Ever had a customer love your service… and just leave without saying a word online?
Yeah. We’ve all been there. You delivered the product on time. Maybe even added a little something extra. They smiled, said “Thank you,”. No feedback. No stars. Nothing.
And you wonder — do people even know how important posting reviews on Google is?
In 2025, Google My Business reviews are practically the currency of online trust. Whether you’re running a tiny coffee shop or a digital marketing agency, what your customers say online can either get you new leads… or send them straight to your competitor. And trust me, that second option doesn’t feel good.
Reviews don’t just make your listing look “busy” — they help you rank higher, show up in the Local Pack, and gain trust way before someone even calls you. It’s wild to fathom, but a handful of 5-star reviews can sometimes do more than an entire month of paid ads. This emphasizes the growing need to get this right.
So if you’ve been wondering how to increase Google reviews or struggling to even get a few honest stars, don’t sweat it. You're not alone. And the good news? There’s a gamut of creative (and ethical) ways to increase Google reviews without begging, bribing, or risking penalties.
Let’s break it all down. Even if tech isn't your thing. Ready?
Why Google Reviews Matter More Than Ever
People trust people. Not ads. Not flyers. Definitely not pop-ups. Just real folks sharing real experiences. According to a 2024 BrightLocal survey, over 87% of consumers read online reviews before choosing a local business. That’s no joke. And this emphasizes the growing need for every business — big or small — to start taking Google reviews seriously.
So why the fuss about Google My Business reviews, specifically?
Well, Google basically runs the internet. When someone searches for “best hair salon near me” or “reliable AC repair,” guess what pops up first? The Local Pack — that cute little box with three business listings, star ratings, hours, and directions.
If your business isn’t in there, you're kinda invisible.
The number and quality of your reviews directly impact whether you show up there. Yup. It’s not just about your website or how pretty your logo is. Reviews literally help Google decide if you’re worth showing.
What to Do Before You Ask for Reviews
Hold up. Before you start texting customers and shouting, “Hey, leave us a 5-star review!” — there’s a little groundwork to lay.
Here’s what you need to get in place first:
1. Claim (and verify) your Google Business Profile
If you haven’t done this yet, we gotta talk. Your Google My Business listing is where all the magic happens — reviews, directions, hours, everything. Claim it, verify it, and keep it updated.
2. Create your Google review link
Don’t make people hunt around. Grab your unique review link from your Google Business dashboard. Bonus: shorten it using Bit.ly or similar tools so it looks neat.
3. Make reviews easy to find
Stick that review link everywhere. On your website. In your email footer. On receipts. On a thank-you page. Anywhere it feels natural.
How to Get More Google Reviews
You’ve got your Google Business Profile sorted. Your review link? Short, sweet, and ready to roll. Now comes the fun part — getting real people to actually use it.
So, how do you actually increase Google reviews without begging or bribing?
Here’s how — broken down into two simple lanes: online and in-person.
Online Methods
1. Send a post-purchase email
You just made a sale? Perfect time to say, “Thanks! Mind dropping us a quick review?”
Include the review link. Keep it short. Friendly. Maybe add a smiley. Bonus points if you personalize it, even just a little.
2. Add a CTA to your website
A simple banner that says “Loved our service? Leave a review!” works wonders. You can even create a dedicated Google reviews page if you’re feeling fancy.
3. Slide it into your email signature
You send dozens of emails a day. Why not let them work overtime?
Drop in: “Happy with our work? Share your thoughts on Google,” with the link right below.
4. Use social media smartly
Got followers on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn? Post reminders now and then. Keep it casual, like: "Reviews keep our business brewing — drop us one if we made your day."
5. Run a “review drive”
Not a contest. Not a giveaway. Just a gentle nudge. One week where you ask past customers for reviews, maybe with a thank-you email series.
No bribes — that’s a Google no-no. Just honest gratitude.
In-Person Methods (Yes, these still work)
6. Ask at the right moment
Timing is everything. Ask when the experience is fresh, right after a job is done, or while they’re still smiling.
“Hey, if you found everything okay today, we’d love a quick Google review. It really helps us.”
7. Hand out review cards with QR codes
Make it stupid-easy. A small card with your review link (or QR code) that people can scan and leave a review while they wait for their Uber.
8. Put a little reminder on receipts or invoices
Something simple like: “We hope you enjoyed our service. Tell us (and others) on Google!”
It’s subtle, but it works.
9. Use NFC review stands
If you’ve got a physical location, these are slick. Tap your phone, and boom — review link opens. Easy, futuristic, and honestly kinda cool.
10. Talk about how quick it is
Customers often think that leaving a review takes ages.
So say it: “It only takes 30 seconds — you don’t even need to write much!”
Most folks just need a little reassurance.
What to Do After You Get Google Reviews (Don’t Just Ghost Your Reviewers)
Alright, let’s say the reviews are trickling in. Maybe even flooding in. Now what?
Do you leave them there? Admire the stars from afar? Nope. You roll up your sleeves and get involved. Here's how to keep the momentum going:
1. Respond to Every Review — Yep, Every Single One
2. Handle Negative Reviews Gracefully (No Fighting Online)
3. Track Your Reviews Over Time
4. Make Review Requests a Habit, Not a One-Time Campaign
Final Thoughts: Make Reviews Work For You
Whether it’s posting reviews on Google through a QR card or embedding your Google My Business reviews link in an email signature, the point is — make it easy and make it routine.
And don’t forget: this whole thing isn’t just about stars and rankings. It’s about connection. It’s about showing future customers that real people have trusted you before — and probably will again.
So go on, set things up, start asking, and watch the love (and leads) roll in.
