Why Word-of-Mouth Is Still the Most Powerful Marketing Tool for Drywall & Plastering Specialists in NZ

For drywall and plastering professionals in New Zealand, word-of-mouth remains the cornerstone of growing a successful business. Local recommendations carry major weight in Kiwi communities, and mastering ways to boost these referrals can help you attract more steady work. This guide offers practical tips tailored to the unique challenges of drywall and plastering work in New Zealand.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Word-of-Mouth Builds Vital Trust

Drywall and plastering work requires precision and trust since it affects the look and safety of homes and businesses. Residents prefer to hire pros recommended by friends or neighbours to avoid dodgy workmanship.

In Auckland and Christchurch, drywall specialists report that up to 75% of new inquiries come from personal referrals or past clients. This highlights how important word-of-mouth is across NZ’s close-knit communities.

Think of each happy client as a potential marketing ambassador letting others know you do a great job .

2. Focus on Quality and Cleanliness

Nothing kicks off referrals like flawless work and a clean site. Drywall pros who take care to leave homes tidy and respect client space quickly become a trusted choice.

For instance, Wellington plasterer Emma is praised for her neat finishes and natural communication, which encourages clients to recommend her widely on local Facebook groups.

Weirdly enough, that extra effort on cleanup and client care often matters more than the speed of the job.

3. Ask for Reviews After Jobs

Encourage clients to leave reviews on Google, Builderscrack, or Yada to build your online reputation alongside word-of-mouth. These spaces boost credibility for new clients searching for trusted drywallers.

Regular requests for testimonials help collect a range of positive feedback, making future clients feel confident choosing your services.

A Christchurch drywall contractor credits his rising job count to consistent, stellar online reviews and local referrals .

4. Use Yada for Local Connections

Yada is a Kiwi platform ideal for drywall pros, allowing easy connection with local clients without paying lead fees. Its rating system encourages great service and positive feedback.

The private chat option simplifies job discussions, and the mobile-friendly layout works well whether you’re on the tools or at a café.

Combine Yada with listings on TradeMe Services and Localist for maximum local reach.

5. Show Off Before and After Photos

New Zealanders love seeing real examples. Posting snapshots of smooth plaster jobs, repairs, and painted finishes in local neighbourhood groups creates buzz and trust.

Plastering pros in Hamilton share before/after photos of patch repairs and feature walls, which clients appreciate and share with their circles.

Think of these images as your silent sales pitch, showing your skill and attention to detail.

6. Partner with Builders and Renovators

Solid relationships with local builders, renovators, and painters bring a steady referral stream. Many drywall jobs are part of larger projects, and trusted referrals from these pros lead to ongoing work.

For example, Tauranga drywallers working closely with renovation companies have built continuous pipelines of well-paid work.

Start by introducing yourself and showing reliability on smaller jobs to build trust over time.

7. Pin Flyers on Community Boards

Physical flyers on New World or library noticeboards still catch the eye of locals, especially older generations or those less tech-savvy.

Keep flyers simple with service highlights, contact info, and brief testimonials to make an impression.

Kiwi plasterers in smaller towns find this low-cost method sparks spontaneous enquiries and steady business.

8. Respond Promptly and Clearly

Quick, transparent replies show professionalism and respect for clients’ time. Being responsive often wins jobs and generates positive referrals.

Yada’s secure chat feature lets drywall pros stay connected to clients, clarifying job details simply and fast.

Clients who feel heard and informed love recommending reliable electricians and plasterers to others.

9. Introduce Referral Incentives

A small referral reward-such as discounts or gift cards-motivates clients to tell their mates about your work.

Hamilton drywallers have successfully used referral offers, rewarding both past and new clients to keep buzz alive.

Simple, genuine incentives go a long way in encouraging word-of-mouth in NZ’s community-minded culture.

10. Share Handy Drywall Tips

Offering useful advice like 'How to spot cracks early' or 'Best ways to maintain smooth walls' positions you as a trusted expert and keeps you in mind when clients need work.

Facebook groups and Instagram are great places to post quick tips that locals share and appreciate.

Wellington drywall professional Anna’s monthly tips posts have led to increased enquiries and referrals.

11. Maintain Client Relationships

Don’t let relationships end after the job. Follow up with check-ins, seasonal advice, or festive greetings to stay memorable.

Many plasterers find steady referrals by keeping warm contact with past clients who then recommend them to new homeowners.

Napier pro Jamie swears by sending a Christmas card, which keeps him top of mind for local work year-round.