Keep the ones I have
When asking for referrals feels pushy: ask at the right moment, and name who to send.
The move, in one sentence
Wait for the moment a customer says they're happy, then make one specific, easy ask.
Referrals only feel pushy when they lack timing and specificity. Wait for the moment a customer says they're happy, then make one specific, easy ask.
Most owners never ask, assuming a great meal speaks for itself. It usually won't.
Do this
- 1Wait for genuine praise signals before asking.
- 2Specify the ideal customer type rather than saying "anyone."
- 3Make sharing effortless with cards or links.
- 4Explain why word-of-mouth matters to your business.
Make it yoursTell us your spot’s name once, and every script on this site rewrites itself for you. Saved on your device only — nothing is sent anywhere.
The ask
“That means a lot, thank you. Honestly, we grow mostly by word of mouth, so if you know [someone specific], I'd be so grateful if you sent them our way.”
Real example
A pizzeria owner responds to praise by saying "if you've got a friend who's picky about pizza, send them in and I'll take care of them."
You're done when
You're done once you have one referral ask ready and you know the moment to use it.