This post was originally published on 2/15/24 and has been updated on 1/24/25 for accuracy, relevancy, and fresh visuals.
Google reviews. They’re total street cred and way easier to get than you think.
Does asking your customers for reviews make you feel awkward? Or maybe you’re not even sure how to start? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Whether you’re already crushing it with reviews or just trying to work up the nerve to ask, this post is packed with practical ways to make it happen.
Here’s why it matters: Google reviews are a key factor in Google’s algorithm for ranking your business in Search and Maps. Reviews demonstrate that your business is credible, relevant, and trusted by real people—what we call “social proof.”
To get started, you’ll need a Google Business Profile. It’s free and essential for showing up in local search results. Reviews left by your customers will appear on your profile in Google Search and Maps, where they’ll catch the eyes of potential customers.
Why Google Reviews Are a Game-Changer for Your Business
Not only do reviews help you rank better on Google, but they also help:
Build trust with potential customers.
Show off what makes your business great.
Convert curious visitors into paying customers.
Businesses with more Google reviews and a higher average rating are much more likely to rank higher in local search results. It’s a simple (and free!) way to improve your online presence.
So, let’s break down exactly how to ask for reviews, no matter what you sell.
How to Ask for Reviews When You Sell Services
For service-based businesses, the process is all about personal connections. Here’s how we do it at La Mejor Website.
Before we finish a project, we let our clients know we care about their experience by saying something like: "We want you to be completely happy with our service. If there’s anything we can improve, let us know!"
Once the project wraps up, we follow up with this script: "Barbara, thank you for your business. It was a pleasure working with you! Would you mind if I sent you a link to leave a Google review? If you feel my service was anything less than 5 stars, please let me know what I can do to make it right."
After the conversation, we send the review link via text or email. Make it easy and personal:
Use their name in your message.
Mention something specific about their project or experience.
Thank them for their business. For example: "Hi Barbara, thank you again for trusting us with your project! It would mean a lot if you could share your feedback here: [Insert Review Link]. We’re so grateful for your support!"
If you don’t hear back, a gentle follow-up after a few days is okay, but don’t overdo it—anything beyond that can feel spammy.
How to Ask for Reviews When You Sell Products
For product-based businesses, you might not have the chance to speak directly with every customer, but you can still create opportunities to ask for reviews.
Here’s a great example: Include a thank-you card in your product packaging with a QR code that links directly to your review page.
Note - I’m not affiliated with them in any way other than as a happy recent customer and felt it was a great example.
What to include on the card:
A brief thank-you message.
A simple invitation to leave a review.
A custom QR code that makes it easy for customers to find your review page.
Example of Text on the Card: "Thank you for your order! We’d love to hear how we did. Scan this QR code to leave us a quick review—it only takes a minute!"
QR codes can also go on menus, posters, brochures, business cards, or anywhere else customers will see them. With QR code use skyrocketing since the pandemic, it’s a super-easy way to get reviews.
Selling on Etsy, Amazon, or eBay? Get Google Reviews, Too!
If you sell through platforms like Etsy or Amazon, you might assume their built-in review systems are all you need—but putting all your eggs in one basket is risky. Here's why:
If your visibility drops on Etsy or Amazon (it happens!), your sales can take a major hit.
A Google Business Profile helps you capture traffic outside those platforms, driving potential customers to your own website. We recommend pairing Google reviews with product reviews from your e-commerce platform. This way, you boost your overall online reputation while maximizing exposure in Google Search.
Make It Easy for Customers to Find Your Review Link
You can use your review link in a variety of places to encourage feedback. At a minimum, make sure it’s on your website, invoices, thank-you emails, and other customer touchpoints.
For example:
Add the link to your website footer.
Include it in follow-up emails after a purchase or service.
Add it to the signature of your email communications or live chat.
How to Find Your Review Link in Your Google Business Profile
Log into your Google Business Profile at www.google.com/business.
Click the “Reviews” section.
Select “Share Review Form.”
Copy your unique review link and save it for easy access.
Responding to Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Reviews are a two-way street—you should interact with all of them, whether they’re glowing, critical, or unrelated to your business.
Positive Reviews:
Always thank your customers for their kind words. A simple response shows your appreciation and keeps the conversation alive.
Negative Reviews:
Don’t panic. Respond professionally, apologize if needed, and offer a solution. Future customers will see how you handle feedback, which can build trust. In fact, some of our clients have said they chose us after reading how we responded to criticism!
Fake or Irrelevant Reviews:
If you suspect a review isn’t from a real customer, respond with something like, “We couldn’t find your record in our system. Please contact us to resolve any concerns.” If you’re dealing with spammy or malicious reviews, report them to Google (or contact us if you need help).
Start Building Your Online Reputation Today
Google reviews are a simple, powerful way to build trust, boost your ranking, and improve your sales. Whether you’re asking face-to-face, through email, or via a QR code, the key is to make it easy, personal, and professional.
And if you’re ready to level up your website, SEO, or e-commerce strategy, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s grow your business together!
We will make an honest recommendation based on 15 years of experience. Need more social proof? Check out one of our 160+ Five-Star Google reviews.
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