You know reviews matter. Customers check Google before calling. But asking for reviews feels... weird. Pushy. Desperate. Here's how to get reviews consistently without making it awkward.
Why Most Shops Don't Ask
You don't ask because: It feels like begging, you don't want to bother happy customers, you tried once and it didn't work, or you don't have a system.
But here's the thing: happy customers WANT to help you. They just need to be asked at the right time, in the right way.
The Perfect Moment to Ask
Timing is everything. The best time to ask for a review is when the customer is most satisfied.
The Golden Moment: Right when you hand over the keys and they see their car looking perfect again.
This is when they're relieved the ordeal is over, they can see the quality of your work, gratitude is at its peak, and they're standing right in front of you.
The Simple Script That Works
Here's what to say:
"How does everything look? Great! Hey, if you've got 30 seconds, a Google review would really help us out. I can text you the link right now if that's okay?"
That's it. No big speech. No begging. It works because it's quick and specific, offers immediate action, is honest, and is optional.
The Follow-Up Text
Send this text immediately:
"Thanks for choosing [Your Shop Name]! If you have a moment, we'd really appreciate a Google review: [direct link]"
Making It Part of Your Process
The shops with the most reviews didn't get there by occasionally asking. They built it into their process:
- Service Advisor Training - Everyone knows to ask at pickup
- Review Cards - Hand them a card with a QR code
- Text Template - Standard text ready to send in two taps
- Weekly Check-In - Track how many reviews you got vs. jobs completed
What NOT to Do
- Don't offer discounts for reviews - Violates Google's terms
- Don't ask only happy customers - This is "review gating" and Google frowns on it
- Don't fake reviews - Google's AI detects these
- Don't ignore negative reviews - Responding professionally helps your reputation
The Numbers You Should Aim For
- Minimum goal: 1 review for every 5 jobs
- Good goal: 1 review for every 3 jobs
- Excellent: 1 review for every 2 jobs
In 90 days, you'll have significantly more reviews than your competitors who are still "meaning to get around to it."
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