Ask any local business owner what they wish they had more of, and most will say the same thing: reviews. A steady stream of positive Google reviews builds trust with new customers, improves your ranking in local search results, and gives you a genuine competitive advantage over businesses that ignore them.
Here are seven practical ways to get more of them.
1. Just Ask
The single most effective thing you can do is simply ask satisfied customers to leave a review. Most people who have a good experience won't think to leave a review unless someone prompts them. A simple, genuine request at the right moment — when the job is done and the customer is happy — converts surprisingly well.
Don't be shy about it. Most customers are happy to help a business they like.
2. Send a Direct Link
Don't just ask — make it easy. Find your Google review link by searching your business on Google, clicking "Write a review", and copying the URL from your browser. Send this directly to customers via text or email. Removing friction dramatically increases the number of people who actually follow through.
3. Ask at the Right Moment
Timing matters. Ask for a review when the positive experience is freshest — right after a job is completed, when a customer says "thanks, that was great", or when you receive positive feedback. Waiting days or weeks means the enthusiasm fades.
4. Follow Up by Text
A short, friendly SMS sent within 24 hours of completing a job is one of the highest-converting review request methods available. Keep it brief: "Hi [Name], thanks for choosing [Business]. If you have a moment, we'd really appreciate a Google review — here's the link: [URL]. It means a lot to us."
5. Put the Link on Your Invoices
Add a short "Leave us a review" note with your Google review link at the bottom of every invoice or receipt. Customers who are settling up are already thinking about the value you provided — it's a natural moment to make the ask.
6. Respond to Every Review
Responding to reviews — especially negative ones — shows potential customers that you're attentive and professional. It also signals to Google that your listing is actively managed, which can positively affect your ranking. When you respond to a positive review warmly and personally, other customers notice — and it encourages them to leave their own.
7. Make It Part of Your Process
The businesses with the most reviews aren't doing anything special — they've just built asking for reviews into their standard workflow. After every completed job, it's automatic: deliver the work, ask for the review, send the link. Do it consistently and the reviews accumulate steadily over time.
One Important Rule
Never offer incentives for reviews, and never ask for reviews in exchange for discounts or gifts. Google's policies prohibit this, and it can get your listing penalised. Genuine, earned reviews are the only kind worth having anyway.
Start with step one today. Pick up the phone, call your last three happy customers, and ask. You might be surprised how quickly the reviews start coming in.