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The Ultimate Guide to Asking for Google Reviews

Want more Google reviews? Learn when, where, and how to ask for customer feedback the right way—boost credibility, improve search rankings, and attract new business.

Online reviews can make or break a local business. Numerous great reviews can attract new customers, while negative reviews—or a small number of reviews overall—can drive potential clients straight to a competitor. That’s why it’s essential to encourage customers to share positive and negative feedback. But how do you get more people to take a few minutes and share their experiences? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best strategies to ask for Google reviews effectively, helping your business stand out.

Why Google reviews matter

Google reviews are essential for shaping a business’s online presence and credibility. Online reviews significantly influence customers' decisions to engage with your brand or make a purchase. Whether it's a local beauty salon, an online clothing retailer, or a restaurant, businesses with more favorable Google reviews generally rank better in search results, build stronger reputations, and attract more customers.

Improve Google search performance

Google reviews significantly impact a business’s search engine optimization (SEO), affecting its position in search results. The more reviews a business receives—especially positive ones—the more likely it is to rank higher in Google’s search listings. Google’s algorithm considers review quantity, rating scores, and the freshness of reviews when determining search rankings. A business with numerous recent, high-quality reviews is more likely to appear at the top of the search results. Enhanced visibility leads to increased website traffic, inquiries, and conversion rates.

Boost reputation and credibility

In an era where online reputation can significantly impact a business, Google reviews offer immediate social proof. Consumers tend to trust peer recommendations over traditional advertising, and a high rating assures potential customers that they are making a wise choice.

Businesses that consistently receive positive reviews seem more trustworthy, while those with few reviews or low ratings may find it difficult to build customer confidence. Even a small number of strong reviews can set a business apart from its competitors and strengthen its credibility in the marketplace.

Attract new customers

Most consumers research businesses online before making a purchase. Positive Google reviews act as endorsements. When weighing options, potential customers are more likely to select a business with higher ratings and positive feedback than one with few or no reviews. Reviews often emphasize specific features of the business—such as great service, product quality, or convenience—offering prospects valuable insights that affect their decision.

Generate more Google reviews

The internet is not just where people research companies and decide if a purchase is right for them. It’s also a popular way for customers to make their voices heard. According to Statista, over half of global internet users aged 25-34 post reviews online. The more existing reviews a business has, the easier it becomes to attract additional reviews. Google prioritizes businesses with frequent reviews, so attracting more feedback keeps your Google profile at the top of search results.

Who to ask for a Google review

The best candidates to ask for reviews of your business are those who have had a positive experience and are eager to share their feedback publicly. By engaging with satisfied customers and involved followers, companies can build a robust review profile that enhances credibility and attracts new customers.

Customers

Your customers are the heart of your online review strategy. Whether it’s a first-time buyer delighted with their purchase or a longtime client impressed by ongoing service, these individuals are more likely to provide a glowing recommendation. Timing is important. Requesting a review soon after a successful interaction increases the chance that the customer will follow through.

Customers who mention discovering the business through reviews trust peer recommendations and recognize their value, making customers more likely to leave a review themselves to share their feedback and help others.

Brand advocates

Loyal customers who consistently support and recommend a business are the perfect candidates for Google reviews. These individuals already believe in the brand and will likely provide thoughtful, detailed feedback. They may be long-term clients, frequent shoppers, or those who have referred others. Since brand advocates are already enthusiastic about their positive experiences, a simple request for a review is usually sufficient to inspire them to share their thoughts.

In addition, social media users who tag, mention, or praise a business online already show brand loyalty. Engaging with these individuals and thanking them for their support can make requesting a review on Google easier. A simple message like, “We’re so glad you had a great experience! If you have a moment, we’d love for you to share your feedback in a Google review,” can convert an enthusiastic social media mention into a valuable public endorsement.

Event attendees

If a business hosts events—workshops, networking meetups, or special promotions—attendees often leave with a strong impression of the brand. Following up with them shortly after the event to request a review can capture their excitement and positive experience. Include a direct link to the review page in the follow-up message, making it easy for attendees to share their thoughts.

Partners and vendors

In addition to customers, business partners and vendors can also provide valuable reviews. These relationships reflect the business’s professionalism, reliability, and reputation. A vendor who appreciates seamless transactions or a partner who values a long-term collaboration can share insights that potential customers may find reassuring. Encouraging key business contacts to leave a review helps to strengthen a well-rounded online presence.

When to make your Google review request

Timing is essential for securing quality Google reviews. Asking at the right moment increases the chances of a customer following through, while poor timing can lead to missed opportunities or less enthusiastic feedback. The following are some great times to request a review.

After a transaction

One of the best times to ask for a review is right after a purchase or service. Customers who are satisfied with their transaction are more likely to leave positive feedback while their experience is still fresh. For example, a photographer can request a review after a client books a session, finishes their photo shoot, or orders the final shots.

Following a positive interaction

Not all customer experiences are transactions. Positive interactions—like a helpful customer service exchange or effective problem resolution—sometimes leave a lasting impression. If a customer shows gratitude or appreciation after receiving assistance, this is an ideal moment to request a review. For example, if a gym staff member assists a member with an equipment issue or offers fitness advice that the customer finds valuable, they can follow up by asking for a review immediately following the interaction.

When a customer expresses appreciation

If a customer willingly praises a business, it’s a great chance to ask for a review since they’re already in the mindset of supporting the business. A simple response like, “We’re so glad to hear that! If you wouldn’t mind sharing your thoughts in a Google review, it would really mean a lot to us,” can easily turn verbal appreciation into a written testimonial.

After a customer refers someone

A referral is a strong indicator of customer satisfaction. When an existing client refers a friend or colleague, it shows they already trust and value the business. Following up with a simple request for a review acknowledges their loyalty and encourages them to share their experiences publicly. A message thanking them for the recommendation and asking them to share their enthusiasm online reinforces their role as a valued advocate for the brand.

When sending a thank-you message

Sending thank-you messages is important for businesses aiming to build long-term relationships with customers. These messages also present an ideal opportunity to request a review. A business consultant might send a thank-you email after a new client books a service and a text message following a consultation. Including a review request maintains a positive interaction while encouraging feedback. 

During a follow-up call or email

Following up with customers after a purchase or service ensures their satisfaction and provides an opportunity to gather feedback. Through a phone call, email, or text, this conversation can naturally lead to a request for a review. If a customer shares positive feedback during the follow-up, a business can ask them to include that information in a Google review.

As part of a customer satisfaction survey

Many businesses use a feedback survey to assess customer satisfaction, making this an ideal moment to request a review from those who respond positively. When customers rate their experience highly in a survey, a follow-up message can encourage them to share their thoughts on Google. Including a QR code or direct link to the business's Google reviews page makes the process simple.

Where to ask customers to leave a review

Making it easy for customers to leave a Google review boosts their chances of following through. By offering multiple channels for review requests, businesses can connect with customers at the most convenient moments and ensure a consistent flow of valuable feedback.

In person

When a customer expresses satisfaction after a purchase, staff members can politely ask customers directly to capture immediate satisfaction, ensuring authentic and timely feedback. A direct, in-person request increases the chance of immediate action, especially if the customer is already engaged in conversation.

Email

Email remains one of the most effective channels for requesting reviews, especially when following up after a transaction or a customer service interaction. A thank-you email or a post-visit follow-up can include a simple request and a direct link to the review page. Keeping the message brief, friendly, and focused increases the likelihood of higher response rates.

SMS and messaging apps

Text messages and messaging apps like WhatsApp offer a straightforward way to request reviews. Given that SMS open rates are high, a well-timed message with a review link can be very effective. Sending a brief, friendly request after an appointment or purchase allows customers to provide feedback from their phones easily.

Social media

Engaging customers on social media provides a natural opportunity to request reviews. A business can post reminders on multiple platforms encouraging followers to share their experiences or respond to positive comments with a direct request and a link for reviews. Social media engagement keeps these requests visible and promotes participation.

Your website

Adding a “Leave a Review" option to your website makes it easy for visitors to share their feedback. A dedicated page or a simple call-to-action button directing users to the Google review page helps simplify the process. Businesses can also showcase positive reviews on their website to encourage new visitors to contribute their own experiences.

Receipts and invoices

Including a review request on receipts or invoices guarantees that every customer interaction presents an opportunity for feedback. Since many customers check their receipts for confirmation or expense tracking, this offers another opportunity for engagement. Multiple touchpoints for review requests increase the likelihood of customers leaving feedback, helping to build credibility, improve search rankings, and attract new customers.

How to ask for Google reviews

Requesting Google reviews is most effective when done strategically and naturally. A well-crafted approach increases customers' likelihood of responding and providing valuable feedback. Here’s what businesses should consider when asking for reviews.

Create a business profile

Before requesting reviews, ensure your business is on Google. A verified Google Business Profile enables customers to leave reviews and helps new potential customers find and trust your business more easily. To boost credibility, keep your profile updated with accurate hours, photos, and essential details.

Keep requests natural and conversational

A request for a review should never come across as forced or scripted. Whether you ask in person, through email, or via text message, keep the request casual and friendly to boost the chances of receiving a positive response. Customers are more likely to leave a review when the request feels genuine, rather than like a marketing tool.

Use a clear and direct call to action

A good review request features a clear call to action (CTA) that makes it easy for customers to respond. Instead of saying, “We’d love a review,” include a direct link and a specific prompt like, “We’d greatly appreciate feedback on our service. Click here to leave a quick review.” Streamlining the process minimizes friction and boosts response rates.

Keep review requests concise

Customers find it easier to leave a review when the request is brief and straightforward. Lengthy explanations or excessive details can feel overwhelming. A simple message expressing gratitude and including a review link is usually sufficient to prompt action.

Personalize review requests

Personalized messages enhance engagement. Incorporating the customer’s name and mentioning their specific experience or recent purchase makes the request feel more significant.

Dos and don’ts of asking for Google reviews

Requesting reviews can feel like a big ask, but it doesn't need to. People enjoy sharing their opinions and appreciate knowing their feedback is valued. The following are some extra tips for making the process easy and adding to your number of Google reviews.

Do

  • Be proactive about asking customers to write reviews. Many people are happy to share their experience when asked, but it might not occur to them if you don't bring it up.
  • Give clear directions. Provide a direct link to your Google review page and simple instructions so customers can leave a review with minimal effort.
  • Respond to reviews. Acknowledging positive and negative feedback shows customers that their opinions matter and encourages others to leave reviews.
  • Track and analyze review performance. Monitoring trends in review volume, sentiment, and keywords helps refine your approach and improve customer experience.

Don't

  • Ask at the wrong time or too frequently. Requesting reviews too soon, too often, or at inconvenient moments can annoy customers and reduce the likelihood of them leaving feedback.
  • Send generic or impersonal requests. A personalized review request referencing the customer’s name or specific experience feels more genuine and increases response rates.
  • Offer incentives just for positive reviews. Google’s policies prohibit offering discounts, freebies, or rewards in exchange for positive reviews, and violations can lead to penalties or review removals.

Key takeaways

  • Timing and personalization make Google review requests more effective: Asking at the right moment—after a positive experience, transaction, or referral—while keeping requests natural and personalized increases the likelihood of receiving meaningful reviews.
  • Providing a seamless review process improves response rates: Clear instructions, direct links, and multiple request channels (in person, email, SMS, social media) make it easy for customers to leave a review without friction.

Ethical and strategic review management strengthens online reputation: Proactively gathering, responding to, and analyzing reviews while avoiding incentives or spammy tactics helps maintain credibility and boosts search rankings.

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