In the contracting world, getting reviews can feel a bit like trying to finish a job without the right tools. You know your business delivers quality work—whether you’re building homes, repairing roofs, or doing remodels—but getting that feedback from your clients can be as challenging as finishing drywall in the middle of a rainstorm. However, customer reviews are critical. We’re going to explain why Google Reviews are important, and how you can get more and manage them effectively.
Google Reviews build your reputation, boost your business, and ultimately lead to more jobs. Let’s break down the process of getting business reviews and, more importantly, managing them effectively.
WHY ARE REVIEWS IMPORTANT FOR CONTRACTORS?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s first answer the “why.” As a contractor, you rely on trust to build your business. Homeowners aren’t handing you the keys to their home without feeling confident you’ll do quality work. Reviews serve as your online word-of-mouth; they’re the testimonials that prove you can be trusted with someone’s largest asset—their home.
When potential clients see positive reviews, they can overcome that initial hesitation. They see that others have trusted you, and they can, too. Additionally, reviews can help boost your visibility on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook, improving your search engine ranking and making it easier for new clients to find you.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to teach you how to get business reviews and manage them.
Step 1: Ask for Reviews—Directly
If you wait for reviews to appear organically, you might be waiting a long time. Clients are busy, and often, leaving a review isn’t top of mind once the job is done. The first rule of getting reviews? Ask for them directly. It’s not pushy—it’s just good business.
Here’s a good way to do it: As soon as the job is completed and the dust (literally) has settled, send your client a quick follow-up email or text message thanking them for their business and kindly asking for a review. Make it easy for them by providing direct links to your Google My Business, Yelp, or Facebook pages. Better yet, explain how valuable their feedback is for you in securing future work. Your clients may not realize how impactful their reviews are to your business, so give them a gentle nudge.
For example, you could say:
“Thank you for trusting us with your home! Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us and helps us secure more work like this. If you could take a minute to leave a review about your experience, we’d greatly appreciate it!”
Step 2: Timing is Everything
Timing your review requests can make all the difference. Ask too early, and your client might not have had the chance to fully appreciate the work you’ve done. Ask too late, and they may have already forgotten the project details or moved on with their busy lives.
The sweet spot? Right when they’re experiencing the relief of a job well done—whether it’s a freshly finished bathroom remodel or a brand-new roof that’s holding up beautifully during a storm. The emotions of satisfaction, relief, and excitement should be fresh in their minds.
Step 3: Make it Easy
Construction projects are often complex, but leaving a review should be anything but. Provide clear, simple instructions on leaving a review, and ensure the process doesn’t feel like too much work for your clients. Consider sending them an email with a “one-click” review option that takes them directly to your review page.
You could even create a custom card to hand over to the client at the end of the job, with easy-to-follow instructions for leaving reviews. This small, physical reminder can keep your business top-of-mind, especially if it’s something they can stick on their fridge or keep with their paperwork.
Step 4: Offer Incentives (Without Bribing)
While you can’t outright pay for reviews—nor should you—it’s perfectly fine to offer a little incentive for feedback. This could be as simple as entering clients into a monthly drawing for a gift card when they leave a review. Just be sure to word it carefully so it doesn’t feel like you’re paying for positive reviews, which can come across as unethical.
A great way to offer an incentive is by presenting it as a “thank you” gesture. For instance:
“We truly appreciate your feedback! As a token of our gratitude, all reviews this month will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Home Depot gift card.”
Step 5: Respond to All Reviews—Yes, Even the Bad Ones
Once the reviews start rolling in, don’t just let them sit there. Responding to reviews—both good and bad—shows that you care about your clients’ opinions and that you’re dedicated to continuous improvement.
For positive reviews, a simple “Thank you so much for your kind words! We enjoyed working with you and are glad you’re happy with the result!” goes a long way in cementing that client relationship.
For negative reviews, it’s critical to respond with professionalism and empathy. Potential clients are going to see how you handle criticism, and your response can either make or break their decision to hire you. Acknowledge the issue, offer to resolve it, and avoid getting defensive. Something like this could work:
“Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We strive to provide top-notch service, and we’re sorry we fell short in your case. We would love the opportunity to make it right. Please contact us directly so we can address your concerns.”
The key is to turn a negative situation into a positive one by showing that you’re willing to listen and fix any mistakes
Step 6: Keep Monitoring Your Reviews
Getting reviews isn’t a one-time deal. It’s a continuous process that should be part of your overall marketing strategy. Make it a habit to check your reviews regularly. This ensures you can respond to any feedback in a timely manner and address any potential issues before they escalate.
You can also use your reviews as a tool for improvement. If you notice clients mentioning similar issues—like delays in scheduling or communication gaps—you can make the necessary adjustments to enhance your service.
Once you’ve got a solid collection of glowing reviews, don’t keep them hidden! Share them across your marketing channels, whether it’s on your website, social media, or in your promotional materials. Testimonials are powerful social proof, especially when potential clients are comparing you to other contractors.
Consider creating a “Client Testimonials” page on your website or regularly posting standout reviews on your social media profiles. It’s one thing to claim you’re the best contractor in town—it’s another thing when your clients say it for you.
Conclusion: Reviews Build Your Business
In the construction industry, where word-of-mouth referrals and reputation are everything, managing your online reviews is a game-changer. By actively seeking reviews, responding thoughtfully, and showcasing your feedback, you’ll build a rock-solid reputation that will help your business grow.
So, go ahead—grab that digital hammer, build your online reputation, and watch your business thrive. The next time a homeowner is looking for a contractor, they’ll see your glowing reviews and know they can trust you with the job.
