Are you feeling overwhelmed by running a new home improvement business? That is understandable. There are a million things to think about. It is easy to forget about using review websites, but managing your online reputation is arguably the most effective way to gain new customers. Follow these easy steps and you, too, can win the internet and give your competition a run for their money. Here’s the home improvement business’s guide to Yelp and other review sites.
Make a Business Account on the Major Review Websites
If Yelp, Facebook, and Google reviews have no idea who you are, neither will anyone else looking for a home improvement contractor. Those are the three biggest sources of online reviews. Make a business account on each website or claim the business listing if you inherited it from someone else.
Making business accounts on Yelp, Facebook, and Google is pretty self-explanatory, but don’t skimp on the details. Add as much information as you can about the services you provide. Consumers may not associate home improvement contractors with fencing, for example, but if it is within your area of expertise, add it to your listing.
On the same note, include as many pictures of your work as you can, especially before and after pictures! Nothing is more impressive than seeing something outdated or old in a house turn into something fresh and new.
Manage Reviews
Set aside 30 minutes once a week to check on your online reviews. If you see a negative review, make sure to respond to it promptly. Use positive language, take responsibility for some part of the complaint, and make an effort to make it right. If you respond with anger, you will look like the “bad guy,” and the complaint will be justified. Remember, everyone on the internet will be able to see your response, not just the dissatisfied customer.
If you don’t have time to worry about keeping a squeaky-clean reputation, you can always hire a company to help you out.
Increase Quantity of Reviews
If there are only three reviews on your Yelp page, one poor review will make your star rating look dismal. Increase your average star rating by proactively asking your current customers to leave reviews. Make it easy for them by sending the link in an email. When customers feel like their review is helpful and it is both quick and easy to access your review pages, you’ll be a lot more likely to receive the ratings you desire.
Boost Customer Satisfaction with Contractor Financing
Make sure your clients are as satisfied as possible by partnering with HFS Financial to provide contractor financing. Not only will your customers love the ease of our 60-second application, but you will love that their home improvement project will be 100% fully funded up front. At HFS Financial, we don’t do stage funding! You’ll never be waiting around for that next stage of approvals or fund release. And that’s perfect when you want people to give you great reviews. Get started today by sending us a message to learn more. With HFS Financial, “You Dream It, We Finance It!”