The other day, during an online networking meeting with BNI, I had a surprising realisation: I didn’t really know how to write a good review. I used to believe that leaving a review was just about giving stars and adding some lines. But through the educational materials provided by the group, I discovered that a truly valuable review requires more depth.
A good review is not only about validating someone’s work, it’s also about telling a story. When you give context, describe your personal experience, and explain why it mattered to you, your review becomes relatable, useful and powerful.
This is the hidden value of being part of a networking group: you don’t just meet people, you also learn skills that help you build stronger professional relationships. Writing excellent reviews is one of them.
© Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photogdraphy
Why Reviews Matter
Builds trust: People want proof that a service or product works, and your story helps them imagine themselves in that situation.
Supports professionals: A thoughtful review is like free marketing; it can influence someone’s decision to choose that professional.
Positions you as a connector: When you give valuable feedback, you’re not only helping the business, but also your own network, because you are providing them with reliable recommendations.
“A satisfied customer is the best business strategy of all”
Key Elements of an Excellent Review
Set the context
Start by explaining how you came across the service or why you needed it. This makes your review relatable to others in a similar situation.
Example: “I was looking for professional headshots for my website because my old pictures didn’t reflect my current business brand.”Tell your story
Share your personal experience. What was the process like? How did the person make you feel? What stood out?
Example: “From the first consultation, she/he made me feel comfortable and understood exactly the message I wanted to communicate through my photos.”Highlight the transformation or result
A review becomes powerful when you show the before and after. How did the service impact your life, work, or confidence?
Example: “My new portraits not only improved my website, but also gave me more confidence in presenting myself on LinkedIn.”Be specific
General praise doesn’t stick in people’s minds. Mention one or two details that made the service excellent.
Example: “Her ability to capture natural expressions, combined with her guidance on poses, made the session flow easily.”Finish with a recommendation
End by telling others who would benefit from this service or product.
Example: “I highly recommend Leticia to any entrepreneur or professional who wants images that truly represent their brand.”
“Reviews aren’t just about feedback, they’re about building a relationship with your customers”
© Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography
How to Ask for a Good Review
It’s equally important to know how to ask for valuable reviews. A vague “Can you leave me a review?” usually leads to generic answers.
Next time you can follow these tips:
Guide your clients by asking them to describe the context and results.
Share simple prompts such as:
“What was the problem you had before working with me?”
“What did you like most about the experience?”
“How has this helped you personally or professionally?”
Encourage storytelling. The more human the review, the more it resonates with future clients.
Writing and requesting excellent reviews is a skill that strengthens relationships and builds credibility. A good review is not about being polite, it’s about being helpful, specific, and authentic.
Thanks to my BNI networking group, I learned that reviews can be powerful stories that benefit not just the person receiving them, but also the person writing them and everyone who reads them. When we make the effort to give meaningful feedback, we’re not only supporting someone’s business, we’re also contributing to a culture of trust and connection.
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Thank you for reading.
Bye for now.