Business Success

5 Things Customers Really Want (Hint: It’s Not Just Price)

Written by Bettina Diaz | May 30, 2025 3:49:18 PM

When it comes to winning jobs on ServiceSeeking.com.au, there’s a common assumption: Just offer the lowest quote, and the customer is yours. But if you’ve been around the block a few times, you’ll know that price isn’t everything. In fact, going too cheap can sometimes scare off potential customers altogether.

So, what do customers really want? Spoiler alert: it’s more about value and trust than bargain-bin quotes. Here’s what they’re really looking for—and how you can stand out to secure more jobs through our platform.

1. Responsiveness (A Fast Reply Still Wins the Race)

Customers want to feel seen and heard—quickly. The days of waiting three days for a call-back are long gone. When someone posts a job, they’re usually ready to hire now. That means if you’re the first to reply (and your message is friendly and professional), you’ve already got a head start.

Pro tip: With a paid plan on ServiceSeeking.com.au, you get real-time job alerts so you can respond fast, before your competitors even see the lead.

2. Clear Communication (No Jargon, No Worries)

Think about how many homeowners understand what “repointing” means or why a “split system” costs more to install. Not many, right? Customers want someone who can explain things in plain English without sounding condescending. Clarity builds confidence.

When you’re quoting through the platform, use simple language and explain what’s included in your price. A little friendliness goes a long way, too—sounding approachable can make all the difference.

3. Credibility (People Trust Reviews More Than You Think)

Before someone invites you onto their property, they want to know you’re legit. And while you know you do great work, your reviews are what prove it to them.

A solid rating and a few glowing testimonials are often what tips the scales in your favour. If your profile is stacked with good reviews, customers are more likely to accept your quote, even if it’s not the cheapest.

Pro tip: When you join a plan on ServiceSeeking.com.au, you can build a strong online profile with verified reviews, badges, photos of past work, and more. It’s your digital reputation—and it matters.

4. Reliability (Show. Up. On. Time. Simple.)

It might sound basic, but reliability is one of the most requested qualities we see on the platform. Customers are sick of no-shows, late arrivals, or jobs being dragged out for weeks.

Even during the quoting phase, showing signs that you’re organised and dependable sets the tone. Did you follow up after quoting? Did you offer clear availability? These little cues build trust from the get-go.

Hot tip: Use your ServiceSeeking dashboard to keep track of leads, job status, and communication, so you never miss a beat.

5. Value (Not Just Dollars, But Peace of Mind)

Let’s talk about value. Sure, price matters—but not in the way most people think. Customers don’t just want the cheapest option; they want to feel they’re getting bang for their buck.

That might mean including cleanup in your price, offering a small warranty, or just being the person who answers their questions patiently. Value is about more than just money—it’s about making the customer feel like they’ve made the right choice.

So, What’s This Got To Do With You?

If you’re serious about winning more work, it’s time to stop playing the race-to-the-bottom game. Customers aren’t just looking for the cheapest quote—they want peace of mind, trust, and a great experience.

And that’s exactly where ServiceSeeking.com.au can help.

With a paid plan, you’ll get:

  • Access to more jobs, with less competition

  • Tools to help you build trust—like reviews, profile badges and photo galleries

  • Real-time alerts so you can be first to quote

  • A dashboard to manage quotes, messages and jobs—all in one place

In short, you’ll look more professional, respond faster, and win more work—without dropping your prices.

The Bottom Line

Customers might say they want the cheapest price—but what they really want is someone they can trust to do the job right. When you position yourself as reliable, clear, and credible, your quote doesn’t have to be the lowest. It just has to feel worth it.

Ready to stop chasing leads and start winning them?