Marketing June 2026 · 5 min read ✓ Reviewed for accuracy
How to Ask for Reviews and Referrals After Every Job (Scripts Included)
Informational only. This article does not constitute insurance, legal, or financial advice. Coverage terms vary by carrier, policy, and jurisdiction.
Full disclaimer.
The best marketing for a service business costs nothing — it's word of mouth. But word of mouth doesn't happen automatically. You have to ask for it. Here's exactly how to do it without feeling awkward.
84%
of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
3–5x
Higher conversion rate for referred leads vs. cold leads
70%
Of clients will leave a review if asked
When to ask
Timing matters. Ask when the client is happiest — right at the end of a successful job, while the good feeling is fresh. Don't wait a week and send a cold email. The best time is:
- At the end of the job while you're still with the client (in person or on a call)
- Within 2 hours of completing the job via text
- No later than 24 hours after — after that, the moment has passed
How to ask for a Google review (scripts)
In-person script: "I'm really glad you're happy with the work! If you have a minute, a Google review would mean a lot — it really helps my business. I'll text you a link right now." [Send it immediately while they're still thinking about it.]
Text script: "Hi [Name]! Thanks so much for letting me [do the work]. I'm really glad with how it turned out. If you have 2 minutes, a Google review would really help my business grow: [your Google review link]. Thank you so much — it means a lot!"
Get your Google review link: Search for your business on Google, click "Get more reviews" on your Google Business Profile, and copy the short link. Save it as a text shortcut on your phone so you can send it in seconds.
How to ask for a referral (scripts)
In-person script: "Thank you so much — it was great working with you. If you know anyone else who could use [your service], I'd love an introduction. I'll take great care of anyone you send my way — and I'll give you both a discount on your next booking."
Follow-up text (2 weeks later): "Hi [Name], just checking in to make sure everything is still looking great! Also — if you think of anyone who could use [your service], I'd really appreciate the referral. Happy to send you both a discount. Hope you're well!"
Build a formal referral program
A referral program makes asking easier and more consistent:
- Offer $15–$25 off for the referrer's next booking
- Offer $15–$25 off for the new client's first booking
- Mention it at checkout and on every follow-up communication
- Track referrals in a simple spreadsheet and send the discount promptly when they come in
What platforms to collect reviews on
Focus on Google first — it has the most impact on local SEO and client trust. Secondary platforms by business type:
| Business type | Secondary review platforms |
|---|
| Contractors | Houzz, Angi, HomeAdvisor |
| Event pros | WeddingWire, The Knot, GigSalad |
| Pet services | Rover, Yelp |
| Beauty / wellness | StyleSeat, Vagaro, Yelp |
| Restaurants / food | Yelp, TripAdvisor |
Bottom line: Make asking for a review and a referral a standard part of every job completion — as automatic as sending an invoice. Businesses with 30+ Google reviews generate more organic leads from every channel than businesses with 5, spending nothing on advertising.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or insurance advice. Always verify specifics with a licensed professional in your state.