How do I get more Google reviews for my trade business?
Ask every happy customer, on the day the job is finished, with a direct link to your Google review page. Keep the request short and personal. The biggest reason tradies don't have more reviews is that they don't ask consistently, so make the request go out automatically when a job is marked complete.
Ask at the right moment
The best time is when the customer is looking at the finished job. A day later is fine. A month later, most people won't bother.
Make it one tap
Send a direct link to your review page, so they don't have to search for your business. Every extra step loses people.
Keep it personal
"Thanks for having us out today, Jo. If you're happy with the new hot water system, a quick Google review would really help a small business like ours." Short, specific and honest.
Follow the rules
Don't offer rewards for reviews, don't write them yourself, and don't ask only the customers you know are happy while hiding the rest from the process. Only message customers who've dealt with you, and respect anyone who says no.
Common questions
Should I reply to reviews?
Yes, to all of them, briefly. Replies to negative reviews matter most.
Can I offer a discount for a review?
No. Incentivised reviews breach Google's policies and can mislead customers.
Text or email for review requests?
Use the channel the customer already uses with you, and only message people who've done business with you.
Can review requests be automatic?
Yes. They can send when a job is marked complete, with a reminder if there's no response.