The 60-Second Review Request

In the construction industry, word-of-mouth has always been a strong marketing tool. When a satisfied customer recommends you to a friend or neighbour, it gives your business real credibility before you’ve even met the prospect.

But a glowing referral doesn’t mean a guaranteed job. While homeowners trust their contacts, they’re still likely to check you out online before going ahead with you. And that is where the 60-second review request can make all the difference.

Why Google Reviews Matter

For most homeowners searching for builders, landscapers, roofers, or other trades, the first step is a quick Google search. And even people who have been recommended to you are likely to check out your reviews before going ahead with you.

Your Google reviews provide visible proof that you’re trustworthy and provide quality work.

• A handful of genuine 5-star reviews can move you up Google’s local rankings.

• Positive reviews boost conversion rates when someone checks your Google Business Profile.

• They build trust before you’ve even spoken to the customer.

Simply put, strong reviews help you win more local enquiries.

The 60-Second Review Request

The best time to ask for a review is when your customer is happiest - right after you have completed a job they’re thrilled with. But the request needs to be quick, natural, and easy. Here’s how to do it in under a minute:

1.      Thank them sincerely. Let them know how much you appreciate their business. “It’s been a pleasure working with you. I’m really glad you’re happy with the job.”

2.      Ask directly, but make it personal.

“Would you mind leaving a quick Google review about your experience? It really helps local people find us.”

3.      Make it effortless.

Send them your Google Review link by text or email while you’re still in conversation.

You can create this link in your Google Business Profile dashboard, and save it to your phone so you can share it instantly.

4.      Encourage a few words rather than perfection.

“It only needs to be a couple of sentences, just about the work we did and how you found the process.”

That short, friendly exchange keeps the momentum going, and increases the chance they will actually leave that review.

Practical Tips for Trade Businesses

• Add the link to your review page to your invoices, emails, and WhatsApp messages.

• Print a QR code linking to your review page on your site boards, business cards or job-completion sheets.

• When someone leaves a review, follow up with a thank-you message. This builds loyalty and encourages referrals.

• Get the whole team involved. If you’ve got on-site staff, make sure they are comfortable asking customers directly.

Summary

Your existing customers already trust you, and they’re the best promoters you will ever have. Turning those verbal recommendations into Google reviews only takes a minute, but the impact lasts for years. Start using the 60-second review request, and watch your online reputation grow alongside your enquiries.

 

Take Action

This week, set up your Google Review link and save it on your phone. The next time you finish a great job, take 60 seconds to ask your customer for a review. Those few moments can help your business stand out in every local search.

Up Next

In our next post, we’ll cover “What to Put on Your Van, Hoodie, and Site Board” — how simple visual touches can turn your everyday tools and vehicles into powerful local marketing assets.

Found This Useful?

I hope you have found The 60-Second Review Request helpful. If you would like to discuss how to collect more Google reviews and strengthen your local online reputation, email me. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn. If you would like to talk about your construction company's digital marketing strategy, feel free to reach out as well.

About the Author

John Wright started his career in the construction industry at Kennedy Builders Merchants in the 1980s. This marked the beginning of a 35-year journey in sales, marketing, and business development in construction.

In 2016, John transitioned into digital marketing as an it’seeze web design franchisee, before founding RBC Marketing in 2022. Today, he uses his strong knowledge of the construction industry along with marketing skills. He helps construction companies create a strong online presence. He also drives business growth through both digital and traditional marketing strategies.