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How to request reviews

Scripts that work for local businesses — ask at the right moment, make it one tap, never incentivize.

The rules (non-negotiable)

  • Never offer money, discounts, or gifts for reviews — Google prohibits it and can suspend your profile.
  • Ask happy customers only — right after a successful job, not after a complaint.
  • Send your direct review link — not "search for us on Google." Get your link →
  • Keep it short. One sentence + link beats a paragraph every time.

When to ask

Timing matters more than wording.

In person

Right as you finish the job, while they're smiling.

Same day

Text within 2–4 hours while the experience is fresh.

Follow-up

Email 24–48 hrs later if they didn't review yet. One reminder max.

Text message scripts

Replace [Name], [Business], and paste your review link.

After a completed job
Hi [Name]! Thanks for choosing [Business] today. If you have 30 seconds, a quick Google review helps other locals find us: [YOUR REVIEW LINK] Thank you! — [Your name]
Friendly follow-up (one reminder)
Hey [Name], hope everything's still great! No pressure — but if you have a moment, we'd really appreciate a Google review: [YOUR REVIEW LINK]

Email scripts

Works great for invoices, appointment confirmations, or post-service follow-ups.

Subject: Thanks for choosing [Business]
Hi [Name], Thank you for trusting [Business] with [service/project]. We hope you're happy with the result. If you have a minute, a Google review helps other [city] neighbors find a reliable [trade/service type]. It takes about 30 seconds: [YOUR REVIEW LINK] Thanks again, [Your name] [Business] | [Phone]

In-person scripts

Say it naturally. Hand them a card or text the link while you're still on-site.

At the door / checkout
"We're so glad we could help today. If you're happy with the work, a quick Google review means a lot to a small business like ours — I'll text you the link right now so it's one tap."
QR card at front desk
Card text: "Love your visit? Scan to leave a Google review — it helps our team more than you know. Thank you!"

What NOT to say

  • "Leave us 5 stars" — ask for honest feedback, not a rating.
  • "We'll give you 10% off your next visit for a review" — prohibited.
  • "Can you delete that bad review?" — never ask customers to remove honest reviews.
  • Mass blast 500 contacts who never used your service — looks spammy, hurts trust.