Small But Mighty
If you’re running a business, you already know how powerful a five-star review can be. Whether it’s on Google, Facebook, or an industry-specific platform, positive reviews play a major role in building your online reputation, improving your SEO strategy, and earning the trust of new customers. But here’s the tricky part—how do you ask for reviews without coming across as desperate, awkward, or pushy? At our digital agency in Melbourne, which helps small businesses thrive online, we get asked this all the time. The good news? There are smart, subtle, and even automated ways to encourage happy customers to leave a review—and most people are actually more than willing to do so if you make it easy.
Why Reviews Matter More Than Ever
Before we dive into the how, let’s quickly talk about the why. Studies show that 93% of consumers read reviews before purchasing a product or service. What’s more, reviews can boost local SEO and push your business up the rankings on search engines like Google. In fact, according to Moz’s 2023 Local Search Ranking Factors report, review signals account for over 15% of how Google ranks a business in local search.
This means reviews don’t just build trust—they’re a core part of a winning SEO strategy. Here’s a free guide on how to set up your Google business profile and some practical tips to help drive more reviews!
1. Time Your Ask Just Right
Timing is everything. Don’t wait weeks to ask for a review—strike while the iron is hot. Right after a job is completed or a purchase is made (especially when the customer is still buzzing with satisfaction), send a polite follow-up email or SMS thanking them for their support and letting them know how much a review would mean.
Example:
“Thanks again for choosing us! We loved working with you. If you have a minute, we’d really appreciate a quick review—it helps more people find us online.”
Keep it short, sweet, and friendly.
2. Use Automated Review Tools
If you’re dealing with lots of customers every week, automating your review requests can save time and boost results. Tools like Birdeye, Podium, or even Google Business Profile itself let you send review links automatically post-service. At our digital agency in Melbourne, we often help clients integrate these tools into CRM systems or email marketing platforms.
Automation keeps it professional and consistent—no awkward follow-ups needed.
3. Personalise the Request
Whether you’re emailing or texting, personalisation makes a difference. Include the customer’s name, mention the service they received, and be genuine. People are much more likely to leave a review when they feel seen and valued.
Example:
“Hi Sarah, it was a pleasure fitting out your new café! If you get a moment, we’d love it if you could leave us a Google review. It really helps small businesses like ours grow.”
4. Make It Easy to Leave a Review
One of the biggest reasons people don’t leave reviews? It’s too hard. So, remove friction. Always include a direct link to your Google Business Profile or review site. Avoid asking people to search for your business—take them right to the review box.
Even better? Add a QR code to your receipts, packaging, or signage if you have a physical location.
5. Say Thank You Publicly
When someone leaves a glowing review, reply to it! Thank them for their feedback and personalise your response. Not only does this build loyalty, but it also shows others that you care. Google even favours businesses that actively respond to reviews as part of a strong online reputation strategy.
6. Offer Subtle Incentives (Where Allowed)
In Australia, you can’t offer incentives in exchange for positive reviews, but you can encourage reviews by adding a little delight. For example, “Leave us a review and go in the draw to win a gift card!”—just make sure you’re not rewarding only five-star feedback.
7. Build a Culture of Reviews
Make reviews part of your business culture. Talk to your team about asking for feedback, showcase reviews on your website, and remind customers (without pressure) that their voice matters.
When it’s normalised, asking for a review doesn’t feel salesy—it feels like a natural part of doing business.
Speak to SEO Strategy Experts and Get Reviews That Help You Rank
Asking for reviews doesn’t have to feel like begging for praise. With the right approach, it can be authentic, respectful, and even automated. And the impact on your SEO strategy, online reputation, and search visibility is well worth the effort. If you’re unsure how to build reviews into your customer journey, our digital agency in Melbourne is here to help. From automation tools to reputation management and Google review strategies, we can set you up for success. Because the right reviews don’t just tell people you’re good—they help Google believe it too.