Getting Reviews

Getting reviews requires a systematic approach. The key is making it easy and asking at the right time.

Google's Review Policies

What's Allowed

• Asking customers for reviews
• Making it easy to leave reviews
• Reminding customers to review
• Providing a direct link to your review page

What's Not Allowed

• Offering incentives for reviews
• Paying for reviews
• Review gating (only sending happy customers to Google)
• Fake reviews from employees or friends
• Buying reviews from services

Violations can result in review removal or profile suspension.

Your Google Review Link

Finding Your Link

1. Search for your business on Google
2. Click "Write a review" and copy the URL
3. Or generate from GBP dashboard

Short Link Format

Create a memorable short link:

• Use URL shortener (bit.ly, etc.)
• Or custom domain redirect (yourbusiness.com/review)

QR Code

Generate QR code from your review link for:

• Business cards
• Receipts
• In-store signage
• Email signatures

When to Ask for Reviews

Optimal Timing

Ask when the customer is happiest:

• After successful service completion
• When they express satisfaction
• At the point of delivery
• Following a compliment

Too Early

Don't ask:

• Before service is complete
• During a complaint
• When outcome is uncertain

Follow-Up Window

If not asking in person:

• Within 24 hours of service
• Within 1 week maximum
• Longer delays = lower response rate

How to Ask

In-Person (Best)

After a positive interaction:

"I'm so glad we could help! If you have a moment, we'd really appreciate a Google review. It helps other people find us."

Email

Subject: How did we do?

Hi [Name],

Thanks for choosing [Business]. We hope you're happy with [service].

If you have 2 minutes, we'd love your feedback on Google. Your review helps us improve and helps others find trustworthy service.

[Leave a Review Button]

Thank you!

Text/SMS

Hi [Name], thanks for visiting [Business] today! If you have a moment, we'd appreciate a quick Google review: [link]

In-Store Signage

Simple sign near register or exit:

Enjoyed your experience? Leave us a Google review! [QR Code]

Building a Review System

Step 1: Identify Happy Customers

• After positive service outcomes
• When they verbally express satisfaction
• Following repeat purchases

Step 2: Make It Easy

• Provide direct link (no searching required)
• QR codes for instant access
• Email with one-click link

Step 3: Ask Consistently

• Train all employees to ask
• Include in standard follow-up process
• Automate where possible

Step 4: Follow Up

• Reminder email 2-3 days later if no review
• Don't over-ask (2 attempts max)

Review Velocity

Steady Flow vs Bursts

• Google prefers consistent review flow
• Sudden spikes may trigger spam detection
• Aim for 5-10% of customers leaving reviews

Avoiding Red Flags

• Don't ask all customers on one day
• Spread requests over time
• Natural variation looks authentic

Employee Training

Train your team:

• When to ask (happy customer moments)
• How to ask (comfortable, not pushy)
• What to say (simple, appreciative)
• Not to offer incentives

Automating Review Requests

Email Automation

Send automatic review requests:

• After appointment completion
• After purchase
• After service delivery

SMS Automation

Higher open rates than email:

• Keep it brief
• Include direct link
• Send at appropriate time

CRM Integration

Track:

• Who's been asked
• Who's left reviews
• Response rates

Tracking Results

Metrics to Watch

• Review request sent count
• Conversion rate (requests → reviews)
• Average rating of new reviews
• Review velocity over time

Improving Conversion

If low response rate:

• Try different ask methods
• Adjust timing
• Simplify the process
• A/B test messaging

Key Takeaways

1. Ask at the moment of happiness
2. Make it extremely easy (one click)
3. Be consistent but don't spam
4. Never offer incentives
5. Train your entire team to ask