We all know those golden stars under a business name make a difference. But when it comes to actually getting more Google reviews? That’s where things get tricky.
Most business owners I work with feel a little weird about asking. Some say it feels pushy. Others just don’t know when to bring it up. And a few admit they’ve never even shared their review link.
The good news? You don’t need a fancy funnel or awkward sales pitch to increase your Google reviews. What you do need is a little intention, a clear link, and a few low-key strategies that make reviews feel like a natural part of your customer experience.
Why Google Reviews Still Matter
Reviews aren’t just digital gold stars. They affect where you show up in Google’s local listings. If you’ve been wondering how to appear higher in search, or why your competitors are ahead in the map pack, reviews are a big reason.
They also build trust instantly. Potential customers are more likely to choose you if they see others have had a great experience. Even one or two glowing reviews can make a difference, especially for newer or smaller businesses.
First: Make It Easy
The biggest barrier? Not the asking. It’s the doing. People might love you, but they’re busy. If leaving a review requires too many clicks, they’ll move on.
Here’s what I recommend: grab your Google review link from your Business Profile dashboard (under “Get more reviews”) and save it somewhere handy. This direct link takes people right to the review box, no searching, no confusion.
Once you have the link, sprinkle it everywhere:
- In your email signature
- On your thank-you page or digital receipts
- Via QR codes on cards, signage, or packaging
- In post-session or post-purchase follow-up messages
Think of it as giving your customers a shortcut to sing your praises.
When You Ask Matters
The best time to ask for a review is when someone is genuinely happy. That might sound obvious, but it’s often missed.
If you’re a photographer, ask after the gallery reveal, not during contract signing. If you’re a coach, wait until your client shares a breakthrough moment.
When someone says something kind, “This was exactly what I needed,” or “That was so easy!” use that as your cue. A simple, “Would you mind sharing that in a Google review?” goes a long way.
You Don’t Have to Sound Salesy
Asking for reviews shouldn’t feel like begging. And it definitely shouldn’t feel like reading from a script.
I like to keep it casual. Something like:
“If you have a second, I’d love it if you could leave a quick Google review. It really helps people find me, and it means a lot!”
You can say it in person, send it in an email, or even text it after a successful service. However you ask, just be kind and human.
Make It Part of Your Process
You don’t need a complex strategy. Just a repeatable one.
If you send a follow-up email after services are completed, build the review ask into that message. If you use a CRM or appointment tool, check if it lets you add review requests to your workflows.
Not sure what to say in a follow-up? Keep it short and personal:
“Hi [Name], I loved working with you! If you have a moment, would you mind leaving a quick review on Google? Here’s the link: [insert link]”
One reminder is plenty. You’re not trying to nag, you’re just making it easy to say yes.
Reviews Start With the Experience
No review strategy works if the service doesn’t match. So before you tweak your processes, make sure what you’re delivering feels worth talking about.
That doesn’t mean perfection. It means clarity, kindness, and thoughtful touches. A quick fix to a customer problem. A note that says “thanks.” Being present and helpful when it counts.
Those are the moments people remember, and they’re the ones that turn into five stars.
One More Thing…
If you haven’t claimed or set up your Google Business Profile yet, start there. It’s free, and it makes a big difference in how and where your business shows up online. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
Want to make sure your site and Google profile are working together to bring in leads? You might also like this post: Why Visitors Might Be Leaving Your Website.
You don’t need to beg for reviews. You just need to set your customers up to want to leave one, and make it easy when they do.
The rest? That comes naturally.
And if you need help setting up your Google profile or adding review prompts to your site, I’m always happy to help. Let’s make it simpler.
