07th May 2024
Written by Qdos Contractor
How do Google reviews work?
Google Customer Reviews is a free service which lets you collect feedback from clients or customers, who are asked to rate your service out of five stars and given the option to leave additional feedback. Google then aggregates these scores into an average star rating which prospective customers will see when viewing your business in local search results.
Why are Google reviews important?
As a consumer, you probably already understand how important reviews can be. We all want unbiased feedback from others who have interacted with a business first-hand. In the marketing world, this is sometimes called ‘social proof’. It’s an extra push for a customer or client to trust a business and spend money with them.
There’s another benefit to getting positive Google reviews, too. Positive reviews are a ranking factor in Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). That means when an internet user searches for a business like yours, you’re more likely to appear towards the top of the page if you have good ratings. That means more eyes on your business, more clicks, and ultimately, more customers!
Did you know? 93% of consumers read reviews online before buying a product
Easy ways to get more Google Reviews as a small business owner
Tip 1: Use posters, cards and stickers
This is a great tip for getting Google reviews if you have a physical location.
Have some cards printed containing a QR code that customers can scan that will take them straight to your review link. You can keep a stack on the counter and hand them to customers directly, or add one to their bag when they make a purchase.
Alternatively, use stickers and posters you can place around your physical location, strategically positioned near the entrance, on tables, or even in toilets where customers are likely to see them.
Tip 2: Use email or text
Timing is key when asking for reviews. If you’re a freelancer or contractor, email your clients to ask for a review during or after a successful project. For physical product sellers, reach out after delivery. Micro-business owners might choose to send a text.
Whichever option suits you, send a warm, customised message thanking them for their custom, along with a direct link to your Business Profile. Express the value of their feedback and make leaving a review effortless by providing a direct link or clear instructions.
How to get your Google review link
Step one: Log into your Google Business Profile
Step two: Click the link which states how many reviews you have
Step three: Select the ‘get more reviews’ button
Step four: Save and share with your customers!
Tip 3: Respond to and share existing reviews
Apart from being just good manners,
research from brightlocal shows that 88% of consumers would use a business that replies to all of its reviews, compared to just 47% who would use a business that doesn’t respond to reviews at all.
Similarly, when you share positive reviews on social media, you’re demonstrating how important your customers are to you and your business. Plus, it can help others remember the great service they received from you, prompting them to leave reviews of their own.
Did you know? 77% of customers will leave a review for a business if asked
Tip 4: Create a Google Reviews page on your website
This is a page that should both proudly display your existing Google reviews, and include a CTA (call-to-action) for customers to leave new ones. This has the twin benefits of encouraging prospects to become customers, and also inspires others who’d like to leave a review but aren’t sure exactly what to say.
If you have an e-commerce website, you can also implement the option of prompting customers to leave reviews during the checkout process.
If this sounds daunting, rest assured it isn’t as complex as it sounds – there are plugins you can install in a few clicks which collect and display reviews automatically.
Tip 5: Ask in person
Sometimes, the best way to get a review is by simply asking face-to-face.
When a customer is in your place of business or after you've provided a service, ask if they would be willing to share their thoughts online. If you’re a freelancer, ask on a client call. People often appreciate the personal touch, and by asking in person, you can show that you genuinely value their opinion.
Sometimes the biggest thing holding people back is that they don’t know what to say. Consider preparing a few key points or questions that they can respond to, such as asking about their overall experience, the quality of the product or service, or any standout features they appreciated.
More quick tips to get Google Reviews
Ask regularly: It’s not enough to just get a handful of good reviews, because Google also places emphasis on the frequency and quantity of reviews in their search algorithm. Make sure you’re focusing on consistency, too.
Utilise email signatures: Add a direct link to your Google review page in your email signature. This way, every email you send becomes an opportunity to encourage feedback from your customers.
Offer exceptional service: Providing a great experience for your clients or customers is the best way to naturally generate positive reviews.
Follow up: If you’re a freelancer or contractor and a client promised to leave a review but it slipped their mind, follow up with a gentle reminder.
Remind your team: If you work in a sector where your team members are heavily customer or client-facing, training them to request reviews as standard can work wonders.
