How to Ask for Google Reviews (The Complete Guide)

With a shift towards digital, word-of-mouth has also evolved, and Google reviews have become a crucial part of that transformation. With more consumers relying on online reviews to make purchasing decisions, the power of a positive Google review can’t be underestimated. These reviews not only influence potential customers but also play a significant role in shaping your business’s online visibility.

Why are online reviews so important? They impact everything from your local search rankings to customer trust.

In fact, businesses with higher Google ratings and more reviews tend to outperform their competitors in local searches. A well-crafted Google review strategy can also increase your credibility and serve as free marketing, showcasing the quality of your product or service directly from the voices of satisfied customers. But knowing their value is only half the battle—successfully encouraging customers to leave a review is where many businesses struggle.

So, how do you ask for Google reviews without sounding pushy or unprofessional?

In this guide, I'll walk you through proven methods and best practices to effectively request Google reviews and ensure a steady flow of customer feedback that helps to grow your business.

Let’s dive in!

Why online reviews are essential for businesses

Reviews are more than just a way for customers to share their opinions—they are a powerful tool for businesses to build credibility, attract new customers, and improve their online presence.

Understanding the benefits of Google reviews can help you see why it’s crucial to ask for them strategically and consistently.

Boost local SEO

Google reviews are a key factor in determining where your business ranks in local search results. When customers search for services or products in your area, businesses with higher review counts and better ratings are more likely to appear at the top of Google’s search results.

Google’s algorithm favors businesses that have more positive reviews because it signals trustworthiness and popularity. This increased visibility can directly lead to more traffic, both online and offline.

For example, if someone searches for “best coffee shop near me,” a coffee shop with numerous positive reviews will likely appear higher in the local search results, giving them a competitive edge over businesses with fewer or lower-rated reviews.

Build trust and credibility

In the age of digital marketing, trust is a currency. Consumers are naturally more inclined to trust businesses with a solid reputation, and reviews provide social proof. Reviews serve as testimonials from real customers, and they give potential buyers a glimpse into the experiences of others.

A business with more Google reviews from happy customers are perceived as more reliable, professional, and customer-oriented. This can reduce skepticism for new clients who are considering whether to engage with your brand, especially in industries where trust is vital, like healthcare, financial services, or home improvement.

Increase click-through rate (CTR)

When your business appears on Google’s search results with a star rating and reviews, it stands out among competitors. Having a higher star rating alongside your business listing makes users more likely to click on your website or Google My Business profile.

Reviews and ratings give potential customers an immediate snapshot of what to expect, and they’ll often prioritize clicking on a business with strong ratings over those without any visible reviews.

A higher CTR not only brings more people to your site but also tells Google that your business is relevant, which can positively influence your search ranking even further.

Enhance customer experience

Google reviews can provide valuable insights into what your customers think about your products or services. Consistent feedback, both positive and negative, allows you to identify trends and areas for improvement.

For instance, if multiple reviews include a negative feedback about specific issue with customer service or product quality, this gives you a clear opportunity to address and fix it.

Engaging with reviews—whether it’s thanking a customer for their positive feedback or responding to a complaint—shows that your business values customer input. This approach improves customer relationships and demonstrates to potential customers that you’re proactive and responsive.

Leverage social proof on your website with Google Reviews Widget

If you want to share your customer's feedback on a website, you can easily do so with our Google Reviews Widget.

This simple tool is perfect for website owners wanting to highlight their business's online reputation. With a customizable and easy-to-use widget, you can seamlessly showcase your Google reviews on your website, offering insight into your top-notch service and product quality.

Plus, it promotes leaving even more reviews by including a review link to your business profile. To use our widget, start a free OpenWidget account.

When to ask for Google reviews

Timing plays a crucial role in successfully getting Google reviews. Asking at the right moment can significantly increase your chances of receiving positive and thoughtful feedback.

There are key opportunities in your customer journey where a review request will feel natural and more likely to lead to success.

Let's explore these optimal moments.

Right after a purchase

The moment immediately following a purchase or service is one of the best times to ask for a review. At this point, the customer's experience is fresh in their mind, and they are still engaged with your business.

If they are satisfied with their product or service, they are likely to leave a positive review.

For example, if you run an ecommerce store, you can follow up with a "thank you" email a few days after the purchase, asking the customer to share their experience on Google. Similarly, in a service business like a salon or a repair shop, you can politely request feedback as your customer is leaving.

After positive interactions

Not every review request needs to come right after a purchase. Positive interactions with your business, such as after a helpful customer service call or a successful solution to a customer issue, are also ideal moments to ask for reviews.

If a customer expresses satisfaction or gratitude after resolving a problem or getting expert advice, this is a perfect opportunity to ask them to share their experience on Google.

These interactions are often more personal and meaningful to customers, making them more inclined to leave a review that highlights your company’s responsiveness and excellent customer service.

During feedback surveys

If your business already uses feedback forms or customer satisfaction surveys, this is another great opportunity to ask for a Google review. Once a customer has completed a survey and indicated they had a positive experience, you can add a follow-up message with a direct link to your Google review page.

This method works particularly well because it capitalizes on customers who have already shown a willingness to provide feedback. Plus, embedding a review request into an existing survey process feels natural, and customers won’t perceive it as an extra task.

Recurring customers

Loyal customers are prime candidates for leaving Google reviews. They’ve interacted with your business multiple times and have likely developed a positive perception of your brand. After their second or third purchase or service, reach out to these customers and kindly ask for a review.

Since these customers have a stronger relationship with your brand, their opinions can carry more weight. They might even leave detailed, thoughtful reviews, which can be more valuable than a simple one-line comment.

After product or service success

For businesses that offer long-term services or products with measurable outcomes (such as marketing agencies, consultants, or health care providers), timing the review request after a visible success can be particularly effective.

For example, once your client has seen an improvement in their sales due to your marketing efforts, or a patient has experienced positive results after a treatment, they will be more motivated to leave a review.

By identifying and capitalizing on these “success milestones,” you ensure that customers will feel their review reflects genuine satisfaction and value.

How to ask for Google reviews

Asking for Google reviews can feel tricky—no one wants to come across as pushy or self-serving. However, when done thoughtfully, requesting a review can be a seamless and natural part of the customer experience.

The key is to make it easy and convenient for customers to write reviews, while maintaining a personal and polite approach.

Here are several effective strategies to ask for reviews that can boost your response rates and ensure customers feel appreciated.

In-person requests

If your business involves face-to-face interactions with customers, asking for a Google review in person can be highly effective. This approach works particularly well in service industries, such as restaurants, salons, or retail stores, where staff can build a rapport with customers during their visit.

When asking for a review in person, be polite and genuine. After serving a satisfied customer, you could say, “I’m so glad you enjoyed your experience with us today. If you have a moment, we’d really appreciate it if you could share your feedback in a Google review.”

Remember to not overwhelm the customer with a lengthy request, though. A quick and friendly mention is usually enough to prompt a response. You can also hand out small cards or flyers with the review link, so customers can leave a review at their convenience.

Email requests

Sending an email is one of the most common and effective ways to ask for a Google review, especially for online businesses or services with longer customer lifecycles. Emails give customers time to reflect on their experience and respond when it’s convenient for them.

To maximize the effectiveness of your email requests, use the customer’s name and mention specific details about their purchase or experience. For instance, “Hi [Customer’s Name], we’re so happy you chose [Business Name] for your [service/product]. We’d love to hear about your experience!”

Let customers know you value their feedback and would appreciate a quick review. Provide a clear call to action with a link directly to your Google review page.

Timing matters when it comes to sending a review request. Plan your email shortly after the customer’s experience, while it’s still fresh in their mind.

SMS requests

Text messages can be a quick and effective way to ask for reviews, especially in industries where customers frequently interact with businesses via mobile devices. SMS review requests have high open rates and can encourage immediate action since customers often check their messages instantly.

When using SMS for review requests, keep it short and to the point. You can write something like this: “Hi [Customer’s Name], thanks for choosing [Business Name]! We’d love it if you could leave us a quick Google review. Here’s the link: [Google Review Link]”

To make the request conversational and appreciative, use friendly language. Ensure the review link is clickable, so customers can easily open it on their mobile devices.

Social media

Your business’s social media profiles are another great platform to request Google reviews. With an engaged audience already following your brand, a simple post can prompt positive responses from happy customers.

Create a dedicated post to ask for reviews on social media. Acknowledge the importance of customer feedback and invite your followers to share their experiences on Google. For example, “Your feedback helps us grow! If you’ve enjoyed our products/services, we’d appreciate it if you could leave us a quick review on Google.”

Remember to use a compelling visual. Add images or graphics that highlight the value of reviews, making the post more engaging. Always include a direct link to your Google review page in the post to make it as easy as possible.

Printed materials

Even in today’s digital age, printed materials like business cards, flyers, and brochures can still be effective tools for asking for Google reviews. These are especially useful for in-person businesses where customers are handed a tangible reminder to leave feedback.

When using printed materials, add a simple message like “We’d love to hear your feedback! Leave us a Google review” along with a QR code or short URL that links directly to your Google review page.

To keep it visible, display the printed materials near the checkout counter, on receipts, or in product packaging so customers can easily see it.

In-app or website pop-ups

If your business has a mobile app or website where customers frequently interact, incorporating a subtle pop-up request for reviews can be an effective strategy. Timing these pop-ups strategically—after a successful purchase, interaction, or service—can prompt immediate action.

To optimize in-app or website pop-ups, keep them simple, with a clear call to action like “Loved your experience? Share it in a quick Google review!”

Ensure the pop-up includes a direct link to the Google review page, making it easy for users to complete the review in just a few clicks.

Avoid being intrusive at all cost. Make sure the pop-up appears at an appropriate time, and allow users to easily dismiss it if they choose not to leave a review.

Read more: How to share Google reviews →

Best practices for asking for Google reviews

Now that you know when and how to ask for Google reviews, it’s essential to follow best practices that ensure your requests are effective, professional, and in line with Google’s guidelines. Asking for reviews should feel natural and respectful to customers, making them more likely to respond positively. Let’s explore the key practices that will help you get more reviews while maintaining your business’s reputation.

Make it easy for customers to leave a review

One of the most important things you can do is simplify the process for your customers. The easier it is to leave a review, the more likely they are to follow through.

Here's how:

• Include a clickable link in emails, SMS, or on your website that takes customers directly to your Google review page. Avoid asking customers to search for your business themselves.
• If you’re asking for reviews in person or through printed materials, use a shortened URL or QR code to make it quick and simple for customers to access your review page.

Personalize the request

Generic or impersonal requests are easy to ignore. When asking for reviews, tailor the message to the customer and their experience. This can make them feel valued and more inclined to leave a thoughtful review.

Reference details about their recent interaction with your business. For example, “We hope you’re enjoying your new [product name]” or “We’re so glad we could assist you with [service name].”

Whether it’s in an email or an in-person request, addressing the customer by name adds a personal touch.

Be polite and appreciative

Always show gratitude when asking for reviews. Customers are more likely to respond positively when they feel appreciated rather than obligated.

Expressing gratitude before customers even leave the review sets a positive tone. For instance, “We really appreciate your feedback and would be grateful if you could share your experience with us on Google.”

Remember to stay polite and avoid being pushy. A friendly reminder is fine, but never make the customer feel pressured to leave a review.

Don’t offer incentives

While it might be tempting to offer rewards or discounts in exchange for reviews, this practice is not only discouraged but also against Google’s policies. Offering incentives can lead to biased reviews and might result in penalties, such as removal of reviews or suspension of your Google Business Profile.

Instead, keep reviews genuine. Focus on receiving authentic feedback based on the customer’s real experience with your business.

If you’re asking for feedback, make sure customers know their honest opinion is what you value, whether it’s positive or negative.

Respond to reviews

Engaging with reviews—both positive and negative—demonstrates that you care about your customers' opinions. This encourages more customers to leave reviews because they see that their feedback is being acknowledged.

A simple thank-you note can go a long way. For example, “Thank you for your kind words! We’re thrilled you had a great experience.”

Address negative reviews professionally. Rather than ignoring negative reviews, respond calmly and offer to resolve the issue. For example, “We’re sorry to hear about your experience. Please contact us directly so we can address the problem.”

Read more: How to respond to Google reviews →

Avoid asking for reviews in bulk

Asking for multiple reviews in a short period of time can look suspicious to Google’s algorithms and may lead to some reviews being flagged or removed. Instead, aim for a steady stream of reviews over time.

Spacing out requests is always a good idea. Rather than asking all your customers at once, consider setting up an ongoing process where you ask for reviews after each purchase or service.

A consistent flow of reviews appears more natural to Google and will help improve your business’s visibility over time.

Use multiple channels

Don’t rely on just one method to ask for reviews. By using a variety of communication channels, such as email, SMS, social media, and face-to-face interactions, you increase your chances of getting reviews from different types of customers.

Try to diversify your approach. Customers may prefer different communication methods, so offering multiple ways to leave a review helps reach a wider audience.

Finally, track which methods work best. Pay attention to which channels are most effective in generating reviews and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Follow Google’s review policies

To avoid any issues with your Google Business Profile or having reviews removed, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Google’s review policies. Google prohibits practices like soliciting fake reviews, offering incentives, or asking employees to leave reviews.

Instead, encourage honest feedback. Let customers know that their genuine opinion matters most, whether positive or negative. Never ask customers to leave a review under false pretenses or direct them to only leave positive reviews.

More than anything, remember that it's a bad idea to buy Google reviews.

Display existing reviews on your website

Asking for Google reviews is an essential part of building your business’s online reputation, improving search visibility, and establishing trust with potential customers. By incorporating the right strategies—timing your requests thoughtfully, personalizing your approach, and making the review process easy—you can encourage more customers to share their positive experiences.

Remember, reviews not only influence the way customers perceive your business, but they also contribute to your growth by offering valuable feedback. As long as you remain professional, polite, and authentic in your requests, you'll be well on your way to building a strong presence through online reviews.

Display your online reputation and build customer trust by using the Google Reviews Widget. Learn how to add Google reviews to your website or try it right away with our free OpenWidget account.

Start implementing these tips today and watch your business's credibility soar!