Why Texting Customers for Reviews Gets More Responses Than QR Codes or In-Person Requests
Feb 3, 2025
Getting customer reviews is crucial for building trust, improving search rankings, and attracting new business. But how you ask for reviews makes a huge difference. While some businesses rely on in-person requests or QR codes, texting customers directly has proven to be the most effective way to secure more reviews. Here’s why.
1. Convenience Leads to Higher Response Rates
Most people are busy, and even satisfied customers may forget to leave a review if the process isn’t seamless. Asking in person puts the burden on the customer to remember, and QR codes require them to take extra steps. A text message, however, delivers the review request straight to their phone, making it easy to click the link and leave feedback immediately.
2. Customers Are More Likely to Open and Act on a Text
Text messages have a 98% open rate, compared to email, which hovers around 20%. In-person requests can be easily forgotten, and QR codes often go unused. A direct text message is more personal, harder to ignore, and prompts action faster.
3. Eliminates Friction in the Review Process
With a QR code, customers must:
Open their phone’s camera.
Scan the code.
Click the link.
Navigate to the review page.
By contrast, a text message provides a one-tap experience—they receive a direct link and can start reviewing in seconds. Reducing friction means more customers will follow through.
4. Works Anytime, Anywhere
If you ask a customer for a review in person, they may agree but forget once they leave. A text message allows them to respond at their convenience, whether they’re at home or on the go. Plus, texts remain in their inbox, making it easy to return later if they don’t have time immediately.
5. Feels More Personal and Engaging
A well-crafted text feels more like a conversation than a generic request. You can personalize it with their name, mention the service they received, and express appreciation. A simple message like:
"Hi [Customer Name], thanks for visiting us today! We’d love to hear about your experience—would you mind leaving us a quick review? Here’s the link: [Review Link]. Your feedback helps us grow!"
This approach makes the customer feel valued and more likely to leave a review.
6. Allows for Follow-Ups Without Being Pushy
If a customer doesn’t leave a review right away, you can send a gentle follow-up in a day or two. Unlike asking in person (where you don’t get a second chance), a quick reminder via text keeps your request top of mind.
7. Helps Filter Out Negative Reviews
When you request reviews via text, you can include a feedback-first approach. Instead of sending all customers directly to a public review site, first direct them to a private feedback form. If their experience was great, guide them to leave a review. If it wasn’t, you can address their concerns privately before they post a negative review online.
Final Thoughts
While in-person requests and QR codes have their place, texting customers for reviews is simply more effective. It’s convenient, easy, and engages customers at the right time. By sending a direct text with a simple link, you remove obstacles and dramatically increase your chances of getting more reviews.
Ready to boost your online reputation? Start sending review requests via text today and watch your ratings soar!