Important factors to consider when gathering online reviews

James Hussey

As a business owner, your Google Business Profile (GBP) isn’t just an online listing – it’s a powerful trust signal.

According to expert advice, keeping your review game strong can drive more visibility, trust and, ultimately, customers. But doing it right makes all the difference.

Get your house in order first

Before you ask for reviews, make sure you’ve claimed and verified your Google Business Profile. Without that, you won’t have the tools to respond to your customers – and responding is key.

Make it easy (and personal)

One of the most effective tactics is to ask for reviews in person using a QR code to scan or text a Google review link directly. But online is important too: embed the link on your emails, website or social channels to make everything as frictionless as possible.

Reply – promptly and sincerely

Collecting reviews is one thing, but it won’t be enough. This is why it’s just as important to respond to them publicly. Thoughtful replies show that you care about feedback and that it is being taken onboard by you acknowledging it. This engagement will boost trust and will enhance your online reputation

Don’t pay or reward for reviews

Offering incentives – whether it’s cash, discounts or free products – violates Google’s policies. Google wants genuine, unbiased reviews, so steer clear of incentives altogether.

Don’t be selective

It’s tempting to only encourage happy customers to review, but that’s against policy. Asking only your satisfied clients while discouraging unhappy ones skews authenticity – and Google doesn’t like that.

Don’t spam requests

Bulk emailing customers with identical review requests can feel impersonal, and worse – get flagged as spam. Instead, ask when your customer is at their “moment of delight”: just after a positive interaction.

Putting these best practices in place isn’t just about getting more stars. It’s about establishing credibility, encouraging honest feedback and boosting your presence in local search.

If you need any assistance enhancing your presence online to benefit your SEO (search engine optimisation) and GEO (generative engine optimisation) performance, please get in touch.

About
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James Hussey

Digital Marketing Executive at Engage Web

Having once gone to school in the Burnage area of Manchester known for being the childhood home of Noel and Liam Gallagher, “Some Might Say” that James is a “Supersonic” presence within Engage Web, happily turning his hand to “Whatever” tasks his role throws at him.