Review writing help
Learn how to help customers write better reviews without AI. Use templates, examples, and tips to improve review quality and increase response rates.
How to Help Customers Write Better Reviews
While AI is powerful, sometimes the best way to help customers write reviews is through simple, human-centered approaches. These review writing help strategies provide structure, examples, and guidance without relying on artificial intelligence.
Review Kickstarters
Provide starting points and prompts to help customers begin their review
Recent Examples
Show customers what good reviews look like from similar experiences
Personalized Templates
Give customers structured templates that make review writing easier
Why Non-AI Strategies Work
Lower the Barrier
Many customers want to leave reviews but don't know where to start. Non-AI strategies provide the structure and examples they need to overcome writer's block and get started.
Pro tip: Even bullet points instead of full reviews can be incredibly valuable for your business.
Human Connection
Non-AI strategies feel more personal and authentic. Customers appreciate the human touch and are more likely to engage with content that feels genuine rather than automated.
Benefits:
- • More authentic customer voice
- • Personal touch and connection
- • Higher trust and engagement
- • Better customer relationships
When to Use:
- • Customers prefer human interaction
- • You want authentic customer voice
- • Building personal relationships
- • AI isn't available or preferred
Proven Effectiveness
These strategies have been used successfully for decades. They're simple, reliable, and don't require complex technology or algorithms to work effectively.
Pro tip: Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Don't overcomplicate what works.
Strategy 1: Review Kickstarters
What are Review Kickstarters?
Review kickstarters are prompts, questions, or starting points that help customers begin writing their review. They provide structure and inspiration without being overly prescriptive.
Example Kickstarters:
- "What was the best part of your experience with us?"
- "How did our service solve your problem?"
- "What would you tell a friend about us?"
- "What surprised you most about our service?"
- "How did we exceed your expectations?"
How to Use:
In Prompt Pages:
Include 2-3 kickstarter questions in your prompt page to give customers multiple starting points.
In Follow-up Emails:
Send kickstarter questions to customers who haven't left reviews yet.
In Person:
Ask kickstarter questions during follow-up calls or in-person interactions.
Strategy 2: Recent Reviews as Examples
Show Customers What Good Reviews Look Like
Share recent, high-quality reviews from similar customers to show what makes a great review and inspire others to write their own.
Example Review to Share:
"I was hesitant about hiring a contractor for our kitchen remodel, but this team exceeded all expectations. They were professional, on time, and the quality of work is outstanding. The project manager kept us updated every step of the way, and they finished on schedule and under budget. The attention to detail is incredible - they even noticed and fixed a small issue we hadn't mentioned. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for quality work and great service."
What Makes This Review Great:
- • Specific details about the experience
- • Mentions of professionalism and quality
- • Addresses common concerns (timing, budget)
- • Shows attention to detail
- • Includes a clear recommendation
How to Use Examples:
- • Share in follow-up emails
- • Include in prompt pages
- • Post on social media
- • Use in customer conversations
- • Feature on your website
Strategy 3: Personalized Templates
Provide Structure Without Being Generic
Create personalized templates that give customers a framework for writing reviews while maintaining their authentic voice and specific experience.
Template Example:
Hi [Customer Name],
We're so glad you chose us for your [specific service]. Here's a simple template to help you write your review:
Your Experience:
• What service did you receive?
• What was the best part?
• How did we solve your problem?
• What surprised you most?
• Would you recommend us to others?
Feel free to use this as a starting point or write your review however feels most natural to you!
Template Best Practices:
- • Keep it simple and flexible
- • Use bullet points for easy scanning
- • Include specific details about their service
- • Encourage authentic voice
- • Make it optional, not required
When to Use Templates:
- • Customers ask for help writing
- • Complex or technical services
- • First-time review writers
- • Customers who seem stuck
- • High-value customers
The Power of Bullet Points
Sometimes Less is More
Don't underestimate the value of simple bullet points. Many customers prefer to share quick thoughts rather than write lengthy reviews, and that's perfectly fine!
Bullet Point Examples:
- • Professional and on time
- • Great communication throughout
- • Quality work exceeded expectations
- • Fair pricing and honest estimates
- • Would definitely recommend
Why Bullet Points Work:
- • Lower barrier to entry
- • Easy to scan and read
- • Highlight key points quickly
- • Perfect for mobile users
- • Still valuable for SEO and reputation
Pro tip: Even bullet points instead of full reviews can be incredibly valuable to your business!
Best Practices
Keep It Simple
Don't overwhelm customers with too many options or complex instructions. Simple, clear guidance works best.
Pro tip: Offer 2-3 options maximum to avoid decision paralysis.
Make It Optional
Always present these strategies as helpful suggestions, not requirements. Let customers choose what works for them.
Pro tip: "Feel free to use this as a starting point" works better than "Use this template."
Personalize Everything
Customize kickstarters, examples, and templates to match each customer's specific experience and service.
Pro tip: Reference specific details from their service in your suggestions.
Follow Up Personally
When customers use these strategies, thank them personally and acknowledge their effort.
Pro tip: Personal acknowledgment encourages future engagement.