How to Get More Reviews (Without Giving Anything Away)

If you want to get more reviews, but don't want to do a giveaway that will cost money, here’s a simple approach that worked wonders for a friend of ours in the security industry—and it can work for you too.

The Situation

Our friend installs CCTV and alarms and wanted to increase their reviews. They’d absolutely smashed it already, but we wanted to help them get even more. Here’s what we suggested to help them go from “asking” to “guaranteeing” reviews.

The Key Moment: Right Before You Leave

At the end of a job, most trades people ask for a review when they’re packing up, confirming the customer is happy, and heading out. (Always check they’re happy before you ask for the review!) The problem? Customers rarely follow through once you’re gone.

Here’s how to change that:

Step 1: Add a “Because” to Your Request

When asking for a review, don’t just ask—add a meaningful reason why. This gives context and makes your request feel purposeful. For example:

• “Because we’re trying to reach 50 reviews.”
• “Because it helps others trust our service.”
• “Because it makes my day every time I read a new one.”
• “Because we love hearing how we’ve helped you, in your words.”

A “because” significantly increases the likelihood that customers will take action—it adds a layer of emotional connection to your request.

Step 2: Provide an Easy Way to Leave a Review (On the Spot)

Here’s the game-changer: After asking, hand them a QR code (or have a link to the review page you can message quickly) linking directly to your review page. The key here is you’re asking for the review during their time with you, once you leave they’re back to their busy day… literally as I write this there’s my local dry cleaners I’m thinking I really need to write a review for because their service is exceptional, but I’m always in the middle of something- if they asked me for a review while they check my items & grab them for me I’d happily do it there & then. So in that moment, say something like:

“Thanks! I’ve just got the last few bits to pack in the van. Here’s a QR code to leave a review. If you’re happy to write it now, I’ll be back in a moment to check we’re all done & say bye.” (Reword based on your service & scenario)

By doing this:

• You keep their attention while they’re still focused on your service.
• You eliminate the chance they’ll forget later.

Step 3: Maximise the Review’s Reach

Once they’ve written their review, politely ask if they’d copy and paste it onto another platform where you’d like visibility (Google, Trustpilot, LinkedIn, etc.). This multiplies the impact of a single review with minimal extra effort for your client. And again, ask while you’re there with them.

Tip: I usually ask as a bit of a joke, something to say “if you really want to make my day, feel free to copy paste it to xyz too.” Usually people ask how & may even just get us to do it for them.

Bonus Tip: Apply This to Client Catch-Ups

If you’re not already doing client catch-ups (you are, right?), integrate this strategy there too. It works in any industry—make reviews a natural part of your customer relationship process.

What do you think? Helpful? Feel free to leave us a glowing review—because it helps other businesses find our tips and tricks! ??