In today’s digital world, customer reviews can make or break your trade business. Whether you’re a builder, decorator, plumber, or electrician, potential clients want to see what others say about your work before hiring you.
Good reviews build trust, improve your reputation, and even help you rank higher in online searches. In this blog, we’ll explore why customer reviews are essential and how you can collect more of them to win more work.
1. Why Customer Reviews Matter
Reviews act as word-of-mouth recommendations, helping potential clients feel confident about choosing you.
The Benefits of Customer Reviews:
✔ Build Trust: 90% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
✔ Boost Your Online Visibility: Google prioritises businesses with lots of positive reviews.
✔ Increase Conversion Rates: Customers are more likely to hire a tradesperson with good reviews.
✔ Give You a Competitive Edge: If you and a competitor offer the same service, the one with better reviews will get the job.
Tip: The more genuine reviews you have, the more likely you are to win new customers.
2. Where to Collect Customer Reviews
Having reviews across multiple platforms increases your credibility and visibility.
The Best Places for Trade Business Reviews:
✔ Google Business Profile – Essential for local searches and helps you appear on Google Maps.
✔ NRTAUK Accreditation Page – Being accredited and having positive reviews strengthens your reputation.
✔ Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok) – Customers often check social media before hiring.
✔ Trade Websites (Checkatrade, MyBuilder, TrustATrader, Rated People, etc.) – More reviews mean more trust.
✔ Your Website – Create a testimonials page or showcase reviews on your homepage.
Tip: Focus on Google and NRTAUK reviews first, as they have the biggest impact on your online presence.
3. How to Ask for Reviews (Without Being Pushy)
Most happy customers won’t leave a review unless you ask them—so make it easy for them!
Best Ways to Request Reviews:
✔ In Person: After finishing a job, say: “I’d really appreciate it if you could leave a review—it helps small businesses like mine grow.”
✔ Via Text or Email: Send a polite message with a direct link to your Google review page.
✔ On Your Invoices: Add a small note: “Happy with the service? Please leave us a review!”
✔ Use QR Codes: Print a QR code on business cards, flyers, or van signage that links directly to your review page.
✔ Follow Up: If a customer hasn’t left a review after a week, send a reminder: “Hope you’re happy with the work! If you have a moment, a review would mean a lot to us.”
Tip: People are more likely to leave a review if it’s quick and easy. Always provide a direct link.
4. How to Handle Negative Reviews
No business is perfect, and you’ll eventually get a bad review. The key is how you handle it.
Steps to Respond to Negative Reviews:
✔ Stay Calm: Don’t take it personally.
✔ Acknowledge the Issue: “I’m sorry to hear you weren’t completely satisfied.”
✔ Offer a Solution: “We’d love to discuss how we can make this right. Please contact us.”
✔ Keep It Professional: Don’t argue—others will judge you by your response.
Why This Matters:
✔ Shows potential clients that you care about customer service.
✔ Gives you a chance to resolve misunderstandings.
✔ Can turn an unhappy customer into a loyal one.
Tip: A polite, professional response can turn a bad review into a positive impression.
5. Showcasing Your Best Reviews
Once you’ve collected great reviews, make sure people see them!
Where to Display Your Best Reviews:
✔ On Your Website – Add a dedicated “Customer Reviews” section.
✔ On Social Media – Share screenshots of great feedback.
✔ On Business Cards & Flyers – Include a short testimonial.
✔ On Your Van – A short quote like “5-star rated tradesman” adds credibility.
Tip: Video testimonials from customers are even more powerful—consider asking happy clients
to share their experiences on video. This adds a personal touch and makes the review even more relatable to potential customers.
Where to Post Video Reviews:
✔ Your Website – Embed video reviews on your homepage or testimonials page.
✔ Social Media – Share short video clips to engage with followers.
✔ YouTube – Create a channel and upload video testimonials to build credibility.
Tip: Video reviews are one of the most effective ways to connect with your audience and showcase the quality of your work.
6. The Impact of Consistency
It’s not just about getting one or two reviews—it’s about building a consistent stream of positive feedback.
How to Encourage Ongoing Reviews:
✔ Ask for reviews after every job – Make it part of your process.
✔ Stay engaged with your customers – Regularly remind them about the importance of reviews, especially after successful jobs.
✔ Offer incentives for repeat customers – Offer discounts or perks for leaving multiple reviews over time.
Tip: The more reviews you collect over time, the more reliable and trustworthy your business appears.
7. The Power of Reviews for Reputation Management
Customer reviews don’t just help with attracting new clients; they’re a critical part of reputation management. Regularly checking and responding to reviews can help you stay on top of any issues and ensure your reputation remains positive.
How to Manage Your Reputation:
✔ Monitor Reviews Regularly – Use tools like Google Alerts or review management platforms to keep an eye on new reviews.
✔ Respond to All Reviews – Acknowledge the feedback and thank customers for their time.
✔ Address Any Concerns – If a customer leaves negative feedback, respond professionally and quickly.
Tip: Proactive reputation management can prevent negative reviews from having a long-lasting impact. Addressing problems swiftly shows potential customers that you care.
Conclusion
Customer reviews are an essential tool in growing your trade business. They build trust, increase your visibility, and set you apart from the competition. By actively collecting, managing, and showcasing reviews, you can attract more clients, improve your reputation, and position yourself as a trusted professional in your field.
Take Action Today:
✔ Start asking your customers for reviews after every job.
✔ Monitor your reviews and respond to both positive and negative feedback.
✔ Showcase your best reviews on your website, social media, and marketing materials.
Remember, the more positive reviews you accumulate, the more work you’ll win!
Want to improve your credibility and build a better reputation? Sign up with NRTAUK and get recognised as a trusted, accredited tradesperson today.
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