Referral request text templates
Your happiest customers know people who need what you do. Most will send them your way if you ask at the right time.
By Steve Clune, Back Office Bot · Updated November 14, 2026
When to ask
- Right after they say something nice. A compliment, a thank you or a five-star review is the moment.
- When the job is done and working. Not while there's still a punch list.
- Seasonally. Before your busy season, a quick note to past customers keeps you top of mind.
Templates you can copy
- Thanks again, [Name]! If you know anyone who needs a [roofer / plumber / painter], we'd be grateful if you passed along our number: [number].
- [Name], so glad you're happy with the [project]! Most of our work comes from neighbors talking to neighbors. If anyone on your street needs help, send them our way.
- Hi [Name], it's [You] from [Business]. Our schedule opens up next month. If you know anyone who's been putting off a [project], we'd love to help them.
- Thanks for the great review, [Name]! If a friend or family member ever needs us, just forward them this text: [Business], [number], [website].
- With a reward: Hi [Name]! For every friend you send our way who books a job, we'll send you a $[amount] gift card as a thank you. Just have them mention your name.
Make it easy to share
Give them something they can forward in one tap: your name, number and website in a single text, or a digital business card link they can send to anyone.
A note on rewards
Referral rewards are fine. Just keep them separate from reviews. Don't offer anything in exchange for a Google review, since that breaks Google's rules. Check any state rules that apply to your trade before offering cash.
Thank every referral
When someone sends you work, thank them the same day. Our thank you text templates include a few for referrals. BOB can send referral asks and thank yous automatically after every job. See CRM and follow-up.
Questions owners ask
When is the best time to ask for a referral?
Right after a customer compliments your work or leaves a good review, and once the job is finished and working.
Should I offer a referral reward?
A small thank you, like a gift card when the referral books, works well for many service businesses. Keep it separate from review requests.
How often can I ask past customers for referrals?
Once after the job and then a light seasonal reminder a few times a year is plenty.
What should I give customers to share?
One text with your name, number and website, or a digital business card link they can forward.
Want us to check your setup for free?
We call your business after hours, see what your customers hear, and show you what BOB would do instead. Free, about 15 minutes, no pressure.
Rather talk now? Call (913) 530-8133. You'll get Steve, the owner.