Some trades have built-in repeat work: boiler and gas safety checks, electrical inspections, gutter clearing, fire alarm tests, chimney sweeping and so on. A short reminder at the right time means customers book you instead of searching for someone new.
Decide what to remind people about
List the jobs that naturally come round again and how often: a yearly boiler service, a gas safety check for landlords, a five-yearly electrical inspection, autumn gutter clearing. These are your reminder triggers.
Record the right details
When you finish a job, note the customer’s name, contact details, what you did and when it is next due. A spreadsheet is enough, as is a calendar entry set a month before the due date. Only collect what you need, with the customer’s agreement.
Keep to the rules
Customer details are personal data, so store them safely and use them for what the customer reasonably expects. Reminders about a service you have just provided are normal customer service. For general marketing by email or text, you generally need consent. If in doubt, check the Information Commissioner’s Office guidance at ico.org.uk.
Send a short, friendly message
For example: “Hi Priya, it’s nearly a year since we serviced your boiler. Would you like us to book your annual check? Reply here or call me on 01234 567890.” Send it by the method they used to contact you, around four to six weeks before it is due.
Make booking easy
Link to a simple enquiry form or give a direct number. Offer two or three dates so they can just say yes.
Follow up once
If there is no reply, send one more gentle note a couple of weeks later. Then leave it.
Use the website
Put a “book your annual service” section on the relevant service page, so people who search for it find you.
A reminder takes a minute and can bring in a job that would otherwise go to a competitor.