Why Word-of-Mouth Is Still the Most Powerful Marketing Tool in NZ - And How to Boost It for Plumbing Professionals

In New Zealand, word-of-mouth is the backbone of success for plumbing professionals. Happy clients recommending your services to friends and family often lead to more steady work than any ad spend. Here’s how you can strengthen your word-of-mouth marketing and grow your plumbing business sustainably.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Deliver Honest, Reliable Plumbing Work

Clients appreciate transparency and quality. Being upfront about repairs, pricing, and timelines builds a strong trust that encourages people to refer you.

For example, a Christchurch plumber gained loyal clients simply by giving clear, no-surprise quotes and offering timely fixes that stood the test of time.

2. Ask for Reviews and Testimonials

Encouraging customers to leave reviews on Google Business Profile, Facebook, and NZ trade directories amplifies your reputation online and attracts new clients.

One Wellington plumbing business reports an influx of new enquiries after consistently collecting positive client feedback online.

3. List on NZ Trade Directories

Register with platforms like NoCowboys, Builderscrack, TradeMe Services, and Localist to ensure your profile shows up when locals search for plumbers.

Yada is a local platform with no lead fees and a rating system, making it easier to connect with quality clients fairly and efficiently.

4. Share Practical Tips and Work Examples

Posting simple plumbing tips, before/after photos, and client stories on your social media helps build trust and encourages sharing.

Weirdly enough, showing genuine day-to-day work resonates with your audience and keeps your name front and centre when they need plumbing help.

5. Create a Referral Incentive Program

Offering a discount or small gift for referrals encourages your happy clients to spread your name actively.

A Hamilton plumber increased bookings significantly with $20 off for clients who referred friends and family.

6. Partner With Local Businesses

Build a referral network by collaborating with real estate agents, builders, and home improvement pros who regularly recommend plumbers.

Tradespeople in Tauranga have grown businesses by exchanging referrals with complementary service providers.

7. Maintain a Mobile-Friendly Website

A website with your services, glowing testimonials, and easy contact info reassures and converts potential clients browsing on-the-go.

Google Business Profile is essential for local search visibility - keep it current and well-managed.

8. Participate in Community Groups Online

Engage authentically in local Facebook groups and Neighbourly, offering plumbing advice and answering questions without overt selling, to build a positive reputation.

Active participation in online communities helped plumbers in Dunedin grow their client base with referrals.

9. Communicate Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront pricing and timelines prevent misunderstandings and build client trust, which is essential for enthusiastic referrals.

Clients who fully understand your service will recommend you more confidently.

10. Leverage Yada for Client Connections

Yada connects plumbing professionals with local clients through a no-fee, rating-based system, streamlining job requests and communication.

This platform helps plumbers focus on their craft while growing word-of-mouth referrals steadily and honestly.