For most small businesses, new customers come from one of two places: referrals or online searches. Referrals are great, but when a homeowner types “landscaper near me” into Google, the first thing they notice isn’t the logo or even the website — it’s the reviews.
A competitor with dozens of positive reviews will almost always get the call before someone with only a handful. The good news? You can use your website to automatically collect reviews from past customers without having to manually chase anyone down.
Here’s how it works.
Why Reviews Matter So Much
- Trust: Consumers want proof that others have had a good experience before they hire. This is especially true for a local service business.
- Visibility: More reviews help your Google Business Profile rank higher in search results.
- Leverage: A steady stream of reviews keeps you ahead of competitors who aren’t asking.
Reviews aren’t just nice to have — they’re one of the most powerful marketing tools for a local service business.
Step 1: Build a Customer Email List
Every time you complete a job, collect your customer’s email address (if you don’t already have it). You can keep these in a simple list inside your WordPress site using a plugin or CRM tool. This becomes your “past customer list.”
Step 2: Automate the Review Request
Instead of sending a one-off email every time, set up a simple automation:
- A few days after a job is completed, the customer automatically receives a short, friendly message.
- Keep it simple:
“Thanks for letting us work on your lawn! If you’re happy with the results, would you mind leaving us a quick review on Google or Yelp? It only takes 2 minutes and really helps us grow.”
- Include direct links to your Google Business Profile and Yelp page. The fewer clicks, the more likely they’ll follow through.
Step 3: Let the System Do the Work
Once it’s set up, you don’t have to think about it again. Every completed job automatically leads to a polite request for feedback. Over time, those reminders stack up into more 5-star reviews than you could ever get by asking manually.
Bonus: Use Your List for More Than Reviews
That same customer list can also drive repeat business. Send seasonal offers (“Spring cleanup specials”), reminders (“It’s aeration season”), or helpful tips (“How to prep your lawn for summer”). Staying in touch keeps your name top of mind and brings back customers year after year.
Final Thoughts
If you’re not asking customers for reviews, you’re leaving one of the easiest marketing wins on the table. With a small amount of setup, your website can handle the process automatically — helping you build trust, attract new leads, and grow your business.
👉 Want a website that not only looks professional but also helps you collect reviews and generate more leads? Learn more about what we offer or contact us today to get started.