By The SmallBizReply Team · April 30, 2026 · 5 min read
How to Ask Customers for a Google Review (with Templates)
Most customers are happy to leave a review, they just never get asked, or the ask makes it feel like a chore. The fix is a short, warm request with a one-tap link, sent when the experience is fresh.
In person
"So glad you're happy with it! If you have a sec, a quick Google review really helps a small business like ours, I can text you the link right now." Then actually send it while you're standing there.
By text
"Hi {name}, thanks again for choosing {business}! If you have a moment, we'd be grateful for a quick Google review, it helps other locals find us: {link}. Thank you!"
Texts get the highest response rate because the link is one tap away. Send it within an hour or two of the visit.
By email
"Hi {name}, it was a pleasure helping you with {service}. Reviews make a big difference for us, if you have two minutes, we'd love to hear how we did: {link}. Either way, thank you for your business!"
Keep it short, link once, and don't follow up more than once. A gentle single reminder a few days later is fine; repeated nagging is not.
Keep it policy-safe
Ask everyone, not just the customers you think will rave. Never offer a discount, freebie, or entry-to-win in exchange. And make replying to the reviews you receive part of the routine, it's what makes the next customer want to write one.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best channel to ask for a review?
Text usually wins, the link is one tap away and it arrives while the experience is fresh. In-person asks paired with a text are the strongest combination.
How many times should you follow up?
Once, gently, a few days later at most. Beyond that it reads as nagging and hurts goodwill.