The Importance of Reviews
I’m sure you check reviews yourself before visiting a restaurant. Let's be honest - if one place has more and better Google reviews, that’s where you choose to go.
As a business owner, you know people are far more likely to leave a negative review than a positive one. It’s just human nature; we complain more often than we praise. So, here's how you can gently remind your customers or clients about the excellent experience they just had.
Choose the Right Moment to Ask
The best time to ask for a review is when your client is happiest - right after a successful delivery, project, or experience.
The timing depends on your business type:
For service businesses: Ask the same day or the next morning.
For product-based businesses: Allow 3–5 working days for them to try the product before requesting a review.
Make It Personal - But Keep It Simple
Use a friendly tone that feels genuine. No need to overthink it; your client wants to help you; they just need a little nudge.
Example (email or DM): |
"Hi [Name], it was such a pleasure working with you! If you have a moment, I’d really appreciate a quick Google Review - it helps more people find me. Here’s the direct link: [Google Review link]. Thanks so much!" |
Use Automation to Your Advantage
If asking for reviews feels awkward or if you tend to forget, automation can take over - gently and effectively.
Here are simple ways to build review requests into your existing workflows using tools you probably already have:
Set up an Email Follow-Up
Create an automated email that sends 1–5 days after a purchase or completed service. Include:
A warm thank-you
A polite ask: “If you enjoyed the experience, would you mind leaving a quick Google Review?”
Your direct review link (see below)
💡 Tools: use the built-in automation options in platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace – or use Mailchimp, Brevo, or Gmail + Zapier. |
Quick Replies in WhatsApp Business
Use WhatsApp’s Quick Reply feature to make asking for reviews effortless, especially if most of your client communication happens there.
Example:
"Thanks again for choosing us! If you have a momen, we'd love a Google Review - it really helps others find us. Just tap here: [your review link]."
Instagram Keyword Automations
Instagram allows you to create auto-replies when someone DMs a specific word (like REVIEW or FEEDBACK).
Example:
“Thank you for supporting us! If you have a sec, we’d love a Google Review 💬 Here’s the link: [link].”
📲 Set this up through Meta Business Suite or your IG Inbox.
QR Codes on Print or Digital Materials
Generate a QR code linked to your Google Review popup and place it on:
Receipts
Thank-you cards
Workshop handouts
Your in-store signage or event banners
It's ideal for in-person businesses - easy to scan, easy to act.
Automate Review Requests with Your CRM
Most CRMs (like Dubsado, HoneyBook, Zoho, or HubSpot) allow you to automate follow-ups after service or a project.
Set up a rule to send a review request 1–3 days after the job is completed - no manual follow-up required.
Celebrate the reviews you receive by reposting or saving them as testimonials.
Use a Direct Link to the Review Pop-Up
Make it easy - no one wants to search for your profile. Use this format: https://g.page/r/YOUR_PLACE_ID/review.
Include it in:
Email signatures
Thank-you pages
Instagram auto-replies
Your NFC cards or QR codes
Make it a Habit
Add “Ask for a review” to your project closeout checklist.
If you're not using a CRM, set a recurring reminder to follow up manually.
Celebrate the reviews you get by reposting or saving them as testimonials.
Use NFC Cards for Instant Reviews
An NFC card (or sticker) contains your Google Review link. When a customer taps it with their phone, it opens your review form instantly - no typing or searching required.
✅ Easy to use
✅ Works with most smartphones
✅ Feels modern and memorable
You can place them at:
The checkout counter
In the room or on a table
On a thank-you card or receipt
On staff lanyards or menus
You can order a custom NFC card online (they're affordable) or DIY with a programmable NFC tag.
Conclusion: Make It Easy for People to Support You
You don’t need to beg for reviews. Just ask at the right time, keep it simple, and make it effortless for your clients to follow through.
Celebrate great reviews by reposting them on your social media - it boosts your visibility and reinforces trust in your business. People want to support you; just make it easy for them!
And because I want to make this easy for you too, I’ve created the Google Reviews Growth Kit – a step-by-step checklist plus ready-to-use email, SMS, and WhatsApp Business templates you can simply copy and paste. It’s only €1.
If you’d like to support what I do – and grab some helpful tools for your business – check out my digital products (some are free!).
Ready to build it into your workflow?
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