In today's fast-paced business world, Google Reviews are an important component of business success. Google reviews hold substantial influence over your business's visibility and credibility. And this ultimately shapes customer choices. Customers love user generated content (UGC) and reviews are one of the best forms of it.
You can boost trust and attract new customers by utilizing the full potential of Google Reviews. Let’s explore how to get more Google reviews and learn actionable tips and expert insights on maximizing their impact.
Google Reviews - What Are They and What Makes Them So Important?
When you search on Google, the results you see are based on algorithms. The results are often influenced by your proximity to local businesses and their ratings on Google. This is why keywords with ‘near me’ stand out from all other types of keywords. For example ‘divorce lawyer near me’ or ‘best Chinese restaurant near me’ or ‘electrician near me.’
Google reviews and ratings are based on the reviews submitted by individuals. They do this through Google Maps for specific locations (mostly the businesses they visit or services they use). Customers also have the option to submit their reviews directly by visiting the respective Google My Business Page through the search engine.
But Why Do People Pay Attention to Google Reviews?
Google reviews offer a valuable look into a business's operations and real-life customer experiences. These reviews come from customers who have had a real deal with the business. They provide genuine insights with the help of a rating and review. In essence, Google reviews matter significantly because they are the primary platform for customers to discover local businesses on Google. This makes Google a crucial review platform for local establishments.
The reviews offer everything in one place – your website link, phone number, how busy your business is at a point in time, answers to common customer queries, images and videos of your business, location, working/open hours, and much more. Does it get better and more convenient for a customer?
The Algorithms Behind Google Reviews
Effective digital marketing strategies play a key role in Google's local SEO algorithm. So, businesses having a substantial volume of reviews tend to rank prominently in local searches for specific keywords.
As previously mentioned, a listing's position in Google Maps is typically determined by a combination of factors. These include the average rating, the number of reviews, the relevancy of reviews (how nicely they solve a new visitor’s queries), and the user's proximity. So, maintaining a well-optimized Google My Business profile and garnering positive Google reviews significantly enhances your local ranking on both Google Search and Maps.
It’s important to note that there are instances when only the number of reviews does not rank you up when a user searches for a business in Google. Relevant reviews play a much more important role than the number of reviews. This is why in the reviews section, the ’most relevant’ tab is the first in the sequence.
Where Your Google Reviews Are Visible
Google reviews are prominently displayed on your Google My Business profile. Additionally, Google's ranking system may feature them in the following places:
1. Google Local Search Results - When users search for specific navigational keywords like "best salon near me," your business listing may appear if it relates to the searched keyword (salon) and the user is in proximity to your business location.
2. Google Maps - If someone searches using your business name, your reviews usually feature at the top in the Google Maps section of Google Search results or directly within the Google Maps app.
The Advantages Offered by Google Reviews
Smartphones dominate our lives. Google stands out as the most widely used and trusted search engine on both desktops and phones. So, people place significant trust in Google reviews as a reliable source of information because they are posted by real customers. Based on it, they form opinions about specific products or services.
For business owners, Google reviews have become a key component of their digital marketing strategy and online reputation. Among the multitude of benefits they offer, one of the most notable is their ability to boost local search rankings. Therefore, knowing how to set up and optimize your Google My Business listing is crucial. It leads to improved visibility in the Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs).
To help you get started, here are some quick and invaluable tips:
Select an attractive profile and cover photo that is highly business-specific.
Choose the most relevant business category from the various options Google provides.
Provide essential business details such as a comprehensive description, phone number, location, website URL, working hours, answers to common questions, and any other thing that you think will help the visitors.
It's worth noting that the messaging or chat feature with potential customers is a valuable option offered by Google My Business. It is available in select countries. To enable this feature, you simply need to provide your phone number and activate the "Click-to-Message" option.
With these features in mind, let's explore the primary advantages of Google reviews for your business:
Solidifying brand trust
Amplifying online visibility
Driving organic local SEO traffic to your website
Offering crucial company feedback
Increasing landing page conversions
Boosting sales – leading to business growth
These benefits hold immense value for businesses of all types. They hold even more significance for small and medium businesses seeking to accelerate their growth by attracting new customers.
The Power of Google Reviews as a Ranking Factor
Google reviews have a remarkable influence on your business's ranking, and here's how it works:
Google's algorithm is designed to provide users with the most relevant search results. It takes user reviews seriously, whether they're 5-star or 1-star. Positive Google reviews significantly increase your chances of a higher position in search results.
How exactly do Google reviews impact Click-Through Rates (CTR) in search results?
When individuals do a Google search for a specific business, they are presented with a list of results. A report by Backlinko studying 4 million search results reveals that the top result in Google captures a remarkable 27.6% of all clicks on the Search Engine Results Page (SERP).
Businesses with higher overall ratings tend to get the top rank in this list. So, securing a top position in Google enhances your visibility to users and also promotes a sense of trustworthiness due to your favorable rating and reviews that talk positively about your business. This combination can be a game-changer for attracting potential customers.
Increasing Your Google Reviews: A Step-by-Step Approach
Establish and Fine-tune Your Google My Business Account - If you're aiming to get more Google reviews, the initial crucial step is to validate your Google My Business profile.
Google My Business is a cost-free tool, and configuring a business profile is a quick process. Here's how to get started:
Begin by initiating a search for your business on Google Maps or through the Google search bar.
If you see your business listing unclaimed and unverified, get control of it with Google My Business and ensure that your profile is optimized.
Access the business dashboard and provide particulars like contact details, imagery, and your service area.
Note: You have the option to revise and optimize this information at your convenience.
Example - A good profile - but no website link provided.
Example - Operates in the same area. A highly-optimzied profile with a website link.
Optimize Your Google My Business (GMB) Account
We have already discussed the importance of configuring your Google My Business profile with relevant business images and videos and detailed menu descriptions.
Use Google Posts to share information at the forefront of your profile. This enlightens people about your business processes.
By presenting recent updates, you can stimulate potential customers to place orders and, subsequently, inspire them to leave reviews.
Implement 8 Most Effective Techniques for Increasing Google Reviews
Getting Started - Secure the Google Review Link
Before you start your review collection journey, ensure that you have the correct Google review link.
Here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining it:
Sign in with the Google account that manages your GMB profile.
Conduct a Google search for your brand.
In the top search results, locate the options for your GMB account and click on 'Ask customers for reviews.'
In the popup, copy the provided link.
Now, let's cover some tried-and-true strategies to help you get more Google reviews and enhance your online reputation.
Seek Reviews via Email
Your delighted customers are often more than willing to share their positive experiences with your business but maybe they are not aware or not that much willing to post one. So you just need to ask!
One of the simplest approaches to get Google reviews is through email. Following a transaction or service, send a personalized email to express your gratitude for their patronage and kindly request them to leave a Google review.
Be sure to insert the direct link to your Google review page to streamline the process for your customers. A smooth experience increases the chance of getting a review from your customer.
Request Reviews with Your Invoices
Another opportune moment to ask for reviews is when you dispatch a bill or invoice. This method can be particularly effective for businesses offering ongoing services. In your invoice emails, include a friendly note inviting customers to leave a review and provide a link to your Google review page.
Request Reviews at the Conclusion of Phone Conversations
If your business involves frequent phone interactions with customers, consider asking for reviews at the end of a successful call. This approach can be effective for collecting reviews, especially when customers are happy with the service they've received.
Integrate a Google Review Call-to-Action (CTA)
Integrating a call-to-action (CTA) for Google reviews into your website, email signatures, newsletters, or other digital communications provides an additional avenue to get Google reviews. This can take the form of a straightforward text prompt or a clickable button that directs users to your Google review page.
Streamline Review Requests through Automation
Automating your review requests offers the advantage of time efficiency. It ensures that every customer is approached for a review. Many online tools are available to help you in this process. Sending automated emails or SMS messages to customers after specific trigger events, such as a completed purchase or service. But make sure that you do not overly rely on tools. Getting a Google review is a serious thing so wherever possible, give the process a personal touch.
Use the Google Review Link in Surveys
Using surveys is an effective method for collecting customer feedback and encouraging reviews. At the conclusion of a survey, consider including a Google review link. Use it to invite satisfied customers to share their positive experiences. This approach provides you with valuable feedback and also gets you more Google reviews.
Seek Reviews via Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms serve as another valuable channel for requesting Google reviews. Remind your followers about the significance of reviews and how their contributions benefit your business.
Display a Google Reviews Badge on Your Website
You can enhance your website by adding a dedicated link along with a review button or a Google reviews badge. These elements redirect users to your Google location. They can easily submit their testimonials through the Google review form.
Lastly, express your appreciation to customers for leaving reviews. Expressing gratitude and promoting communication in this way builds trust and lays the groundwork for long-lasting customer relationships.
Examples of Requesting Google Customer Reviews
Here’s a practical email template customized for a restaurant. For any other business, you can get in touch with us to get a highly personalized template written by our top-rated copywriter. Every template that we work on is designed to encourage customers to leave Google Reviews for businesses such as restaurants, law firms, packers and movers, dental clinics, real estate agents, electricians and lumbers, pet shops, fitness centers, and all other local businesses.
For Restaurants
Subject: Share Your Dining Experience at [Restaurant Name]!
Body:
Hello there!
Thank you for dining at [Restaurant Name]. We trust you had a delightful experience, from the cuisine to the ambiance. As a local establishment, we kindly invite you to take a moment to share your thoughts with us on Google Reviews.
Click here: [Google Review Link]
Your valuable feedback guides us in our quest to provide exceptional food in a cozy, inviting setting. We deeply appreciate your support!
Warm regards, [Your Name / Restaurant Name]
SMS templates for various industries to request Google Reviews
General Template: "Hey [First Name]! Please take a moment to leave us a review of your experience with [Company Name] today at [Review Link]. Thanks!"
For Restaurants: "Hi [Customer Name]! Thanks for dining at [Restaurant Name]. Enjoyed your meal? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please review us on Google: [Shortened Google Review Link] – [Your Name / Restaurant Name]"
Always shorten the Google Review Link to fit within the SMS character limit and make it more convenient for customers to click.
Managing Your Google Reviews
Wondering how to effectively manage your Google reviews? If your business has a Google My Business page, a well-thought-out review management strategy is essential. Here are some key considerations for successfully handling your Google My Business reviews:
Consistent Monitoring: Make it a daily practice to keep an eye on your reviews. Regular monitoring ensures that you stay updated on customer feedback.
Proactive Responses: Always be prepared to respond to reviews, particularly the negative ones. Swift and thoughtful responses can make a significant difference in how your business is perceived.
Now, let's explore how to manage your Google reviews with the right approach, covering both response and reporting (if necessary).
How to Respond to Google Reviews
When it comes to responding to reviews, you're probably familiar with the etiquette for positive ones. Expressing appreciation and engaging with your satisfied customers is recommended.
Yet, addressing negative reviews on Google requires a different approach. While it may take more time and effort, it's a crucial aspect of your reputation management strategy. Ignoring negative feedback is not an option, as it can potentially worsen the situation and leave a not-so-good impression on other customers and online visitors.
Here are some effective steps to address this situation appropriately.
1. Internal Assessment: Begin by carefully reviewing and evaluating the customer feedback within your team.
2. Craft Thoughtful Responses: Prepare well-thought-out responses that align with the specific feedback provided.
3. Swift Public Response: Respond publicly and promptly to the review to demonstrate your commitment to addressing the issue.
4. Direct Communication: Aim to establish a one-on-one conversation with the reviewer to better understand their concerns.
5. Transparency Matters: Be transparent about any mistakes or issues, acknowledging them openly.
6. Seek Clarity: If certain details are unclear, don't hesitate to ask questions to gain a deeper understanding.
7. Offer Solutions: Provide a suitable solution or offer assistance to resolve the matter, showing your dedication to customer satisfaction.
8. Personal Touch: Add a personal touch to your responses by signing your name, making the interaction more human and authentic.
9. Request Feedback: Encourage the customer to provide updates or additional feedback, ensuring the conversation reaches a satisfying conclusion.
10. Maintain Decency When Responding to Negative Reviews – Yes, it happens. Many business owners lose their cool while responding to a review. They go a little too far and tend to bash the customer or straight away mention things like the review is an attempt to tarnish the image of a business by some competitor. Avoid doing that (even if you think your choice of words is too good). Always be professional and take negative reviews in your stride just like the positive reviews.
Negative 1-star reviews on your Google My Business listing can be challenging, but addressing them is essential. Interestingly, approximately 80% of these 1-star reviews include written feedback. This indicates an opportunity to engage with customers and potentially resolve their concerns through well-crafted responses.
If you suspect that some reviews are fake or intended to harm your business reputation, consider flagging and reporting them to Google for review and potential removal. Be prepared for this process, as it can be complex and occasionally frustrating. This is where point 10 (as mentioned above) comes into play.
How to Respond to a Positive Google Review
A simple thank you shows your appreciation for the customer's positive feedback and also helps build a stronger connection between you and the customer. When someone takes the time to speak well of your business, acknowledging it with gratitude is a must. This not only fosters goodwill but also contributes to a positive public image, potentially attracting more customers through word-of-mouth.
Here's an example template you can use:
Hello [Customer's Name],
We sincerely appreciate your time and the positive review you shared! Your feedback is valuable to us, and we are delighted to hear about your [mention the positive experience] with [Your Company Name].
We look forward to welcoming you back to [Your Company Name] soon.
Thank you once again, [Your Name] [Your Title] [Your Company Name]
Personalizing your responses and expressing genuine gratitude makes a significant difference in how your customers perceive your business.
How to Respond to a Neutral Google Review (2 star or 3 star)
Dealing with neutral reviews can be tricky because it's challenging to discern the customer's overall opinion. Such reviews often contain elements from both positive and negative experiences. Here's a template you can use for such situations:
Hello [Customer's Name],
We sincerely appreciate your feedback and your time in sharing it. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed [mention the positive experience].
We also acknowledge your mention of [negative element]. This is because [provide your explanation for the situation].
Is there anything specific we can do to enhance your overall experience?
Once again, thank you for your valuable feedback.
Best regards, [Your Name] [Your Title] [Your Company Name]
Addressing neutral reviews shows your attentiveness to all customer feedback. This helps you further improve your business.
Get Google Rating Stars in Search Results with Aggregated Reviews
Have you ever noticed those captivating yellow stars accompanied by a review count next to certain search result links? These are known as review snippets – simple code snippets embedded on websites that signal Google to showcase review counts alongside search results.
So, what's required to start displaying Google rating snippets?
A Google My Business account
A minimum of 5 Google reviews
A schema code generator
These stars will gleam brightly, enticing new customers to share their reviews about your business. Given that reviews are typically positive, this approach is likely to yield favorable results!
You have the flexibility to get creative with the placement of your reviews on your website. Consider these innovative ideas for displaying reviews:
About Us Page Sidebar: Feature the reviews as a sidebar element on your "About Us" page.
Homepage Header: Highlight your best review in the header on your homepage, and you can refresh it daily or weekly.
Homepage Carousel: Embed a dynamic carousel featuring the top 10 reviews on your homepage.
Product Pages: Add reviews to your product pages to boost credibility and trust.
Product-Specific Testimonials: Position reviews and testimonials right alongside each product description.
Dedicated Review Page: Create a dedicated review page to shine a spotlight on customer feedback.
With these strategies, you can effectively leverage Google reviews to enhance your website's appeal and credibility.
Have a Dedicated Google Reviews Page on Your Website
Enhance your website's credibility and engagement by creating a dedicated Google reviews page. This page showcases customer reviews from various sources, including Google. It seamlessly integrates your social media and Google reviews. The ideal scenario is to embed a Google reviews widget into your existing web pages.
However, an exciting alternative is to craft and share an entirely dedicated page featuring your Google Reviews alongside feedback from other sources you've gathered.
Here's an example of what your Reviews page could look like, complete with key sections:
Main Sections of Your Reviews Page
1. Company Logo and Description Section: Present your company's logo and a brief description.
2. Leave a Review Button: Provide a convenient button that triggers a review submission form.
3. Star Rating Data: Display your average star rating based on customer reviews.
4. Number of Reviews: Highlight the total number of reviews your business has received.
5. Reviews Filter by Source: Enable visitors to filter reviews by their source, making it easy to navigate.
6. Table View of Reviews: Showcase reviews in a tabular format, including reviewer information, date, and source logo.
As for managing reviews on your Google My Business page, it's important to note that, unlike Facebook, you cannot hide or turn off reviews.
They remain visible on your company's profile page in Google My Business. Negative Google reviews can indeed have a significant impact on your business's reputation. This makes it essential to address customer feedback proactively and professionally.
