How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Local Business
Google reviews are the most important factor in whether a potential customer calls you or your competitor. Businesses with more reviews rank higher in local search, get more clicks, and close more deals. Here is how to get more of them.
Why Reviews Matter More Than You Think
93% of consumers say online reviews influence their purchasing decisions. For local service businesses -- plumbers, HVAC companies, dentists, auto repair shops -- reviews are often the deciding factor between you and the next business on the list.
A business with 50 reviews and a 4.8-star average will get significantly more calls than a business with 3 reviews and a 5.0 average. Volume matters almost as much as quality.
The Best Time to Ask
Timing is everything. Ask when the customer is at peak satisfaction:
- Right after completing a job and they express happiness with the result
- When they compliment your work in person or on the phone
- When they refer someone to you (they are clearly a fan)
- After resolving a problem quickly (relief creates gratitude)
The Script That Works
Keep it simple and personal. Here is what to say in person or on the phone:
"We really appreciate your business. If you had a good experience, it would mean a lot to us if you could leave us a quick Google review. It only takes about 30 seconds and it helps other homeowners find us."
Then immediately follow up with a text containing your direct Google review link.
The Text Message Follow-Up
Within 1 hour of completing the job, send this text:
"Thanks for choosing [Business Name]! If you had a good experience, would you mind leaving us a quick Google review? It really helps other people find us. Here is the link: [your review link]"
If They Do Not Leave a Review
Send one follow-up email the next day:
"Hi [Name], thanks again for letting us take care of [service]. If you get a chance, we would really appreciate a quick Google review. Here is the link: [your review link]. Thanks!"
Do not send more than one follow-up. Two asks is enough. After that, move on to the next customer.
How to Respond to Every Review
Positive reviews: Keep it short, personal, and grateful. Mention something specific about their job if possible. Do not copy-paste the same response for every review.
Negative reviews: Stay calm. Acknowledge their frustration. Take it offline: "Please reach out to us at [email] so we can make this right." Be brief. Never argue publicly.
Your 7-Day Review Boost Plan
- Day 1: Set up your direct Google review link and text 5 recent happy customers
- Day 2: Email 10 past customers from the last 3 months
- Day 3: Post on Facebook asking customers to share their experience
- Day 4: Respond to all existing reviews you have not responded to
- Day 5: Add your Google rating to your website
- Day 6: Share your best review as a Facebook post
- Day 7: Check your count -- you should have 5-15 new reviews
Want the Full Google Reviews System?
Our Google Reviews Playbook includes automated request templates, response scripts, and a complete review marketing strategy.
Get the Reviews Playbook