How to: Ask For Reviews & Guide on Getting The Right Kind of Reviews
Review Request Guide
Asking for reviews from your clients is one of the most impactful ways to build your online reputation and boost your organic positioning. Below are three different review request scripts you can use to gather feedback in various formats: Google reviews, phone testimonials, and video testimonials.
Looking for something a bit more visual? Download this guide here!
1. Google Review Request Script
Why Google Reviews Matter
Google reviews are crucial for boosting your online visibility and trustworthiness. They help your business appear higher in local searches and give potential clients confidence in your work.
How to Ask for a Google Review
After completing a project, follow this script to request a review on Google:
Script:
Hey [Client’s Name],
I hope you're enjoying your new deck! It was a pleasure working with you, and we’re so happy with how the project turned out. If you’re satisfied with our work, would you mind leaving us a review on Google? Your feedback helps other homeowners find us and makes a big difference for our business!
You can leave a review by clicking the link below: [Insert Google Review Link]
When writing your review, feel free to mention:
- Your name (First name and last initial, or just first name)
- Your location (City/neighborhood)
- The services we provided (e.g., custom deck design, deck installation, repairs, etc.)
Thank you so much for your support—we truly appreciate it!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Business Name]
Pro Tip: Make it as easy as possible for clients by providing them with a direct link to the Google review page. Also, mention how valuable their feedback is in helping your business grow.
2. Phone Testimonial Request Script
Why Phone Testimonials Matter
Phone testimonials are a great way to capture authentic client feedback (hint: make sure you call through your Sales Jumpstart platform to record the call!). These can be used for social proof, marketing materials, or your website.
How to Ask for a Phone Testimonial
Follow this script to request a testimonial over the phone. A recorded phone testimonial can help your future clients hear firsthand about the quality of your work.
Email Script:
Hey [Client’s Name],
I hope you’re loving your new deck! I wanted to check in and see how things are going. We’re always looking to improve and would really appreciate hearing your thoughts on the project.
Would you be willing to hop on a short call with us and share your experience? It’ll only take about 5 minutes, and we can record it for use in our marketing (social media, website, etc.). Your feedback would really help us build trust with future clients and show others the quality of work we provide.
Let me know if you’re up for it, and we can set up a time that works best for you.
Thanks again,
[Your Name]
[Business Name]
[Contact Information]
Pro Tip: Offering flexibility in scheduling and keeping it brief (5 minutes) helps clients feel comfortable. Let them know the testimonial will be used for social proof and that it’s a great way to help other homeowners find a trustworthy deck builder.
3. Video/Voice Testimonial Request Script
Why Video Testimonials Matter
Video testimonials offer a powerful and personal way to showcase your work. They are ideal for your website, social media, and even promotional ads because they build trust quickly by showing real people vouching for your work.
How to Ask for a Video Testimonial
This script will guide you through asking a client to record a short video testimonial. You can either film it in person or have the client record it on their own device.
Email Script:
Hey [Client’s Name],
I hope you’re enjoying your new deck and getting a lot of use out of it! We’re in the process of creating some new video content to showcase our work, and we would love to feature your project.
Would you be open to recording a short video testimonial for us? It would be a simple, relaxed video where you can talk about your experience working with us, what you love about your new deck, and why you’d recommend us to others.
If you’re open to it, here are a few things you could mention:
- Your experience with the design and installation process
- What stood out to you about the final product
- Why you chose us for your deck project
- Any specific features of the deck you’re most excited about
We can either come to you to record it, or if you prefer, you can record it on your phone or computer. It’ll only take about 5 minutes, and it’s a great way to help other homeowners see the value we bring to every project.
Let me know if you're interested, and we can set up a time that works for you!
Thanks again,
[Your Name]
[Business Name]
[Contact Information]
Pro Tip: Encourage the client to be themselves and share honest feedback. A raw, unscripted testimonial will feel more authentic and relatable to future customers.
Phone/Video Testimonial Questions
Introduction/Context Questions:
- Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your project? (Helps establish context for the testimonial, including the type of work done.)
- Why did you decide to invest in a new deck or outdoor space? (Highlights the client’s needs and motivations, which can resonate with potential clients.)
Experience with the Deck Builder:
- What made you choose [Business Name] for your deck project? (Shows what differentiates the builder from competitors and what stood out.)
- How was your experience working with our team from start to finish? (Gives insight into the overall customer experience and level of professionalism.)
- What did you think of the communication throughout the project? (Shows whether the builder was responsive and kept the client informed.)
- How did our team handle any questions, concerns, or changes throughout the process?(Highlights customer service, flexibility, and problem-solving skills.)
The Process and Quality:
- How did you feel about the design process? Was it easy to work with us on your vision?(Shows how easy it was for the client to communicate their needs and the builder’s ability to meet them.)
- What did you think about the quality of the materials and craftsmanship? (Focuses on the tangible, high-quality aspects of the work done.)
- Were there any challenges that came up during the project, and how were they handled?(Demonstrates how challenges are overcome, showing the builder's competence and professionalism.)
End Results and Satisfaction:
- How do you feel about the finished project now that it’s complete? (This question emphasizes the client's satisfaction with the final outcome.)
- What is your favorite feature or part of the deck? (Highlights standout features that may appeal to future clients.)
- Have you had the chance to enjoy your new deck? How has it changed the way you use your outdoor space? (This brings out the emotional impact and how the project benefits the client’s lifestyle.)
- Would you recommend [Business Name] to others? Why? (Encourages a clear endorsement and trust-building recommendation.)
Closing Questions:
- Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with us? (Provides an open-ended opportunity for clients to offer any additional feedback or praise.)
- What would you say to someone who’s considering working with [Business Name]? (Gives clients a chance to give a direct, personal recommendation to future clients.)
Best Practices for Collecting Reviews and Testimonials
- Timing is Key: Ask for reviews and testimonials soon after project completion when the excitement and satisfaction are still fresh in your client’s mind.
- Make It Easy: Provide links or easy instructions so clients know exactly where to leave their review or how to record their testimonial.
- Be Specific: Asking clients to include details such as location, services, and their experience can make reviews more powerful for SEO and social proof.
- Follow Up: If you don’t hear back after sending your request, a polite follow-up email or call can help nudge clients to leave their feedback.
Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Testimonials:
- Encourage Emotion and Authenticity: Clients should feel comfortable being themselves. Ask them to speak from the heart, as genuine excitement and gratitude resonate more than scripted responses.
- Keep It Conversational: While the questions are structured, ensure the conversation flows naturally. Don’t worry about asking all the questions if they’re already covering key points.
- Use Before/After Comparisons: If possible, ask clients how they felt before the project began and how they feel afterward. This helps highlight the transformation.
- Visual Appeal: If it’s a video, ensure the space looks great, and the client is in a comfortable setting. Good lighting and background will make the testimonial more professional.
- Short and Sweet: Aim for testimonials that are 2–3 minutes long. Anything longer might lose the audience’s attention.
By using these outlines, you’ll make it easy for your clients to provide valuable testimonials that not only help your business grow but also improve your online presence.