When a homeowner needs a roofer, plumber or builder, they usually look at the map listings and compare reviews before they call anyone. Contractors with a steady stream of recent, specific reviews tend to get the call. Most good contractors simply never ask.
Ask at the right moment
The best time is when the customer is happiest: the day the job is finished and they have seen the result. A message a week later is much less effective. Build the request into your finishing routine, like handing over keys or sending the final invoice.
Make it effortless
- Use your direct Google review link, so one tap opens the review box.
- Send it by text or WhatsApp, where people will actually see it.
- Keep the message short and personal, using their name and the job.
- Offer a gentle prompt, such as mentioning what the job involved, but never write the review for them.
A simple message you can adapt
'Hi Sam, thanks again for trusting us with the kitchen. If you were happy with the work, a short Google review would help other homeowners find us. This link opens it directly. Thank you!' Honest and brief works better than anything elaborate.
Reply to every review
Thank people by name and mention something specific about the job. For a critical review, stay calm, apologise where it is fair, explain what you will do and offer to talk offline. Future customers read your replies as carefully as the reviews.
What not to do
- Do not buy reviews or write your own.
- Do not offer discounts or gifts in return for positive reviews.
- Do not ask only the customers you expect to be happy, if the platform's rules say otherwise.
- Do not argue with reviewers in public.
Reviews are one part of being found locally. Our local SEO and Google Business Profile guide explains how the profile, reviews and website work together.