Although we all like to read Google reviews before spending money, getting customers to actually leave them is easier said than done. That’s where a well-crafted Google review request email comes in. Let’s dive in and explore how you can tactfully request reviews that work in your favor.
The Do’s of Google Review Request Emails
Here are the key practices to ensure your review request emails hit the mark:
- Personalize Your Message
- Nothing says “I value you” quite like a personalized email. Address your customer by their first name and, if possible, mention specific details about their purchase or experience. A personalized email feels more genuine and makes customers feel acknowledged. People are more likely to respond when they know the message is crafted just for them.
- Be Sincere and Polite
- Politeness goes a long way. Instead of sounding pushy, express gratitude and emphasize that their feedback is genuinely appreciated. Phrases like, “Your feedback helps us improve” or “We’d love to know how we did” show that you’re looking to improve and care about what they think. Customers are more inclined to leave a review if they feel you’re genuinely interested in their input.
- Keep It Short and Clear
- Avoid long-winded explanations or overly detailed instructions. Most people skim through emails, so keep your request simple and concise. A quick thank-you note, followed by a polite request, is often all you need. For example, “We’d be grateful if you could take a minute to share your experience” is direct and respectful of their time.
- Provide a Direct Link
- Convenience is key. If you want a customer to leave a review, make it easy by including a direct link to your Google review page. Instructions like, “Click here to leave a review” remove any potential friction, ensuring they can complete the task with minimal effort. No one wants to hunt around to find your business on Google; make it as straightforward as possible.
- Time Your Request Right
- Timing is everything. Send your review request soon after a purchase or service, when the experience is still fresh in your customer’s mind. Immediate follow-ups feel relevant and are more likely to elicit a response. Just completed a service call? Send a thank-you email with a review request right afterward. Purchased a product? Follow up within a day or two.
The Don’ts of Google Review Request Emails
Just as there are best practices, there are pitfalls to avoid. Here’s what not to do when asking for a Google review:
- Don’t Beg or Sound Desperate
- Nobody likes a desperate plea for reviews. Asking too fervently or with an overly emotional tone can come off as insincere or unprofessional. Instead of pleading for a five-star review, simply request honest feedback. A message that’s confident and appreciative shows that you value customer opinions without begging for praise.
- Don’t Send Too Many Requests
- Bombarding customers with follow-up requests for reviews can feel like harassment. If someone hasn’t responded to your first or second request, take the hint. Sending too many emails not only irritates your customers but can also prompt them to unsubscribe or even leave a negative review. A maximum of two reminders, spaced a week or two apart, is plenty.
- Don’t Make the Process Complicated
- Overly detailed instructions or too many steps will discourage people from leaving a review. If the process feels complex or time-consuming, most customers will simply abandon it. Keep your instructions simple, include a direct link, and avoid any steps that could create friction.
Best Templates for Google Review Request Emails
To help you get started, here are some practical email templates tailored for different scenarios. Customize these as needed to fit your brand’s tone and style.
1. General Follow-Up Email (Post-Purchase or Service Completion)
This template works well for new customers right after they’ve completed a purchase or experienced a service.
Subject Line: How Was Your Experience? We’d Love Your Feedback!
Email Body:
Hi [Customer’s First Name],
Thank you for choosing [Your Business Name]! We hope you enjoyed [mention product/service, e.g., “your recent purchase” or “our platinum membership”].
Your opinion means a lot to us, and we’d love to hear about your experience. If you have a moment, could you leave us a quick review on Google? Just click the link below to share your thoughts:
[Direct Link to Google Review Page]
Thanks again for your support—we look forward to serving you again soon!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
2. Template for Loyal Customers
Use this for long-term customers who’ve used your services multiple times or have shown loyalty over the years. It’s a more personal approach that acknowledges their continued support.
Subject Line: Thank You for Your Loyalty – We’d Love Your Feedback!
Email Body:
Hi [Customer’s First Name],
We’re grateful to have had the opportunity to serve you over the years! As a valued part of our [Your Business Name] family, your feedback is incredibly important to us. If you have a moment, would you mind sharing your thoughts in a Google review?
Here’s a direct link to make it easy: [Direct Link to Google Review Page]
Thank you for being such a loyal customer. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve you!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
3. Template for Happy Feedback Moments
Sometimes, customers share positive feedback directly in person, over the phone, or via email. When that happens, seize the moment by encouraging them to put those kind words into a Google review.
Subject Line: Thanks for Your Feedback – Would You Share It With Others?
Email Body:
Hi [Customer’s First Name],
We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed [mention product/service, e.g., “your recent order”]! Your feedback means a lot to us, and it would be fantastic if you could share your experience with others on Google.
It only takes a minute, and here’s a direct link to make it easy: [Direct Link to Google Review Page]
Thank you again for your kind words and support!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
Final Thoughts
Requesting Google reviews might seem like a small detail, but it’s a powerful way to build credibility, attract new customers, and even improve your search ranking. Crafting a well-thought-out review request email is essential. It’s the difference between a response and an ignored message. By following the do’s and don’ts, and using the provided templates, you can start sending out requests that actually work.
