People Writing Google Reviews

20 Ways to Get More Google Reviews for Your Local Service Business: The Ultimate Guide

Rob CurtisSEO (Search Engine Optimization)

People Writing Google Reviews

Google reviews are a cornerstone of success for local service businesses. They establish credibility, improve local SEO rankings, and provide the social proof customers rely on when choosing services. This guide combines proven strategies and fresh insights to help local service businesses gather authentic, impactful reviews.

1. Create a Shareable Google Reviews Link

Make it easy for customers to leave a review by creating a short Google reviews link. Share this link: - In email newsletters. - On your website’s homepage and contact page. - Through text messages after a service.

Bonus Tip: Use QR codes linked to the reviews page for printed materials, like business cards or receipts.

2. Add Clear CTA's on Your Website

Include prominent call-to-action buttons or links across your site encouraging reviews, such as: - “Leave a Review.” - “Share Your Experience on Google.” Place these CTAs on key pages like the homepage, service pages, and thank-you pages.

3. Train Your Staff to Ask for Reviews

Your team is on the front lines of customer interaction. Train them to: - Politely request reviews after completing a service. - Provide customers with clear instructions and links. - Highlight the importance of reviews in improving the business.

Example Script: “We’d love to hear your feedback! If you have a moment, please leave us a review on Google. Here’s the link.”

4. Create a Referral Program That Encourages Reviews

Combine referral incentives with review requests to maximize impact. - Offer discounts, free upgrades, or gift cards to customers who refer new business and leave a review. - Promote the program via email, social media, and in-store signage to ensure awareness.

Pro Tip: Highlight top reviewers in your community to create a friendly competition.

5. Follow Up with Satisfied Customers

After confirming satisfaction, follow up with customers to request a review: - Send a thank-you email or text with the review link. - Include a gentle nudge, such as: “Your feedback means the world to us and helps other customers like you choose our services.”

6. Provide Review Prompts

Some customers struggle to start a review. Provide prompts like: - “What did you enjoy most about our service?” - “How did we help solve your problem?” - “Why would you recommend us to others?”

7. Use Social Media to Encourage Reviews

Leverage social media platforms to: - Share positive reviews and thank customers publicly. - Post reminders with a direct link to leave reviews.

8. Incorporate Reviews into Loyalty Programs

Encourage repeat customers to leave reviews as part of a loyalty program: - Offer small discounts, freebies, or entries into a giveaway for leaving honest reviews. - Emphasize the importance of feedback in improving their experience.

9. Showcase Positive Reviews

Inspire others to leave reviews by showcasing positive ones: - Create a “Wall of Love” on your website or in-store. - Highlight reviews in newsletters, social media posts, and advertisements.

10. Offer In-Store Reminders

For businesses with physical locations: - Use signs or posters near checkout areas encouraging reviews. - Add a QR code linked to your Google reviews page on receipts or thank-you cards.

11. Conduct Customer Feedback Surveys

Use surveys to gather insights, then direct satisfied customers to leave reviews: - Send follow-ups to happy customers with review links. - Route negative feedback internally to address issues privately.

12. Respond to All Reviews

Engage with both positive and negative reviews immediately: - Thank customers for positive feedback, reinforcing goodwill. - Address negative reviews professionally and offer solutions.

Pro Tip: A thoughtful response to a negative review can turn a dissatisfied customer into a loyal one.

13. Ask Vendors and Partners for Reviews

Request reviews from vendors, suppliers, and partners: - Encourage them to share their experiences working with your business. - Highlight the mutual benefits of supporting local businesses.

14. Highlight the Value of Reviews

Educate customers on how reviews help: - Improve your services. - Support local businesses. - Provide transparency for new customers.

15. Create a Dedicated Review Campaign

Run a short-term campaign focused on collecting reviews: - Offer incentives like discounts or freebies for honest feedback. - Use email marketing and social media to promote the campaign.

16. Make the Review Process Mobile-Friendly

Most customers will leave reviews from their phones. Ensure: - Links are mobile-optimized. - Instructions for leaving reviews via Google Maps or the app are clear.

17. Celebrate Milestones

Share gratitude when reaching review milestones: - Post a thank-you message for hitting 100 reviews. - Use milestones as opportunities to remind others to leave their feedback.

18. Keep Your Google Business Profile Updated

Maintain an active and accurate Google Business Profile: - Add updated photos, hours, and posts regularly. - Consistent activity encourages more visibility and interactions.

19. Utilize Video Testimonials

Expand beyond text reviews by: - Asking satisfied customers for short video testimonials. - Sharing these videos on your website and social media.

20. Provide Excellent Customer Service

Exceptional service is the foundation of good reviews. Train your team to: - Handle complaints professionally. - Anticipate customer needs. - Always exceed expectations.

Bonus Tip: Host a Customer Appreciation Event

Engage your customers in person by hosting an event to thank them for their loyalty. - Provide fun activities, refreshments, and giveaways. - Use this opportunity to encourage attendees to leave reviews, providing on-the-spot assistance if needed.

Example: Set up a review station where customers can leave feedback on their phones during the event.

Conclusion

Getting Google reviews is a combination of great service, consistent engagement, and smart tools. By implementing these strategies, local service businesses like yours can build trust, improve visibility, and attract more customers. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your reviews grow!