10 Mistakes that Make Service Specialists Lose Clients - And How to Avoid Them

In New Zealand’s competitive service industry, even small mistakes can cost you valuable clients. To keep your bookings full and your reputation strong, it’s crucial to know which pitfalls to avoid. This guide highlights ten common mistakes Kiwi service specialists make-and practical tips on how to sidestep them gracefully.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Poor Communication Frustrates Clients

Failing to respond promptly or clearly can erode trust fast, especially in time-sensitive services.

Use tools like Yada’s internal chat to keep all communication organised, timely, and friendly.

Example: An Auckland handyman who responded late lost a job to a more communicative competitor, highlighting how crucial fast replies are.

2. Being Unreliable or Missing Deadlines

Not showing up on time or missing agreed deadlines frustrates clients and damages your reputation.

Set realistic timelines, update clients proactively, and never overpromise.

Example: A Christchurch cleaner earned negative reviews after arriving late multiple times, impacting future enquiries.

3. Underpricing and Undervaluing Work

Cutting prices too low to win jobs can backfire, making clients question quality and hurting your profitability.

Know your costs and confidently charge what your skills deserve.

Example: A Wellington electrician who underpriced early ended up overwhelmed and burnt out, leading to declining service quality.

4. Lack of Clear Pricing Information

Being vague about costs leads to client confusion and distrust.

Clearly list pricing on your Yada profile and in quotes, including how extras like travel or materials affect the price.

Example: An Otago gardener lost multiple inquiries because prospects couldn’t get a straightforward quote initially.

5. Ignoring Client Feedback

Not listening to or addressing client concerns can quickly end working relationships and lead to poor reviews.

Encourage honest feedback and show you take it seriously.

Example: A Tauranga cleaner improved service after promptly responding to constructive feedback, winning back clients.

6. Being Difficult to Find Online

Not having an optimised Google Business Profile or presence on platforms like Yada means missing out on easy local leads.

Keep profiles complete, updated, and filled with photos and reviews.

Example: An Auckland plumber doubled enquiries after improving his online listings and adding client testimonials.

7. Overpromising and Underdelivering

Making promises you can’t keep damages trust irreparably.

Be realistic about what you can deliver and when, and communicate clearly if plans change.

Example: A Wellington decorator who consistently missed delivery dates lost repeat business despite good skills.

8. Neglecting Follow Up and Aftercare

Not checking in after job completion loses chances for repeat business and referrals.

Use Yada’s chat or email to thank clients and invite feedback.

Example: A Nelson landscaper gained loyal clients by sending seasonal maintenance reminders and tips post-service.

9. Bad Presentation and Professionalism

Showing up in poor uniform, unprofessional conduct, or messy work areas puts clients off.

Maintain a clean, respectful presence; it often matters more than the job itself.

Example: A Christchurch carpet cleaner lost jobs after clients complained about untidy workspaces.

10. Failing To Leverage Positive Reviews

Not asking satisfied customers for reviews on Yada or Google misses a powerful marketing opportunity.

Make it a habit to request feedback immediately after successful jobs.

Example: A Tauranga dog walker who proactively collected and displayed reviews saw a steady rise in bookings.