Local Marketing
How to Get More Google Reviews: 9 Simple Ways That Work
Learn how to get more Google reviews with simple, policy-friendly tactics, from direct review links and timing your ask to responding to every review.
Google reviews are one of the most powerful marketing tools a local business has. They help you show up in local search results, and they're often the deciding factor when someone is choosing between you and a competitor.
The problem is that happy customers rarely leave reviews on their own. Here's how to get more Google reviews, the right way.
Why Google Reviews Matter
They help you rank. Review count, rating, and recency are signals in Google's local search results.
They build trust. Most people read reviews before choosing a local business.
They improve your click-through rate. A strong star rating makes people more likely to click on your listing.
They give you feedback. Reviews show you what customers love and what needs work.
1. Just Ask
It sounds simple, but most businesses don't ask consistently. Make asking for a review part of your normal process, not something you remember once in a while.
2. Ask at the Right Moment
Timing matters. The best time to ask is right after a positive experience:
When a customer thanks you
When a project is finished and they're happy with it
When they pick up their order
After you've solved a problem for them
3. Make It Ridiculously Easy
Every extra click costs you reviews. Instead of telling customers to "find us on Google," send them a direct link that opens the review box.
You can find this link in your Google Business Profile. Open your profile, select Ask for reviews, and copy the link it gives you.
4. Use Text Messages
Text messages get read far more often than emails. A short, friendly text with your review link right after a job or purchase is one of the most effective ways to get reviews.
Example:
"Thanks for choosing us today! If you have a minute, a quick Google review would mean a lot to our small team: [link]"
5. Put Your Link Everywhere
Add your review link or a QR code to:
Receipts and invoices
Follow-up emails
Your email signature
Business cards and thank-you cards
Signs at your counter or checkout
6. Train Your Team
Your employees are the ones creating great experiences, so give them the words and tools to ask. A friendly, personal ask from the person who helped is far more effective than an automated message.
7. Respond to Every Review
Responding to reviews shows customers you're listening and encourages others to leave one. Thank people for positive reviews, and respond calmly and professionally to negative ones. Future customers are reading your replies too.
8. Follow Up Once
If someone doesn't leave a review after the first ask, one polite reminder a few days later is fine. More than that can feel pushy.
9. Keep It Consistent
A steady stream of new reviews is better than a burst once a year. Recent reviews carry more weight with both customers and Google.
What Not to Do
Some tactics can get reviews removed or even hurt your listing:
Don't offer incentives like discounts or gift cards in exchange for reviews. Google's policies prohibit it.
Don't "gate" reviews by only asking happy customers after screening them first.
Don't write fake reviews or ask friends and employees to pose as customers. Federal rules prohibit fake reviews, and Google actively removes them.
Don't buy reviews. Ever.
Turn Reviews Into a System
The businesses with hundreds of reviews aren't lucky. They have a simple, repeatable process for asking.
At AdVantage Marketing, we help businesses across Utah and Idaho build review systems, optimize their Google Business Profiles, and strengthen local SEO. Learn more about our digital marketing services or get in touch.
