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What I Learned from a SCORE Webinar: How to Get More Google Reviews

Image is a summary of the blog - Google Reviews: lessons learned from SCORE

Key Takeaways

  • Reviews are not just reputation; they boost SEO and drive new leads.

  • The most effective way to get reviews is to ask at the right time and make it easy.

  • Responding to reviews is almost as important as getting them — it shows engagement and reinforces your keywords.

Lesson 1: Why Google Reviews Matter

  • They directly influence your visibility in Google Maps and local search.

  • Prospects trust a business with recent, consistent 5-star reviews over one with older reviews.

Lesson 2: How to Ask for Reviews

  • The best time is right after a successful service.

  • Make it easy: send a direct link or QR code.

  • Always follow a verbal ask with a written reminder.

Swipe Script (Text/Email):“Thanks for choosing us today! Could you do us a quick favor? Your feedback helps others find us. Here’s the link to leave a Google review: [link]”

Lesson 3: Overcoming Challenges

  • Many customers forget or feel too busy. Send one gentle reminder after 7–10 days.

  • Customers without a Google account? Offer to help them set one up or suggest an alternative review site.

  • For home-based businesses, use a PO Box or service area listing instead of a street address.

Lesson 4: Responding to Reviews

  • Always respond — even to 5-star reviews.

  • Use responses to naturally include keywords (“Thanks for trusting us with your pet sitting in Detroit!”).

  • For negatives: acknowledge, clarify, and invite them offline to resolve.

Swipe Script (Negative Review):“We’re sorry to hear about your experience. We take feedback seriously and would like to discuss this further. Please reach out to us directly at [contact info].”

Lesson 5: Building a Long-Term Review Strategy

  • Don’t offer incentives — it violates Google’s rules.

  • Space reviews out instead of trying to get 20 in one day.

  • Encourage repeat customers to become super fans by leaving reviews over time.

  • Build review requests into your customer journey (final email, follow-up text, CRM automation).

Quick Checklist

  • ✅ Claim your Google Business Profile

  • ✅ Ask immediately after service

  • ✅ Provide a direct link or QR code

  • ✅ Respond to every review (positive or negative)

  • ✅ Build review requests into your process

 
 
 

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