Ask your customers for a review

Most customers never think to leave a review, so ask. AI can draft a short, friendly request. Ask every customer the same way, and never offer anything in return.

What it is

It's a short, friendly message asking a customer for an honest review, with the link included. AI drafts it. You send it yourself.

Why it matters

Reviews are often the first thing people read when they look you up. The easiest way to get them is simply to ask and make it easy.

Three rules keep it honest: only ask real customers, ask all of them the same way, and never offer anything in return. Google, for one, does not allow asking only happy customers or giving gifts for reviews. Each site has its own rules, and some don't want you to ask at all, so check first.

Try it with AI

Open a free AI tool, like ChatGPT, Gemini or Copilot. Leave out names, phone numbers and anything private. Copy this starter prompt, fill in the parts in brackets, and paste it in.

I run a small business: [what you do].
Write a short, friendly message asking a customer for an honest review.

Under 60 words. Say thank you first. Don't tell them what to say. Leave a spot for [link]. Don't offer anything in return.

What a good answer looks like: A short thank-you and a simple ask for an honest review. No pressure, no gifts, no words put in their mouth.

Your 5-minute try

1. Check the review site's rules, then find your review link.
2. Run the starter prompt and pick the message you like.
3. Send it to one recent customer today, with the link added.

What to watch for

• Ask everyone the same way, not just the customers you think are happy.
• Never offer a gift or discount for a review.
• Keep customer names off the AI. Add them yourself.

The fuller lesson in the Member library we're building adds name and link spots for texting, where to find your review link, and a habit for asking after every job. See what Member will include

The takeaway: Many customers are glad to help. You just have to ask, and make it easy.

Questions

Can I ask only my happiest customers?

No. Ask every customer the same way. Google, for one, does not allow picking only happy customers.

Can I offer a discount for a review?

No. Don't offer anything in return. Check each review site's own rules too.

Do I need a paid AI tool for this?

No. The free plan of ChatGPT works. Gemini, Copilot and Claude work too.

Related: Tell new customers what to expect · Ask customers 3 questions that show what to fix · All guides.