Online reviews are today’s digital word of mouth. Whether you run a local restaurant, a dental clinic, or an e-commerce brand, your potential customers are checking Google, Yelp, and Facebook before deciding to do business with you. The question is: are they finding enough positive reviews about your business?
If not, the solution may be simple—you just need to ask. But asking for reviews has to be done the right way. In this guide, we’ll cover the best practices for asking customers to leave reviews in 2025,
Why Customer Reviews Matter
90% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase decision.
Businesses with more reviews rank higher on Google Maps and local search.
A steady flow of fresh, positive reviews builds trust and credibility.
Put simply: reviews don’t just influence customer decisions—they also impact your SEO and your revenue.
When Is the Best Time to Ask for a Review?
Immediately after service or purchase – Ask for feedback while the customer is still excited about their experience.
After a positive interaction – A support call or follow-up email that resolved an issue is a great moment to request a review.
When customers return or refer others – Repeat business usually signals satisfaction, making it a perfect time to ask.
1. Ask in Person
Train your team to politely ask happy customers for a review. A simple script like:
“We’re so glad you enjoyed your experience. If you wouldn’t mind, could you leave us a quick review on Google? It helps us a lot.”
Direct them to your review plate, stand or printed material.
2. NFC, QR Code & Printed Material
Place QR codes on receipts, menus, business cards, or thank-you notes. Place your NFC, QR code imbedded plate in a prominent position. Customers can scan and leave a review instantly.
3. Send Email Review Requests
Email remains one of the most effective channels. Best practices:
• Keep subject lines personal: “How did we do, [First Name]?”
• Keep it short and friendly.
• Include a direct link to your Google, Yelp, or Facebook review page.
4. Use SMS Review Requests
SMS messages get open rates of over 90%. A short text with a direct link to your review page can dramatically increase responses. Example:
“Hi [First Name], thanks for choosing us! Could you take 30 seconds to leave us a review? [Insert Link]”
5. Social Media & Newsletters
Your followers are often your biggest fans. Use your social channels and email newsletters to remind them that reviews help your business grow.
6. Online Reputation Consultant
All the above are things you can do to improve your online reputation but it takes time and as a busy business owner time is a valuable commodity. By using an online reputation consultant you can remove the hassle. Find out more Online Reputation Management Consultant
Tips for Making Review Requests Effective
Make it easy – Always include direct links.
Be genuine – Customers can sense when requests are robotic.
Stay compliant – Avoid offering incentives that violate platform guidelines (e.g., Google forbids paid reviews).
Respond to all reviews – Customers are more likely to leave feedback when they see you engaging with others.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Asking for Reviews
❌ Sending multiple reminders that feel like spam
❌ Using generic, copy-paste messages
❌ Only asking happy customers (this can even be illegal in regulated industries)
❌ Forgetting to follow up on reviews once they’re posted
Final Thoughts: Turn Happy Customers into Advocates
Asking for reviews doesn’t have to be awkward—it just needs to be thoughtful. By choosing the right timing, using the right channels, and making the process easy, you can turn satisfied customers into powerful advocates for your business.
Ready to take the next step? Our Online Reputation Management Consultant make it effortless to collect reviews, monitor customer feedback by a real person, no automation.