In the fast-paced world of running a Small Business and competing for Google Rankings, one factor sets the thriving apart from the struggling—the influence of Google reviews. Join us in this comprehensive guide as we unlock the art of requesting and leveraging Google reviews to propel your Small Business business to new heights.
The Impact of Google Reviews
In today’s consumer landscape, Google reviews wield unprecedented sway. Surpassing other major review platforms like Facebook and Yelp, approximately 63.6% of potential customers rely on Google reviews before making decisions. The reason is evident—online reviews are trusted as much as personal recommendations from friends and family.
But the significance doesn’t lie in just one or two reviews. A single review won’t cut it. Research shows that 70% of online shoppers read between one to six reviews before engaging with an unfamiliar business. Positive Google reviews, mostly high-quality ones, offer a plethora of benefits that can skyrocket your field services business.
The Benefits of High-Quality Google Reviews for Your Business
1) Trust: Establish yourself as a reputable local brand that customers can rely on. In a risk-averse era, gaining trust is paramount for winning new business.
2) Marketing Boost: Businesses with a wealth of reviews stand out from the crowd. Potential customers prioritize reviews to make informed choices.
3) Brand Ambassadors: Let your customers become your brand ambassadors. Positive word-of-mouth marketing is priceless and can lead to a steady stream of new business.
4) Improvement Insights: Even stellar reviews may contain valuable feedback on how you can enhance your services. Embrace constructive criticism to refine your offerings.
5) SEO Advantages: Did you know that 46% of all Google searches are local? High-quality Google reviews are the leading ranking factor for local searches. More reviews mean higher rankings.
The Art of Requesting Google Reviews
Ask In Person
While it may seem daunting, asking for Google reviews in person remains one of the most effective methods. Seize the moment after completing work and meeting with your customer to review your work. Satisfied customers will likely be happy to leave a positive review when asked directly.
Submit SMS Review Requests
Leverage automated systems, such as Birdeye, to send appointment reminders via SMS. Follow up with a review request through SMS, including a shortened link for easy access to the review platform.
Send an Email Review Request
Craft a personalized email requesting reviews. Send it as a separate email or alongside the final receipt. Personalized calls to action in emails can significantly improve conversion rates.
Include a Call to Action on Your Website
Make leaving Google reviews a seamless part of your customer portal or dedicated website. Encourage customer engagement by asking for reviews in these spaces.
The Perfect Timing
Timing is everything when asking for reviews. Request feedback when your customers are at the peak of satisfaction, soon after completing a service or making a payment. Some general rules for timing include:
- Asking within a week after service completion
- Requesting feedback after a customer has made a payment
- Sending a message during customer downtime, such as evening hours
Pay attention to your customer’s degree of satisfaction, and choose the right moment to request a review.
Asking For Google Reviews: Tips For Success
Ask After a Milestone
Don’t wait until the end of your service to request a review. Some customers prefer providing feedback while they’re still engaged with your business. Experiment with different milestones to ask for reviews.
Keep It Personal
Personalization is crucial in the modern business landscape. Address customers by name, mention the specific service provided, and maintain a friendly tone. Personally respond to each customer’s review to create a lasting impression.
Link Directly to Google
Simplify the review process by providing a direct link to the review platform. Easy access encourages customers to leave a review with just a click.
Explain The “Why” In Your Request
Not all customers understand the impact of reviews. Take a few seconds to explain why their review is essential for your business. Express your gratitude for their contribution to supporting local businesses.
Examples for How to Ask For a Google Review
Email Template
Subject: Your Thoughts Matter!
Dear [Customer Name],
Thank you for choosing [Your Business] for your [Type of Service]. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we value your feedback.
If you have a moment, we would appreciate it if you could leave a Google review about your experience with [Technician’s Name] on [Service Date].
It’s simple! Just click the button below and share your thoughts.
[Insert Google Review Link Button]
Your review helps others make informed decisions, and we can’t thank you enough for your support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
In-Person Script (Using Landscaping Business as example)
Customer: [Expressing satisfaction]
Technician: We’re glad that you’re happy with our service. Thank you for your feedback.
Customer: The lawn looks fantastic, and we’ll definitely use your services again.
Technician: Thank you for your trust. If you have a moment, we’d love it if you could leave us a Google review. Your review helps other customers put their trust in us. It’ll only take a couple of minutes, and we’d genuinely appreciate it.
Grow Your Business with Google Reviews
By combining these strategies with genuine appreciation, you’ll find that asking for Google reviews becomes a seamless and rewarding part of your field services business. Happy customers who support your business with positive reviews are the true champions of growth.
As a full-service Digital Marketing Agency, we have a professional Team of Experts here at Sprout Media Lab that can help your website and business grow even further.
For more information about how Sprout can help you, contact us for a Free 30-minute Consultation or call us now for immediate assistance at (800) 617-6975.
You can also check out our Small Business Bundled Solutions page here.
