How to Ask Your Clients for Reviews (and Actually Get Them)

As a beauty professional, your work speaks through transformations. But while your artistry turns heads, it’s your reputation that brings new clients through the door. And right now, that reputation often lives or dies by client reviews.

Think about it, how often do you scroll through reviews before trying a new restaurant or ordering a product? Your potential clients do the same before booking a facial, a hairstyle, or lash extensions. In fact, 93% of consumers say reviews impact their buying decisions.

So you see that reviews are powerful trust signals that can sway hesitant first-time clients and give your beauty business the credibility it deserves.

This guide will walk you through practical strategies, real examples, and the subtle psychology behind asking clients for reviews so you can build a review system that works for you, not against you.

Reviews Matter a Lot More Than You Think

Reviews are a blend of social proof, marketing, and credibility rolled into one. For your beauty business, they influence first impressions. A potential client who stumbles on your Google Business profile or Instagram highlight reel is far more likely to book if they see positive reviews.

Reviews also boost visibility. On platforms like Google and Yelp, businesses with more (and better) reviews often show up higher in search results. And they build trust faster. Even if you post stunning before-and-after shots, people still want to hear from other clients. Real voices validate your expertise.

In short, reviews aren’t vanity metrics, they’re part of your growth strategy and we’re going to teach you how to get and use them.

How to Ask Without Feeling Pushy

Many beauty professionals hesitate to ask for reviews because they worry it feels salesy. But the truth is that most happy clients are glad to share their experience if you make it easy for them. The key is in how you frame the ask.

Instead of thinking of it as a favor, think of it as a partnership. You provided a service that made them feel confident, and now you’re simply giving them a chance to share that joy with others. That mental shift makes all the difference.

So, how do you actually do it? Let’s break it down.

Timing Is Everything, So When Do You Ask Clients for Reviews?

The best time to ask for a review is when your client’s excitement is fresh. This usually happens right after a service, when they’re still admiring their new look in the mirror. That’s the moment they’re most emotionally invested and most likely to say yes.

But timing isn’t always about immediacy. Some services, like skincare treatments, may take a few days for results to fully show. In those cases, a gentle follow-up later can be more effective.

You can ask for reviews at the chair or station when your client is thrilled with their new look, at checkout while you’re wrapping up the appointment, suggest it naturally, via text or email: A follow-up message thanking them for coming and including a review link, even during milestones such as if a loyal client has just hit their 10th visit, celebrate it with a request.

By aligning the ask with positive emotions, you make it feel natural instead of transactional.

Create the Perfect Ask

What you say and how you say it matter. A vague “Could you leave me a review?” can feel burdensome or sometimes straight up rude to your client. But a clear, warm, and easy-to-act-on request can make them warm up and give a nice review.

Your ask must do these three things: it thanks the client, makes the ask clear, and removes friction by offering a link or easy way to respond.

Make It Easy for Clients to Leave Reviews

Even happy clients won’t leave reviews if the process feels like a chore. The less effort it takes, the higher your chances.

That’s where systems come in. You don’t need expensive software, just a few smart tweaks:

• Share direct links. Whether it’s Google, Yelp, or Facebook, grab the exact review link so clients don’t have to hunt for it.

• Automate reminders. Use your booking software or a simple text/email template that sends a thank-you note with a review link.

• Use QR codes. A small card at your station or reception desk with a QR code that leads directly to your review page works wonders.

What to Do If Clients Don’t Respond

Not every client you ask will leave a review. That doesn’t mean they didn’t enjoy their experience, it could simply mean they got busy, forgot, or didn’t know what to say. The key is not to take it personally or give up after the first try.

A gentle follow-up can work wonders. Think of it like reminding a friend about something they promised to do. You’re not nagging, you’re just making it easier for them to keep their word.

One reminder is usually enough. Beyond that, focus on future clients rather than chasing every single review.

Encouraging Reviews Without Crossing Ethical Lines

In the beauty industry, it’s tempting to dangle discounts or freebies in exchange for reviews. But the problem is platforms like Google and Yelp actually discourage or forbid incentivized reviews. If caught, you could risk penalties or worse, removal.

Instead, think about subtle, ethical ways to motivate clients like these:

• Highlight the impact. Let clients know their reviews help other people feel confident about booking. Many people will gladly contribute when they understand the value.

• Celebrate reviewers publicly. Share a client’s kind words on Instagram or in your newsletter (with their permission). When others see the spotlight, they’ll be inspired to leave their own.

• Make it part of the culture. If every client sees that reviews are normal and appreciated, they’ll be more likely to participate without extra nudging.

The goal isn’t to “bribe” clients into reviews, it’s to create a natural feedback loop where leaving one feels like a normal part of the experience.

How to Use Reviews: Showcasing Them to Build Even More Trust

Collecting reviews is only half the battle. How you use them can amplify their impact. A glowing testimonial buried on Google is nice, but when you showcase it strategically, it becomes marketing gold.

To maximize your reviews, you have to put them to work. Here are a few ways:

• Social media highlights: Create a “Client Love” highlight on Instagram with screenshots of positive reviews.

• Website placement: Feature them on your homepage, service pages, or booking page wherever new clients make decisions.

• Printed materials: Include snippets on your business cards or flyers.

• In your salon/studio: Frame a few standout reviews or display them digitally on a small screen at reception.

Each review gives new clients a glimpse of what it feels like to sit in your chair and leave feeling transformed.

How to Build a Sustainable Review System

Asking for reviews doesn’t need to be random or awkward, it works best when it’s part of your process. A sustainable system saves you time, reduces stress, and ensures a steady flow of fresh testimonials.

Here’s what that could look like for you:

1. Prepare your links

Gather direct links to the review platforms that matter most (Google, Yelp, Facebook, Shearify, etc.).

2. Create templates

Draft simple scripts for in-person asks, text reminders, and email follow-ups.

3. Automate where possible

If your booking system allows, set up an automatic thank-you message with the review link.

4. Train your team (if you have one)

Make sure everyone knows how and when to ask.

5. Track your progress

Aim for a certain number of new reviews each month, but keep your focus on quality over quantity.

When you treat reviews as a regular business practice instead of an occasional effort, you’ll start to see steady growth in both numbers and impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Asking For Reviews

Even with the best intentions, some approaches can backfire. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Sounding desperate. Clients should feel appreciated, not pressured.

• Over-asking. Bombarding clients with multiple reminders feels spammy.

• Forgetting to respond. If someone leaves a review, take a moment to reply—even a simple thank you shows professionalism.

• Ignoring negative feedback. A bad review stings, but handling it gracefully can actually strengthen your reputation.

Avoiding these mistakes keeps your review strategy professional, respectful, and effective.

Final Thoughts

Asking clients for reviews doesn’t have to feel like begging, it’s about opening the door for them to share their excitement and helping future clients feel confident in choosing you.

When you time your ask well, craft it with warmth, and make the process easy, you’ll be surprised at how willing clients are to leave feedback. And when you showcase those reviews thoughtfully, they become one of your strongest marketing tools.

So start small. With consistency, you’ll soon have a collection of glowing testimonials that not only celebrate your artistry but also attract the next wave of clients ready to sit in your chair.

FAQs

1. Should I ask every single client for a review?

Yes, but with nuance. Ask everyone, but don’t expect everyone to follow through. A consistent habit of asking increases your chances without making it awkward.

2. What if I get a negative review?

Stay calm. Respond politely, acknowledge their concern, and invite them to resolve it privately. A thoughtful response shows potential clients that you care about service quality.

3. Which platform should I prioritize for reviews?

Google is the most powerful for visibility, but don’t ignore where your clients spend time. For some beauty businesses, Facebook may be just as influential.

4. Can I write a review on behalf of a client if they’re too busy?

No. Reviews should come directly from clients. Writing one yourself, even with permission can backfire if discovered. Instead, make the process easier with direct links or QR codes.

5. How many reviews do I need to look credible?

There’s no magic number, but even 10–15 strong reviews can make a big impact. Consistency matters more than volume, aim for steady growth over time.