Online reviews are a big part of what makes local service businesses successful today. In fact, 92% of people read reviews before they visit a business for the first time. Whether you offer remodeling, HVAC, plumbing, legal help, or other services, what people say about you online can shape how new customers see you.
Offering great service is just the start. To stand out and grow, your reputation needs to be easy to find, consistently positive, and actively maintained. It’s not just about getting good reviews. Getting them consistently is just as important. Google rewards businesses that collect fresh feedback on a regular basis. A customer relationship management (CRM) system helps you ask for reviews at the right time, track responses, and reply quickly. This steady flow of recent reviews can boost your search rankings and turn satisfied customers into new leads.
In this article, we’ll talk about why reviews are so important, where you should focus your efforts, and how to manage your online reputation the smart way.
Benefits of Reviews
✅ Build Credibility & Trust
Reviews act as modern-day word-of-mouth, offering social proof that validates your business and makes it easier for new customers to trust you.
✅ Increase Conversion Rates
A strong review profile often tips the scale in your favor when prospects are comparing options, helping you convert searches into inquiries or appointments.
✅ Boost Customer Engagement
Reviews open a channel for customer interaction. Responding to them shows that your business values feedback and provides excellent service.
✅ Identify Strengths & Opportunities
Customer comments can reveal what you’re doing well and where improvements can be made. A CRM system enables you to organize and act on this feedback effectively.
Key Online Review Stats
- 71% of consumers regularly read reviews, and only 4% never do (source).
- 55% of consumers only consider businesses with a rating between 4 and 5 stars (source).
- 83% of consumers use Google to check online reviews (source).
- Consumers spend an average of 13 minutes and 45 seconds reading 10 reviews before making a decision(source).
Best Online Review Sites for All Local Service Businesses
Whether you run a roofing company, pest control company, HVAC repair business, or any other local service, being on the right review sites is important. It helps build trust with potential customers and makes it easier for them to choose your business.
Google Reviews
As the most widely used search engine, Google is crucial for your online presence. Reviews on your Google Business Profile appear in search and Maps results, influencing local visibility and customer trust. Keeping your business info updated and responding to reviews here should be a top priority. Learn how to set up your GBP here >>
Facebook Recommendations
Facebook remains a key platform for community-driven engagement. Instead of traditional star ratings, users “recommend” businesses, and these endorsements influence purchasing decisions and appear in search results.
Yelp
Known for its strong review moderation, Yelp is trusted by consumers seeking high-quality local services, including legal, home repair, health, and beauty. Yelp listings rank well in search engines and appear in apps like Apple Maps.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
BBB is a widely recognized platform for professional and ethical credibility. Reviews here carry weight with consumers who value accountability and transparency. Having a BBB profile, especially with accreditation, can strengthen your brand.
Nextdoor
As a hyperlocal social platform, Nextdoor is valuable for service providers who rely on referrals and word-of-mouth. Local homeowners and residents use Nextdoor to recommend services like dog groomers, real estate agents, and physical therapists.
Best Online Review Sites for Home Contractors
If you’re a remodeler, landscaper, home improvement specialist or a contractor looking to generate more qualified leads, online reviews can be one of your strongest digital marketing assets. Here’s where to focus your attention:
Houzz
Houzz is tailored to the home renovation and design space. Homeowners use it to find inspiration and connect with professionals. A strong presence here can help build trust with high-intent buyers.
Angi (formerly Angie’s List)
Angi is a go-to platform for consumers searching for vetted local contractors. Businesses are rated on price, professionalism, and punctuality, and verified reviews give your listing extra credibility. Want to see if Angi is right for you? Read this >>
Thumbtack
Ideal for independent contractors and small teams, Thumbtack helps service pros connect with customers searching for help with home projects. Verified customer reviews help you stand out in a crowded field.
Porch
Porch is another platform specifically geared toward home improvement and repair. It integrates with large retailers like Lowe’s and provides a streamlined way for customers to request quotes and read reviews.
Best Practices for Managing Reviews
1. Encourage Clients to Leave Reviews
- Ask in Person
When a customer expresses satisfaction, thank them and ask if they’d be willing to leave a review. It’s direct, effective, and reinforces the positive experience. - Send Review Requests by Email
After a completed service, follow up with a thank-you email that includes a direct link to your review platform. Personalizing these messages increases your chances of a response. A good CRM can help automate follow-up, personalize them, and link directly to your review platforms.
2. Use Reputation Management Software
- LeadHub CRM
LeadHub CRM is designed specifically for local service businesses to streamline lead tracking, follow-ups, and reputation management. It automates review requests via text or email after a service is completed and helps businesses collect more 5-star reviews on platforms like Google and Facebook. It also provides real-time alerts and response management, making it easier to protect and enhance your online reputation. - GatherUp
Built for small to mid-sized businesses, GatherUp helps collect reviews, request feedback, and manage customer experiences. It includes features like SEO integration, centralized dashboards, and multi-platform review tracking. - BrightLocal
BrightLocal offers a comprehensive solution for SMBs and agencies focused on local marketing. It includes tools for reputation monitoring, local listings management, and search performance reporting—all geared toward improving your visibility and online credibility.
3. Monitor and Respond to Reviews
- Always Respond
Positive or negative, each review is an opportunity. Show appreciation for kind words and address concerns professionally. Avoid copy-paste replies—70% of consumers are turned off by templated responses. - Handle Negative Reviews with Care
Stay calm and avoid defensive replies. Acknowledge the issue, offer a solution, and maintain a professional tone. Potential customers watch how you handle criticism. - Don’t Forget Positive Reviews
Responding to glowing feedback encourages loyalty and helps build goodwill. Add a personal note to further enhance the customer experience.
4. Promote Your Best Reviews
- Keep a log and highlight strong testimonials on your website, social media, and even in your marketing emails. Letting your happiest customers speak for you is one of the most effective forms of advertising.
Why Getting New Reviews Often Matters
Getting new reviews regularly is important if you want your business to show up higher in local search results. Google likes to see that your business is active, and fresh reviews are one of the best ways to show that. Businesses that keep getting new reviews are more likely to show up in the top spots on Google, where more people can find them. To stay ahead of your competition, try to get reviews as often as your top competitors do, or even more.
Promote Your Best Reviews
Highlight strong testimonials on your website, social media, and even in your marketing emails. Letting your happiest customers speak for you is one of the most effective forms of advertising.
Final Thoughts
For local service businesses, online reviews are no longer optional. They shape perceptions, influence purchasing decisions, and directly impact your bottom line. By encouraging feedback, monitoring reviews, and actively engaging with your customers, you can turn online reviews into a powerful engine for long-term growth.
Ready to take control of your online marketing presence and turn satisfied customers into steady leads? LeadHub CRM helps local service businesses automate review requests, monitor responses, and grow their visibility on platforms that matter most. Learn more about LeadHub CRM here >>