Review Request SMS Template
SMS review requests consistently outperform email — open rates average above 90% and customers read them within 3 minutes. The constraint is space: you need to thank, ask, and link in under 160 characters ideally, or at most 2–3 short lines. This template gives you the shortest possible message that still feels personal, with your review link as the only call to action.
THE TEMPLATE
Ready to Copy
Copy, customize, and use it as-is — or make it your own.
Hi [NAME], thanks for visiting [BUSINESS NAME]! If you have a sec, a quick review would mean a lot to us: [LINK]. Thank you! 🙏
TEMPLATE VARIATIONS
More Ways to Use It
Same structure, different tone. Pick the one that fits the situation.
Version 1 — No emoji, professional
Hi [NAME], thank you for choosing [BUSINESS NAME]. We'd really appreciate a quick Google review if you have a moment: [LINK]. Thanks so much.
Version 2 — With social proof hook
Hi [NAME]! Hope everything was great. Your review helps other [locals / customers / patients] find us — would mean a lot: [LINK]. Thanks! — [YOUR NAME]
WHEN TO USE
Send within 1–4 hours of a completed visit or service — SMS works best when the experience is still immediate. Include the direct review link (not just your business name). Works best as an automated trigger from your POS, booking, or CRM system immediately after checkout or appointment close.
CUSTOMIZATION TIPS
160 characters is the limit for a single SMS segment — longer messages split into two texts and feel spammy. Test your message length before sending at scale.
Use a URL shortener (bit.ly or similar) to shorten the Google/Yelp review link — raw URLs can be 80+ characters.
Personalize with the customer's first name — this alone increases conversion rates significantly vs "Dear Customer."
Send from a local number if possible, not a generic short code — recipients are more likely to engage with a message from a recognizable area code.
Is it legal to send review request texts?
You need prior written consent (TCPA compliance in the US) to send marketing texts. If the customer provided their number as part of a booking or purchase, and your terms include SMS communications, you're generally covered. When in doubt, consult a compliance tool or add an opt-in checkbox at booking.
How do SMS review requests compare to email?
SMS gets 5–10x higher open rates than email but is more intrusive — use it judiciously. Email is better for repeat customers or when timing is less critical. SMS is better for immediate post-visit follow-up when the experience is still fresh.
What's the best time to send a review request text?
Within the first 2–4 hours after the visit while the experience is vivid. Avoid texting after 8pm or before 9am. Tuesday–Thursday daytime gets the best response rates.
