Online reviews are the new word-of-mouth.
They shape what people think about your business before they ever meet you.
Google reviews are one of the easiest ways to build trust, improve visibility, and attract new customers.
If you want people to find you, and choose you, you need a plan to get Google reviews consistently.
This guide shows you how to ask, how to respond, and how to turn your reviews into growth.
Key takeaways
- Google reviews build trust and visibility.
- Positive reviews improve your ranking and drive clicks.
- The right way to ask gets better results (and keeps you compliant).
- Never pay or offer discounts for reviews – it can hurt your listing.
- Keep asking, keep responding, and make it a habit.
Why You Need Google Reviews
People trust other people.
When someone searches for your business, your reviews show up front and center.
That means your reputation is often decided before they call, click, or visit.
Google reviews help you:
Build credibility.
Happy customers become your best marketing. Their reviews prove your service works.
Boost local SEO.
Google uses reviews to decide who shows up first. More high-quality reviews improve your visibility. Learn more about how Google reviews impact SEO ranking.
Drive clicks and calls.
Strong star ratings make you stand out in Maps and search listings. That’s how new customers find you.
Protect your reputation.
Reviews give you a public channel to thank supporters – and fix problems fast.
If you ever face spam or fake posts, here’s how to remove fake Google reviews.
How to Get Google Reviews from Real Customers
Here’s how to build a steady flow of honest, positive reviews:
1. Set Up or Claim Your Google Business Profile
If you haven’t already, claim your listing at google.com/business. Fill out your business name, location, phone number, hours, and website. This listing is where your reviews will live.
2. Create Your Google Review Link
Once you’re verified, you can generate a direct link that lets customers leave a review in one click. Make this link easy to find across your website, emails, receipts, and social media.
3. Add the Link to Your Website
Place your Google review link in your website’s footer, on your contact page, or right after someone makes a purchase. Clear language helps. Use buttons that say “Leave a Review” or “Tell Us What You Think.”
4. Ask for Reviews in Your Emails
Follow up with customers a day or two after their visit or purchase. A short thank-you email with a direct link works well. Keep it simple and sincere. If you want to increase responses, consider using a tool like our free review response generator.
5. Use a QR Code for In-Person Requests
If you see customers face to face, create a QR code that links to your Google reviews. Add it to business cards, brochures, or invoices. That way, people can scan and review you on the spot.
6. Share the Link on Social Media
Post reminders from time to time. Share screenshots of recent five-star reviews and ask others to leave their thoughts. Keep the tone friendly and appreciative.
7. Ask Happy Customers in Person
If a client compliments your work, don’t let the moment pass. Politely ask if they’d be willing to leave a quick review. People are often glad to help when asked directly.
8. Use Surveys to Collect Feedback First
Send out a short survey after a sale or service. If the response is positive, follow up with a Google review request. This filters out unhappy customers and makes the ask more targeted.
9. Ask for Reviews on Social Media
Engage with your audience on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Share positive reviews and ask followers to share their experiences on your Google Reviews page.
10. Reach Out to Partners and Vendors
If you work with other businesses, ask them to leave a review from their perspective. These reviews still carry weight and can diversify your online profile.
11. Make Google Business Reviews a Habit
Consistency is critical in maintaining a healthy stream of Google Reviews. Make the process of requesting and responding to reviews a part of your regular operations. Encourage all employees to participate in the process.
Sample Email Template
To help you get started with your Google Reviews strategy, here are some sample email templates you can use for requesting reviews:
Post-Purchase Review Request
Subject: Share Your Experience with [Your Business Name]
Dear [Customer’s Name],
We hope you enjoyed your recent experience with us! We would appreciate it if you could share your thoughts on Google. Your feedback helps us improve and assist other customers in making informed decisions. Click here to leave your review: [Google Review Link].
Thank you for being a valued customer.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
What to Avoid When Asking for Reviews
A few shortcuts can hurt your reputation:
Don’t offer discounts or gifts.
It violates Google’s rules and can get reviews deleted. Learn more in can you offer a discount for a Google review?.
Don’t buy reviews.
Google detects fake accounts and can penalize your listing. See the risks of buying Google reviews.
Don’t delete honest criticism.
Respond with professionalism. This builds trust and shows accountability.
How Often Should You Ask for Reviews?
Regularly.
New reviews show you’re active and relevant.
If you stop asking, your profile will look outdated.
Keep a steady rhythm. Review requests should be a normal part of doing business.
What If You Get a Bad or Fake Review?
Stay calm.
Respond politely. Try to resolve the issue.
If it’s fake or malicious, report it to Google.
If the problem continues — or comes from a former employee — read can you sue for a bad review for your options.
Track Your Results and Learn
Watch your review growth.
Which products or services get mentioned most?
Which employees stand out?
You can even search Google reviews by name to see feedback tied to individual team members.
Understanding what customers value helps you improve and grow faster.
Final Thoughts
If you want more Google reviews, ask.
Make it easy. Make it routine. Make it part of your service culture.
Your reputation isn’t just a score.
It’s your brand story told by real people — one review at a time.
For more ways to grow, check out our guide on how to get more positive online reviews.