place.

How Thumbtack Works for Customers

Searching for Services

As a customer, the process begins with a search. You type in the type of service you need (e.g., “plumber,” “dog trainer”) and your zip code. Thumbtack’s algorithm then displays a list of local pros who fit your criteria.

You can filter results based on factors like ratings, years of experience, or availability. Each pro’s profile includes pricing, services offered, photos of past work, and verified customer reviews.

Connecting with Professionals

Once you find a few promising options, you can reach out directly through the Thumbtack messaging system. You can describe your project, ask for quotes, or clarify availability.

In some cases, Thumbtack matches you with professionals instantly, and they’ll contact you proactively with offers. You can then compare responses and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Booking and Payments

After selecting a professional, you can book the service right through the platform. Some jobs offer set pricing, while others may require an estimate and negotiation. Many professionals accept payment via Thumbtack’s secure payment system, which adds convenience and protection for both parties.

How Thumbtack Works for Professionals

Creating a Profile

To start on Thumbtack as a pro, you’ll create a free profile. You can list your services, service area, credentials, pricing, and even upload photos or videos of past work. A well-filled-out profile with reviews and a portfolio makes a big difference in attracting clients.

Setting Preferences

Professionals can define the types of jobs they want to receive leads for by selecting service categories, locations they serve, and the kinds of clients they prefer. Thumbtack uses these preferences to match pros with the most relevant leads.

You can also control your availability and choose whether you want to receive instant bookings or approve each job manually.

Managing Leads and Payments

When a potential customer reaches out or requests a quote, it appears in your Thumbtack inbox as a lead. You’re charged for the lead (cost varies by service and competition), whether or not the customer ends up hiring you.

You can reply to the lead, send estimates, or schedule consultations. If hired, you can complete the job and collect payment directly through the platform or via your own preferred method.

Thumbtack’s Pricing Model

For Customers

Using Thumbtack is completely free for customers. You can search for professionals, request quotes, compare offers, and even book services without paying anything to the platform.

For Professionals

Thumbtack makes money by charging professionals for leads. When a customer contacts a pro or engages with a quote, the pro is charged a fee—even if that job doesn’t pan out. The cost per lead varies depending on demand and job type, and while many pros find it worth the investment, it’s important to manage lead spending wisely.

Some pros opt for Thumbtack’s “Instant Match” feature, which automatically sends quotes to customers and streamlines the hiring process. However, this can also lead to higher lead costs if not monitored carefully.

Pros and Cons of Using Thumbtack

Conclusion

Thumbtack streamlines the process of hiring and getting hired for local services. For customers, it’s a convenient, user-friendly tool to find trusted professionals. For pros, it offers access to job opportunities, though it comes with costs that require careful management.

If you’re a local business looking to maximize your visibility and win more clients through platforms like Thumbtack, 7ten Digital Marketing can help. Our marketing experts specialize in optimizing your online presence so you can focus on what you do best—reach out today and let us help!