How to Ask Clients for Reviews and Gain Valuable Feedback

Creative businesses grow faster when social proof is easy to find. This blog shows how to ask clients for reviews with clear timing, simple scripts, and policy-safe tactics you can deploy following a project completion. It’s built for freelancers and small studios that want more credibility and a steadier pipeline. 

Timing and Triggers

Ask Right After a Win

The handoff email, a launch going live, or a “great work!” message in your inbox. Add a one-line request plus your review link. Research consistently shows displayed reviews lift conversion, with significant impact on higher-priced work. 

Use Lightweight Nudges

A calendar reminder three days later and a final, friendly follow-up the next week. Keep it personal; mention the project and the outcome you delivered. 

Scripts You Can Copy 

•  “Thanks again for partnering on [project]. Could you post a short review about your experience? Here’s the link: [review URL].” 
•  “We’re proud of the results on [metric/outcome]. A quick review helps others know what to expect, two sentences is perfect.” 
•  “If it’s easier, reply with a few lines here and I’ll draft a testimonial for your approval.” 

Make It Easy 

Provide one link and optional prompts (timeline, service quality, outcome). The fewer clicks, the more reviews you’ll receive. 

Stay Compliant and Build Trust 

Follow Platform Rules and Guidelines

Google allows businesses to ask for reviews, but bans incentives and review gating (only asking happy clients). Link to your profile, invite honest feedback, and value balanced reviews. 

Know the Law

The FTC’s Consumer Reviews and Testimonials Rule (Oct 2024) targets fake or deceptive reviews and enables civil penalties for violations. Be transparent, don’t suppress negatives, and never buy reviews. 

What to Include in Your Request

•  Personalization: Name, project, outcome.
•  Clear ask: A short, direct question with your link. 
•  Gratitude: Thank them for their time. 
•  Permission to feature: Ask if you can showcase the review on your site or portfolio. 

Turn Feedback Into Proof 

Reply to every review within two business days. Thank positives and address concerns with solutions. Most consumers check one or two review sites before deciding, so keep your presence consistent where your clients look. 

 Repurpose reviews across touchpoints: 

•  Add a “Reviews” tab to your homepage’s navigation. 
•  Feature a quote in proposals near your price table. 
•  Share a monthly roundup on social media with a link back to your profile.

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