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How to Get More Google Reviews (Without Begging)

Published by Small Town Startup on

Let’s be honest—asking for reviews can feel a little awkward. You don’t want to sound desperate, and you don’t want to nag your customers. But here’s the thing: Google reviews are gold for small businesses. They help people find you, build instant trust, and can even boost your rankings in local searches.

So how do you get more of them without resorting to, well… begging? We’ve got you covered. Here’s how to naturally collect more Google reviews from happy customers, with no awkwardness required.

 

Step 1: Make It Ridiculously Easy

The number one reason people don’t leave reviews? They forget, or they don’t know how.

Fix that by making it so easy they can’t say no.

Create a direct review link. Google gives you a shareable link that takes customers straight to the review page. Find yours in your Google Business Profile under “Get More Reviews.”

Put that link everywhere. Add it to your:

  • Email signature
  • Website
  • Social media pages
  • QR code on receipts or signage

The easier you make it, the more likely they are to do it (it’s like parenting your kids, to be honest).

 

Step 2: Ask at the Right Moment

Timing is everything. The best time to ask for a review? Right after a great experience.

For example:

  • A customer just raved about your food? “That means so much! If you have a second, would you mind sharing that in a quick Google review?”
  • A client just said your landscaping job made their yard look amazing? “We’d love to hear that in a review. Here’s a quick link if you’re up for it!”

Strike while the good vibes are high. Waiting even a day or two could make you lose your chance.

 

Step 3: Make It a Habit

The businesses with tons of reviews? They aren’t getting lucky. They’re asking consistently.

Build it into your routine:

  • Train your team to mention reviews when customers express satisfaction.
  • Include a quick “Would you mind leaving us a review?” note in post-purchase emails.
  • Set up an automated follow-up message after services (if you use booking software).

A steady trickle of reviews beats a big one-time push every time.

 

Step 4: Offer a Gentle Incentive (The Right Way)

Google doesn’t allow businesses to offer money, discounts, or freebies in exchange for reviews. But you can do fun community incentives:

  • “We feature a ‘Customer of the Month’ from our reviews. Leave one and you might be next!”
  • “We donate $1 to (INSERT YOUR FAVORITE CHARITY HERE) for every new review this month.”
  • “Leave a review and we’ll enter you in our giveaway for (INSERT PRIZE HERE)!!”

These encourage reviews without crossing any ethical lines.

 

Step 5: Respond to Every Review (Yes, Even the Bad Ones)

When customers see that you care enough to respond, they’re more likely to leave their own.

  • Thank positive reviewers with a personal touch:
    • “We’re so glad you loved your meal, Sarah! Hope to see you again soon!”
  • Handle negative reviews gracefully:
    • “We’re sorry to hear about your experience, John! We’d love to make it right—give us a call.”

People notice when businesses engage, and it makes your Google profile look alive and active.

 

Step 6: Turn Social Media Fans into Reviewers

Already getting love on Facebook or Instagram? Turn it into Google gold.

  • Someone leaves a great comment? Reply with: “This is so, SO kind. We’d love if you shared that in a quick Google review!”
  • Got a message raving about your service? “That makes our day! Would you mind leaving that as a review? Here’s the link.”

A lot of people don’t think to leave a Google review, but if you ask where they’re already talking, you’ll get more responses.

 

Step 7: Display Your Best Reviews Everywhere

Reviews beget more reviews. When people see others raving about you, they want to join in.

  • Add your best reviews to your website.
  • Feature them in your email newsletter.
  • Print and display them in your shop.
  • Share them on social media.

This creates a cycle where great reviews attract more great reviews.

 

At Small Town Startup, we know first-hand how powerful Google reviews are for businesses in small towns. So put these steps into action, and watch your online reputation (and customer base) grow without any awkwardness at all.