What is the best way to ask for a review? The best way is to ask right after a great customer experience, using a short, personal message and a direct link to the review platform you care about most.
How do you write a review request? Write a review request that (1) thanks the customer, (2) names the specific service/product they received, (3) asks for honest customer feedback, (4) makes it effortless with one link, and (5) ends with appreciation — without sounding pushy.
In 2026, reviews continue to be among the strongest trust signals for local businesses. With people comparing options so quickly, having recent, high-quality reviews is more important than ever for your online reputation and customer acquisition. Recognizing this constant, it’s essential to consider how — and when — you ask for reviews.
This guide teaches you how to ask for a review in a way that feels natural, protects your brand, and builds a reliable review-generation system. Next, you’ll get practical best practices, timing rules, channel-by-channel guidance, and ready-to-use review-request email templates. Finally, you’ll learn what not to do — to avoid policy issues and awkward customer moments.
Along the way, we’ll show how Getpin simplifies review management for your business — from increasing your online visibility and controlling listings, to monitoring reviews, analyzing customer feedback, and enabling fast, unified responses. With these features, Getpin helps you build trust more efficiently with more customers. If you want to strengthen your business’s presence first, start with Getpin’s business presence tool.
The importance of a proactive review request strategy for your business
A proactive strategy means you don’t “hope” customers leave reviews. You build a consistent system for soliciting reviews at key points in the customer journey. This matters because reviews influence three key areas:
- Trust and conversion
A strong rating and fresh reviews reduce perceived risk. When prospects see others describing a good experience, they’re more likely to choose you. - Local visibility and discoverability
Reviews are a major local ranking factor. The more recent and relevant your reviews are, the stronger your performance tends to be in local search and Maps (according to WordStream overview). - Customer insights and improvement
Reviews are free product research. They highlight strengths and reveal where your customer experience needs improvement. Tracking review themes helps identify patterns, train staff, and improve operations.
A strong review strategy isn’t sending one email and hoping. Instead, it’s a repeatable feedback loop: deliver a good experience, request feedback, capture reviews, respond, learn, improve, and repeat. Looking ahead to 2026, running this loop is easier when your listings, messaging, and response workflows are centralized.
That’s why many teams connect review requests with reputation workflows. With Getpin’s reputation management tool, you can aggregate reviews, analyze sentiment, and respond faster — without juggling five different dashboards.
How to politely ask for a Google review: best practices & timing
If you’re targeting Google, your ask must be simple, fast, and compliant. Google reviews are valuable because they influence visibility on Maps and can affect click-through rates and call volume.
Understanding the best time to send review request emails
The best time to send review request emails is when the customer’s “emotional peak” is still fresh and the outcome is clear.
Use this timing guide:
- Service completed today (high satisfaction): Send within 1–4 hours, or the next morning.
- Appointment-based businesses (salons, clinics, repairs): Send same day, early evening.
- Product delivered (simple products): Send 2–3 days after delivery.
- Product delivered (needs time to evaluate): Send 7–14 days after delivery.
- B2B projects: Send immediately after a milestone is signed off and the client expresses satisfaction.
Avoid sending when customers are busy or distracted. Don’t send in the middle of the night, and avoid the Monday morning rush if your audience is corporate.
If you want a data point to support internal buy-in, BrightLocal’s research shows that a large portion of customers leave reviews when asked, which is exactly why timing + asking matters.
Personalization: the key to a successful customer review request email
A generic customer review request email gets ignored. Personalization increases trust and reduces the “mass blast” vibe.
Add at least two of these:
- Customer first name
- Specific service or product name
- Staff member name (who served them)
- Location (branch/store)
- The benefit/outcome (“glasses fit perfectly,” “issue resolved,” “delivery was on time”)
Keep the tone human. Instead of generic phrases like “We value your feedback,” be specific: “Your review helps others choose with confidence.”
How to ask for a Google review: a step-by-step guide
When people search for how to ask for a Google review, they usually need two things: (1) the link, and (2) the script. You can do both reliably if you set up your workflow once.
Creating your direct Google review link
You need a link that opens the “Write a review” screen directly. Create it inside your Google Business Profile (GBP). Once you have it:
- Save it in a shared staff doc.
- Add it to your email templates.
- Generate a QR code for offline touchpoints.
- Put it into your CRM automations
This turns “we should request a review” into “we always request a review.”
How to ask for a review on Google Business Profile effectively
When people ask how to ask for a review on Google My Business, the “effective” part comes down to friction.
Use this checklist:
- Ask only after the service outcome is clear.
- Use one link (no “choose your platform” overload)
- Keep the email message under 120–160 words.
- Make the CTA obvious (“Leave a Google review”)
- Don’t ask for a specific rating (ask for honesty)
If your broader goal is “be found + trusted,” connect review requests with accurate listings and ongoing visibility. Getpin’s solutions will be a good starting point if you want a single system for presence, reputation, and messaging.
The ultimate review request templates & examples
Below are practical templates you can paste into your email tool today. Use them as a baseline, then tailor by industry and tone.
These templates are written to cover the most common search intents, including:
- review request email template
- review request email example
- customer review request email
- ask for the review email template
- professional email request review template
- and more variations customers search for in 2026.
Your go-to review request email template & examples
Short and friendly review request email (universal)
Subject line options (choose one):
- Quick question about your recent visit
- Thanks from [Business name] — could you share feedback?
- 30 seconds: can you request a review?
Email:
Hi [First name],
Thanks again for choosing [Business name] for [service/product]. If you have a moment, could you request a review and share your experience? Your customer feedback helps others decide, and it helps our team improve.
Here’s the link to request a review on Google: [Google review link]
Thanks so much,
[Name], [Role]
[Business name]
Why this works: short, personal, single link, and it uses “experience” (not “5-star”) language.
Professional email review request (B2B / higher-ticket)
Subject line options:
- Feedback request after [project/service]
- A quick request for review from [Business name]
- Thank you — could you request a review?
Email:
Hi [First name],
It was a pleasure working with you on [project/service]. If everything met your expectations, could you share a brief review of your experience? This request for review helps other clients understand what it’s like to work with us, and it supports our team’s growth.
You can request a review here: [Google review link]
If anything wasn’t perfect, feel free to reply directly — your feedback is always welcome.
Best regards,
[Name], [Title]
[Business name]
Why this works: it invites private feedback as well, lowering the risk of negative surprises in public.
After support resolution (customer support teams)
Subject line options:
- Was your issue resolved?
- How did we do today?
- Email request for review: your support experience
Email:
Hi [First name],
Thanks for reaching out to our team — glad we could help with [issue]. If your issue is fully resolved, could you take a moment to leave a short review? This email for review request helps us keep improving our support.
Here’s the link to request a review: [Google review link]
Thank you,
[Name]
Customer support, [Business name]
If you manage support across channels, Getpin’s support workflows let you consolidate customer communications, streamline responses, and track resolution outcomes in one dashboard — all making it easier to deliver fast, coordinated support.
Review request email for repeat customers (loyalty angle)
Subject line options:
- Thanks for being a regular customer
- A small favor from [Business name]
- Could you request a review?
Email:
Hi [First name],
We appreciate you — thanks for being a repeat customer at [Business name]. If you’ve enjoyed your experiences with us, would you be open to leaving a quick review? Your online review request template feedback helps others find us and supports our team.
Here’s where to request a review on Google: [Google review link]
With gratitude,
[Name]
[Business name]
Follow-up email (gentle reminder)
Subject line options:
- Friendly reminder (if you have a moment)
- Did you get a chance to leave feedback?
- Quick follow-up email about your review
Email:
Hi [First name],
Just a quick follow-up — if you have a moment, we’d still love your feedback about [service/product]. Here’s the link again to request a review: [Google review link]
Thank you either way,
[Name]
[Business name]
Rule: only one reminder unless the customer replies positively.
A Google review request template that gets clicks
If your main need is a “pure Google” version (common searches include Google review request template, request for Google review template, and give us a Google review template), use this tighter, action-led CTA.
Subject line:
- Could you request a Google review?
Email:
Hi [First name],
Thanks for choosing [Business name]. Could you request a Google review and share your experience? It takes about 30 seconds and helps other customers find us.
Leave your Google review request here: [Google review link]
Thank you,
[Name]
This is one of the best-performing shapes for a Google review request email template because it’s short, asks for one thing, and is low-friction.
How to ask for a Google review via text: SMS request message examples
A review request works best when the contact was recent and the time was positive. SMS messages are opened a lot, so keep them short, friendly, and focused. Always add a Google review link and name your business right away.
Below are practical review request text examples you can adapt for different scenarios.
Short and friendly Google review request text
Hi [Name]! This is [Your name] from [Business name].
Thanks again for visiting us today 😊
If you have a moment, would you leave a Google review and share your experience?
Here’s the link: [Google review link]
Why it works:
This review request message sample is casual, human, and low-pressure. It works well for salons, cafés, clinics, and local services.
Professional Google review request via text (service businesses)
Hi [Name], this is [Your name] from [Business name].
Thank you for choosing us for [service]. If everything went well, please write a review on Google to share your experience.
You can leave it here: [Google review link]
Why it works:
This example of how to ask for a Google review via text is neutral and professional, making it suitable for higher-ticket or regulated services.
After the appointment or support resolution
Hi [Name]! Glad we could help with [issue/service].
If your experience was positive, could you take a moment to leave a Google review and share your feedback?
It really helps our team: [Google review link]
Why it works:
It connects the request directly to a resolved problem, which increases the likelihood of a positive response.
Ultra-short review request text template
Hi [Name]! If you enjoyed your experience with [Business name], we’d love your feedback.
Please leave a review on Google here: [Google review link]
Thank you! 🙏
Why it works:
This text removes any obstacles and works best with customers who know your brand.
Polite follow-up text message review request
Hi [Name]! Just a quick reminder in case you didn’t have time earlier.
If you’re open to it, here’s the link to write a Google review: [Google review link]
Thanks again for choosing us!
Why it works:
This text message request for a review is respectful and non-pushy. Use only once as a follow-up.
Best practices for Google review requests via text
When using how to ask for a Google review via text, follow these rules:
- Always identify your business in the first line.
- Keep the message under 3–4 short lines.
- Use one clear CTA (no multiple platforms)
- Send during normal hours (9 am – 8 pm)
- Ask for honest feedback, not a 5-star rating.
Used correctly, SMS becomes one of the fastest ways to collect Google reviews — especially when combined with email requests and in-person asks.
(No templates) A universal review request letter sample for offline businesses: what to include
If you also need an offline approach (printed inserts, receipts, cards), use this structure:
- “Thank you” + what they bought.
- One sentence: why reviews help (others + improvement).
- One clear instruction: scan QR/visit short link.
- Optional: invite private feedback if something went wrong.
Keep it visually simple. QR code is ideal. One platform only.
Beyond Google: requesting a review on social media
Google is often a priority, but social reviews can support brand trust and community visibility.
Making a Facebook review request: best practices
People search for Facebook review requests, Facebook request reviews, how to request a review on Facebook, and other related terms because Facebook reviews can influence local trust, especially for lifestyle businesses.
Best practices:
- Ask in DMs after a positive interaction, not in public comments.
- Keep it short and personal.
- Don’t pressure.
- Link directly to the Reviews tab.
- If you post publicly, frame it as “We’d love feedback” rather than “Go leave 5 stars”.
If you’re using social channels regularly, keep your brand active with consistent updates. Getpin can support ongoing content consistency through the Regular posts tool, so your social proof doesn’t go stale.
How to request a review on Instagram: using DMs and stories
Instagram doesn’t have a native review system like Google, but it’s still part of the “proof” ecosystem. People search for request a review on Instagram and how to request a review on Instagram, and how testimonials and UGC work similarly.
Use Instagram to:
- Ask for a short testimonial you can repost
- Collect feedback via DM.
- Share “review highlights” as Stories.
- Drive traffic to your Google review link (via bio link or story sticker).
Keep in mind: Instagram testimonials are not a replacement for Google reviews if local SEO is a priority — but they can reinforce trust.
The “how to ask for a 5-star review” dilemma: what’s allowed by Google
A common query is how to ask for a 5-star review. Here’s the safest answer:
- Ask for an honest review instead of a 5-star review.
- Don’t offer incentives specifically in exchange for reviews.
- Don’t “gate” customers (only sending review links to happy people).
- Don’t ask employees or family members to spam reviews (platforms detect patterns).
You can say: “If you were happy with your experience, we’d appreciate a review.”
You should avoid: “Please leave us a 5-star rating.”
This protects your brand and helps you build a review profile that looks natural and credible.
Beyond the request for review: managing customer feedback with Getpin
A solid system doesn’t end at the request for review. Reviews create ongoing work:
- Monitoring multiple review platforms
- Responding quickly (especially to negatives)
- Routing feedback to the right team
- Tracking trends (service quality, staff, location issues)
- Protecting brand voice and response quality
That’s where centralized tools matter. Getpin helps you manage the full reputation loop:
- Keep listings accurate so people can find you and review you.
- Track reviews and respond faster.
- Maintain consistent communication and visibility.
- Streamline conversations and response workflows.
If you’re currently juggling tabs, spreadsheets, and notifications, the real opportunity is to turn reviews into a managed process. That means faster responses, better insights, and a stronger online reputation — without burning time every day.
If you want to build a consistent review engine (and manage the feedback that comes with it), explore Getpin’s solutions and book a demo to see how it fits your workflow.
FAQs
What is the most important factor when asking for a review?
The most important factor is timing, closely followed by simplicity. Ask when the customer’s experience is fresh and clearly positive, and make the next step effortless with a single link. Keep the message short, personal, and focused on honest customer feedback. If you combine good timing with low friction, your review request conversion rate rises naturally.
Can I offer my customers incentives for leaving a review?
In most cases, offering incentives directly in exchange for reviews is risky and may violate platform guidelines. It can also reduce trust if customers suspect reviews are “bought.” A safer approach is to focus on delivering a great customer experience and using a clear, polite request for a review message. If you run any promotions, keep them separate from review requests and avoid tying rewards to a specific rating.
What’s the best time to send a review request?
The best time to send review request emails is shortly after the customer receives value: the service is completed, the issue is resolved, or the product’s benefit is clear. For services, it can be the same day; for products, 2–14 days, depending on the evaluation time. If you send too early, customers don’t have enough experience. If you send too late, the emotional momentum fades, and they forget details.
How should I respond if I receive a negative review after my request?
Respond quickly, calmly, and with ownership. Thank them for the feedback, apologize for the experience, and offer a next step (a contact method, replacement, refund, or resolution path). Avoid arguing in public; instead, show that you take issues seriously and want to fix them. This protects your online reputation and can even convert frustrated customers into loyal ones.
How do I ask customers for a review without annoying them?
Keep it optional, respectful, and infrequent. Use a short message, personalize it, and avoid multiple reminders. One request plus one gentle follow-up is usually enough. If a customer doesn’t respond, let it go and focus on the next interaction — consistent, polite soliciting reviews beats aggressive chasing.
