What are the best ways to get Google Reviews?
Google reviews play a critical role in building trust, improving search visibility, and attracting new customers. For businesses in competitive industries, especially service based or location specific ones, a strong collection of high quality reviews can be the difference between being overlooked or being chosen.
But getting Google reviews isn’t about luck, it’s about having a clear repeatable strategy.
In this article we break down the best ways to collect more Google reviews for your business while staying compliant with Google's policies and delivering a great customer experience.
1. Ask at the Right Time
Timing is everything. Ask for a review shortly after a positive interaction, when the customer is most satisfied and your service is fresh in their mind. This might be:
After a successful delivery or project completion
Following a positive customer service interaction
After repeat purchases from loyal customers
Pro tip: Automate this process using a follow up email or SMS asking for feedback within 24 to 48 hours of the interaction.
2. Make It Easy
Don’t make your customers hunt for your Google profile. Create a direct link to your Google review form and share it across channels:
In post purchase emails
On your website (especially the thank you page)
In your email signature
On receipts or invoices
You can create a short, custom review link using Google’s Place ID tool or a URL shortener like Bit.ly.
3. Ask Personally (and Politely)
Personal requests from real people are much more effective than automated or generic asks. Train your staff to ask for reviews in person or over the phone:
“If you were happy with our service today, we’d really appreciate a quick Google review, it really helps others find us.”
This approach works especially well in businesses where face to face or one on one interactions are common (e.g., trades, consultancies, salons).
4. Use QR Codes in Physical Locations
If you run a bricks and mortar business, place QR codes around your space that link directly to your Google review form:
At the checkout counter
On printed flyers or menus
In product packaging or thank you cards
Ensure the process is as frictionless as possible. For example scan, tap, review.
5. Send Follow Up Reminders
Sometimes customers have good intentions but forget to leave a review. A gentle reminder can go a long way. Use email automation or SMS to follow up within a few days of your initial request. Keep it friendly and concise.
Example:
“Hi [First Name], just checking in if you have a moment, we’d love to hear your thoughts on your recent experience with us. Here’s the link to leave a Google review. Thanks so much!”
6. Showcase Existing Reviews
Featuring existing Google reviews on your website or social media reinforces social proof and reminds visitors to contribute their own. Highlighting real customer feedback also builds trust with prospective clients.
Bonus: Positive reviews that you spotlight may prompt happy customers to write their own to be featured.
7. Incentivise Ethically (Without Violating Google’s Guidelines)
Google prohibits offering incentives in exchange for reviews. However, you can:
Run general promotions that encourage feedback (without requiring positive reviews)
Offer rewards for completing surveys or testimonials off platform
Recognise top reviewers on your social channels (e.g. “Review of the Month”)
Focus on creating a culture of appreciation rather than a quid pro quo exchange.
8. Respond to Every Review Positive and Negative
Engaging with your reviews shows that you value feedback and are committed to continuous improvement. Responding to reviews can:
Encourage more people to leave one
Demonstrate excellent customer service
Boost local SEO credibility
For positive reviews: Thank the reviewer and personalise your response. For negative reviews: Respond calmly, acknowledge the issue, and offer a resolution.
9. Use CRM or Review Management Tools
For businesses handling a high volume of customers, tools like Podium, Birdeye, or Google’s own Business Profile Manager can streamline the process. These tools help:
Automate review requests
Track review performance
Monitor and respond in real time
10. Deliver a 5 Star Experience
Ultimately, the best way to get Google reviews is to provide exceptional service. When your customer experience stands out, reviews follow naturally.
Tips:
Be consistent in your quality
Go the extra mile when possible
Resolve issues quickly and respectfully
Customers are more inclined to share positive feedback when they feel truly valued.
Final Thoughts
Growing your Google review count doesn’t have to be awkward or time consuming. By asking at the right time, making the process easy, and genuinely engaging with your customers, you’ll build a steady stream of authentic reviews that improve your credibility and visibility.
At 1 Up, we help businesses systemise their marketing including online reputation. If you want to integrate Google review collection into your broader growth strategy, let’s have a chat.