How to get Google reviews: A step-by-step guide

Online reviews have become essential for consumers when making decisions. Google reviews, in particular, hold immense value for businesses. They help in building trust, boosting online reputation, and increasing visibility.

This guide will discuss the importance of reviews for businesses and provide practical strategies of how to get more reviews on Google. Additionally, we will explore how these reviews impact your business and offer tips for their effective management.

Where do Google reviews appear?

Before we delve into the strategies to get more Google reviews, it's crucial to understand where these reviews appear and why they matter. Google reviews are prominently displayed in several key locations:

• Google search results: When potential customers search for your business or related keywords on Google, your Google reviews will often appear alongside your business listing. These reviews are among the first things people see, influencing their initial perception of your business.
• Google Maps: Reviews are integral to Google Maps listings. Customers can easily access and read reviews when searching for businesses in their area. Positive reviews can lead to increased foot traffic for physical locations.
• Google Business Profile: Your Google reviews are prominently showcased on your Google Business Profile (previously Google My Business), which is essentially your business's online identity on Google. This profile includes essential information like your address, contact details, hours of operation, and, of course, customer reviews.

How to see your Google Reviews

To view your Google Reviews, follow these simple steps:

• Begin by logging into your Google My Business account.
• Once logged in, click on the "Reviews" tab in the left-hand menu. Here, you'll find a comprehensive list of all the reviews your business has received.
• You can read, respond to, and analyze these reviews to gain valuable insights into your customers' experiences and improve your online presence.
  

For a streamlined approach to Google review management from a single dashboard, turn to Mirador, an all-in-one Google Business Profile management tool. With Mirador, you can conveniently access and oversee your reviews in one place, saving time and ensuring effective responses.

Understanding the impact of Google reviews on your business

Understanding where Google Reviews are displayed highlights their potential reach and impact on your business. Now, let's explore why they are so vital.

Has the potential to increase leads

Positive Google reviews serve as powerful endorsements that can attract new customers. When prospective clients see glowing reviews from satisfied customers, they are more likely to contact your business or visit your website. Positive reviews act as a persuasive force that can turn curious browsers into potential leads.

Establishes trust

Trust is the foundation of any successful business. Google reviews provide social proof, showcasing the experiences of previous customers. When potential customers see that others have positively interacted with your business, they are more likely to trust your products or services. Trust leads to conversions and long-term customer relationships.

Can result in more purchases

Studies have shown that 93% of customers will read online reviews before making a purchase. These reviews can reinforce your brand's credibility and convince hesitant buyers to take action. Each positive review can potentially translate into increased sales and revenue for your business.

Supports your local SEO

Google reviews are pivotal in local search engine optimization (SEO). Google uses review signals to determine the relevance and credibility of your business. The more positive reviews you have, the higher your business is likely to rank in local search results. This increased visibility can significantly boost your online presence.

It's essentially free advertising

While some advertising methods require a significant budget, Google Reviews are a form of free advertising. Happy customers share their experiences with your business, effectively promoting it to a wider audience. Leveraging this free advertising can lead to substantial growth for your business.

How to get reviews on Google

Now that you understand the significance of Google Reviews, let's dive into actionable strategies on how to get customers to leave reviews.

Make sure you've set up and optimized your Google Business Profile

Before you start seeking reviews, ensure that your Google Business Profile is complete and up to date. This includes accurate business information, high-quality images, and relevant categories. An optimized profile makes your business more appealing and improves its chances of appearing in local search results.

Have a strong customer experience in place

The foundation of positive reviews is a great customer experience. Ensure that your products or services meet or exceed customer expectations. Train your staff to provide excellent service, address customer concerns promptly, and resolve issues effectively. A satisfied customer is more likely to leave a positive review.

Encourage customers to leave reviews

Don't be shy about asking satisfied customers to leave a review. After a successful transaction or interaction, politely request that they share their thoughts on Google. Make the process as simple as possible by providing clear instructions on how to leave a review.

Have an accessible review link

Share a direct link to your Google review page with customers. This makes it easy for them to leave a review without navigating through multiple steps. Google provides a "short name" feature that allows you to create a customized, easy-to-remember link for your review page.

Follow up with customers

Follow up with customers after a purchase or service to ensure their satisfaction. A quick email or message thanking them for their business and kindly asking for a review can be effective. Be sure to include a direct link to your review page for their convenience.

Push for reviews through your marketing

Incorporate calls to action (CTAs) in your marketing materials, both online and offline. Encourage customers to share their experiences by leaving a review. Highlight the benefits of their feedback, such as helping others make informed decisions.

Consider review cards

If your business has a physical location, consider using review cards. These are small, printed cards you can hand out to customers after a transaction, reminding them to leave a review. Include the review link and a brief message expressing your gratitude.

Have strong CTAs

When you request reviews, use clear and compelling calls to action. Instead of a generic "Leave a Review," try more persuasive options like "Share Your Experience" or "Help Others Discover Us."

Use QR codes

Create QR codes that link directly to your Google review page. Place these codes on physical marketing materials, such as flyers, menus, or business cards. Customers can scan the code with their smartphones and leave a review instantly.

Offer incentives

While Google discourages offering incentives for reviews, you can still incentivize feedback. Consider running contests or giveaways where customers have a chance to win a prize by leaving a review.

Think about your timing

Timing is crucial when asking for reviews. Request feedback when customers are likely to be most satisfied, such as immediately after a successful purchase, service, or positive interaction. Capitalize on the moment when their experience is fresh in their minds.

Reply to all reviews — even the bad ones!

Responding to positive and negative reviews demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction. Address negative reviews professionally and offer solutions when appropriate. This not only helps resolve issues but also showcases your dedication to improvement.

What to do after you've got Google reviews

Now that you've implemented these strategies and successfully know how to increase reviews on Google, let's explore what to do next.

Post them on social media

Leverage your positive reviews by sharing them on your social media platforms. Highlighting the experiences of satisfied customers can boost your credibility and attract new followers and customers.

Have them on your website

Integrate Google reviews into your website, either through widgets or dedicated testimonial pages. This showcases your positive feedback and keeps visitors on your site longer, potentially leading to more conversions.

Use them as training materials

Both positive and negative reviews can be valuable training materials. Analyze feedback to identify areas for improvement and implement changes accordingly.

Use negative reviews as an opportunity to train your staff, refine your processes, and enhance the overall customer experience. When you demonstrate that you are actively addressing issues, it can lead to increased customer satisfaction over time.

Keep asking!

Don't stop requesting reviews once you've collected a few. Continue to incorporate review requests into your customer interactions and marketing efforts. Consistency is key to building a substantial base of Google reviews over time.

Examples of asking for someone to leave a review

Now, let's explore some examples of how to ask customers to leave a review.

Email example

Subject: We'd Love to Hear Your Thoughts!

Hi [Customer's Name],

We hope you're enjoying your [product/service] from [Your Business Name]. We'd greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to share your experience with us on Google. Your feedback helps others make informed decisions.

[Leave a Review Button]

Thank you for choosing [Your Business Name]!

In-person request

After a successful transaction or positive interaction, say:

"We value your opinion! If you had a great experience with us, we'd be honored if you could leave a review on Google. It only takes a minute, and it really helps us."

Social media post

Create a post on your social media platforms:

"Have you had a fantastic experience with [Your Business Name]? We'd love to hear about it! Leave us a Google review and help others discover the great service we offer."

Hand a review card to customers along with their receipt

Give customers a physical review card with their receipts. It could say something like:

"Your feedback is important to us. Please consider leaving a review on Google. It only takes a moment, and it helps us improve our services."

How to write a Google review for a company

Now, let's discuss how customers can leave a Google review for a business.

Google search

• Open Google in your web browser.
• Search for the business you want to review.
• Click on the business's listing on the right-hand side of the search results.
• Scroll down to the "Reviews" section.
• Click on "Write a review."
• Rate the business by selecting stars (1 to 5), with 5 being the highest rating.
• Write your review in the text box.
• Click "Post" to publish your review.
  

Google Maps (Mobile)

• Open the Google Maps app on your mobile device.
• Search for the business.
• Scroll down to the "Rate and review" section.
• Tap on the stars to rate the business.
• Write your review in the text box.
• Tap "Post" to submit your review.

Direct review link

If the business provides you with a direct link to their review page, simply click on the link, rate the business, write your review, and click "Post."

How to manage Google reviews effectively

Now that you know how to get Google Reviews for your business and how customers can leave them, let's explore how to manage these reviews effectively.

Managing your Google Reviews is crucial for maintaining a positive online reputation and addressing customer feedback. Here are some key steps to effective review management:

Monitor reviews regularly

Make it a habit to check your Google My Business profile for new reviews regularly. Respond promptly to both positive and negative reviews.

Respond professionally

When replying to reviews, maintain a professional and courteous tone. Thank customers for their feedback, whether it's positive or negative.

Address negative feedback

If you receive a negative review, take the opportunity to address the customer's concerns. Offer solutions or explanations, and demonstrate your commitment to improving the customer experience.

Flag inappropriate content

If you come across reviews that violate Google's content policies (e.g., spam or inappropriate content), flag them for removal.

Engage with positive reviews

Responding to positive reviews by thanking customers for their feedback can enhance customer loyalty and encourage repeat business.

Stay consistent

Consistency in your review management efforts is key. Ensure that all reviews, both positive and negative, receive a timely response.

Use third-party tools

When you find yourself struggling to manage an overwhelming number of reviews, it's a wise choice to explore the possibilities offered by third-party tools like Mirador—an all-in-one Google Business Profile management tool.

With Mirador, you gain the advantage of streamlining your review management process, allowing you to effortlessly handle all your reviews from a single, user-friendly dashboard. You can book a demo here.

Remember, consistently providing exceptional customer experiences and actively seeking feedback are essential building blocks for success. These actions not only strengthen your business's reputation but also create a path for long-term growth.

‍