How To Ask A Client To Leave A Review: Scripts, Timing, And Etiquette

Most people check reviews before they decide to work with someone. It’s one of the first things they look at when comparing similar services or businesses. A short sentence from a happy client can carry more weight than a whole sales pitch.

The problem? Even the happiest clients rarely take the time to write one on their own.

Not because they didn’t have a good experience. They’re just… busy. They move on, get caught up in work, or simply forget. You might get the occasional review without asking, but waiting around usually doesn’t cut it.

Here’s where many business owners hesitate. Asking can feel awkward. Too pushy. Too self-promotional. And sure, you don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable – but you also don’t want to miss the moment. Most people are totally fine with being asked. Some even appreciate the nudge.

This guide is here to help with that. You’ll find:

• When to ask so it doesn’t feel random or forced
• What to say so it sounds like you
• A few examples you can use or tweak, depending on how you usually talk to your clients

Let’s get down to it!

When is the right time to ask for a review?

Timing makes a big difference. Ask too early, and it might feel rushed. Ask too late, and the moment’s gone. The good news is, there are a few points in the customer journey where asking for a review feels natural and actually gets results. Below are a few of the best times to bring it up, without making it awkward or out of place.

1. After delivering a successful outcome

One of the best moments to ask for a review is right after something goes well. Maybe you wrapped up a project, resolved a tricky issue, or hit a milestone the client was excited about. That’s when the good energy is fresh and your work is top of mind.

You don’t need to wait days or follow up in some super formal way. If the client is already saying things like “Thanks so much!” or “This was super helpful,” that’s your window. A quick, friendly message like:

“I’m really glad we could get that sorted for you. If you’ve got a moment, would you mind sharing a short review? It helps others find us, and we’d really appreciate it.”

No big sell or overthinking. You’re simply catching them at a moment when they’re already feeling positive.

2. When a client compliments your service (in person, by email, etc.)

If a client says something nice like “You’ve been amazing,” “This is exactly what I needed,” or even a simple “Thank you so much!” you’ve already got a warm lead for a review. Compliments like these are mini testimonials in disguise. All you’re doing is gently moving them from a private message into a public one.

This kind of moment is great because you don’t have to dig for customer feedback – it’s already happening! Just follow their compliment with a short, casual ask that keeps the tone friendly:

“Really appreciate you saying that. Would you be up for sharing it in a quick review? Here’s the link.”

No need for a long setup. If they’ve already said something positive, they’ve basically done 80% of the work. You’re just giving them a simple way to make it official.

3. After repeat purchases or long-term collaboration

When someone keeps coming back, that’s a strong sign they trust you, and that trust is a solid foundation for a great review. Maybe they’ve booked your service a few times, renewed their contract, or you’ve been working together for months. You don’t need a dramatic project ending to justify asking. Consistency speaks for itself.

The ask here can be a bit more personal. You’ve already built a relationship, so it doesn’t have to be super formal or overly polite. Just something simple and honest, like:

“I really appreciate how long we’ve been working together. If you ever feel like dropping a short review, I’d be grateful. Here’s the link. It only takes a minute.”

You can even frame it as something that helps others find a reliable long-term partner, just like they did. In these cases, it’s less about a single moment and more about the experience as a whole. That kind of review tends to carry weight with future clients, too.

4. Immediately post-project or delivery

Right after a project wraps up or a service is delivered is another great moment to ask. The experience is still fresh, the details are clear, and if everything went smoothly, there’s usually a sense of relief or customer satisfaction. That’s a good vibe to catch.

The trick here is timing. Don’t wait a week. Don’t wait until you’ve sent three follow-ups. Just add it naturally to your final message, invoice email, or project handoff note. Something like:

“Glad we could wrap this up! If you have a sec, would you mind sharing a short review about your experience? Here’s a quick link if you’re up for it.”

You’re riding the momentum! And if the client had a good experience, most won’t mind putting a few words down right then and there.

If you’re already getting great feedback from clients, make sure to respond thoughtfully. These positive review response examples show you how to reply without sounding like a script.

How to ask for a review politely and naturally

You don’t need a polished script or a perfect message, just something short, genuine, and easy to respond to. If your ask feels like it could’ve come from a real person (because it did), you’re on the right track.

Keep it short and sincere

A review request doesn’t need a long intro or a long explanation. One or two clear sentences are enough. Be friendly, say thank you, and get to the point. The more casual and human it feels, the less likely it is to be ignored.

Something like:

“Thanks again for working with us! If you have a minute, we’d really appreciate a quick review.”

That’s it. No fluff. No awkward buildup.

Personalize the ask

A tiny bit of context makes a big difference. Mention the project, a feature you helped with, or even just the outcome they were happy with. It shows you’re not just copying and pasting the same message to everyone.

For example:

“I’m glad the new scheduling flow worked out! If you’re open to it, a short review would be a huge help.”

It feels like you’re speaking to them, not broadcasting to your whole client list.

Be clear and make it easy

The ask should be obvious, and the link should be easy to click. Avoid asking people to “Google your business and leave a review,” just give them the direct path. You can say:

“Here’s a quick link if you’re up for it: [link]”

That small bit of convenience makes a big difference. Most people won’t go out of their way to find your review page, but they’ll happily tap a link in a message they’re already reading.

Also, one thing: It might be tempting, but buying reviews can do more harm than good. This article breaks down why buying Google reviews isn’t a smart move for your reputation.

Let them know why it helps

If you want to add a little context, you can. Just don’t overdo it. One line is plenty. People are more likely to respond when they understand it matters to you in a real way – not because they’re being pressured, but because they get it.

You might say:

“It helps others know what to expect when working with us.”

or

“We rely on word of mouth and Google reviews to grow. Thanks for even considering it.”

Keep it honest. Keep it simple. That’s usually all it takes.

If you’re wondering how to grow your presence on Google, this guide to getting more Google reviews offers practical tips you can start using today.

Templates for asking clients to leave a review

If you’re not sure how to phrase it, don’t worry. You don’t need to reinvent anything. A good review request sounds like something you’d actually say or write, not something pulled from a marketing handbook. Here are a few ready-to-go examples you can adapt depending on how you usually talk to your clients. 

1. Email follow-up after a service

This is the most common setup and a good one. You’ve delivered the service, the client’s satisfied, and you’re sending your usual wrap-up email. Just add a short line asking for a review at the end. No need to write a separate message.

Example:

Subject: Thanks again – quick follow-up

Hi [Client Name],

It was great working with you, and I’m really glad we could [mention the result or service briefly, e.g., “get your site live,” “sort out your setup,” etc.].

If you’ve got a moment, would you mind leaving a quick review? Here’s a link. It only takes a minute: [Insert link]

Thanks again,

[Your Name]

Why it works:

• It feels personal, not mass-sent
• The tone is relaxed and polite
• The ask is tucked into a natural moment, not dropped out of nowhere

2. Casual message after positive feedback

When a client sends you a quick “This is great!” or “Thanks so much for the help,” that’s a perfect moment to gently ask for a review, if the tone of the conversation has been friendly and relaxed from the start.

In this case, you don’t need a formal message or email. A short reply works just fine. The key is to keep it natural, like something you’d say in a chat or text exchange.

Example:

So glad to hear that! 😊

If you ever feel like sharing a quick review, I’d really appreciate it. Here’s a link in case it’s easy to do now: [Insert link]

Either way, thanks again!

Why it works:

• It doesn’t interrupt the flow of the conversation
• There’s no pressure – it’s framed as optional and appreciative
• The tone matches the setting (chat, DM, WhatsApp, etc.)

You’re meeting them where they are, keeping the message light, and making it easy to act on while they’re still in a good mood.

3. Review request in a thank-you note

A thank-you note, whether it’s part of your follow-up routine or something you send after a big milestone, is a natural place to include a review ask. You’re already showing appreciation, so it makes sense to invite the client to share their experience too.

This works well in email, but it’s also a nice touch in a handwritten note, printed card, or post-project summary if you do that kind of thing.

Example (email or message):

Just wanted to say thanks again for choosing to work with us. It’s been great helping you with [brief mention of service or result], and I really appreciate the trust.

If you have a moment, a quick review would mean a lot. Here’s a link: [Insert link]

Thanks again, and hope we get to work together again soon!

Example (short, card-style version):

Thanks so much! It’s been a pleasure working with you. If you’d like to share your experience, here’s a quick link to leave a review: [Insert link]

Really appreciate your support.

Why it works:

• The thank-you sets a positive tone
• Ask for reviews feels like a natural extension of the message
• It feels thoughtful rather than transactional

4. Short review request for a long-time client

When you’ve been working with someone for a while, the dynamic is usually relaxed, and you don’t need a formal tone to ask for a review. In fact, the more direct and down-to-earth you are, the better.

The ask can be simple. You’ve already earned their trust through consistent work, so there’s no need to explain much. Just a quick message acknowledging the relationship and inviting them to share a few words.

Example:

It’s been great working together over the past few months. Really appreciate the ongoing trust.

If you’d be up for writing a short review at some point, here’s a link: [Insert link]

No pressure at all. Just wanted to ask in case it’s something you’d be open to.

Why it works:

• It respects the relationship, and they’re not being treated like a brand-new client
• The tone is casual, not overly polished
• It gives them space to say yes (or no) without feeling awkward

This kind of message also works well as part of a check-in or casual “how’s everything going” conversation. It’s light, it’s honest, and it leaves room for them to decide when or if they want to write something.

5. “After support” or post-purchase review requests

If you’ve just helped someone through a support issue, like the one that got resolved quickly or saved them time, it can be a great opportunity to ask for a review. Support moments are often overlooked, but they leave a strong impression. When things go smoothly, people remember that.

You’re not asking in the middle of the problem. You’re following up after it’s been sorted, once things are back on track.

Example (chat or follow-up message):

Glad we could get that sorted out! If everything’s working smoothly now, and you’ve got a sec, feel free to leave a quick review here: [Insert link]

It really helps us and potential customers, too.

Example (email wrap-up):

Just checking in one last time because it looks like the issue’s all set. If you feel like sharing a short review, here’s the link: [Insert link]

Totally up to you, of course. Appreciate you reaching out!

Why it works:

• It feels timely, so right after a helpful experience
• You’re showing confidence in the resolution
• The tone is friendly and low-pressure

Support interactions often have more impact than people realize. If you’ve helped someone feel heard, solved something quickly, or just made things easier, they’re often more than willing to say something nice. 

6. Use Center AI to automate your review requests

If writing and sending review requests one by one sounds like too much overhead, you don’t have to do it manually. You can use Center AI to set up simple automations that send personalized review asks at the right moment, if it’s after a resolved support conversation, a project handoff, or a positive CSAT rating.

You choose the trigger, add your tone of voice, and Center AI takes care of the follow-up. It feels personal to the client, but it runs in the background, so you don’t have to chase every review yourself.

It’s a small workflow tweak that keeps feedback flowing in without adding extra work to your plate.

Are you looking for creative ways to collect more client feedback? These clever strategies for asking for reviews go beyond the usual email or pop-up.

What to avoid when asking for reviews

Asking for online reviews doesn’t need to be complicated, but there are a few things worth steering clear of. These can either hurt your chances of getting a genuine review or, worse, put you on the wrong side of platform rules. Here’s what to skip (and why it matters)!

1. Don’t offer rewards or discounts in exchange (against platform guidelines)

It might be tempting to sweeten the deal like “Leave us a review and get 10% off your next visit!” but that kind of offer can get you into trouble. Most major review platforms like Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot specifically forbid incentivized reviews. If they catch it, they can remove your reviews or even suspend your listing.

Even if you think you’re being subtle, it’s a risk not worth taking.

Reviews should reflect real experiences, not rewards. Clients are more likely to trust the process and write something honest when they know it’s completely optional and not tied to a benefit. And the truth is, if someone’s happy with your service, a kind request is usually enough.

So skip the gift cards and discounts. Go for a real, straightforward ask instead.

2. Don’t guilt-trip or over-explain

Nobody likes being cornered, especially not by a request that’s supposed to be optional. If your review request sounds like you’re trying to guilt someone into helping, it’ll backfire. Even if they do leave reviews, it might not be the kind you were hoping for.

Avoid lines like:

“We really need this right now, so if you could take just two minutes of your time…”

Or

“It would mean the world to us if you could help us survive…”

That kind of message might come from a genuine place, but it puts pressure on the client. And pressure is exactly what you want to avoid in a review conversation.

The same goes for long explanations about why you’re asking. Most people already get the point. A quick line is enough:

“Reviews help other people find us. Thanks for considering!”

Keep the tone light. You’re opening the door in case they want to share their experience. That’s all it needs to be.

3. Don’t send the same generic message to everyone

It’s easy to drop the same review request into every email, message, or follow-up, but most people can spot a copy-paste job from a mile away. It feels impersonal, and in some cases, a little lazy. Especially if the client has been working closely with you.

If you’re reaching out one-on-one, it’s worth taking ten extra seconds to make it feel like it came from you, not a template. Mention something small: the project you wrapped up, the conversation you had, or the result they were happy with.

Compare:

“Dear customer, please leave us a review at the following link.”

vs.

“Glad we could launch everything on time! If you’re open to it, I’d really appreciate a short review. Here’s the direct link.”

Same goal. Very different tone.

You don’t need to write a brand-new message every time, but a little context goes a long way. Personalized asks feel respectful. Generic ones feel like spam. And nobody wants to write a review in response to spam.

4. Don’t follow up multiple times without a response

Following up once? Totally fine. People get busy, forget, or see your message and plan to get back to it later. A gentle reminder can actually be helpful.

But following up again… and again… quickly turns a polite ask into an annoyance.

If someone hasn’t responded to your first or second message, it’s usually best to leave it there. No review is better than a review written out of frustration. You don’t want to end up in someone’s inbox labeled as “the one who kept bugging me.”

If you’re using automation, make sure it’s set to stop after one follow-up, ideally spaced out by a few days, and ideally with a different tone than the first.

First ask:

“Hope everything went smoothly! If you’ve got a moment, we’d love a quick review.”

Follow-up (if needed):

“Just wanted to check in! Totally no pressure, but here’s that review link again in case it’s still on your list.”

That’s enough. After that, let it go. A good experience can still turn into a referral later, even if it didn’t come with a review right now.

Make feedback requests part of your regular review process

If you request reviews, it doesn’t have to be a one-off thing that you only remember every few months. The easiest way to collect them consistently is to make the ask part of how you work, not an extra task you have to remember. A few small adjustments can turn review collection into a smooth, repeatable part of your client flow.

Build review requests into client offboarding

If you already have an offboarding checklist – send the final invoice, deliver files, share next steps – just add one more item: ask for a review. It’s a natural place to do it, and you’re already communicating with the client anyway.

You can even make it part of a “thanks again” email. Something like:

“Really enjoyed working together! One last thing, if you’d be open to sharing a short review, here’s the link.”

It doesn’t need to be formal or salesy. Just make it part of how you wrap things up.

Create a repeatable script your team can use

If you work with a team, it helps to have a simple, flexible script everyone can use. That way, clients get a consistent experience, and no one has to guess what to say.

It could be something as basic as:

“Thanks again for choosing us! If you’re happy with how everything went, we’d love it if you left a short review. Here’s a quick link.”

Encourage team members to personalize it a little, but giving them a go-to version means no one’s stuck figuring it out from scratch.

Mention it as part of your “what happens next” conversation

If you’re wrapping up a call, sending next steps, or outlining what to expect after delivery, it’s easy to casually mention that they’ll get a quick follow-up with a review link. That way, it doesn’t feel random when the message shows up later.

You might say:

“You’ll get a short message from us in a day or two. Just a quick link in case you feel like leaving a review. Totally up to you.”

Setting that expectation ahead of time makes the ask feel like part of the process. Over time, this all adds up. You don’t have to chase every review manually. Just bake it into the way you work, and let the results build naturally.

Automate getting valuable feedback with Center AI

Once you’ve got a process in place, Center AI makes it easy to keep things moving without adding more to your to-do list. You can set up simple automations that send review requests based on real events, like when a support case is closed, a chat ends on a positive note, or a project gets delivered.

Instead of relying on memory or chasing people down, the ask just happens. You write the message once, customize the timing, and Center AI takes care of the rest.

The best part? It doesn’t feel robotic. Each message can be personalized with the client’s name, context, or even a reference to what you worked on, so it still feels like it came from you or your team, not a system.

This way, review collection becomes part of how your business runs quietly, consistently, and without any awkward follow-ups.

If you’re planning to scale your review collection, this review generation article explains what it means and how to do it right.

Quick nine tips for managing reviews

Getting someone to leave a review is a solid first step, but what you do next matters just as much. Whether you’re a local business owner or running things online, having a simple, steady approach to managing reviews makes everything smoother.

From handling the occasional negative review to knowing where to send people, these tips will help you stay organized, keep your reputation strong, and make feedback work for you, not just sit in a dashboard somewhere.

1. Encourage customers to leave a review while the experience is still fresh.

People are way more likely to respond right after a positive interaction. Keep it low-pressure, give them a direct link, and send a short review request email so they don’t have to search for where to post.

2. Not every review will be glowing.

If you receive a negative review, don’t ignore it or panic. Respond politely, acknowledge their experience, and show you’re open to resolving things. Feedback helps you improve, and how you handle criticism builds trust just as much as your wins.

3. Consumers trust online reviews more than polished messaging.

Even a few detailed client reviews can carry a lot of weight. A good testimonial builds credibility in a way ads or sales pages never quite can.

4. Show up on the right review websites.

Show up on the right review websites. If it’s Google, Yelp, or niche industry platforms, make sure your business is easy to find and easy to review. If you’re a local business, this matters even more, since most people won’t dig past the first few results. Listing your business on multiple trusted reviews sites not only builds credibility but also helps with search rankings.

And if you’re managing more than one location, things can get a little more complicated. Consistency becomes even more important across all your listings. Here’s how to manage Google Business reviews across multiple locations without spreading yourself too thin.

5. Avoid fake reviews, always.

They’re easy to spot, often against the rules, and they’ll do more harm than good in the long run. Focus on real experiences. Those are the valuable reviews that actually connect with future clients.

6. Build your review strategy into everyday workflows.

Asking for feedback shouldn’t be something you only think about after a huge win. A simple, consistent routine like asking after a project, support interaction, or repeat order keeps reviews coming in naturally.

7. Use social proof across platforms.

A quick Facebook review, a rating on your product page, or even a comment shared in your inbox can all be repurposed (with permission). Every bit helps show people they’re not the first to trust you.

8. When you receive positive reviews, use them.

Say thanks. Share them (briefly). Let them serve as momentum to encourage more people to write their own. One good review often leads to others.

9. And finally – ask.

Don’t assume someone will leave a review just because they had a great experience. Ask clients for reviews directly. Be clear, be casual, and make it easy. That one small message can go a long way.

There’s no need to overcomplicate it. Keep your review strategy simple, consistent, and human. And if you’d rather not manage it all manually, you can always use tools like Center AI to help automate the process, without losing the personal touch. Also, this roundup of the best review management software helps you find the right tools to stay organized.

A good ask is simple, timely, and human

You don’t need the perfect message. You don’t need a clever line or a fancy tool (though those can help). Most of the time, all it takes is a genuine, well-timed ask.

People who’ve had a good experience with you usually want to help. They just need a small nudge and a quick, easy way to do it. If you keep it personal, friendly, and low-pressure, the results will follow.

If you’ve been putting this off because it feels awkward or too formal, try one script from this post today. Copy it, tweak it, make it sound like you, and send it to a client you know had a good experience. That one message might be all it takes to start building a steady stream of reviews that speak for your business.

Want to make review requests automatic? Center AI can help you collect reviews with smart, personalized follow-ups built right into your everyday client flow.