How to ask customers for a Google review
Ask in person when the job is done, then send your review link by text the same day. Keep the message to two or three lines, use their name, and say it only takes a minute.
Time needed: 5 minutes to set up your templatesWhen to ask
- Right after the win: the job is finished, the customer has seen the result and said thanks.
- Same day for the link: the later you send it, the less likely it gets used.
- One reminder, two days later, if they haven't left one. Then stop.
What to say in person
We're a small local business and Google reviews really help people find us. Would you mind leaving us a quick one? I'll text you the link so it only takes a minute.
Asking in person first matters. People who've said yes out loud are much more likely to follow through.
Text message templates
Hi Sarah, thanks for choosing us today! If you have a minute, a Google review would really help us: [your review link] — Dave, Dave's A/C
Hi Mark, it was great working on your patio. Would you mind sharing how it went on Google? It takes about a minute: [your review link]
Reminder (two days later): Hi Sarah, just a gentle nudge in case the review link got buried: [your review link]. Thanks either way!
Get your link with our free Google review link tool. It opens the review box directly, so customers don't have to hunt for it.
Email template
Subject: How did we do, Sarah?
Hi Sarah, thanks again for having us out on Tuesday. If you were happy with the work, would you mind leaving a short Google review? It helps other people nearby find a business they can trust. [Leave a review] Thanks, Dave
Print it where customers wait
For shops, salons, clinics and restaurants, a QR code at the counter or on the receipt works well. Our review QR code tool makes a printable sign. Let customers scan it on their own phone.
Keep it within Google's rules
- Ask every customer, not only the ones you think are happy. Google doesn't allow businesses to selectively ask for positive reviews.
- No rewards, discounts or prize draws for reviews.
- Don't tell customers what to write or how many stars to give.
From Google's content policy.
Questions
Is it OK to ask for a 5-star review?
Ask for an honest review, not a rating. Asking for 5 stars, or only asking happy customers, goes against Google's rules on reviews.
Should I text or email?
For most local services, a text gets more reviews: it's read within minutes and the link opens on the phone they'll write the review on. Email works well for customers you already email, like invoices and receipts.
How often can I follow up?
Once, a couple of days later. More than that starts to feel pushy, and it rarely works.