
A job well done is reward enough for a contractor. But when it comes to growing your reputation, a few glowing reviews from satisfied clients can make a huge difference. Finding the best time to request reviews from construction clients isn't easy, but it's a valuable part of your business growth.
Here's how you can decide when to ask for reviews as a contractor.
How Long After Job Completion Should You Ask for Reviews?
In construction, project review timing is a tightrope. But it's important for small business contractors to master it to reap the rewards of digital feedback. The three key windows of opportunity are:
The final walk-through: For many clients, this is the culmination of a long-term goal. Seeing the finished work, as intended, is the peak time to verbally approach a happy client about giving you a review.
Within 48 hours of job completion: A friendly email checking in on the client and confirming they're still satisfied can also be effective. Including a review request here makes it feel more focused on ensuring they're happy.
Six to 12 months after occupancy: While it's best to get feedback immediately after completing a job, getting feedback when a client has had time to experience the results can be valuable. It gives you insight into the long-term quality of your work, which future clients love to see.
Customer review timing best practices should differ depending on the client. Using your best judgment and a customer-first approach will help you determine which one works best for your client.
The Benefits of Timing Customer Feedback Requests
A satisfied client is grateful but typically silent. It's the unhappy clients who tend to speak up and post their frustrations online. For contractors, a review request strategy helps to generate a positive buzz about your service, providing you with:
Enhanced reputation: Openly asking for feedback shows your client they're an active part of the project. This approach is professional, collaborative and crucial for building trust.
Increased awareness: Positive online reviews increase your ability to rank online in local searches and gain new business in your area of expertise.
Enhanced USPs: Customer reviews can highlight what makes you stand out as a contractor. These unique selling points can be used in your future marketing to win new projects.
A Simple Way to Manage Customer Feedback Requests
It's not always possible to make reviews a priority. As a contractor, your focus is always on doing the actual work. Finding the right solution to take care of this for you means enjoying the benefits of increased reviews without the administrative headaches. Business Consumer Alliance's (BCA) Customer Feedback Program handles the process for you.
Finding the best time to request customer reviews can boost every aspect of your business. We contact clients about reviews in a timely manner, collect and post positive ones on our website, and even help to resolve negative feedback. This means your business can build trust and win new jobs without losing focus on your projects.
Build Your Reputation and Your Business
Contractors in California and Arizona trust BCA to save them time while helping them grow their business. With decades of experience, we take pride in helping you find more work by increasing online reviews. Learn more about BCA's contract membership and request a free consultation today.
About Business Consumer Alliance
Business Consumer Alliance (BCA) is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening integrity in the marketplace. We help consumers by resolving disputes and providing transparent business reputation reports. At the same time, we support contractors, movers, and small business owners with contract assistance, arbitration services, reputation management resources, along with business and HR advice. We’re here to help good businesses stand out and succeed while protecting the public.