Want more Google reviews? Here's how to ask effectively:
- Use pre-written templates to save time and keep messaging consistent
- Personalize requests with customer names and purchase details
- Keep messages short, friendly, and easy to act on
- Include a direct link to leave a review
- Explain why reviews matter for your business
Key benefits of using templates:
- 76% of customers leave reviews when asked
- More reviews boost your Google ranking and visibility
- 93% of consumers rely on reviews to make purchase decisions
Top tips for effective review requests:
- Time it right (e.g. 2-3 days after purchase)
- Keep it under 100 words
- Use a friendly, conversational tone
- Ask 1-2 specific questions about their experience
- Make leaving a review quick and easy
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Offering incentives for reviews (against Google's rules)
- Pressuring customers or asking repeatedly
- Ignoring negative feedback
- Using generic, non-personalized requests
With the right approach, review request templates can significantly increase your Google reviews and grow your business online.
| Template Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Can include more detail | Lower open rates | |
| SMS | Very high open rates | Limited space |
| In-person | Personal touch | Can't reach all customers |
| Social media | Public engagement | May get missed in feeds |
What are review request templates?
Review request templates are pre-written messages businesses use to ask customers for Google reviews. They're like a starting point for crafting personalized "Hey, how'd we do?" messages.
Why do they matter? Simple:
- They save time
- They keep your tone consistent
- They make it easy for customers to leave feedback
A good template usually includes:
- A friendly "Hi there!"
- A quick "Thanks for your business"
- A polite "Mind leaving a review?"
- Clear "Here's how to do it" instructions
- A direct link to your Google review page
Here's what a basic email template might look like:
Subject: How was your experience?
Hi [Customer Name],
Thanks for choosing [Business Name]. We hope you loved your [product/service].
Got a minute to share your thoughts on Google? It helps us improve and helps others decide if we're right for them.
Just click here to leave a review: [Google review page link]
Thanks a bunch!
[Your Name]
[Business Name]
Remember, these templates aren't one-size-fits-all. You'll want to tweak them based on your business, your relationship with the customer, and how you're reaching out.
For example, if you're sending an SMS, you'd keep it super short:
Thanks for visiting [Business Name]! Mind leaving a quick review? [Short link]
Why use review request templates?
Review request templates are a game-changer for businesses aiming to boost their Google reviews. Here's why:
They're time-savers. Instead of crafting individual messages, you can reach more customers quickly.
They keep your message consistent. Every request sounds like your brand.
They get results. A BrightLocal study found that 76% of customers asked to leave a review actually do it. That's huge.
More reviews? Better SEO. Google loves businesses with lots of positive reviews.
And let's talk trust. NRC Health says 93% of consumers use online reviews to decide what to buy. Reviews matter.
Templates are flexible. You can tweak them for different customers or situations.
They make it easy for customers. Good templates include clear steps on how to leave a review.
Plus, you can automate them. Set it and forget it.
Here's a quick look at the impact:
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Time saved | Less time writing, more time growing |
| Response rate | 76% of asked customers leave reviews |
| SEO boost | Higher local search ranking |
| Trust building | 93% of consumers rely on reviews |
| Personalization | Tailor messages to customer groups |
Bottom line? Templates make getting reviews easier for you AND your customers.
Different kinds of review request templates
Let's look at the main types of review request templates:
Email templates
Emails work well for review requests. Why? 91% of people check their email daily. Here's what makes a good email template:
- Use the customer's name
- Mention what they bought
- Include a clear link to leave a review
- Keep it short
Here's a simple template:
Subject: How's your [Product Name]?
Hey [Customer Name],
Thanks for buying [Product Name]. How's it working out? We'd love to hear your thoughts on Google.
[Review Link]
Your feedback helps us and other customers.
Thanks, [Your Name]
SMS templates
Text messages are great for review requests. They have a 99% open rate (emails only get 21.33%). For SMS:
- Stay under 160 characters
- Be friendly
- Include a review link
Try this:
Hey [Name]! Loving your new [product]? We'd love your thoughts. Quick Google review? [Link] Thanks! - [Your Name]
In-person scripts
Asking face-to-face can work well. Try this:
"Glad you had a good time. If you have a sec, we'd love a Google review. It helps other customers and means a lot to us."
Social media posts
Social media is another option. Keep it short and include your Google review link.
| Template Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Can say more, reaches many | Fewer people open them | |
| SMS | Most people read them, quick | Limited space |
| In-person | Personal touch | Can't reach everyone |
| Social media | Public engagement | Might get missed |
Key parts of good review request templates
What makes a review request template work? Let's break it down:
Personal touch: Use the customer's name and what they bought. It shows you care.
"Hi Sarah, how's that eco-friendly water bottle treating you?"
Clear instructions: Make it easy. Include a direct link to your Google review page.
"Share your thoughts here: [Your Google Review Link]"
Why it matters: Tell them why their review counts.
"Your feedback helps us improve and guides other customers."
Keep it short: People are busy. Get to the point.
"Hey Tom, how was your Clips & Curls haircut? Quick feedback? [Link]"
Friendly tone: Write like you're talking to a friend.
Timing: Send it 2-3 days after the purchase or service.
Here's how good and not-so-good elements stack up:
| Good | Not-So-Good |
|---|---|
| Uses customer's name | Generic greeting |
| Mentions specific purchase | Vague references |
| Includes direct review link | No link or unclear instructions |
| Short and punchy | Long, wordy messages |
| Friendly tone | Formal or pushy language |
| Sent 2-3 days after purchase | Sent too soon or too late |
Offer a reward
Want more Google reviews? Try offering a reward. It's a simple way to get customers' attention and push them to act.
Here's a template you can use:
"Hi [Customer Name],
Thanks for choosing [Your Business]. We'd love your feedback! Leave us a Google review and get a 10% off coupon for your next visit.
Review link: [Your Google Review Link]
Your input helps us improve and helps others find us. Thanks!"
This works because it:
- Uses the customer's name
- Offers a clear reward
- Includes a direct review link
- Explains why reviews matter
But be smart about it. Rewards can boost reviews, but they can also backfire.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Reward all reviews | Reward only good reviews |
| Keep rewards small | Give big rewards |
| Be clear about the reward | Be vague about the incentive |
| Thank all reviewers | Ignore negative reviews |
Google allows review incentives, but be clear: the reward is for writing a review, not for a positive one.
Some businesses see big results. Beginning Boutique saw a 53% jump in coupon use when they offered review rewards.
But watch out. The FTC has rules about this. You can't make the reward depend on a good review. It's about honest feedback, not just praise.
A smart approach? Offer a small discount to anyone who leaves a review - good or bad. It's fair and follows the rules.
2. Keep it short and direct
When asking for Google reviews, cut to the chase. People are busy. A quick, straightforward request works better than a long one.
Try this template:
"Hi [Name],
Thanks for choosing us. Mind leaving a quick Google review?
[Your Google Review Link]
It helps us improve and others find us. Thanks!"
Why this works:
- Uses the customer's name
- Keeps it brief
- Includes a direct link
- Explains why reviews matter
The shorter your email, the easier it seems to leave a review. This can boost your response rate.
Charlie Hustle, a clothing company, saw more feedback after switching to short, simple requests.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Stay under 100 words | Write long paragraphs |
| Use a clear call-to-action | Add unrelated info |
| Provide a direct link | Complicate the process |
| Explain review value | Skip please and thank you |
REVIEWS.io found that longer emails get fewer responses. So, treat each word like it costs $100. It'll help you stay brief and on point.
3. Use a friendly tone
A friendly tone can make a big difference when asking for Google reviews. It makes customers feel valued and more likely to leave feedback.
Here's a template that keeps things casual:
"Hey [Name],
Thanks for choosing us! We loved having you. 😊
Got a sec? We'd love your thoughts on Google. It helps us improve and shows others what to expect.
Here's the link: [Your Google Review Link]
Thanks a bunch!
[Your Name]"
Why this works:
- Uses the customer's name
- Keeps it light with an emoji
- Explains why reviews matter
- Gives a direct link
Marty Weintraub, founder of aimClear, uses a similar approach:
"Hi Gina, Marty here! We're thrilled we helped you find the perfect dress for your big day. 👰 As I mentioned, reviews help us make dreams come true. Mind sharing your experience? Thank you! ❣️ www.search.google.com/review"
Marty's example shows how personal details make the request feel genuine.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use their name | Say "Dear valued customer" |
| Keep it casual | Use formal language |
| Use emojis (if on-brand) | Overdo exclamation points |
| Mention specifics | Use generic language |
4. Ask specific questions
Want better reviews? Ask better questions.
Here's a template that works:
"Hi [Name],
Thanks for choosing [Your Business]. Mind sharing your thoughts? Here's what we'd love to know:
- What did you like best about our [product/service]?
- How was our team?
- Any suggestions for us?
Your feedback helps us improve. Leave a review here: [Google Review Link]
Thanks! [Your Name]"
Why this works:
- Uses the customer's name
- Gives clear writing prompts
- Asks about specific experiences
- Includes a direct review link
Hoot Design Company nailed this approach:
"We get 7 out of 10 clients leaving Google Reviews we're proud of."
They ask:
- How was your [website/brand/sales funnel] before us?
- How is it now?
- What was it like working with us?
Jeda Logistics took it up a notch:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ask for stars (1-5) |
| 2 | Get open feedback |
| 3 | Ask about public sharing |
| 4 | Link to Google on the thank you page |
Result? 67 new Google reviews in months.
Specific questions = better reviews. Simple as that.
5. Share your business story
Telling your company's story can make review requests more personal. It helps customers connect with your brand, making them more likely to leave a review.
Here's a template that works:
"Hi [Customer Name],
We started [Your Company] in [Year] to [Your Mission]. Since then, we've [Brief Achievement].
Your experience matters. Mind sharing your thoughts in a quick Google review? It helps us improve and shows others what to expect.
[Google Review Link]
Thanks for being part of our story!
[Your Name]"
Why this template works:
- Gives a quick company history snapshot
- Shows your mission and progress
- Makes the customer feel part of something bigger
Real-world example: Groupon boosted sales by hiring Second City writers to create funny product backstories. Result? Higher email open rates and more sales.
To craft your business story:
- Identify the problem you solve
- Explain what sparked your business idea
- Describe how you're fixing the problem now
- State your mission
Take BrewDog's story:
| Element | BrewDog's Story |
|---|---|
| Problem | Boring industrial beers |
| Spark | "What if we can fix this?" |
| Action | Started their own brewery |
| Mission | Make more people love craft beer |
They add details like leasing a building at 24 and selling beers from an old van. These make the story stick in people's minds.
6. Support a cause
Linking review requests to charitable donations? Bad idea. Google's not a fan.
Here's the deal:
- It's against Google's rules
- It can skew reviews
- Your business might get penalized
So, what can you do instead?
1. Keep charity and reviews separate
Do good deeds just because. No strings attached.
2. Show off your good side
Mention your charitable work in review requests, but don't make it a condition.
3. Get customers involved
Let them choose causes you support. It builds community without messing with reviews.
Try this template:
"Hey [Customer],
Got a sec? We'd love your honest take on [Your Company] on Google.
[Google Review Link]
BTW, we're supporting [Cause] this month. Just thought you'd like to know.
Thanks!
[Your Name]"
This way, you're playing by the rules and still showing you care about more than just business.
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7. Tailor to your industry
Different businesses need different approaches to get reviews. Here's how to tweak your review requests for specific industries:
Restaurants Focus on the dining experience and specific dishes:
"Hi [Name], thanks for dining with us! What was your favorite dish? Share your thoughts on Google? [Link]"
Healthcare Keep it professional, emphasizing patient care:
"Dear [Patient], we hope your visit was comfortable. Your feedback helps us improve. Share your experience on Google? [Link]"
Retail Highlight products and customer service:
"Hey [Name], enjoying your new [product]? Tell others about your shopping experience on Google. [Link]"
Home Services Emphasize quality and reliability:
"Hi [Name], how was your [service]? Happy? A quick Google review would mean a lot. [Link]"
Tailoring your approach shows customers you value their specific experience, increasing the likelihood of getting a review.
8. Ask a simple question
Want more Google reviews? Just ask. Here's how:
1. Pick the right time
Ask when customers are happy. Like right after they buy something or have a good experience.
2. Keep it short
Use questions that are easy to answer:
- "How was your experience?"
- "Would you recommend us?"
- "What did you like best?"
3. Tell them why it matters
"Your feedback helps us improve and helps others choose. Mind sharing your thoughts in a quick Google review?"
4. Make it easy
Give them a direct link to your Google review page.
Here's how it can boost your reviews:
| Question | Review Increase |
|---|---|
| "How was your experience? Review us: [link]" | 15% |
| "What do you think of your new [product]? Share here: [link]" | 20% |
| "Would you recommend us? Let others know: [link]" | 25% |
Simple questions = easier reviews. They also guide customers to give specific, helpful feedback. That's good for you AND future customers.
9. Build community spirit
Want more Google reviews? Build community spirit in your requests. Here's how:
- Show the collective benefit
Tell customers how reviews help everyone:
"Your review helps us improve and guides others. Share your experience to support our community!"
- Highlight review impact
Show how feedback makes a difference:
| Review Feedback | Our Action |
|---|---|
| Product ideas | Added new features |
| Service issues | Improved staff training |
| Pricing concerns | Launched loyalty program |
- Create belonging
Make customers feel part of something bigger:
- Use "our community" or "fellow customers"
- Share your review count
- Thank reviewers for their role
- Start conversations
Invite customers to join in:
"Join 1,000+ customers who've shared thoughts. Your voice shapes our future!"
- Link to good causes
Tie reviews to charity. Pledge to donate or plant trees for each review. It's extra motivation to participate.
10. Add a personal touch
Want more reviews? Make your requests feel genuine. Here's how:
-
Use the customer's name in the subject and email.
-
Mention their recent purchase or service:
"Hey Tom, how's that new mountain bike treating you?"
-
Customize based on their history with you.
-
Show you're grateful for their business.
-
Write like you're chatting with a friend (but keep it professional).
-
Sign off with your name and role.
Here's a template to get you started:
Subject: Tom, got a sec to share your thoughts on [Your Company]?
Hi Tom,
Mike here from [Your Company]. Saw you picked up our [specific product] a couple weeks back. Hope it's been awesome!
Mind sharing your experience? Your feedback helps us up our game and guides other customers.
Quick review link: [Review Link]
Thanks for choosing us. Can't wait to hear what you think!
Cheers,
Mike Johnson
Customer Experience Manager
[Your Company]
Adjust templates for different businesses
Different industries need different approaches to review requests. Here's how to tailor your templates:
Retail and E-commerce
Focus on the recent purchase:
Hi [Name],
How's that [product] working out? We'd love your thoughts on Google. It helps us improve and helps other shoppers too.
Quick review here: [Google Review Link]
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Hospitality
Emphasize the guest experience:
Hi [Name],
Enjoyed your stay at [Hotel Name]? Your feedback matters to us and future guests. Share your experience on Google?
Review here: [Google Review Link]
Thanks,
[Your Name], Guest Relations
Healthcare
Keep it professional, focus on care quality:
Hello [Name],
Thanks for choosing [Practice Name]. We're all about top-notch care. Got a moment to share on Google? It helps others make healthcare choices.
Review here: [Google Review Link]
Best,
Dr. [Your Name]
Service-based Businesses
Timing is key:
| Service | When to Ask | What to Say |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate (salon) | Within 24 hours | "Like your new look?" |
| Short-term (auto repair) | 1-3 days after | "Car running smooth?" |
| Long-term (construction) | 1-2 weeks after | "Enjoying the new kitchen?" |
| Ongoing (therapy) | Milestones/biannually | "How's our progress?" |
Adjust your tone to fit your industry and what customers expect. As Michele Potts from Zoe Marketing & Communications says:
"Ask people to share their honest experiences and include the link."
Tips for using review request templates
Timing and approach are crucial when using review request templates. Here's how to get the most out of them:
Pick the right moment
Timing your requests can boost response rates:
- Hard goods: 21 days after purchase
- Soft/perishable goods: 14 days after
- Seasonal items: Within 7 days
Best days and times
| Day | Time | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 AM - 2 PM | High email open rates |
| Saturday | Around 6 PM | More downtime |
Smart follow-ups
Only 68% of customers review after the first ask. A second email can bump that up by 28%. Wait 7 days before following up if there's no response.
Industry-specific approaches
| Industry | Timing | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Retail | 1-3 days post-purchase | Product satisfaction |
| Hospitality | Within 24 hours of stay | Overall experience |
| Healthcare | 1 week post-appointment | Care quality |
Handling negative feedback
Turn bad reviews into chances to improve:
- Respond in 48 hours
- Apologize sincerely
- Offer a solution
- Take it offline
A Hotel Santa Barbara manager shared:
"For negative reviews, we apologize, address concerns, and offer a free upgrade next time. It shows we care and want to improve."
Check if your templates are working
Want to know if your review request templates are doing their job? Here's how to keep tabs on their performance:
1. Watch your review count
See a jump in new reviews after rolling out new templates? That's a good sign.
2. Check response rates
Figure out how many customers actually leave a review after you ask. Higher numbers mean your templates are hitting the mark.
3. Look at those stars
| What to check | What you want |
|---|---|
| Average rating | 4.5 stars or more |
| 5-star reviews | At least 70% |
4. Get a feel for sentiment
Use Google Business Profile Insights to see if reviews are mostly positive or negative.
5. Email click-throughs
For email templates, aim for 2-5% of people clicking your review link. That's what Google likes to see.
6. Review speed
Are reviews coming in steadily? That means your templates are working consistently.
7. Compare locations
Got multiple spots? Use tools like Synup or ReviewTrackers to see how templates perform at different locations.
8. Customer actions
Keep an eye on:
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Phone calls
More of these? Your better reviews might be bringing in more business.
9. Try A/B testing
Test two template versions to see which one works better.
10. Use UTM tracking
Add UTM parameters to your review links. This lets you track how they're doing in Google Analytics and Search Console.
Mistakes to avoid in review requests
Asking for Google reviews can be tricky. Here are some pitfalls to dodge:
1. Paying for fake reviews
Don't do it. Google's smart enough to catch you. The fallout? Lost reviews, search ranking hits, and a damaged reputation.
2. Offering incentives
Freebies for reviews? Nope. It's against Google's rules. You could lose reviews or even your Google Business Profile.
3. Pressuring customers
Don't be pushy. No repeat asks, guilt trips, or on-the-spot demands. Keep it natural.
4. Ignoring negative feedback
Bad reviews happen. Don't hide from them. Here's how to handle them:
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Respond quickly | Ignore it |
| Say thanks | Get defensive |
| Own the issue | Make excuses |
| Offer a fix | Blame the customer |
| Take it private | Argue publicly |
5. Using generic requests
One-size-fits-all doesn't work. Personalize your ask:
- Use names
- Mention their purchase
- Ask about specific experiences
6. Creating a "review station"
On-site review areas? Bad idea. Google might flag them as fake due to the same IP address.
7. Asking only for positive reviews
Don't cherry-pick happy customers. It looks fishy. Welcome all feedback.
8. Neglecting to ask at all
Don't assume customers will review without prompting. A gentle nudge often helps.
Wrap-up
Good review request templates are your secret weapon for getting more Google reviews. Why? They make asking for feedback a breeze.
Here's the deal:
- 76% of people leave reviews when asked. That's HUGE.
- More reviews = better Google ranking = more eyeballs on your business.
- 91% of young adults trust online reviews as much as their friends' advice.
Want to nail your review requests? Here's how:
1. Mix it up
Try different templates. See what clicks with your customers.
2. Keep it short and sweet
No one likes to read an essay. Get to the point.
3. Make it personal
Use their name. Mention what they bought. It shows you care.
4. Make it easy
Give them a direct link to leave a review. One click and they're there.
| Do This | Not That |
|---|---|
| Be friendly | Push too hard |
| Ask quickly | Bribe for reviews |
| Follow up (once) | Ask for only good reviews |
| Say thanks | Ignore bad feedback |
Remember: good templates = more reviews = more business. It's that simple.
FAQs
How do I ask customers to give a Google review?
Asking for Google reviews is easier than you might think. Here's a quick guide:
1. Be direct and friendly
Just say, "Hey, mind leaving us a Google review?"
2. Explain why it matters
Tell them, "Your review helps us improve and helps others find us."
3. Make it easy
Give them a direct link: "Here's where you can share your thoughts: [Your Google review link]"
4. Time it right
Ask right after they've had a good experience with you.
5. Follow up once
If they don't respond, send one gentle reminder.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Keep it short | Pressure customers |
| Personalize it | Ask for only good reviews |
| Say thanks | Ignore bad feedback |
Here's a real example that worked:
"Hi [Name], thanks for stopping by [Business Name] today! How was it? We'd love to hear your thoughts on Google. It helps us do better and helps others find us. Here's the link: [Google Review Link]. Thanks!"
This simple approach got 30% more reviews in just a month. And get this: 76% of people will leave a review if you just ask. So go for it!
