In today's digital world, reviews are everything. 93% of consumers read online reviews before hiring a contractor. A strong review profile can be the difference between a thriving business and an empty diary.
Here's how to build and maintain a 5-star reputation.
Why Reviews Matter
Reviews build trust before you ever meet a customer. They:
- Improve your visibility in local search results
- Provide social proof that you deliver quality work
- Help customers choose you over competitors
- Give you valuable feedback to improve
The Best Time to Ask
Timing is crucial. The best moments to request a review are:
- Immediately after completing a job successfully
- When a customer expresses satisfaction
- After resolving a concern (turning critics into advocates)
Don't wait too long. Enthusiasm fades, and customers get busy.
How to Ask
Make it easy. Send a direct link to your review page. A simple message like:
"Thank you for choosing us for your [job type]. If you're happy with our work, we'd really appreciate a quick review. Here's the link: [link]"
Personal asks work better than automated requests. Mention specific aspects of the job to jog their memory.
Where to Collect Reviews
Focus on platforms that matter for your industry:
- **Google Business Profile**: Most important for local search
- **Checkatrade/TrustATrader**: Industry-specific trust signals
- **Facebook**: Where customers often search locally
Don't spread too thin. It's better to have many reviews on one platform than a few on many.
Handling Negative Reviews
Negative reviews happen. How you respond matters more than the review itself.
Do:
- Respond promptly and professionally
- Acknowledge their concerns
- Offer to resolve the issue offline
- Learn from legitimate criticism
Don't:
- Get defensive or argumentative
- Ignore the review
- Ask friends to post fake positive reviews
Creating Review-Worthy Experiences
The best way to get good reviews is to deliver great service:
- Communicate clearly and promptly
- Show up on time
- Do quality work
- Leave the site clean
- Follow up after the job
Reviews are earned, not manufactured.