How to get more Google reviews without breaking the rules

Recent reviews matter. Many customers ignore businesses with only a handful of reviews, and care most about reviews from the last few months. The good news: steady, honest asking works.

Ask every customer, the same way

Google doesn't allow 'review gating' (only asking customers you think are happy). Ask everyone you're allowed to contact after the job, the same way, with a direct link to your review form. A review request by SMS or email can count as a marketing message under the Spam Act, so send it only to customers who have agreed to hear from you, and include your business name and a way to opt out.

Make it easy

• Send the link by SMS within a day of the job, while it's fresh, to customers who have agreed to texts.
• Keep the message short and personal: name the job, thank them, include the link.
• Put a QR code on invoices and at the counter.

Never do these

• Offer discounts, gifts or entries into a draw for reviews. Google bans incentives.
• Write reviews yourself, or ask staff, friends or family to.
• Buy reviews or use 'review swap' groups. Fake reviews can also breach Australian Consumer Law.

Reply to every review

A calm, specific reply to a negative review often reassures readers more than another five-star review. Thank people for positive reviews by name and mention the job. Registered health practitioners are the exception: don't repeat or amplify comments about clinical care, and check AHPRA's guidance before replying.

Sources

• Google: prohibited and restricted review content