Get More Google Reviews for Tradies: A Simple System That Works
Why Reviews Matter More Than Ever
In the trades, trust is everything — and reviews are your proof. When a new customer is choosing between you and a competitor, Google reviews often tip the scale.
They:
- Improve your local SEO ranking
- Build social proof and trust fast
- Convert browsers into booked jobs
Yet most tradies don’t have a review system in place. That’s what this guide is here to fix.
Keyphrase: get more Google reviews for tradies
Step 1: Make It Effortless to Leave a Review
Most customers won’t jump through hoops. You need to make leaving a review stupidly easy:
- Text or email your direct Google review link after a job
- Print a QR code on your invoice, job card, or van
- Use a tap card that opens the review form in seconds
💡 How to create your review link
Related: Streamline your quoting workflow →
Step 2: Ask at the Right Time
Timing is everything. You’re most likely to get a review when:
- The job is freshly completed
- The client is complimenting your work
- You’re wrapping up with a handshake and invoice
Use this line:
“If you were happy with the job, a quick Google review helps other locals find us — and only takes 30 seconds.”
Step 3: Use a Digital Review Card
Digital business cards with NFC or QR tap simplify the process even further.
- Opens the review form instantly on any phone
- Looks tech-savvy and trustworthy
- Can include photos, testimonials, and service links
Step 4: Show Customers How (Yes, Really)
Some customers simply don’t know how to leave a review — even if they want to.
- Include a how-to image or short video link
- Walk them through it on their phone if appropriate
- Add it to your thank-you SMS or email
External tip: Neil Patel’s guide to Google reviews
Step 5: Incentivise (Without Breaking Google’s Rules)
No, you can’t “pay” for reviews — but you can reward customers for helping.
- Monthly draws for clients who leave a review
- Priority bookings for repeat reviewers
- A small thank-you gift or shout-out on socials
It’s smart marketing, not bribery.
Step 6: Respond to Every Review
Replying isn’t just good manners — it shows future clients that you care.
- Improves engagement and trust
- Boosts your SEO rankings
- Turns negative reviews into credibility builders (if handled well)
Pro tip: Keep replies short, specific, and always calm.
Related: Avoid common automation traps
Step 7: Make It Part of Your Job Workflow
The tradies who win at Google reviews aren’t pushy — they’re consistent.
- Add a review request to your post-job checklist
- Automate SMS follow-up using tools like ServiceM8, Fergus, or Tradify
- Include review prompts in your CRM emails
AI-powered CRMs for tradies
Top CRM tools
Final Checklist: Review System Summary
- ✅ Direct Google link ready
- ✅ QR code on invoice, van, card
- ✅ Ask at the right moment
- ✅ Use digital tap-to-review cards
- ✅ Include a how-to walkthrough
- ✅ Reward customers creatively
- ✅ Respond to all reviews
- ✅ Automate it with your tools
Conclusion: Let Happy Customers Sell You
You don’t need 500 reviews to win more work — you need the right kind of consistent feedback, week in, week out.
Make it part of your job close-out.
Keep it simple.
Build trust one happy client at a time.
And let your customers do the selling for you.
