When Is the Best Time to Ask a Customer for a Review? (And When to Avoid It)
Most contractors know they should be asking for reviews. But knowing when to ask - and when not to - is the difference between a five-star reputation and a silent customer base. If you're asking too soon, too late, or without context, you're missing the moment when your customer is most likely to follow through.
Timing Is Everything
The best time to ask for a review is right after a customer gives you praise. Not after they've paid. Not a week later. Not when you remember during your next slow season.
If a client says something like "This looks amazing" or "You guys did a great job" - that's your signal. They're happy, the work is fresh in their mind, and they're emotionally primed to give feedback.
Catch people in the moment of satisfaction, and they'll be far more likely to follow through.
If you don't happen to catch an organic moment where the customer says it, you should ask your customer questions at the end of the job. Ask them if they are happy with the work you've done. If they say yes, you can lead into your "ask" - and if they aren't, you're able to salvage a potential negative review and poor customer experience.
The Worst Time to Ask
A lot of contractors ask for reviews either too early or too late. If you ask before the job is done, the client might hold back. If you ask when they're busy or distracted, they'll forget. If you wait too long, they've mentally moved on.
And let's be honest - saying "Can you leave us a review?" without context or timing just feels lazy.
Make It Easy
Even if your timing is right, you still need to make the process effortless. Have a direct link ready - one that opens right to your Google review form. Text or email it while you're still talking to the client.
Better yet, show them how to do it on the spot if they're open to it. That small bit of guidance can double your chances of getting a review.
Your Delivery Matters
Your tone and wording count. Be human. Be confident. Don't make it feel awkward. Try something like:
"If you had a great experience, it'd mean the world if you could share that in a quick review. It really helps others trust us, too."
Keep it short, friendly, and focused on helping others - not just promoting yourself.
Train Your Team to Spot the Window
If your techs or office staff are part of the client experience, they need to know how to ask, too. Teach them to listen for praise and follow the same flow: confirm satisfaction, ask with confidence, then send the link.
Turn this into a habit, and reviews will become a natural part of your job closeout process.
- Ask right after the client says something positive
- Avoid asking when they're busy or distracted
- Make it easy with a direct review link
- Be human - your tone matters
- Train your team to follow the same steps
Getting reviews is faster and easier with Footbridge Media's Contractor Marketing Program!
Need help automating your review process without sounding like a robot? The review management system built into Footbridge Media's contractor marketing program can make it easy to collect reviews with smart, friendly automation that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Only ask when you're confident the customer is happy. Quality reviews matter more than quantity if you're forcing the issue too soon.
Follow up with a friendly reminder text or email the next day. Make sure to include the direct link to leave a review. Using software (like the review management system included in Footbridge Media's contractor marketing program) can make this easier
Google is the go-to for most home service businesses, but don't ignore platforms like Facebook and Yelp if your clients use them often.
About Chris Lonergan
Chris Lonergan has over 13 years of contractor marketing experience with Footbridge Media. With a background in web design, print design, content creation, and online marketing, Chris is focused on providing quality marketing and business solutions in the construction and service industries - helping small business owners to more efficiently manage their companies and grow their operations.
Chris Lonergan has previously contributed to and/or been featured in PM Magazine (Plumbing & Mechanical | Contractors x Engineers), theNEWS (ACHR - Air Conditioning | Heating | Refrigeration), Turf Magazine (For Landscaping and Green Industry Professionals) Service Roundtable's blog, inPAINT Magazine, the SMB Marketing Agency Show, and the Green Industry Podcast. Chris is also a past SGI/CertainPath breakout session presenter.
