How to Encourage Positive Reviews (Without Feeling Awkward About It)
Great service? Check. Happy clients? Check. Raving online reviews? …Crickets?
Even the most loyal spa or salon guests sometimes need a nudge to share their experience. The key is to make it easy, natural, and part of your client care—not a desperate ask. Here’s how to do it in a way that feels authentic (and actually works).
1. Deliver Moments Worth Talking About
Positive reviews start before the request. Think:
- A warm towel with essential oils during a brow tint.
- A personalized tea recommendation post-facial.
- A front desk farewell that feels like a hug.
These small touches often turn a great service into a “you won’t believe this” moment.
2. Time Your Ask Just Right
Right after a treatment—when clients are relaxed and glowing—is your window. A quick, friendly:
“If you enjoyed your visit, would you mind leaving a quick review? It helps us a ton.”
Bonus points if you text or email them within the hour with a direct link. The fewer clicks, the better.
3. Use Tools That Make It Effortless
Platforms like Vagaro, Square, and Google Business let you automate review requests. Set up a post-appointment follow-up that includes a review link and a thank-you. No awkward conversation required.
4. Incentivize Without Feeling Pushy
Rather than pay-for-praise, try:
- A monthly giveaway for guests who leave reviews.
- A display board: “This month’s favorite guest shoutout!”
- A loyalty point boost for those who take the time.
Keep it fun, not transactional.
5. Train Your Team to Spot the Moment
When a client gushes, “That’s the best massage I’ve had in years!”—that’s your cue. Train your team to smile and say:
“That means so much to us! If you’d be open to leaving that in a review, it helps others find us too.”
It feels organic because it is.
6. Innovative Ways to Get More Feedback
- Add a QR code to your mirror or checkout area—“Love your brows? Leave a review!”
- Include a review link on your appointment cards or digital receipts.
- Feature past reviews on your social media with a thank-you—people love recognition.
7. What to Do With Positive Reviews
Don’t let them just sit online—celebrate them!
- Share your favorite quotes in newsletters.
- Create a “guest love” wall in the lobby.
- Mention improvements you've made thanks to glowing feedback.
This shows clients that reviews don’t vanish—they shape your spa or salon experience.
The most successful businesses treat reviews as a relationship—not a transaction. So when you consistently create moments that wow, ask genuinely, and show appreciation, you'll see more happy guests sharing their love out loud.
Universal Companies is proud to have a team of experienced spa advisors on staff and welcomes you to consult with our professionals about spa products and supplies, including ingredients, equipment, and retail. Dedicated to the success of spa professionals everywhere, we're grateful to be recognized with multiple industry awards (thank you!) and proud to support the spa industry through mentorship and sponsorship.