Getting customers to leave reviews shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth. Yet here we are in 2025, and businesses are sending 25% more review requests than ever before—just to maintain their online reputation.

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: the average review request only gets an 8.3% response rate. That means 91 out of every 100 customers you ask will simply ignore you.

But what if you could double or even triple that number?

This guide breaks down 21 battle-tested review request templates—complete with real response rate data—that are working right now. Whether you’re texting customers after a haircut or emailing clients post-consultation, you’ll find proven messages that actually get replies.

Why Most Review Requests Fail (And What Actually Works in 2025)

Let’s talk numbers. According to the latest State of Online Reviews report, businesses needed to send an average of 17 reminders per customer in 2024—that’s up 9% from the previous year. Translation? Getting reviews is harder than ever.

The SMS vs. email debate has a clear winner when it comes to engagement. SMS drives a 38% response rate compared to 27% for email, even though it’s used for only 40% of review requests. But there’s a catch: SMS click rates dropped from 8% in 2023 to 6% in 2024, likely due to message fatigue and spam concerns.

The solution? Use both strategically. Email builds long-term relationships while SMS prompts immediate action.

The Three Factors That Determine Your Response Rate

After analyzing millions of review requests, three patterns emerge consistently:

1. Timing Is Everything Send your request within 24-48 hours of the customer interaction. Wait too long and their enthusiasm fades. Ask too soon and they haven’t had time to form an opinion.

2. Personalization Beats Generic Every Time Personalizing just the subject line increases email open rates by 26%. Now imagine what a fully personalized message can do.

3. Make It Ridiculously Easy Every extra click kills your conversion rate. The best templates include a direct link to your review page—no searching required.

Email Review Request Templates (27% Average Engagement Rate)

Email remains the top choice for review requests, accounting for 60% of all review requests in 2025. While slower than SMS, email offers better branding opportunities and detailed messaging.

Template 1: The Direct Ask (Standard Approach)

Subject: Quick question about your recent experience

Hi [First Name],

Thanks for choosing [Business Name]! We hope you loved [specific product/service].

Would you mind sharing your experience with a quick Google review? Your feedback helps other customers make confident decisions.

[Leave a Review Button]

It takes just 60 seconds, and we read every single one.

Thanks so much, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 8-12%

Why It Works: Gets straight to the point while acknowledging the customer’s time investment. The “60 seconds” timeframe makes the ask feel manageable.

Template 2: The Gratitude-First Approach (High Trust)

Subject: Thank you, [First Name]!

Hi [First Name],

I wanted to personally thank you for your [purchase/appointment] last week.

Customers like you are the reason we love what we do. If you have a moment, we’d be incredibly grateful if you could share your experience on Google.

Your review not only helps us improve but also helps other [customers/clients] find the right solution.

[Share Your Experience]

With appreciation, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 10-15%

Why It Works: Leads with genuine gratitude before making the ask. This emotional connection increases reciprocity—customers want to help businesses that clearly appreciate them.

Template 3: The Social Proof Template (Leverage FOMO)

Subject: Join 500+ happy customers who’ve shared their experience

Hi [First Name],

We’re blown away by the response we’ve been getting! Over 500 customers have shared their experiences, and we’d love to add your voice to the mix.

Here’s what Sarah M. recently said: “Best customer service I’ve experienced in years. They went above and beyond!”

Think you could spare 2 minutes to tell others about your experience?

[Leave Your Review]

Thanks for being awesome, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 12-18%

Why It Works: The social proof creates FOMO while the example review shows customers exactly what to write. This lowers the mental barrier significantly.

Template 4: The Value Exchange (Incentivized)

Subject: Your feedback = [discount/perk] for you

Hi [First Name],

Your opinion matters to us, and we want to show our appreciation.

Leave us a quick review and we’ll send you a [10% discount code/free shipping/exclusive offer] for your next order.

[Leave Review & Get Your Reward]

It’s a win-win: you get a great deal, and we get valuable feedback to keep improving.

Thanks, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 15-22%

Why It Works: Direct incentive dramatically increases participation. Note: Check platform guidelines—Google prohibits incentivized reviews, but you can offer rewards for any feedback (positive or negative).

Template 5: The Follow-Up Reminder (For Non-Responders)

Subject: Did you get a chance to share your feedback?

Hi [First Name],

I know life gets busy! I sent a note last week asking about your experience with [product/service], but I haven’t heard back yet.

If you have just 2 minutes, your review would mean the world to us:

[Quick Review Link]

No pressure—I just wanted to make sure my original message didn’t get lost in your inbox.

Thanks again for choosing [Business Name]!

[Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 5-8% (of non-responders)

Why It Works: Gentle reminder without guilt-tripping. The “no pressure” approach maintains goodwill while giving people a second chance to respond.

Template 6: The Multi-Platform Choice Template

Subject: Where would you like to leave your review?

Hi [First Name],

Thanks for being an amazing customer! We’d love your feedback, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you.

Choose your preferred platform:

Google: [Link] Facebook: [Link] Yelp: [Link]

Your review helps us grow and helps others make informed decisions.

Pick your favorite and share your thoughts!

Thanks, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 9-14%

Why It Works: Giving customers choice reduces friction. Some people are more active on certain platforms and will naturally gravitate toward where they’re comfortable.

Template 7: The Story-Driven Request

Subject: Why your review matters (a quick story)

Hi [First Name],

I want to share something with you.

Last month, we almost lost a major client. They were comparing us to three other providers and couldn’t decide. Then they read a review from a customer just like you—someone who took 2 minutes to share their honest experience.

That review made the difference. They chose us, and they’re now one of our happiest clients.

That’s the power of your voice. Would you consider leaving a quick review?

[Share Your Experience]

Your story could be the one that helps someone else make the right choice.

With gratitude, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 11-16%

Why It Works: Emotional storytelling creates connection and demonstrates real impact. Customers see their review as making a meaningful difference, not just boosting your numbers.

SMS Review Request Templates (38% Average Engagement Rate)

Text messages dominate when it comes to immediate engagement. They’re perfect for getting quick responses while the customer experience is fresh.

Template 8: The Post-Purchase Text (Immediate)

Hi [First Name]! Thanks for choosing [Business Name] today 😊 We’d love to hear your thoughts: [review link]

Expected Response Rate: 30-40%

Why It Works: Short, friendly, immediate. The emoji adds warmth without being unprofessional, and the timing capitalizes on post-purchase enthusiasm.

Template 9: The Service Follow-Up (24-Hour Delay)

Hey [First Name]! Hope you’re enjoying your [service/product]. Mind leaving us a quick review? [link] Your feedback helps us improve!

Expected Response Rate: 28-35%

Why It Works: 24-hour delay gives customers time to experience the value while still being fresh. The “helps us improve” angle appeals to customers who care about contributing.

Template 10: The Ultra-Brief Text

[First Name], how’d we do? Quick review: [link]

Expected Response Rate: 25-32%

Why It Works: Sometimes less is more. Super busy customers appreciate the no-fluff approach. This works especially well for service businesses where you’ve already built rapport.

Template 11: The Two-Message Sequence (High Conversion)

Message 1: Hi [First Name]! Thanks for your visit today. We hope everything went great! 🌟

Message 2 (Next Day): Quick favor—mind sharing your experience? [review link] Takes just 60 seconds!

Expected Response Rate: 35-45%

Why It Works: The first message primes positive sentiment without asking for anything. The second message makes the ask when goodwill is highest. This two-touch approach significantly outperforms single messages.

Template 12: The Question Format

[First Name], quick question: Would you recommend [Business Name] to a friend? If yes, would you mind telling others why? [review link]

Expected Response Rate: 32-38%

Why It Works: The question format engages customers mentally before making the ask. If they answer “yes” in their head, they’re more likely to follow through with the action.

Template 13: The Milestone Text

🎉 You’re our [50th/100th/500th] customer this month! Celebrate with us by leaving a quick review: [link]

Expected Response Rate: 28-35%

Why It Works: Makes customers feel special and part of something bigger. The celebration element creates positive emotion that translates to action.

Template 14: The Problem-Solver Follow-Up

Hi [First Name]! Glad we could help with [specific issue]. If you’re happy with how things turned out, we’d appreciate a review: [link]

Expected Response Rate: 30-40%

Why It Works: References the specific problem you solved, reminding customers of the value you provided. Works exceptionally well for service businesses and support teams.

In-Person & Phone Review Request Templates

Sometimes the best review requests happen face-to-face or voice-to-voice. These templates work for retail, restaurants, service appointments, and sales calls.

Template 15: The End-of-Appointment Ask

“I’m so glad we could take care of [service/need] for you today! I know this might sound forward, but would you consider leaving us a Google review? I’ll text you the link right now—it takes about 60 seconds and helps other people find us when they need [service].”

Expected Response Rate: 40-50%

Why It Works: The in-person ask creates social pressure (in a good way) while immediately texting the link removes friction. Customers often complete it right there.

Template 16: The Business Card Review Request

On a custom business card:

“LOVED YOUR EXPERIENCE? Tell others about it!

Scan here for our Google review page → [QR code]

Your feedback helps our local business grow!”

Expected Response Rate: 15-25% (of cards distributed)

Why It Works: Physical reminder they can act on later. The QR code makes it dead simple—no typing URLs. Works great for restaurants and retail.

Template 17: The Checkout Counter Script

“Thanks so much for shopping with us! If you loved [specific product they bought], I’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving a review. I can text you a link—what’s your number?”

Expected Response Rate: 35-45%

Why It Works: Capitalizes on post-purchase high while offering immediate action. Most customers will provide their number when asked directly.

Template 18: The Receipt Request

Printed on receipt:

“How was your experience today?

Rate us on Google in 30 seconds: [Short URL or QR code]

We read every review!”

Expected Response Rate: 8-15%

Why It Works: Low-pressure option customers can act on immediately or later. The “30 seconds” timeframe reduces perceived effort.

Specialized Review Request Templates

These templates target specific scenarios that require a more tailored approach.

Template 19: The Negative Feedback Prevention Filter

Subject/Message: How was your experience with [Business Name]?

Hi [First Name],

We’d love to hear about your recent [purchase/visit/appointment].

If you had a great experience: Please share it on Google! [review link]

If something didn’t go as planned: Please reply to this message so we can make it right.

We’re committed to your satisfaction!

[Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 8-12% (positive reviews) + catches negative feedback before it goes public

Why It Works: Provides an off-ramp for unhappy customers to vent directly to you instead of on public review platforms. Protects your star rating while showing you care.

Template 20: The High-Value Client VIP Request

Subject: [First Name], I have a personal favor to ask

Hi [First Name],

As one of our most valued clients, your opinion carries serious weight.

I’m personally asking if you’d consider sharing your experience working with [Business Name]. Your perspective would be incredibly valuable to other [industry] professionals looking for [your service].

[Leave Your Review]

I’d be happy to return the favor with a recommendation on your LinkedIn or preferred platform.

Thank you for being such a great partner.

Best, [Your Name]

Expected Response Rate: 25-40% (high-value clients)

Why It Works: The VIP treatment and offer to reciprocate creates strong motivation. High-value clients appreciate being recognized and often have the time to provide detailed, meaningful reviews.

Template 21: The Long-Form Survey to Review Funnel

Subject: 3 quick questions about your experience

Hi [First Name],

Would you mind answering three quick questions about your recent experience? It helps us improve:

1. On a scale of 1-10, how satisfied were you? [Rating buttons]
2. What did you like most? [Text box]
3. What could we improve? [Text box]

[If they rate 9-10, automatically redirect to review page]

Thanks for your feedback! Since you had such a great experience, would you mind sharing it with others on Google?

[Leave Public Review]

Expected Response Rate: 20-30% (for high-scorers who complete survey)

Why It Works: The survey feels less salesy and provides valuable data. Happy customers who’ve already invested time in feedback are primed to take one more step.

The Complete Multi-Channel Review Request Strategy

Here’s how to combine these templates into a systematic approach that maximizes your response rate:

Day 0 (Immediately Post-Purchase/Service):

• Send SMS Template #8 or make in-person request (Template #15)
• Expected result: 30-40% engagement

Day 3 (If No Response):

• Send Email Template #1 or #2
• Expected result: 8-12% of non-responders convert

Day 10 (If Still No Response):

• Send SMS Template #12 (question format)
• Expected result: 5-8% of remaining non-responders convert

Day 21 (Final Touch):

• Send Email Template #5 (gentle reminder)
• Expected result: 3-5% final conversion

Cumulative Expected Response Rate: 45-65% (compared to 8.3% industry average with single request)

Advanced Tactics to Boost Your Response Rates Even Further

1. Personalization on Steroids

Don’t just use [First Name]. Reference:

• The specific product they bought
• The problem you solved for them
• The team member they worked with
• Any unique aspect of their experience

Example: “Hey Sarah! I noticed you went with the espresso machine. Are you loving those morning lattes yet?“

2. Perfect Your Timing Windows

Response rates vary dramatically by industry:

Restaurants/Food: Request within 2 hours Retail/E-commerce: 3-7 days after delivery Professional Services: Immediately after project completion Healthcare: 24 hours post-appointment Home Services: Same day, after you’ve left

Event surveys sent within 2 hours after the event ends get 32% more completions, and this principle applies to review requests too.

3. Test Everything

A/B test these variables:

• Subject lines (question vs. statement)
• Message length (short vs. detailed)
• Incentive presence (with vs. without)
• Emoji use (none vs. strategic)
• CTA button color and copy
• Time of day sent

Small tweaks can yield big improvements. Personalized emails can lift response rates by up to 48%.

4. Automate Intelligently

Use review management software to:

• Trigger requests automatically after purchases
• Track who’s responded and who hasn’t
• Send appropriate follow-ups to non-responders
• Route negative feedback to your team before it goes public

Businesses needed about 17 reminders per customer in 2024—automation makes this manageable.

5. Make It Mobile-First

About 50% of Gmail users have the tabbed inbox feature, and only 80% check secondary tabs weekly. Your emails need to:

• Have compelling subject lines that avoid the promotions tab
• Display perfectly on mobile devices
• Feature large, thumb-friendly CTA buttons
• Load quickly without heavy images

What to Do With Negative Reviews (When Prevention Fails)

Despite your best efforts, you’ll get negative reviews. Here’s how to handle them:

Respond Within 24 Hours Quick, thoughtful responses actively influence perceptions and outcomes, with many customers more likely to update a negative review when they receive a prompt, respectful reply.

Use This Response Framework:

1. Thank them for the feedback
2. Apologize sincerely (even if you disagree)
3. Explain what happened (briefly)
4. Outline what you’ve done or will do to fix it
5. Invite them to contact you directly to resolve

Example:

“Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Michael. I’m truly sorry your experience didn’t meet expectations. We had an inventory issue that day that delayed your order, which should never have happened. We’ve since implemented a new system to prevent this. I’d love to make this right—please call me directly at [number]. We value your business.”

The Goal: A restaurant addressing a diner’s complaint within hours can turn a negative experience into a positive one, potentially leading the customer to update their review favorably.

The Bottom Line: Review Requests in 2025

Getting reviews isn’t getting easier. Review requests jumped by 25% from 2023 to 2024, which means your customers are being asked more often by everyone.

But armed with these 21 templates and the response rate data behind them, you’re no longer shooting in the dark. You’re using proven approaches that real businesses use to generate hundreds of five-star reviews.

Here’s your action plan:

1. Pick 3-5 templates that fit your business model and customer communication style
2. Set up a multi-channel sequence using the strategy outlined above
3. Automate the process so it happens consistently without manual effort
4. Test and refine based on your actual response rates
5. Respond to every review within 24 hours (positive and negative)

Remember: the businesses winning at online reviews aren’t necessarily providing better service than you—they’re just asking better. They’re making it easy, making it timely, and making it personal.

Start implementing these templates today, and watch your review volume—and your star rating—climb.