How to Ask Customers for Google Reviews

Ask at the right moment

The best time to ask is right after a customer has felt the value of what you did: the job is finished and works, the meal was great, the problem got solved. That might be at the counter, at the end of an appointment, or in a follow-up message the same day.

Don't wait weeks. The details fade, and so does the good feeling.

Make it easy

Google lets you share a direct link to leave a review from your Business Profile. Google explains how in its help article on getting reviews. Put that link everywhere it's natural: receipts, follow-up emails, text messages, and a QR code at the register.

Keep the ask short. One sentence of thanks, one sentence asking, and the link.

Ask everyone, not just happy customers

It's tempting to only ask people you're sure will leave five stars. Don't. Google's content policy says businesses shouldn't selectively solicit positive reviews, sometimes called review gating. Ask all your customers the same way.

Don't offer incentives for reviews either, such as discounts or entries into a drawing in exchange for a review. Google's policy prohibits it, and the FTC's rule on fake reviews and testimonials also addresses incentives tied to a particular sentiment.

Scripts you can use

In person: "I'm really glad this worked out. If you have a minute, a Google review helps us a lot. I can text you the link."

Text message: "Thanks for choosing us today, [name]! If you have a moment, we'd love your honest review: [link]"

Email: "Hi [name], thanks again for trusting us with [job]. If you're willing, would you share your experience on Google? It helps neighbors find us. [link] Either way, thank you. – [your name]"

Don't write the review for them

It can be tempting to suggest wording or hand customers a pre-written review. Don't. Reviews should be in the customer's own words. The most you should do is make the ask, share the link, and maybe remind them what you did ("if you're happy with the new water heater"). Authentic reviews, with their small quirks and specific details, are also more convincing to readers than polished ones.

Build the ask into your routine

The businesses that get steady reviews usually aren't doing anything clever. They just ask consistently. A few ways to make it automatic for your team:

• Add the review link to the bottom of every invoice or receipt email.
• Print a small card or counter sign with a QR code that opens your review link.
• Make the ask part of how staff wrap up a visit or job, the same way they'd say goodbye.
• Send a single, friendly follow-up message the same day. Don't send repeated reminders.

When a customer says they're unhappy

Sometimes when you ask, a customer tells you something went wrong. Thank them, fix what you can, and don't withhold the review link. They're still free to leave an honest review, and handling the problem well is the best way to make that review a fair one.

Then reply to what comes in

When reviews arrive, reply to them, good and bad. It shows future customers you're listening and thanks the people who took the time. Our review response templates and free reply generator can help you keep up.