If you’ve ever heard, “I wish I had found you sooner!”—you know how frustrating it can be to have the perfect service but not enough visibility.
Google reviews help bridge that gap, boosting your Local SEO ranking so your ideal clients can find you in search results—before they even walk through your door. More high-quality reviews signal to Google that your business is trusted and relevant, making it easier to appear in the Local Pack (the top three Google Map listings).
Wondering how to get Google reviews for your business? Keep reading for simple, ethical strategies to encourage glowing, authentic reviews that boost your credibility, increase your visibility, and attract more of the right people to your business.
Four Steps to Help You Get Google Reviews
Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
If you haven’t already, the first step is to claim your Google Business Profile. This ensures that you control the information displayed when someone searches for your business on Google Maps or Google Search.
Think of your Google Business Profile as your Local SEO foundation. It tells Google where you’re located and what you offer. Claiming and optimizing your profile doesn’t just allow clients to leave reviews—it also helps your business rank higher in local search results, particularly in the Google Local Pack (the top three listings in Google Maps that get the most clicks).
Not sure if you qualify for Google reviews? If your business has a physical location or serves customers in person, you’re eligible. Online-only businesses? You might need to rely on third-party review platforms like Trustpilot or Facebook instead.
Once you’ve claimed your profile, take the time to fill out as much information as possible.
- Fill out every detail—hours, services, contact info, and a warm, inviting business description.
- Upload photos that capture your space, work, or happy customers.
- Use keywords naturally in your description (like “Reiki healing in Austin” or “organic bakery in Denver”).
????️ Pro Tip: The more complete and engaging your profile is—and the more positive reviews you get—the better your business ranks in local searches.
Step 2: Ask for Reviews the Right Way
A great way to get more—and better—reviews is simply to follow up with customers after they’ve made a purchase and ask them about their experience.
Let’s be real—most clients won’t think to leave a review unless you make it easy for them.
How to Ask Naturally:
- Send a follow-up email or text after a session, thanking them and including a direct link to leave a review.
- Mention it in person! If someone raves about their experience, say: “That means so much! If you’d be willing to share that in a Google review, it would really help others find us, too.”
- Include a QR code on business cards, receipts, or at your checkout counter—so they can scan and review in seconds.
???? What NOT to Do:
- Don’t bribe people for reviews—Google will penalize you.
- Don’t ask for only positive reviews—you want honesty, not perfection!
Step 3: Make Leaving a Review Effortless
Even your happiest clients won’t leave a review if it feels like a chore. The key? Remove friction. The easier it is, the more likely they are to follow through.
Ways to Make It Simple:
- Send a direct link to your review page in emails, texts, or thank-you messages.
- Add a “Leave a Review” button on your website, appointment confirmations, and receipts.
- Use a QR code at checkout, on business cards, or even on signage—so clients can scan and review in seconds.
- Mention it naturally: “Your feedback helps others find us! If you have a moment, we’d love a quick Google review.”
????️ Pro Tip: The easier you make the review process, the more likely clients are to leave one—and a steady flow of fresh reviews also helps boost your Local SEO presence. Google prioritizes businesses with a steady stream of fresh, high-quality reviews. Making review requests part of your regular client interactions ensures you stay visible in local search results.
Step 4: Respond Quickly to All Reviews—Both Good and Bad
When customers leave a review—good or bad—it’s essential to respond quickly and courteously. Thanking customers for positive feedback lets them know you appreciate their business and encourages them to continue supporting you.
For negative reviews, responding professionally is just as important. Apologize if necessary, offer to resolve the issue offline if possible, and demonstrate that you care about customer satisfaction. These reviews provide valuable feedback, and handling them well can turn a negative experience into a positive one.
????️ Pro Tip: Thoughtful responses show future customers that you truly care. Even a simple “thank you” can turn a happy reviewer into a lifelong fan!
How to Respond to Google Reviews
Responding to Google reviews is more than just a courtesy—it’s a key part of managing your online reputation. Thoughtful, authentic responses show potential customers that you care about their experiences and value their feedback.
Thoughtful responses don’t just strengthen customer relationships—they also signal to Google that your business is active and engaged, which can boost your Local SEO ranking. Google rewards businesses that actively engage with customer feedback, making it more likely your business will appear in local search results and Google Maps.
????️ Pro Tip: When appropriate, mention your location or services in your responses to reinforce local relevance (e.g., “Thanks for visiting our Reiki studio in Asheville! We’re so happy you had a great experience.”).
How to Respond to Positive Reviews
When responding to positive reviews, take the time to craft a genuine and thoughtful response. A simple ‘Thank you’ is good, but referencing specific details from the review makes it even more meaningful. Personalized responses show customers that you appreciate their feedback and value their business.
For example:
“Thank you, [Customer’s Name]! We’re thrilled to hear that you loved your experience with us. Your kind words mean the world, and we hope to see you again soon!”
“We’re so glad you enjoyed [specific product/service]. Your feedback helps us continue to provide the best experience possible, and we appreciate your support!”
Engaging in authentic responses fosters stronger connections and encourages repeat business.
How to Handle Negative Reviews Professionally
Negative reviews happen, but they don’t have to damage your business. Responding with professionalism, empathy, and a willingness to resolve issues can turn a bad experience into a positive one.
Key steps:
- Stay Calm and Professional – Never respond emotionally or defensively.
- Acknowledge Their Experience – Show empathy and understanding.
- Offer a Resolution – If possible, invite them to continue the conversation offline to resolve their concerns.
- Encourage a Follow-Up – If you resolve the issue, politely ask if they would consider updating their review.
Example response:
“Hi [Customer’s Name], we’re sorry to hear that your experience didn’t meet expectations. We’d love the chance to make things right. Please reach out to us at [contact info] so we can discuss how to resolve this for you.”
Addressing Fake or Malicious Reviews
If you receive a fake or malicious review, flag it for Google to review. While not all flagged reviews will be removed, documenting the issue and reporting it increases the chances of action being taken. In cases where removal isn’t possible, a professional response that clarifies misinformation can help mitigate any damage.
How to Remove Google Reviews
Not all reviews can be removed, but there are steps you can take if you believe a review violates Google’s policies.
Reporting Fake or Spam Reviews
Google allows businesses to report reviews that contain inappropriate content, spam, or fake information. Navigate to the review, click the three-dot menu, and select “Flag as inappropriate.”
If Google doesn’t remove the review after it has been flagged, your next best option is to respond professionally. Address any false claims, provide clarification, and showcase your commitment to customer satisfaction.
Can You Get Google Reviews Without a Business Location?
Don’t have a brick-and-mortar location? You can still build trust with client reviews!
For e-commerce businesses, Google Customer Reviews allows verified buyers to leave feedback on their experience. This feature is linked to Google Merchant Center and is a great option for online stores.
If GBP is not an option, encourage customers to leave reviews on other platforms like Facebook, Yelp, Trustpilot, or industry-specific sites. You should also feature customer testimonials on your website.
Is It Legal to Offer Incentives for Google Reviews?
Google strictly prohibits offering incentives in exchange for reviews.
Offering discounts, gifts, or monetary compensation for reviews can lead to penalties, including profile suspension and removal of all reviews. Google’s policies are designed to maintain the authenticity and trustworthiness of online reviews.
Ethical Ways to Encourage Reviews
Instead of offering incentives, focus on delivering an exceptional customer experience. A satisfied customer is naturally more likely to leave a review without needing an extra push.
Where Else to Collect SEO-Boosting Reviews
Google might be the go-to, but it’s not the only platform that impacts your credibility in search. Local SEO reviews can come from:
- Facebook (especially for service-based businesses)
- Trustpilot (great for online-based or ecommerce services)
- Yelp (essential for food, wellness, and location-based services)
- Better Business Bureau (for added legitimacy in competitive industries)
- Niche platforms like Healthgrades (for wellness), Houzz (for home services), or TripAdvisor (for travel and experiences)
The more consistent your local SEO reviews across platforms, the stronger your visibility becomes in local search results. These SEO reviews help Google understand your authority and relevance—and help clients feel confident before they even click through to your site.
Final Thoughts on How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Business
- Make leaving a review easy – Use direct links in emails, receipts, and social media.
- Respond to every review – Show appreciation and engagement.
- Avoid review gating – Never filter or request only positive feedback.
- Encourage recent reviews – Fresh reviews help build ongoing credibility.
Google reviews are one of the most powerful tools for boosting visibility—and they’re just one piece of your broader local SEO strategy. By following ethical, strategic methods, you can improve your local search rankings, attract more of the right clients in your area, and build lasting trust—all while staying aligned with Google’s guidelines and your own values.
Want even more visibility support? Explore our SEO and Digital Marketing Services to build a strategy that attracts your dream clients—ethically, intentionally, and in full alignment.
From coastal towns like Wilmington, NC to creative hubs like Boulder and Asheville, we support small businesses who want to grow their visibility—ethically, sustainably, and soulfully. Let’s build a local SEO strategy that feels as good as it performs.
