Online reviews have become the new word-of-mouth for local businesses. In fact, 98% of people read online reviews for local businesses, and 86% say reviews are essential when deciding where to spend their money. Not only do reviews build trust, but they also play a critical role in boosting your visibility in Google’s local search results.
But here’s the question most small businesses ask: “When and how should I ask customers for reviews?”
The Best Times to Ask for a Review
Timing matters. Customers are most likely to leave a positive review when their experience is fresh and memorable. Here are the moments to take advantage of:
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Right after purchase or service completion – Strike while the experience is still top of mind.
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After positive interactions – For example, if a customer compliments your team or product.
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During follow-up emails or SMS – A “thank you” message that includes a direct review link makes it easy for them to respond.
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Seasonal campaigns – Tie review requests into holidays or milestones (like Father’s Day or Spring Sales) when engagement is already high.
How to Ask for Reviews (Without Being Pushy)
The key is to keep it friendly, simple, and convenient. Here are some proven approaches:
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In-person requests: Train your team to ask satisfied customers directly. A simple, “We’d really appreciate it if you could share your experience on Google” goes a long way.
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Email signatures: Add a “Leave us a Google Review” link at the bottom of every staff email.
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Receipts or thank-you notes: Include a QR code or short link to your Google review page.
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Automated follow-ups: After an online booking or purchase, send a polite follow-up with one-click access to your review page.
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Social media reminders: Create light, engaging posts inviting happy customers to share feedback.
Why It Matters
Google reviews are not just testimonials, they are a ranking signal for local SEO. Businesses with more reviews and higher ratings often appear higher in Google Maps and “near me” searches. Even better, responding to reviews (good or bad) shows potential customers that you’re active, approachable, and trustworthy.
👉 Pro Tip: Don’t wait for reviews to trickle in. Make asking for feedback a part of your regular customer journey. Done consistently, it can transform your visibility online and put your business ahead of competitors who don’t prioritise reviews.
📲 SMS Template (Short & Direct)
Hi [First Name], thanks for choosing [Business Name]! 🌟 We’d love your feedback, it only takes 1 minute. Please leave us a quick Google review here: [Review Link]
Thank you for supporting our local business! 💛
✅ Why it works:
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Short and mobile-friendly
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Direct link for one-tap action
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Polite and personal tone
📧 Email Template (Polished & Personal)
Subject line ideas:
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“Got a minute to share your experience?”
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“We’d love your feedback, [First Name]”
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“Help us grow with a quick review 🌟”
Email body:
Hi [First Name],
I just wanted to say thank you for choosing [Business Name] — we really appreciate your support.
If you’ve had a good experience with us, it would mean the world if you could share a quick review on Google. Your feedback not only helps us improve but also helps other people feel confident about choosing us too.
Here’s the link: [Review Link]
It only takes a minute, but it makes a big difference to our small business.
Thanks again for being part of our community.
Warm regards,
[Your Name / Team Name]
[Business Name]
✅ Why it works:
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Warm, grateful tone
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Explains why reviews matter
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Includes a bold one-click call-to-action
If you need some support with your google reviews, contact us and have a chat about how we help businesses grow reviews and manage both positive and negative feedback.
Chat to us: Hello@koola.au
