How to get Google reviews and improve your online reputation
In a potential customer’s decision-making process, online reviews matter—a lot. And among all platforms, Google plays a key role. Google reviews not only influence your brand’s online reputation but also affect its visibility in search results. In short: they can either push someone to trust you—or to choose your competitors.
Here’s how to make the most of this tool and build a strong digital reputation.
Why Google reviews are so important
Google reviews have a direct impact on your search result ranking. A business with many positive reviews gains more visibility. This means:
- increased website traffic;
- more in-store visits;
- higher conversion rates.
But it’s not just about algorithms. People trust other people’s opinions. Having authentic, well-managed reviews builds trust, improves brand perception, and strengthens relationships with your audience.
The impact on your online reputation
A solid digital reputation attracts new customers, increases loyalty, and supports business growth. On the flip side, a high number of unmanaged or negative reviews can seriously damage your brand’s credibility.
Responding to reviews—especially negative ones—shows that you’re attentive, open, and committed to improvement. And customers notice.
How to create (or optimize) your Google Business Profile
To start collecting reviews, you need a verified, well-curated Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).
- Go to Google Business and click “Start now”.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Enter your business name, category, and address.
- Add hours, website, contact details, and a short description.
- Verify your business (via postcard or phone).
- Add photos and useful information about your services or products.
A complete profile builds trust and makes it easier for customers to leave a review.
Want to go deeper? We’ve written more about this in the following articles:
How to encourage customers to leave a review
Getting authentic reviews requires a proactive, strategic approach. Here are some effective techniques:
- Direct link: generate a link to your Google profile and share it via email, email signature, receipts, or newsletters.
- QR code at point of sale: easy to scan—ideal for local businesses.
- Post-purchase follow-up: send a kind email thanking the customer and asking for feedback.
- Ask in person: after a positive interaction, a direct ask can go a long way.
❗ Important: offering incentives in exchange for positive reviews is against Google’s policies and can lead to penalties.
Best Practices for Managing Reviews
What to Do:
- Respond to all reviews (both positive and negative).
- Be courteous, professional, and personalize your responses.
- Thank users for their feedback.
- Use reviews to improve your product, service, or communication.
What to avoid:
- Don’t ask for reviews from people who aren’t actual customers.
- Don’t buy or post fake reviews.
- Don’t ignore or delete negative reviews—address them transparently.
How to Respond to Reviews
For Positive Reviews:
- Thank the customer sincerely.
- Reference specific details to show you actually read their message.
- Reaffirm your commitment to quality.
For negative reviews:
- Stay calm and empathetic.
- Acknowledge the issue and apologize if necessary.
- Offer a resolution or take the conversation offline to handle it directly.
A well-handled complaint can turn an unhappy customer into a loyal one.
Strategies to get more Google reviews
- Make it part of the sales process: train your team to naturally ask for reviews.
- Automate through email marketing or CRM tools.
- Share your best reviews on social media: encourage others to follow suit.
- Collaborate with partners or micro-influencers to boost profile visibility.
Google reviews: a strategic asset for your business
A strong online reputation can become one of your brand’s most valuable assets. Monitoring, encouraging, and responding to Google reviews means putting your customer relationships first and strengthening your digital presence.
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