Why Google Business Profile Reviews Matter (and How to Get More)

Customer reviews on your Google Business Profile (GBP) do more than just look good—they build trust, boost visibility, and help drive more traffic to your business. Whether you’re an agent, a brokerage, or a service provider, managing reviews effectively is a key part of your local SEO and digital reputation strategy.

Here’s why reviews are important—and how to make the most of them.

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Why Google Reviews Are Important

1. Build Trust and Credibility

Positive reviews act as social proof. When potential clients see others sharing great experiences, they’re more likely to trust your business—and take the next step.

2. Improve Your Local Search Rankings

Google uses reviews as a ranking factor. The quantity and quality of your reviews can influence how prominently your business appears in local search results and on Google Maps.

3. Increase Click-Through Rates (CTR)

Star ratings and review snippets in search results make your listing stand out. Higher visibility and better reviews often lead to more clicks—and more opportunities to convert.

4. Add Valuable Keywords

Customer-written reviews often include keywords related to your services or location. This user-generated content can boost your site’s SEO without any extra effort on your part.

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How to Get More Google Reviews (the Right Way)

1. Verify Your Business Profile

You must have a verified Google Business Profile to request or respond to reviews. Verification ensures your business information shows up correctly on Google Search and Maps.

2. Ask at the Right Time

Politely ask for reviews after a successful interaction—such as after closing a deal, completing a service, or following a positive conversation.

3. Share a Direct Review Link

Make it easy for customers to leave a review by sharing a direct link.

🔗 How to Find Your Review Link:

• In Google Search, go to your Business Profile > Ask for Reviews

• In Google Maps, go to Customers > Reviews > Get More Reviews

Then, share the link via:

• Your website (e.g., on a “Review Us” page or in the footer)

• Thank-you emails or service follow-ups

• Social media posts and stories

• Direct mailers like postcards or flyers

Tip: Customers don’t need a Gmail address—just a Google Account to leave a review.

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Best Practices for Managing Reviews

1. Respond to Reviews

Acknowledging reviews—both positive and negative—shows that you value feedback and are engaged with your clients. A thoughtful response can go a long way in building trust.

2. Don’t Offer Incentives

While it may be tempting, offering rewards or discounts for reviews violates Google’s policies. Focus on providing a great experience worth reviewing instead.

3. Value All Reviews

Authentic, mixed feedback (not just perfect 5-star ratings) builds credibility. You can always reply to clarify or thank the reviewer—even if the feedback isn’t glowing.

4. Report Inappropriate Reviews

If a review violates Google’s posting guidelines (e.g., spam, harassment, or fake content), you can request its removal through your Business Profile.

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Final Thoughts

Google reviews are a powerful, low-effort way to strengthen your digital presence and improve local SEO. By actively requesting and managing reviews, you give potential clients a compelling reason to choose your business.

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References

“Get Google Reviews - Google Business Profile Help.” Support.google.com, support.google.com/business/answer/3474122?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=6109351&sjid=4834722126311720372-NC. Accessed 1 Apr. 2024.