Review and referral texts

Copy a message, change the parts in [brackets], and send it from your own phone.

- Use your Google review link, not Yelp: Yelp asks businesses not to request reviews.
- Never offer anything in return for a review, not even a discount.
- Only text clients who gave you their number, and stop if someone asks you to.
- If a client found you on Rover, keep their bookings on Rover.


WHERE TO FIND YOUR GOOGLE REVIEW LINK

1. On a computer, open your Google Business Profile.
2. Choose Read reviews, then Get more reviews.
3. Copy the link and save it in your phone's notes, ready to paste.


ASKING FOR A REVIEW

Ask every client at the same point, a few weeks in. Send your Google review link, which opens straight to the form, so it takes them a minute. Ask once, remind once, and leave it there. Never offer anything in return for a review.

1. After the first few weeks

Hi [client name], it's [your name]. [Pet name] and I have had a few weeks together now. Would you leave me an honest review on Google? It helps other people in [area] find me. [review link]

2. After a cat visit

Hi [client name], [cat name] ate breakfast and the litter box is clean. Would you leave me an honest review on Google? A line or two is plenty. [review link]

3. When a client says something kind

Thank you, that made my day. Would you mind putting that in a review? A line or two is plenty. [review link]

4. A reminder, a week later (once only)

Hi [client name], in case it got buried, here's that review link again: [review link]. Thanks either way.

5. After they leave one

Just saw your review. Thank you, [client name]. Give [pet name] a scratch from me.


REPLYING TO REVIEWS

Clients expect a reply, so answer every review within a week, in your own words. Keep a reply to a bad review calm and short, and take the details to a text or call.

6. Replying to a kind review

Thank you, [client name]. [Pet name] is a joy to walk, and I'm glad the [morning walks] are working for you. See you [Tuesday].

7. Replying to a bad review

Thank you for telling me, [client name]. I'm sorry [Friday's visit] wasn't what you expected. I'd like to put it right, so I'll text you today to talk it through.


ASKING FOR REFERRALS

Your regular clients know other people with pets. Ask them, and say what you have room for.

8. To a regular client

Hi [client name], I have room for [two] more regular clients on [days]. If you know anyone nearby who needs a [dog walker / pet sitter], I'd be grateful if you passed on my number.

9. With a thank-you (only if you want to offer one)

Hi [client name], if a friend books with me because of you, you both get your next [walk / visit] free. They can text me at this number.

10. Thanking a client for a referral

[Friend's name] just booked a meet-and-greet and said you sent them. Thank you, I really appreciate it. [Your next walk is on me.]

11. Replying to someone who was referred

Hi [name], thanks for getting in touch. [Client name] said you might text. I'd be glad to come over and meet [pet name]. Which day works for you this week?

12. Asking for a Nextdoor recommendation

Hi [client name], if you're on Nextdoor, would you recommend me there? Neighbors look there when they need a [dog walker / pet sitter]. Here's my page: [Nextdoor link]

13. If a neighbor asks in a local group

If you ever see a neighbor asking for a [dog walker / pet sitter] in a local group, would you tag me or pass on my number? Thank you.

14. Asking a new client how they found you

Thanks for booking, [name]. How did you hear about me? If someone sent you my way, I'd like to thank them.


Made with Reeve's free starter kit