Five Steps to Ask for Reviews Without Feeling Awkward
You know that client who just left your clinic smiling, hugging their freshly vaccinated Labrador, and raving about how the new tech was so gentle during the blood draw? That’s your moment.
Reviews are one of the most valuable forms of social proof you have, but asking for them can feel a little uncomfortable. Like you’re fishing for compliments. The good news? With the right timing, approach, and team support, asking for reviews can feel as natural as sending home aftercare instructions.
Let’s walk through five easy, practice-ready steps that make asking for reviews feel less awkward and a whole lot more impactful.
Step 1: Recognize the Right Moments to Ask For Reviews
Not every appointment ends on a high note, and that’s okay. Asking for reviews shouldn’t be something you tack onto every single visit like it’s part of the checkout process. Instead, train your team to recognize the moments that matter.
If a client is smiling, engaging with your staff, or even thanking you out loud, that’s a great time to ask.
Genius Example:
Front desk team members can simply say:
“Hey, looks like you and Fluffy had a great visit today! We’d love to hear more about it. Would you be willing to leave us a review on Google?”
It’s friendly, natural, and rooted in the moment. You’re not chasing five stars, you’re inviting real stories that reflect the experience at your clinic.
Step 2: Equip Your Team with the Tools to Make It Easy
Let’s be honest, clients won’t go out of their way to leave a review unless you make it super simple. Here’s how to make it seamless:
- QR Codes at the Front Desk: These are perfect for checkout areas and waiting rooms. Just a small sign that says “Loved your visit? Let us know!” with a scannable code to your Google or Facebook review page.
- Automated Follow-Up Emails: After an appointment, send a thank-you email that includes:
- A warm message from the team
- A direct link to Google or Facebook
- A nudge like, “Your feedback helps other pet parents find us. We’d love to hear from you!”
- Use Your Reputation Dashboard: If you’re a GeniusVets client, you already have access to a dashboard that tracks and manages reviews across Google, Yelp, and Facebook—all in one place. Set up alerts and respond quickly without jumping between platforms.
Step 3: Avoid the #1 Mistake of Review Gating
It’s tempting to only ask happy clients for reviews, but doing that selectively is called review gating, and it’s a big no-no. Platforms like Google and Yelp consider this a violation of terms. If caught, you could lose reviews or even access to your account.
Instead, make review requests a part of your routine communication with all clients. This not only keeps things compliant, but it helps you catch minor issues early, like a confusing curbside process or a broken link in your reminders.
Feedback isn’t just about boosting your rating; it’s a tool for growth.
Step 4: Celebrate the Reviews You Receive
A five-star review sitting quietly on your Google profile is a missed opportunity. When clients take the time to leave kind words, show them (and your team) that it matters. This is your chance to repurpose it!
- Share it on social media
- Turn it into a graphic and post it in your lobby
- Include it in newsletters or blog content
Recognizing positive feedback builds trust with your community and boosts team morale. It’s a win-win.
Step 5: Make Asking Part of the Culture
If you want consistent reviews, make review requests part of your everyday practice, not just something you do during a slow month. Talk about it during staff meetings. Roleplay asking for reviews in team training. Keep it casual but consistent.
Encourage your team to:
- Spot the right moments
- Use their own voice (scripts are helpful, but authenticity wins)
- Celebrate the wins together
GeniusTip: Make a review board! Add a star for every positive review. Have sections for mentions and add a star when a team is mentioned, or add the name to the star if there was a specific person who should be recognized.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Awkward to Ask For Reviews
At the end of the day, asking for a review isn’t begging; it’s extending the same kind of care and connection you offer every patient who walks through your doors. It’s simply saying,
“We’re so glad you came in. If you had a great experience, we’d love it if you shared it with other pet parents.”
With a few tools, a little confidence, and the right timing, your team can ask for reviews without hesitation and without it feeling weird.
Want help streamlining your review strategy?
At GeniusVets, our reputation dashboard makes it easy to manage, monitor, and respond to reviews all in one place. We’re here to help your happy clients become your best marketers. Schedule your complimentary Marketing Health Exam today, and let's get your review strategy working for you.