How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Contracting Business
Google reviews can make or break your contracting business. 93% of consumers read reviews before choosing a local service provider. Here's how to build a 5-star reputation.
Why Google Reviews Matter
The numbers don't lie:
- 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
- Businesses with 4+ stars get 12x more clicks than those with 3 stars
- 72% of customers won't take action until they read reviews
- Local SEO ranking depends heavily on review quality and quantity
More reviews = more visibility = more customers.
10 Strategies to Get More Reviews
1. Ask at the Right Moment
Timing is everything. Ask for a review when customers are happiest:
- Right after completing a job (while you're still there)
- After they compliment your work
- When they pay their invoice (if paying in person)
Don't wait days or weeks - the moment passes quickly.
2. Make It Ridiculously Easy
Remove all friction from the review process:
- Send a direct link to your Google review page
- Include the link in your invoice or receipt
- Create a QR code they can scan
- Text the link (most effective method)
Pro tip: You can get your direct Google review link from your Google Business Profile under "Get more reviews."
3. Use Automated Review Requests
Set up automatic review requests after every completed job:
- Send a text message 1-2 hours after job completion
- Include a personal thank-you message
- Provide a direct link to leave a review
Business Genie automates this entire process - reviews requests go out automatically after every job.
4. Train Your Team
Every technician should be comfortable asking for reviews:
What to say:
"Mr. Smith, I'm glad we could fix that for you today. If you have a minute, it would really help our small business if you could leave us a quick Google review. I can text you the link right now."
Practice makes perfect. Role-play with your team.
5. Follow Up on Estimates (Even Lost Ones)
Even customers who don't hire you can leave reviews about their estimate experience:
- Professional communication
- Prompt response
- Fair pricing
- Knowledgeable technicians
Some of your best reviews might come from people who appreciated your professionalism.
6. Respond to Every Review
Responding shows you care and encourages others to leave reviews:
For positive reviews:
"Thank you, [Name]! We loved working with you and appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. See you next time!"
For negative reviews:
"We're sorry to hear about your experience, [Name]. Please contact us at [phone] so we can make this right."
Always respond professionally - potential customers are watching.
7. Create Review Cards
Physical reminder cards work surprisingly well:
- Hand them out after completing jobs
- Include QR code and short URL
- Add a simple "Thank you for your business"
- Leave in visible spot (on counter, with invoice)
8. Leverage Email Signatures
Every email you send is an opportunity:
Add to your signature:
"Happy with our service? Leave us a review: [link]"
Simple, passive, and effective.
9. Offer Exceptional Service
The best review strategy is exceptional service:
- Show up on time (or call ahead if delayed)
- Protect the customer's home (booties, drop cloths)
- Explain what you're doing and why
- Clean up after yourself
- Follow up to ensure satisfaction
5-star service leads to 5-star reviews naturally.
10. Don't Incentivize Reviews
Important: Google prohibits incentivizing reviews. Don't offer:
- Discounts for reviews
- Gift cards for reviews
- Any compensation for reviews
This can get your reviews removed or your listing penalized.
What to Do About Negative Reviews
Negative reviews happen. Here's how to handle them:
- Don't panic - One bad review won't sink you
- Respond quickly - Within 24 hours
- Take it offline - Offer to discuss via phone
- Make it right - Fix the problem if possible
- Learn from it - Use feedback to improve
Often, customers will update their review after you resolve the issue.
How Many Reviews Do You Need?
Aim for:
- Minimum: 10 reviews to appear credible
- Good: 25-50 reviews
- Great: 100+ reviews
- Ongoing: 2-4 new reviews per month
Consistency matters more than having hundreds at once.
Track Your Progress
Monitor your reviews regularly:
- Set up Google Alerts for your business name
- Check your Google Business Profile weekly
- Track your average rating over time
- Celebrate milestones with your team
Automate Your Review Requests
The easiest way to get consistent reviews is automation.
Business Genie automatically sends review requests after every completed job. No manual work required - just great service and the reviews follow.
Start your free trial and watch your reviews grow.