You’ve come to the right place to learn how to ask for Google Reviews.
Not only do Google reviews boost your online reputation and customer acquisition, but they also impact your rankings on Google search itself and help you build trust, credibility, and visibility.
Wondering how to ask for reviews with practical examples? We’ve got you covered.
Check out our article for effective strategies and real-world examples to enhance your approach.
Embed Google Reviews Widget
Automatically collect and embed Google reviews and use AI reviews management tools to unlock your website’s sales potential.
FYI: You can automatically embed Google reviews widget on your website and show authentic user-generated reviews, increasing trust for more sales. Try it now.
Understanding Google Reviews
Consumers trust online reviews, and many local businesses gain prospective customers with the help of their current, awesome customers and user-generated content.
According to statistics, over 81% of consumers say they are likely to check Google reviews first before visiting a business in person.
Understanding the fundamentals of Google reviews will provide you with a solid foundation and help you assess the current standing of your business.
Google My Business: Brief Introduction
Google My Business is a free tool that allows businesses to create a free and personalized business profile that can serve as a “bridge” between businesses and customers.
For a business listing, for example, in this GMB Profile, we can see ratings, reviews, pricing, customer photos, detailed descriptions, location, contact, opening hours, and so much more!
Having such a profile is so much more than simply putting your place on the map – instead, it can be a valuable asset that will help you propel your business forward and help you drive growth.
The Google review process
As simple as owning a GMB profile looks, we can say the same thing is valid about how the review process works.
Google reviews are part of the GMB profile and are a way for customers to share their feedback with businesses and rate their satisfaction on a five-star scale (and to do so, customers must have a Google account).
Once customers leave a review, businesses take it from here by publicly responding to customer feedback to nurture and build a relationship with their customers (or, explained more – businesses are in the role of unconventional customer support).
Review guidelines and policies
Lastly, as a reassurance in this process of collecting reviews, we must mention that Google has strict policies in place for reviews, so there is no need to worry about fake or misleading reviews.
Google reviews with fake or offensive content, hate speech, or deceptive content won’t be published at all.
With these guidelines, you, too, as a local business owner, are protected.
Additionally, here’s a guide about the type of online reviews Google approves.
How to Ask for Google Reviews?
Step 1: Identify Happy Customers – This is the first step where you identify the customers who are satisfied with your service or product.
Step 2: Ask for a Review – Once you’ve identified the happy customers, the next step is to ask them for a review. This can be done in person, through email, or via social media.
Step 3: Provide a Google Review Link – To make it easy for your customers to leave a review, provide them with a direct link to your Google review page.
Step 4: Follow-Up – If the customer hasn’t left a review after some time, send a follow-up message to remind them.
Step 5: Respond to the Review – Once the review is posted, make sure to respond to it. This shows that you value your customers’ feedback.
How to ask for a Google review with one link?
Having the Google review link is one of the first steps to encourage customers to leave a review on your Google profile.
The easiest way to find and share the Google review form is to follow these steps:
Log in to your Google account.
Search for your brand name in Google Search.
In the top search section, find the option ‘Ask for Google reviews’.
In the popup, you will find the Google review link with the option to share it on social media networks.
Create one link to multiple reviews sites and multiple Google lcoations
Do you manage several Google listings or gather reviews across different platforms?
Navigating multiple review sites can be challenging, often leaving you unsure of where to guide your customers for feedback.
The solution: Provide customers with a single link, allowing them to decide the most convenient platform for posting their review.
EmbedSocial’s review collection form enables you to craft a distinctive link, directing users to a page that aggregates various review sites alongside a bespoke form for those preferring to submit their review directly.
When the time comes to ask for a review, four important components can make all the difference in your review collection process and gaining more positive reviews:
Timing: when to ask for a Google review
Selecting the ideal time to send those review requests is an impactful component of this process, and you shouldn’t overlook it.
But when is the ideal time to do so?
Aim to strike a balance between giving customers enough time to experience your product/services while at the same time ensuring their experience is still fresh.
A general recommendation is sending out the Google review request within 1-3 days after a positive interaction or a successful transaction (such as purchase/visit/delivered product/etc.)
Tone: maintaining professionalism and sincerity
The second component to consider is the tone of your review request.
It is essential to convey gratitude, maintain politeness, and sound genuine and appreciative in your language. On top of this, express your sincere interest in their feedback and emphasize how important it is to you.
Remember that these people have become your customers, and you should treat them with utmost respect. Aim to sound as humanly possible and build a true connection with them.
Personalization: tailoring requests to individual customers
The next component is personalization.
Tailoring your review requests to individual customers (by using their names) and unique details about their experience will help you create a unique connection and showcase that you truly value their feedback and their individual experience.
This will increase the likelihood of them taking the time to provide you with a positive review.
Simplicity: making it easy for customers to leave a review
Before we go into the templates, the last component is simplicity.
This means making the process of leaving reviews as simple as possible for your customers.
In this last step, there are various practical practices you can do in order to simplify the review process for your customers:
clear instructions – make sure you provide your customers with clear instructions on how to leave a review (and don’t forget to keep these instructions up to date)
avoid long and complicated questionnaires and forms, and make sure there are as few steps as possible to leave a review
FYI: You can automatically embed Google reviews widget on your website and show authentic user-generated reviews, increasing trust for more sales. Try it now.
How to ask for Google reviews examples and templates
Now, it’s about time we share 20 proven templates to help you also ask for a Google review.
Save time, encourage customers to share their experiences, and leave valuable feedback by utilizing our ready-to-use templates tailored to different scenarios.
No need to start from scratch when you can leverage these templates to make the process easier and more effective.
So let’s dive straight into it.
Asking customers for reviews Email examples
Here is a step-by-step diagram of the process of how to craft the perfect request for Google reviews, specifically via email:
Step 1: Personalize the Email – Start the email with a personalized greeting. Use the customer’s name and reference specific details about their experience if possible.
Step 2: Explain the Importance of Reviews in the Email – In the body of the email, explain why their feedback is important. This could help improve your services or help other customers make informed decisions.
Step 3: Provide Clear Instructions in the Email – Ensure your customers know how to leave a review. This could include step-by-step instructions in the email.
Step 4: Include a Direct Link to Google Review Page in the Email – To make it easy for your customers, include a direct link to your Google business page in the email.
Step 5: Show Appreciation in the Email – End the email by thanking your customers for their time and for considering leaving a review. This can encourage them to follow through with writing the review.
1. Basic review request examples
Subject: [Customer Name], we’d love to hear your thoughts on [Product/Service]!
Dear [Customer Name],
We hope you’re enjoying your recent experience with [Product/Service]. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we’re always looking for ways to improve customer relationships.
Would you be willing to take a moment to share your thoughts by leaving us a Google review? Your feedback not only helps us but also helps other potential customers make informed decisions.
Here’s how to leave a review:
Click on this link: [Google Review Link]
Sign in with your Google account
Rate us out of 5 stars and write a brief review of your experience
We appreciate your support, and thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Company Email Address]
[Company Phone Number]
Template
2. Google review template for business
Subject: Thank you for choosing [Product/Service]! Can we ask for your feedback?
Dear [Customer’s Name],
We want to take a moment to express our sincerest gratitude for choosing [Product/Service]. Your support means the world to us, and we are truly honored to have you as our valued customer.
At [Your Company], we strive to provide the best possible experience to each and every customer and that’s why we value your feedback so much.
Would you mind taking a moment to share your thoughts by leaving us a Google review? Your honest feedback helps us improve and enables others to make informed decisions.
Leaving a review is a three-step process and won’t take you more than a minute:
Click on this link: [Google Review Link]
Sign in with your Google account.
Rate us out of 5 stars and write a brief review about your experience.
Thank you again for choosing [Your Company]. Your support and trust in our services are greatly appreciated.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Company Email Address]
[Company Phone Number]
Template
3. How to ask for a Google review incentivized template
Requesting reviews with an incentive can be a very effective way to get more Google reviews. Here are some examples of how to incentivize reviews:
Subject: [Customer’s Name], share your feedback and get a special offer from [Your Company]!
Dear [Customer’s Name],
Thank you for the greatest support you have shown [Your Company]. Your trust and satisfaction mean the world, so we’re inviting you to share your experience with us through a Google review.
As a token of our gratitude, we have a special offer just for you. Leave us a Google review, and when you’re done, you’ll receive [Details of the special offer].
It’s our special way of saying thank you for your time and feedback.
To leave a review and claim your special offer, please follow these steps:
Click on this ‘Leave us a review’ link: [Google Review Link]
Sign in with your Google account.
Rate us out of 5 stars and write a brief review of your experience.
Once you’ve completed the review, please get in touch with us at [Contact Information] to redeem your special offer.
We appreciate your support, and your feedback will help us improve our [services/products]. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out; we’d be more than happy to help you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Company Email Address]
[Company Phone Number]
Template
4. Event or service-specific template
Subject: Join us in sharing your experience at [Event/Service]!
Dear [Customer’s Name],
We hope this email finds you well. As a valued customer of [Your Company], we wanted to extend a special invitation for you to share your experience at [Event/Service] through a Google review.
Your feedback is vital in helping us improve and make future [Event/Service] even more memorable/better. We believe that your perspective will greatly benefit both our team and other potential attendees.
To leave a Google review about your experience at [Event/Service], please follow these three simple steps:
Click on this link: [Google Review Link]
Sign in with your Google account.
Share your thoughts and impressions of [Event/Service] in a brief review.
We genuinely appreciate your time and participation in making [Event/Service] a success and we look forward to welcoming you to [Our upcoming events / Serving you with our exceptional services].
Thank you for being a part of our community! Your feedback plays a crucial role in ensuring we continue to provide outstanding experiences.
Many businesses are using SMS when asking for reviews, and it can result in excellent reviews that customers can write in just a few minutes on their phones.
The functionality to send SMS reviews is available in the EmbedReviews platform. Read more about SMS review requests >
You can send a very short message with just a link to a review form like the example below with AirBnb, or make it more personal.
1. Brief Template
Hi [Customer’s Name], I loved having you at [Your Company]. Would you like to share your experience with us? It will take you only a minute but help us improve and, at the same time, assist others in making informed choices. Click here: [Google Review Link]. Thanks!
[Your Company]
SMS Template
2. Reminder Template
Hi [Customer’s Name]! This is just a friendly reminder to leave a Google review about your recent experience at [Your Company]. We truly appreciate your feedback and time spent! Click here: [Google Review Link]. Thank you! [Your Company]
SMS Template
3. Personalized Template
Hi [Customer’s Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Your Company]. I wanted to take the time and personally thank you for choosing us. We genuinely value your feedback and would be thrilled if you could share your experience through a Google review. Your feedback will help us continually improve and provide the best possible experience for all our customers! Click here: [Google Review Link]. Thanks!
SMS Template
4. Time-sensitive template
Hey [Customer’s Name]! Limited-time offer to end soon! Share your feedback about [Your Company] through a Google review and get your [Special offer description]. Click here: [Google Review Link]. Help us improve and let others know about your experience! Thanks!
Template
5. Thank you template
Thank you, [Customer’s Name], for choosing us. We sincerely value your support and trust. We would be delighted if you could share your experience through a Google review. Your feedback will help us serve you better in the future and lets others know about our exceptional service. Click here to leave your review (it won’t take more than a minute): [Google Review Link]. Many thanks! [Your Company]
Clever ways to ask for reviews on social media examples
1. Engaging template
? We want to hear your voice! Share your experience with [Product/Service] by leaving a Google review [add a link here]. Your feedback helps us improve and serve you better! Let the world know why we’re your favorite! ? #GoogleReview #CustomerFeedback”
2. Shareable template
? Help us spread the word and love ?! Share your experience with [Product/Service] by leaving a Google review. Let your friends and followers know why we’re the best! ? #ShareYourExperience #GoogleReview
3. Milestone celebration template
? We’re thrilled to celebrate [number] of incredible Google reviews! Thank you to our irreplaceable customers and biggest fans for making this milestone possible. Now it’s the time to join the party and leave us a review too! ? #MilestoneAchievement #CustomerLove
4. Contest-driven template
? Shout out to all review enthusiasts! Now it’s the time to leave a Google review for a chance to win amazing prizes! Share your thoughts and experience and enter our exclusive contest. Don’t miss out on this chance! ? #ReviewAndWin #ContestAlert
5. Testimonial highlight template
? “We can’t help but share the amazing things our customers say! Check out this glowing review about [Product/Service]! If you’ve had a similar experience, do share your thoughts too with a Google review. Your words matter, matter and inspire! ✨ #TestimonialTuesday #GoogleReview”
Asking for feedback in-person or by phone request examples
1. Face-to-face template
In the situation when you’re seeing your customer in person
Hi [Customer Name]! It’s great to see you today. We hope you’ve been enjoying your experience with us. We value your opinion and would be grateful if you could take a moment to share your feedback through a Google review. Your review will help us improve and help others make informed decisions. Thank you for your support! Have a wonderful day!
In the situation when they are sharing positive feedback in person
Thank you for your kind words; we’re glad you are happy with [your product/service]. Your feedback means the world to us, and since it might also help other customers who are looking to use our [product/service], would you mind leaving us a quick Google review?
In addition to this chat, you can also create a QR code with a link to your Google my business profile that you will place promimently near the checkout counter.
Template
2. Over-the-phone template
Hey [Customer’s Name]! This is [Your Name] calling from [Your Company]. I hope you’re having a great day.
I wanted to reach out and personally thank you for choosing [Your Company]. I wanted to ask if you would be open to sharing your experience through a Google review. Your feedback is valuable to us and helps us continually improve. It will only take you a minute, and it would mean the world to our [small business].
[If they respond positively – always be prepared to send them an SMS with a link to your Google reviews]
Thank you for considering it!
Template
3. Service or product-related template
Hi [Customer’s Name], thank you for purchasing [product/service] from us. We hope you’re enjoying [the service/product you provided] and that it has done its intended job well. We always aim to make our [service/product] better and better, and your feedback plays an important role in helping us achieve that. Your review will help us improve, and we would greatly appreciate it if you could share your thoughts and leave us a Google review. Thank you in advance for your consideration and for your support!
Template
4. Loyal customer template
Hey [Customer’s Name], we want to thank you for supporting us repeatedly. Your loyalty and trust in us are invaluable and make a huge difference to [Your Company]. We value your opinion and would be delighted if you could share your feedback through a Google review [place link here]. Your review will help us showcase why loyal customers like yourself are the driving force behind our business. Thank you for being such a valuable customer and for choosing us!
Template
5. Post-purchase template
Hey [Customer’s Name], thank you for choosing us and for your recent purchase. We sincerely value your recent purchase. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we would love to hear about your experience. Could you kindly leave us a Google review [link here]? It will only take you a minute, but it would mean the world to us. Thank you in advance for your time and for your support; we hope we’ll see you again!
This section is more practical about using EmbedSocial’s platform to monitor and respond to Google reviews more efficiently.
Tracking and analyzing reviews
Use Google My Business in conjunction with EmbedSocial to get alerts for new reviews. EmbedSocial’s dashboard allows you to view and analyze these reviews in one place, helping you identify common issues or praises, which you can later display reviews on your site.
Responding to positive reviews
Respond to positive reviews directly from the EmbedSocial platform. A personalized response, such as “Thank you for your support, [Customer Name],” can be easily managed and tracked within the platform, ensuring no review goes unanswered.
Handling negative reviews
Here a good review template of how to respond to negative reviews professionally and empathetically. Start with an apology, then address their concerns directly. For example, “We’re sorry to hear about your experience, [Customer’s Name]. We’re addressing the issue and hope to serve you better in the future.”
Encouraging customers to update their reviews
After resolving a customer’s issue, use EmbedSocial to follow up and kindly ask them to update their review. You might say, “We appreciate your feedback, [Customer’s Name], and have made changes based on your experience. Would you consider updating your review to reflect this?”
EmbedSocial can streamline your review management process, making monitoring, responding to, and analyzing your Google Reviews easier.
Collect reviews, feedback, and display testimonials widgets at scale!
In conclusion, understanding and prioritizing Google Reviews is crucial for businesses in the digital age. By actively collecting reviews from existing customers, your business too can leverage customer feedback and social proof to improve offerings, increase search rankings, build trust, and, most importantly, attract new customers.
Make sure you remember the four elements of crafting the perfect review request by considering timing, tone, personalization, and simplicity. Regularly monitor and respond to reviews and engage with customers to demonstrate excellent customer service, which, later, you can incorporate that feedback on your website.
It’s important to stay within Google’s guidelines and consistently seek and manage reviews to establish a strong online presence and drive business growth.
So what are you waiting for? Now that you’ve seen examples of how to ask for reviews pick your go-to email template and start collecting those reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lastly, before you go and collect some online reviews, let’s answer the most frequently asked questions:
How to get Google reviews without violating Google’s review policies?
Paying and offering incentives for Google reviews is forbidden according to Google’s guidelines (and it falls under “deceptive content”. However, there are a few things you can do, like encouraging genuine reviews, making it easy and at the right time for customers to leave reviews, and also making sure you respond to all reviews (both positive and negative), and flagging inappropriate reviews.
The bottom line is that you should aim to provide your customers with an exceptional experience, ultimately leading to positive reviews.
Does Google have any mechanisms in place to detect and remove fake reviews?
Google employs advanced algorithms and manual review processes to identify and remove fake reviews. However, make sure you also actively report and provide evidence to Google of fake Google reviews so that you can speed up this process.
Can I request a Google review be removed?
Yes, you can. If this review violates Google’s policies, you can report the review. Here’s where you can read more.
Can you offer incentives for online reviews?
As we’ve mentioned, offering incentives for reviews is forbidden.
How do I respond to a negative review?
Collecting some not-so-positive reviews along the way it’s something that’s unavoidable. However, you have to respond to these people too, politely, emphatically, and professionally.
Make sure you address the issues and provide a solution if possible. Lastly, make sure when you do resolve the issue, you also ask this person to remove or update their negative feedback.
FYI: You can automatically embed Google reviews widget on your website and show authentic user-generated reviews, increasing trust for more sales. Try it now.
