The Power of Transparency:
Helping Customers Learn About Your Services
By Dipa Gandhi
Read it to me! Click the video below.
In today’s digital-first world, customers want answers at their fingertips. As a home services contractor, the more accessible and transparent your business is online, the more trust you’ll build. But simply having a presence isn’t enough. It’s about providing the right information, in the right place, at the right time. Here's how to help potential customers confidently choose your business.
The Right Information, Right Where They Need It
When Kate, a homeowner in Phoenix, searched for an electrician, her choice came down to one thing: trust. She didn’t just look for prices or services; she wanted to know who she was inviting into her home. That trust came from a local electrician's Google Business Profile (GBP) that answered all her questions:
- Business Name and Location: She confirmed the company was local and legitimate.
- Operating Hours: She knew when she could expect service.
- Service Details: The profile listed specific tasks, from rewiring to breaker panel repairs.
- Customer Reviews: Over 150 reviews painted a clear picture of reliable, professional work.
Without this comprehensive, transparent information, Kate might have moved on to the next business.
Action Step: Ensure your GBP is fully optimized. Fill out every detail, keep it updated, and include FAQs tailored to your customer’s common concerns.
Simplifying Choices with Storytelling
A landscaping company in Tampa transformed their business by sharing their journey on their website. They included:
- About Us Page: A heartfelt story of their family-owned origins and commitment to eco-friendly practices.
- Visual Portfolio: Before-and-after photos of real client projects made their expertise tangible.
- Case Studies: Stories of how they helped homeowners create dream backyards built trust and demonstrated credibility.
Result? Customers felt a personal connection before ever picking up the phone.
Action Step: Build a strong website that offers not just information but a story customers can connect with.
Be Where Customers Search
One HVAC company in Denver realized they were losing business because their competitors showed up more prominently on search results. By investing in:
- Local SEO: Ensuring their business appeared on local directories and optimizing their GBP.
- Social Media Presence: Posting quick tips and behind-the-scenes videos that customers found relatable.
- Ads with Clear Messaging: Using Google Ads with targeted keywords like "emergency AC repair Denver" brought immediate leads.
Within three months, they saw a 40% increase in inquiries.
Action Step: Meet customers where they are searching. Use tools like Google Analytics to understand how they find you and double down on those channels.
Strengthening Credibility with Reviews
Ever wondered why some service businesses consistently thrive while others struggle? Authentic reviews are often the difference.
A local roofer in Austin made it a point to request reviews after every job. They simplified the process:
- Shared direct links via text or email.
- Responded to every review, positive or negative.
- Highlighted these reviews on their website and GBP.
Their transparency in addressing customer feedback led to a 25% rise in bookings.
Action Step: Create a streamlined system for gathering and showcasing reviews. The more your customers trust others' opinions, the more they’ll trust you.
Closing the Gap
Helping customers learn about your business boils down to visibility and transparency. From GBP optimization and storytelling to SEO and reviews, every detail matters. The more informed your customers are, the more likely they are to choose you. Don’t just be a choice—be the trusted choice.
