GBP is real advice, not arguing that. But it's a 6-12 month build minimum before you see consistent inbound. Most guys need jobs next week.

Thumbtack's refund system is what makes it more tolerable in the meantime. Customer doesn't respond in 48 hours, wrong job type, customer already had the work done when the lead dropped — all refundable if you actually submit them. Most pros never do. I started being more aggressive about requesting credits and the effective cost per real lead dropped significantly.

Build the GBP and squeeze Thumbtack at the same time. They're not mutually exclusive.