What to say to customers to get Google reviews (word-for-word scripts)
By Christopher Robinson · Updated · 6 min read
Short answer
Ask at the moment the customer is happiest, make it personal, keep it one step, and never offer anything in return. The simplest script: “We're a small local business and reviews really help. Would you tap this and leave us a quick Google review?”
When is the best time to ask for a review?
Right after the moment of delight — the haircut reveal, the paid bill after a great meal, the finished job walkthrough, the product in their hands. Asking in that moment, in person, with a one-tap way to do it gets far more reviews than a follow-up email days later.
What should I say in person?
Keep it short, honest and specific to them. Mention you're local, say it helps, and hand them the way to do it. People rarely refuse a polite, personal ask — they just forget later, which is why the review card matters.
- “We're a small local shop and Google reviews really help us. Would you tap this and leave a quick one?”
- “I'm glad you love it! If you have 20 seconds, a Google review helps other people find us.”
- “Would you mind sharing that on Google? Just tap your phone here — it opens right up.”
- “Reviews are how most new customers find us. Would you leave us one before you go?”
What should I text or email after the visit?
Send it the same day, use their name, and include the direct review link so it's one tap. One reminder a few days later is fine; more than that feels pushy.
- Text: “Hi Sam, thanks for coming in today! If you have a sec, a quick Google review would mean a lot: [link]”
- Email subject: “How did we do, Sam?” — body: two lines of thanks, one line asking for a review, the link as a button
- Contractor: “Thanks for trusting us with the job, Sam. If you're happy with the work, would you share a review? [link]”
Scripts by industry
Tie the ask to the moment your customer is happiest in your business. The wording barely matters as much as timing and making it one step.
| Business | Moment | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant | Bringing the check | “If you enjoyed it, a quick Google review helps us a ton — just tap here.” |
| Salon / barber | Mirror reveal | “Love it? Would you tap this and tell Google? It helps me get new clients.” |
| Contractor | Final walkthrough | “If you're happy with the job, a review really helps a small crew like ours.” |
| Retail | At the register | “Did you find everything? We'd love a quick Google review — just tap.” |
| Clinic / gym | Check-out | “Reviews help people like you find us. Would you leave one on the way out?” |
What can't I say when asking for reviews?
Don't offer discounts, freebies, raffle entries or anything else in exchange for a review, and don't say “leave us a 5-star review” or only ask people you think are happy. Those break Google's policies, can get reviews removed, and incentivized or fake reviews are also illegal under the FTC's rule on consumer reviews.