Communication Is Your Secret Weapon
Ask any customer what they want from a tradie and you'll hear the same things: show up on time, do good work, and TELL ME WHAT'S HAPPENING.
That third one? Most tradies fail at it. Here are 8 simple texts that will set you apart.
Text 1: The Booking Confirmation
"G'day [Name], this is [Your name] from [Business]. I've booked you in for [Date] between [Time window]. I'll text you when I'm on my way. Any questions, just reply here. Cheers!"
Why it works: Customer knows it's confirmed. No anxiety about whether you'll show up.
Text 2: The Day-Before Reminder
"Hi [Name], just confirming I'll be there tomorrow between [Time]. I'll text again when I'm 30 mins away. See you then!"
Why it works: Prevents no-shows and lets customers plan their day.
Text 3: The On-My-Way
"Hey [Name], I'm about 25 minutes away. See you soon!"
Why it works: Customer knows exactly when you're arriving. They can put the dog away, move the car, or just be ready.
Text 4: The Running Late
"Hi [Name], my last job took longer than expected—I'm running about 30 mins behind. Really sorry about that. I'll be there by [new time]. Does that still work for you?"
Why it works: Apologise, give a new ETA, and ask if it's okay. This turns frustration into understanding.
Text 5: The Job Completion
"All done! [Brief description of what was done]. I've left an invoice on the bench/emailed it to you. Any questions, just give me a call. Thanks for having us!"
Why it works: Clear handoff. Customer knows it's done and where to find the invoice.
Text 6: The Follow-Up (Next Day)
"Hi [Name], just checking in—everything working well with [thing you fixed/installed]? Any issues, just let me know."
Why it works: Shows you care beyond the sale. Catches problems early before they become complaints.
Text 7: The Review Request
"G'day [Name], hope the [hot water/lights/etc] is treating you well! If you were happy with the work, would you mind leaving us a quick Google review? Here's the link: [link]. Really appreciate it! Cheers, [Name]"
Why it works: Simple, specific ask. Most people will do it if asked nicely.
Text 8: The Annual Check-In
"Hi [Name], it's [Your name] from [Business]. We serviced your [thing] about a year ago—just wanted to check if everything's still working well or if you need anything else looked at. Thanks!"
Why it works: Generates repeat business and referrals. Customers forget they need you until you remind them.
Pro Tips for Texting
- Use their name. It's personal and shows you're paying attention.
- Keep it brief. No one wants to read a novel.
- Use your name. "This is Dave from..." is friendlier than an anonymous message.
- Save templates. Put these in your phone's shortcuts or notes app for quick sending.
Automate Where Possible
If you use ServiceM8 or similar software, many of these can be automated:
- Booking confirmations sent automatically
- Day-before reminders triggered by the calendar
- Post-job review requests sent 3 days later
Set it up once, runs forever.
The Bottom Line
Great communication isn't hard—it's just uncommon. These 8 texts take 30 seconds each but create customers who recommend you to everyone they know.
That's marketing you can't buy.