The short answer
Keep it short. Thank them, say a Google review helps locals find you, and tell them you'll send the link. Then text the same words the same day, with the link, so it takes one tap.
Most owners don't skip the asking because they're lazy. They skip it because it feels awkward, and the words aren't ready. So here are the words.
The easiest moment is as the job finishes. The problem is fixed. The customer is relieved. You're standing right there.
Say this: "Thanks for having us. If you've got a minute, a Google review really helps us. I'll text you the link now."
That's it. You're not begging. You're telling them what happens next.
Want to see how your reviews look next to the business down the road? Get your Free 3R check.
Example text: "Hi Sam, thanks for having us out today. If you've got a minute, could you leave us a Google review? It helps other locals find us. Here's the link. Thanks, Dave from Smith Plumbing."
Use it as a template. Change the names. Keep it that short. Put the review link from your Google Business Profile at the end. If you don't have the link yet, see How do I make a Google review link and QR code?
There's an old rule from my action marketing days. We've got to tell them what to do.
One ask. One link. Don't make them search for your business and hunt for the review button. Most won't.
If the words change every time, the asking depends on someone remembering. Write it once. Save it in your phone. Use it for every job.
That also keeps you fair. Every customer gets the same review request, whether the job was easy or hard. Some will leave negative reviews. That's fine. Google says a mix of positive and negative feedback often feels more trustworthy.
If they haven't left a review after a few days, send one short reminder. Then leave it.
When to ask is its own question. See When is the best time to ask a customer for a review? The whole system, from asking to replying, is on our Reputation page.
About the author
Greg Hamlyn started out on the tools. He and his late wife Wendy then built their first business from $200,000 a year to well over $1 million in the first year, with no extra mechanics. He has been working with business owners since 2003. He co-founded OfficeStaff with Nick Lock to help Australian service businesses get more reviews, answer every customer and show up on Google. He will tell you if you are not a fit. Based on the Gold Coast.
Who publishes this: OfficeStaff.ai helps local businesses get found on Google, trusted through reviews and booked through their website and past customers.
Read next
Ask every customer, the same way, every time, as the job finishes, and send your review link the same day. The words to use and the shortcuts that break Google's rules.
Your Google listing, your website and your customer list are yours, always.
Ask us before you start.