If you’re running a fence company, you already know how much word of mouth matters. People talk. Neighbors share stories. And a good job speaks for itself. But even the best work doesn’t always bring in new leads on its own.
So the question is: how do you get more referrals without feeling like you’re chasing after them?
Let’s break it down into simple steps. No gimmicks. No pressure. Just a real approach that works over time.
1. Make It Easy for People to Refer You
Sometimes people want to refer you, but they don’t know how. Or they forget. Or it feels awkward.
Fix that.
- Print a few simple cards with your name, phone, and website.
- Hand them out after every job.
- Add a short note like, “If you know someone who needs a fence, feel free to share this.”
Don’t push. Just make it easy.
2. Give Them Something to Talk About
People remember the small stuff more than you think. Did you show up early? Did you clean up well? Did you fix a gate latch without being asked?
These are the things they bring up when telling others.
If you do a great job and add a small extra touch, it gives people a reason to mention you.
3. Use Social Proof Without Asking for It
Not everyone wants to post a review. That’s fine. But if someone says something nice, grab it.
You can ask, “Mind if I quote you on that for our site?”
If they say yes, you’ve got a new review.
Even better, take photos of your finished work (with their okay). Post them on your site or Facebook page with a quick caption like: “Another clean install in Springfield today.”
This gets seen. And it builds trust.
4. Stay in Touch (But Don’t Be Annoying)
You don’t need to flood their inbox. But a quick check in email a few months later can go a long way.
Something like:
“Hey, just checking in. Hope the fence is holding up well. Let us know if you need anything.”
That one message reminds them of you. And if their cousin just bought a house? Guess who they’ll mention.
5. Build Local Ties
Most fencing companies stay local. That means your name should show up in local places.
- Sponsor a kids’ baseball team
- Join your town’s small business group
- Leave a few cards at the local hardware store
These spots can lead to casual mentions and warm leads.
6. Make Referral Rewards Feel Natural
You can offer a small reward without making it weird. Something simple like:
“Refer a friend and get a $50 gift card if they sign up.”
Don’t pressure. Just mention it at the end of the job. You can even include it on your card.
It feels better when it’s light and friendly.
7. Use Your Website the Right Way
Your website should make referrals easy. Here’s what helps:
- Clear contact page
- Easy to read services list
- Photos of past work
- A “Refer a Friend” link
You don’t need anything fancy. Just clean, honest, and helpful.
Also, make sure your site loads fast and works well on a phone. Most people look you up while sitting on the couch.
8. Ask Without Sounding Desperate
You can ask for referrals without begging. Here’s how.
At the end of a job, just say:
“If you know anyone else who needs a fence, feel free to send them our way. We’d love to help.”
That’s it. No push. Just a calm ask.
Most people won’t mind. Some will even appreciate the honesty.
9. Don’t Forget Past Clients
Go back to your client list from last year. Send them a quick message.
“Hey, hope you’re doing well. Just wanted to say thanks again for working with us. If you know anyone else who needs fencing, we’d love the referral.”
It’s that simple.
10. Use Facebook the Right Way
Don’t just post pictures. Write short updates. Keep it personal. Share fence tips. Share real jobs.
Tag neighborhoods if you can. People love seeing their street online.
And always ask happy clients if you can tag them.
It spreads faster when it feels real.
11. Set Up Google My Business (GBP)
Your Google listing is a quiet lead machine. But only if it’s set up right.
- Use the correct business name
- Add your phone and website
- Upload photos
- Ask for reviews one at a time
When someone searches “fence company near me,” you want to show up first.
12. Be Consistent with SEO
SEO helps people find you before they even need a referral. But it takes time.
Make sure your site mentions the towns you serve. Use words people search like “fence repair in [your town]” or “privacy fence installer.”
Don’t overthink it. Just write like you talk.
13. Combine Paid Ads with Referrals
If you’re running Google or Facebook ads, that’s great. But here’s the trick:
Make sure your ads look and sound like the rest of your brand. The more people see your name in different places, the more it sticks.
Then, when a friend says “I used FenceWebs,” it rings a bell. That’s all it takes.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to beg for referrals. Most of the time, people are happy to help. They just need a reminder. Or a reason.
Start with simple steps. Keep it human. Show your work. Stay in touch.
And most of all, make it easy for someone to say, “Yeah, I know a guy.”
That’s how you grow without pushing.
