Why Word-of-Mouth Is Still the Most Powerful Marketing Tool for Decking & Patio Specialists in NZ
In New Zealand, word-of-mouth is the most trusted way people find decking and patio specialists. Kiwis love sharing stories about great local tradespeople, making referrals a goldmine for growing your decking business. This guide offers practical tips to boost your word-of-mouth marketing and build lasting community trust.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Word-of-Mouth Builds Strong Local Trust
Decking and patios are substantial home investments, so Kiwis want to hire someone recommended by mates or neighbours to avoid costly mistakes.
In Auckland and Wellington, decking pros report most new clients come directly from personal referrals or local community buzz-highlighting the power of trusted word-of-mouth.
Think of each happy customer as your walking ad who tells others about the quality and reliability you bring to their outdoor spaces.
2. Do Exceptional Work Every Time
Quality and attention to detail are what get your work talked about in decking circles. Getting the sanded finish just right or crafting a custom pergola that survives NZ weather earns big kudos.
For example, Christchurch deck builder Jamie gets shared far and wide because he cleans up after every job and always offers friendly advice.
Weirdly enough, it’s often the little extras that clients remember-and share with their mates.
3. Ask for Testimonials and Reviews
Always encourage clients to leave honest reviews on Google, local directories, and platforms like Yada. These testimonials act like digital word-of-mouth, helping future clients trust you.
Top decking specialists in Tauranga swear by gathering glowing testimonials that boost their reputation locally, thanks to easy-to-leave reviews.
Sending a simple thank-you message with review instructions can really lift your client's likelihood to share positive feedback.
4. Join Yada for Genuine Connections
Yada is growing fast in NZ as a platform connecting clients with local decking pros without upfront fees. Its rating system helps separate the flighty leads from genuine inquiries, and private chat keeps communication easy.
Combining Yada with established platforms like Builderscrack and TradeMe Services means you’re seen by a broad Kiwi audience searching specifically for decking and patio works.
Mobile-friendly and quick, Yada works well whether you’re on site or off.
5. Showcase Before and After Photos
People want to see stunning transformations: share photos of decks finishing with different stains, or patios with built-in seating or BBQ areas.
Wellington decking specialist Miri’s before-and-after shots posted in community Facebook groups regularly generate enquiries and shares, helping her reach new clients nearby.
Think of your photos as trust builders-they give proof of what you can do while being a talking point in local neighbourhoods.
6. Network with Builders and Landscapers
Decking work often follows building or landscaping projects, so creating connections with local builders and landscapers can bring a regular work stream.
In Hamilton, deck builders who team up with renovators and garden pros often enjoy a steady pipeline of referrals.
Pop by with your card and offer reliable service on smaller jobs to build these valuable relationships.
7. Use Community Noticeboards Effectively
Different from digital, traditional flyers on noticeboards at New World, community halls, or petrol stations catch the eyes of locals who prefer simple, trusted contacts.
Many decking pros in smaller towns find steady repeat customers and referrals after flyers lingered on their local board.
Keep flyers clear with your best client testimonials, contact info, and a short services list.
8. Respond Quickly and Professionally
Prompt communication and honest quotes set the tone for trust, upping your chances of positive reviews and referrals.
Yada’s chat lets you keep clients informed instantly and professionally without long email threads or missed calls.
Fast replies show reliability-which Kiwis love and remember.
9. Offer Referral Incentives
A $20 discount or small gift for customers who refer friends can create a buzz and motivate more sharing.
Tauranga decking crews use these simple rewards successfully, fitting perfectly with New Zealand’s community spirit.
Rewarding referrals doesn’t need to be expensive to be effective.
10. Share Helpful Decking Tips
Providing simple advice on maintaining decks, choosing weather-resistant timbers, or safe BBQ setups helps position you as a trusted local expert.
Facebook and Instagram are great spots to post quick tips that locals share and trust.
Christchurch pro Lisa’s monthly posts on deck care have brought her steady work through referrals alone.
11. Maintain Client Relationships
Following up with clients after jobs - sending check-in messages or seasonal reminders - keeps your name at the front of their mind.
Napier decking specialist Jamie credits steady referrals to sending Christmas cards and occasional friendly catch-ups.
Long-term relationships grow word-of-mouth naturally.