The first step is often the most labor-intensive. Claiming your Google My Business listing involves verifying your business, usually through a postcard from Google with a verification code. To do this, go to the Google My Business website and follow the instructions to request the postcard. Once you’ve requested it, be on the lookout for it in the mail. Many front desk attendants might mistakenly think it’s junk mail, so it’s important to inform your staff to watch for it. The postcard usually arrives within 5-10 days. Once you receive it, enter the verification code online. After this, you’ll have full control over your business information and can start managing reviews. This step, though a bit manual, sets the foundation for your entire review strategy. 

Determine the best time to ask for reviews. It could be immediately after a customer receives their product, or a few weeks later. The key is to reach out at the point you think the customer is most likely to be satisfied.

Start simple; perhaps ask after their first order, or once they’ve had more experience with your services. Develop messaging templates for these requests. Here’s an example:

“Hi [Customer Name],

We hope you’re enjoying your recent purchase of Mexican Beach Pebbles. If you have a moment, we’d love to hear your feedback. Your review helps us improve and lets others know about our products.

• Was the color as vibrant as you expected?
• Did the online ordering process make your day easier?
• Did we answer your questions in a timely manner?

  Please click [here] to leave a review.

  Thank you, [Your Name]”

Note that in this example, we included some suggestions. Here’s why:

Like your website, your Google reviews are also indexed by search engines. So by offering keywords that are relevant to your business, you’re increasing the odds of elevating your rankings for those keywords.

Make it easy for customers to leave reviews by providing a direct link to your Google Review page. You can find this link in your Google My Business dashboard. Use QR codes at your retail location or on printed materials. People often aren’t sure what QR codes are good for, but they are actually really useful here. Place a QR code near the cash register if you have a retail location or in any place where customers might come across it. Since your customers spend a lot of time outside, consider sending text messages instead of emails to request reviews. Be creative and specific in your approach.

Google Reviews offer the chance to engage directly with your customers. Responding to all reviews, positive or negative, shows that you value feedback and are committed to excellent service. Here are some tips for crafting professional responses:

• • Be prompt and attentive.
  • Thank customers for their feedback.
  • Address specific points mentioned in the review.
  • Keep your tone polite and professional.
  • Offer solutions to resolve any issues.
    
    

This engagement not only helps to build stronger customer relationships but also shows potential customers that you are attentive and responsive to feedback.

If you don’t do anything else, you’ve already done a great job by getting reviews posted on Google. But to maximize their potential, showcase these reviews on your website using widgets, share them on social media, and include them in marketing materials. This leverages positive feedback to attract more business and enhance your online presence.

See this widget below? We never update it! New reviews are automatically added. Speaking of which, we’d love one from you. Click here to try it out.