The tap-to-call link
A tap-to-call link uses the tel: format. On a phone it opens the dialler with your number ready. Use the international format so it works everywhere.
<a href="tel:+447700900123">Call 07700 900123</a>Make calling effortless
- Put the number at the top of every page, as a link, not plain text
- On mobile, keep a call button on screen as people scroll
- Show the number as text too, so people can copy it or read it out
- Use one number everywhere, and make sure it matches your Google profile
A short enquiry form
Not everyone wants to ring, especially in the evening. A short form lets them ask without waiting. Every extra field loses some people, so keep it to what you need to reply.
- Name
- Phone number, or email
- What do you need? (a free text box)
- Optional: postcode or town, so you know you cover it
A call bar that stays on screen
On a phone, a bar fixed to the bottom of the screen keeps your number one tap away however far someone scrolls. This is a simple version you can adapt.
<a class="callbar" href="tel:+447700900123">Call 07700 900123</a>
<style>
.callbar{position:fixed;left:0;right:0;bottom:0;z-index:50;
text-align:center;background:#d52b1e;color:#fff;
font:700 18px system-ui;padding:16px;text-decoration:none}
</style>The fields that matter, and why
| Field | Why it is there |
|---|---|
| Name | So you can greet them properly |
| Phone number | So you can call back. Make it the main way to reach them |
| What do you need? | A free-text box beats a long list of options |
| Postcode or town (optional) | So you know if you cover them before you reply |
| Email (optional) | Only if you want to send a written quote |
How spam protection works
Spam bots fill in forms automatically. A honeypot is a field hidden from people but visible to bots. If it is filled in, the form quietly ignores the message. It costs real customers nothing, unlike puzzles that make them prove they are human. For busy sites, add checks on the server that sends the message, and limit message length.
Where enquiries can go
- To an email address you check often
- To a spreadsheet, such as a Google Sheet, which also gives you a log of every enquiry
- To both: a spreadsheet for records and an email for the alert
- To your phone as a notification, if your email app supports it
- Whichever you choose, send a test enquiry every month to confirm it still arrives
Reply templates that save time
- Thanks for your message. I can come and look at it on [day]. What time suits you?
- Thanks, that sounds like a [job]. Could you send a photo and your postcode so I can give you a rough idea?
- Thanks for getting in touch. I am booked up until [date], but I can fit you in then. Would that work?
Accessibility basics for forms
- Give every field a visible label, not only placeholder text
- Make buttons large enough to tap with a thumb
- Show a clear message when the form is sent, and when something is missing
- Check the form works with a keyboard as well as a finger
Respond fast
Customers often message several tradespeople at once. A reply within the hour, even just to say you will call tonight, wins work. Turn on notifications for new enquiries on your phone.
Look after the data
A form collects personal details, so your site needs a privacy notice, and you should only use those details to reply to the enquiry. Delete old enquiries you no longer need. See our guide to website basics and UK rules.
Common questions
Do I need both a call button and a form?
Yes. Some people want to speak now, some want to write at 9pm. Offering both, plus WhatsApp, covers most customers.
How many fields should my enquiry form have?
As few as you can. Name, phone and what they need is enough. Every extra field loses some people.
What if enquiries go to spam?
Check your spam folder, add the sender to your contacts and send test enquiries regularly. If the problem continues, send enquiries to a different address or a spreadsheet as well.
Is it legal to store enquiries?
Yes, if you tell people what you do with their details, use them only to reply, and delete them when you no longer need them. Your privacy notice should say so.
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