Google reviews are one of the most powerful things a local business can have. They help you show up higher in local search, they make your ads more effective, and they’re often the reason someone picks you over a competitor.
The problem? Most happy customers never think to leave one unless you ask. And asking can feel a bit awkward. Here’s how to make it easy.
Ask at the right moment
The best time to ask is when the customer is happiest: just after you’ve finished the job, they’ve seen the result and they’ve said something nice.
“Really glad you’re happy with it. Would you mind leaving us a quick Google review? It really helps a small business like ours.”
That’s it. Most people are happy to help, especially if you’ve done a good job.
Make it as easy as possible
Every extra step loses people. Instead of saying “find us on Google and leave a review”, send them a direct link that opens the review box straight away.
You can get this link from your Google Business Profile, usually under “Ask for reviews”. Save it on your phone so you can send it in seconds.
Ways to ask
- In person at the end of the job, followed by a text with the link
- A text message the same day, while it’s fresh in their mind
- On your invoice or receipt, with the link or a QR code
- A short follow-up email a few days later if they haven’t left one yet
Reply to every review
Replying shows future customers that you care, and Google likes to see active profiles.
- Thank people for good reviews, and mention the job if you can.
- Reply calmly to bad reviews. Apologise for their experience, explain briefly if needed, and offer to sort it out. Never argue.
A polite reply to a bad review can actually make people trust you more.
What not to do
Google has clear rules about reviews, and breaking them can get reviews removed or your profile penalised. Don’t:
- Offer discounts, gifts or anything else in return for reviews
- Only ask customers you think will leave a good review
- Write reviews yourself or ask friends and family to pretend to be customers
- Buy reviews
Just ask every customer, and let the good work speak for itself.
Make it a habit
The businesses with the most reviews aren’t always the biggest. They’re the ones who ask every single time. Build it into the end of every job, and the reviews will add up quickly.
More reviews make your Google listing and your ads work harder. If you’d like help with the ads side, get in touch.