Google reviews are one of the most powerful tools for building trust, boosting local SEO, and attracting new customers. Whether you’re running a brick-and-mortar shop, offering professional services, or managing an eCommerce brand with a physical presence, increasing your number of Google reviews can significantly enhance your credibility and online visibility.
But there’s a right way—and a wrong way—to ask for reviews. Let’s break it down.
Why Google Reviews Matter
Before we dive into strategies, here’s why you should care:
- Trust & Social Proof: Most people read reviews before choosing a business. A strong rating with recent positive reviews builds confidence.
- Local SEO Boost: Google favors businesses with high-quality, consistent reviews when ranking local search results.
- Customer Feedback: Reviews give you insights into what you’re doing well and where you can improve.
How to Get More Google Reviews (The Right Way)
1. Just Ask—But Do It Smartly
Don’t be shy about asking customers for a review. Most people are willing, they just need a nudge.
- In person: After a successful service or sale, simply say, “If you had a great experience, we’d really appreciate a Google review!”
- Via email or SMS: Follow up after a purchase or visit with a short, polite message and a direct link to your Google review page.
- On receipts or packaging: Include a friendly reminder and QR code or short link to your review profile.
2. Make Google Reviews Easy
The fewer clicks, the better. Use a direct link or QR code to your Google review form. You can generate this via Google’s “Place ID Finder” or through your Google Business Profile dashboard.
3. Use Signage and Reminders
A small sign at checkout with a QR code, on your website, or in your email signature can be effective. Example:
“We value your feedback. Leave us a quick Google review!”
4. Respond to Reviews
Engage with people who leave feedback—positive or negative. It shows you care and encourages others to do the same.
What Not to Do When Asking for Google Reviews
It’s easy to get desperate for five-star ratings, but the wrong tactics can get you penalized—or worse, damage your reputation. Here’s what to avoid:
❌ Don’t Buy Reviews
Fake reviews are against Google’s policies and can lead to your business being suspended from Google Maps or having reviews removed.
❌ Don’t Review Your Own Business
This includes having friends or family post fake reviews. Google uses sophisticated algorithms to detect and remove suspicious activity.
❌ Don’t Gate Reviews
This is when you only ask happy customers to leave a review while filtering out unhappy ones. Google considers this “review gating” and it’s a violation of their terms.
❌ Don’t Pressure People
Asking is fine—pestering or coercing is not. It’s important that reviews are left voluntarily.
❌ Don’t Offer Rewards for Reviews
Even well-meaning incentives (like “leave a review and get 10% off”) are against Google’s review policies. You can thank people after they leave a review, but don’t tie a reward to the act of reviewing.
Just Ask
The key to getting more Google reviews is to ask authentically, make it easy, and keep the experience positive for your customers. Don’t try to game the system—focus on delivering great service and encouraging genuine feedback. In time, those five stars will start adding up.
