I’m new to Thumbtack just learning how this platform works

Welcome!

My advice:

Screenshot every lead when it comes in, you'll see data points that may disappear. Second, you should use guerilla techniques. As soon as you see the lead, message the user with a pre-defined reply "Hi! Thanks for reaching out. We'll call you momentarily to discuss the details." Do not wait for the user to read it, you're only doing this to to improve your Thumbtack ratings. Now call the User. You need to strong arm them into an appointment. This way, they won't buy from one of the other three or four contractors he selected. I don't like to do business this way, but if you do not do so, you'll just lose money with Thumbtack.

"Hide my business temporarily" at the end of each business day or you'll get inquiries at midnight from Users who won't answer the phone at 9:00 A..M.

Use a CRM to track all this information. If you don't have one, PM me. I'll introduce you to my CRM that is very insightful.

Now that you have an appointment, service the customer and do everything possible to convert him into a long term customer who will call you for the most remote need.. Job is finished? Ask what else you can do. Ask for reviews. Follow up a week or two later. Etc.)

Highly suggest reading my data analysis thread:

https://community.thumbtack.com/discussion/1762/what-5-000-buys-you-on-thumbtack-a-detailed-dive-into-the-data

Good luck!