The “Keep in Touch” Message That Can Bring Back Old Customers

Running a construction or trade business often means you’re focused on the next job, the next quote, the next deadline. But one of the easiest wins is often sitting quietly in your phone or email list, your past customers.

Staying in touch does not have to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, a simple, well-timed message can bring in repeat work and referrals without any hard selling at all.

Why Past Customers Are Your Best Opportunity

People who have already worked with you:

• Know your quality of work

• Trust you more than a new prospect

• Are far more likely to respond

Yet many businesses never follow up once the job is finished. That leaves the door open for competitors when the next project comes up.

A simple “keep in touch” system turns that missed opportunity into a steady stream of enquiries.

The Simple Message That Works

You don’t need a long email or clever sales pitch. The most effective messages are short, friendly, and natural.

Here is a simple example you can use or adapt

“Hi [Name], hope you’re keeping well. I just wanted to see how everything is going since we completed the work. If you’ve got any new plans or need anything done, feel free to get in touch. Always happy to help.”

That’s it. No pressure, no selling. Just a reminder that you’re there.

When to Send It

Timing makes a big difference. A few good opportunities include:

• 3–6 months after completing a job

• Around seasonal changes (e.g. before winter or summer)

• One year after the original work

• When you have availability coming up

You can also schedule these in advance, so it becomes part of your routine rather than something you have to remember.

Email or Text; Which Is Better?

Both work well, but it depends on your relationship:

• Text messages feel more personal and often get quicker responses

• Emails are better if you want to include more detail or images

For most trade businesses, a simple text message is often enough to start a conversation.

Turning This Into a System

The real value comes when this becomes consistent. A simple system could look like:

• Keep a list of past customers (name, phone, email, job date)

• Set reminders to follow up at key intervals

• Send a short message

• Log any replies or new opportunities

Over time, this can become a reliable source of repeat work and referrals. It’s really just systemised word of mouth.

 

Summary

You don’t always need more leads. You often need to reconnect with the ones you already have. A simple “keep in touch” message helps you stay front of mind, build stronger relationships, and generate consistent repeat business.

Take Action

Start small:

• Pick 10 past customers

• Send a simple message today

• Don’t overthink it. Just be natural and helpful

Then build from there. Consistency is what turns this into real results.

Found This Useful? 

I hope you've found this guide to “The ‘Keep in Touch’ Message That Brings Back Old Customers” helpful. If you would like to discuss how to generate more repeat business from your existing customers, please 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.