How to get more Google Reviews (and how to use them!)
We get it – asking for reviews can be, well, awkward. It can often feel like you’re stepping into a spotlight that you aren’t quite ready for. Asking for public feedback can feel self-serving, even if your intention is to improve service and gain valuable insights. However, in today’s digital landscape, you can’t opt out of reviews, so we encourage you to embrace them. Like they say…if you can’t beat them, you might as well join them.
Whether you’re selling the next must-have gadget or providing a life-changing service, potential customers are actively seeking out reviews before making a choice. Nearly 70 percent of online shoppers typically read between one and six customer reviews before making a purchasing decision. You might say you’re the best dentist or home contractor on your site – and maybe you are – but the truth is, consumers trust what their peers say over your word. Many people feel that reviews posted by strangers online are just as reliable as personal recommendations.
Google reviews aren’t just about boosting your ego; they’re a powerful engine for visibility. So, if you’re not actively working at getting Google reviews, now’s the time to start. Or maybe you receive reviews but not at the speed or quantity you’d like. Whatever your situation is, we’re here to help you out. We’re giving tips to help you get more Google reviews for your business and a few ways you can leverage them.
Get more Google Reviews: Give customers a direct link to your Google Business page
Saying “Hey, I’d appreciate it if you write a review for me, thanks” after a transaction is a fine ask, but it isn’t very compelling. Don’t make your satisfied customers jump through hoops to find your Google Business Profile. Make the task as simple as possible by creating and sharing a Google Review Link (a shortened direct URL to your listing).
You can create a Google Review link in 3 easy steps:
- Log into your Google Business Profile (If you need to create or claim your profile, this article will help you out!)
- Click on the number of reviews you have.
- Click the button that says “Get More Reviews”
Get more Google Reviews: Ask for reviews where your customers are
Your customers are everywhere, so your review requests should be where they are most active. Share your Google review link on:
- Social media. Social platforms are great for conversational marketing, so asking for a review won’t seem out of place. Make a post that includes your Google link since platforms like Facebook have their own review systems. Sprinkle these amongst regular content, like posts and reels.
- Your website. A testimonial or review page on your site is the perfect place to showcase raving fans – and place a review link. Or, if you have room for a widget, add a button that takes users to your page.
- Physical media. Ok, we don’t recommend printing a link on non-digital media, but a QR code can do the trick. Generate a QR code that takes customers to your business profile and add it to business cards or other printed materials (flyers, brochures, signage, etc.).
Get more Google Reviews: Ask via email or text
- Make sure to personalize your review request. Include the customer’s first name or add in details about their experience.
- Strike while the iron is hot. You want to target people who recently purchased a product or used your service, so the experience is fresh in their mind.
- We’ll be blunt – don’t be annoying. Not everyone is going to write a review – and that’s ok! A follow-up reminder is fine, but don’t spam customers with review requests.
- Keep the message concise. Be as conversational as possible without running too long. Something short and sweet like the template below gets the job done without being too wordy:
Hi [name]. I hope you enjoyed your recent [experience or purchase] with us! If you have a moment, we’d love it if you left us a review! [link].
Leverage Google Reviews Beyond Your Business Profile
So, you’ve ramped up your Google review strategy. Now, we need to think beyond the Google Business Profile and find ways to leverage them in your wider marketing efforts.
Google reviews are a solid form of social proof – the idea that when people shop around, they look for reviews, recommendations and ways that others have used a product before making their decision. Basically, a persuasive review can push a customer from a “maybe” to a “yes” when it comes to making a purchase.
Important Note: Always remember to politely ask for permission from the reviewer before using their words in your marketing materials. Transparency is key (and it’s part of Google’s Policy).
Use reviews in paid advertising campaigns
From display ads to Facebook carousels, paid advertising is a great place to amplify reviews. Think graphics with a compelling snippet to write home how awesome your product or service is.
Example: You run a Facebook ad for a local bakery. Instead of just showcasing delicious pastries, include a quote from a recent Google Review like, “The croissants are heavenly, and the staff is so friendly! A true gem in the neighborhood.” This authentic voice resonates more powerfully than purely promotional content.
Add reviews to landing pages.
Your landing pages are critical for turning ad clicks into conversions. Strategically placing positive Google Review snippets on landing pages provides social proof right when potential customers are considering a purchase or inquiry.
Example: On a landing page for an accounting business advertising their self-employed tax services, include an impactful review like, “[Company Name] helped me navigate self-employed taxes for the first time. They took a complicated situation and made it stress-free. I recommend their services to everyone!”
Showcase reviews on your website.
Are you adding reviews to your website? If not, you should be. Your website is often the first introduction customers will have to your brand. Whether you have a dedicated testimonials page or reviews featured on your home page, by showcasing reviews, you show transparency and a willingness to let real customer voices speak for your business. It also can encourage visitors who might be on the fence to check out your full Google Business Profile, further amplifying your online visibility and review count.
