Today, the path to decision-making is run by online reviews. Before potential customers commit to a purchase, they want assurance that your business and its services align with their needs and expectations.

In fact, a staggering 98% of people turn to online reviews when searching for local businesses. In this landscape, a single, positive review of your business can be the deciding factor.

Let's put it in perspective. When you're in the market for a product or service, what's the first thing you do? You instinctively check out the reviews. If they don't paint a favorable picture, you're quick to move on to other options. 

Your customers are no different; they seek validation through reviews.

So, here's the goal: You want customers to choose your business, have an exceptional experience, and enthusiastically share their satisfaction through glowing Google reviews. In this blog, that's precisely what we're going to explore.

We’ll cover:

• The basics of what a Google Business Profile is,

• Why a review on Google matters so much,

• Where these Google reviews appear for you and your customers, and

• 9 simple ways to get more Google reviews quickly.

With these strategies at your disposal, you'll be well on your way to building a robust online reputation and attracting more customers. Alright, let's dive right in.

What is a Google Business Profile?

Your Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) is your business’s online identity on Google. It's where potential customers find essential details about your business, like your name, location, hours, and contact information.

For small, high-transaction businesses like insurance agencies, real estate firms, and car dealerships, a Google Business Profile is your ticket to:

• Visibility: It helps people discover your business when they search for services in your area.

• Trust: A well-maintained profile builds credibility and reassures potential customers.

• Convenience: It offers quick access to vital information, making it easy for customers to engage with you.

This profile is the cornerstone of your online presence, setting the stage for those valuable Google reviews we'll be discussing next.

Why does a Google review matter so much?

Google reviews are more than just digital pats on the back. They play a pivotal role in your business's online journey. 

They are the digital currency of trust and visibility. Google reviews not only showcase your business's strengths but also enhance its overall appeal, making it a magnet for leads and conversions.

Here’s why they matter.

1. Builds trust in your business

Reviews are the modern-day word of mouth. 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, so when prospective customers see positive experiences shared by others, it builds trust in your business. 

For instance, if you're a real estate agency with a stack of glowing reviews praising your professionalism and responsiveness, it instantly reassures potential clients.

2. Increases online visibility

Google loves fresh content, and reviews are a goldmine of user-generated content. The more reviews you have, the more frequently Google's search algorithms consider your business as relevant. This boosts your chances of appearing higher in search results.

For instance, say you’re a local insurance agency that receives regular reviews from satisfied customers. Over time, these reviews contribute to the agency appearing at the top of local search results for "best insurance agencies in [location]."

3. Generates leads and sales

Reviews aren't just digital badges; they are powerful sales tools. Positive reviews can be the tipping point for someone deciding whether to engage with your business. 

For instance, if a potential car buyer stumbles upon a dealership's Google reviews filled with praise for fair pricing and excellent customer service, they’re more likely to schedule a test drive. They’re very likely to see a surge in bookings after customers share their seamless experiences in reviews.

4. Increases conversion rates

Leads driven by positive reviews are often more committed. When people read positive feedback, they're closer to making a decision. If your mortgage brokerage consistently garners 5-star reviews highlighting quick approvals and competitive rates, those leads are more likely to become paying clients.

Where do Google reviews appear?

Your Google reviews take center stage on your Google Business Profile. This is your dedicated business space on Google, and reviews are prominently displayed here. 

From here, Google’s ranking system picks them up and showcases them in two places:

• Local search results

• Google Maps

Local search results

When someone searches for a business like yours on Google, they often include location-specific terms, like "insurance agency near me" or "car dealership in [city]." 

This is where your Google reviews come into play. They prominently feature in local search results, right under your business name.

This list showcases the star ratings and the total number of reviews for each business. Your reviews, therefore, become a spotlight that shines on your business in these local search results.

These reviews are front and center for users actively seeking your services in your area. Positive reviews not only grab attention but also influence decision-making, making users more likely to click on your business. 

Google Maps

Many customers rely on Google Maps to find businesses, especially when they’re on the move. When they search for a type of business or simply browse their surroundings, the map displays businesses with their star ratings and review counts.

Travelers, newcomers, and locals alike turn to Google Maps for recommendations. Having a strong review presence here can draw more foot traffic to your physical location or online services.

9 simple ways to get more Google reviews easily

Here are 9 ways to boost reviews on Google.

• Optimize your Google Business Profile

• Ask your customers for reviews

• Make it easy for them to leave reviews

• Include review links in surveys and feedback forms

• Provide exceptional customer service

• Respond to all existing reviews, good and bad

• Showcase and share your ratings

• Keep your Google Business Profile updated regularly

• Invest in review management software and tools

1. Optimize your Google Business Profile

Begin by making sure your Google Business Profile is not only active but also fully optimized for customer reviews. 

First and foremost, you'll need to verify your profile, a process most commonly involving Google sending a postcard with a verification code to your business address. 

Once verified, ensure your profile is categorized correctly. For instance, if you're a car dealership, you want to be listed under "Car Dealership."

Additionally, double-check that your contact information, hours of operation, and website link are accurate and up-to-date. The more comprehensive your profile, the more trustworthy and appealing it appears to potential reviewers. 

Furthermore, ensure your business is recognized as a 'place' on Google Maps. This not only boosts your local search engine optimization (SEO) but also simplifies the process for customers to find and review your business.

2. Ask your customers for reviews

Don't underestimate the power of a polite request for reviews. Many customers (in fact, 70% of them) are more than willing to share their experiences if you ask. 

However, timing is crucial; consider asking for reviews after a successful interaction or transaction. This can be done in person during face-to-face interactions or through follow-up emails for online interactions.

When requesting reviews, make the process as straightforward as possible. Provide clear instructions on where and how to leave a review. 

For instance, you might say, 

"We would greatly appreciate it if you could share your thoughts on our Google Business Profile. To do so, simply click [insert direct review link] and leave a review. It will only take a minute, and your feedback helps us continually improve our service."

Fortunately, with amazing review management tools like Momentum, you can easily automate your Google review requests and reminders to ensure that you never miss out on opportunities to ask for reviews.

3. Make it easy for them to leave reviews

Simplify the review process by creating shortcuts. Google offers a 'short link' or 'short name' feature that allows you to customize a URL leading directly to your review page, such as 'g.page/YourBusinessName/review.' 

Incorporate this link into your communications, such as email signatures, social media profiles, and marketing materials.

Also consider adding a prominent "Leave a Review" button on your website, linking directly to your Google review page. 

The objective is to minimize the steps customers need to take to share their feedback. By making it convenient, you significantly increase the chances of receiving more reviews from satisfied customers. 

Most importantly, ensure your website is mobile-friendly, as many customers may be using smartphones to leave reviews, and a seamless mobile experience can encourage more reviews.

4. Include review links in surveys and feedback forms

When you're already engaging with customers through surveys or feedback forms, it's an ideal opportunity to encourage them to leave reviews. In these surveys, consider adding a specific section where you kindly request feedback on platforms like Google. 

You can say something like,

"We're always looking to improve our service. If you've had a positive experience, we'd greatly appreciate it if you could share it with others by leaving a Google review. Just click [insert direct review link] to get started." 

This way, you're targeting an audience that has already engaged with your business and is more likely to provide feedback.

5. Provide exceptional customer service

One of the most effective ways to secure positive reviews is by delivering exceptional customer service. When customers have an outstanding experience, they're more inclined to voluntarily share their feedback. 

Train your staff to go the extra mile, address customer concerns promptly, and exceed expectations whenever possible. 

In industries like real estate or car rentals, where trust and service quality are paramount, the better the service, the more likely customers will leave reviews without any prompting.

6. Respond to all existing reviews, good and bad

Engaging with your existing reviews is critical for fostering a positive online reputation. Regardless of whether the review is positive or negative, this is a crucial step in the process.

If you get a positive review, awesome! To respond to them, express your gratitude and appreciation. For instance,

"Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted you had a great experience with us."

However, you’re realistically going to get a few bad ones. While it’s easy to believe they’re bad for your business, how you respond to them can change that. With 82% of shoppers seeking out negative reviews, this is a chance for you to show how much their feedback means to your business.

When it comes to negative reviews, approach them constructively. Apologize for any shortcomings and offer to make amends. 

For example,

"We're sorry to hear about your experience. Please contact us at [customer service email or phone number] so we can better understand and address your concerns." 

It's essential to take these conversations offline to resolve issues privately and maintain professionalism.

By actively responding to reviews, especially the negative ones, you demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction and giving them what they asked for, which can positively influence both potential customers reading the reviews and the customers who left them in the first place.

7. Showcase and share your ratings

Once you've garnered positive reviews, don't keep them hidden; showcase them proudly. 

Utilize your website, social media platforms, and any other relevant channels to display your ratings and reviews. For example, you can create a dedicated section on your website's homepage highlighting your excellent Google rating. 

Using tools like Momentum, sharing a review on your website and integrating it seamlessly has never been easier.

Share screenshots of positive reviews on your social media profiles, accompanied by a thank-you message to your customers. This not only serves as social proof but also encourages others to leave their reviews.

Consider incorporating snippets of glowing reviews into your marketing materials, such as brochures or email signatures. By proactively sharing your ratings and reviews, you not only boost your online credibility but also encourage more customers to leave feedback.

8. Keep your Google Business Profile updated regularly

Regularly updating your Google Business Profile is vital for staying relevant and trustworthy in the eyes of potential customers. Ensure that your profile reflects any changes in your business, such as updated contact information, business hours, and services offered. 

Keeping your profile accurate and comprehensive not only assists customers in finding you but also signals to Google that your business is active and engaged.

Moreover, consider sharing updates, news, and promotions through your profile's posts section. Engaging content keeps your profile fresh and can attract more visitors, increasing your chances of receiving new reviews from those who find your content valuable.

9. Invest in review management software and tools

For businesses with high transaction volumes, managing reviews efficiently can be a challenge. This is where review management software and tools come into play. These tools help you streamline the process of requesting, monitoring, and responding to reviews. 

Look for software that allows you to automate review requests after transactions, aggregates reviews from multiple platforms, and provides analytics to gauge customer sentiment.

Investing in review management tools not only saves time but also ensures that no review goes unnoticed. It helps maintain a proactive approach to reviews, enabling you to address issues promptly and amplify the impact of positive feedback. 

Increase your monthly Google reviews by up to 10x with Momentum

To wrap up, Google reviews serve as the bedrock of trust and visibility for local businesses with high transaction volumes, shaping your online reputation and drawing in new customers. 

Consistency and commitment are key going forward—nurture your online reputation, engage customers, and adapt strategies as needed.

For local businesses like you dealing with high transaction volumes, review management software is a must-have. We at Momentum offer a starting point. 

Our platform automates Google review requests and reminders, elevating your online presence and boosting inbound leads with an impressive 2-10x increase in monthly reviews.

You also get 24/7 review monitoring and alerts, ensuring you're always in the know. The platform's Inbox simplifies review management, allowing you to read, respond to, and dispute reviews from one centralized hub. 

Plus, effortlessly showcasing your reviews on your website, and enhancing your online credibility is an additional win! 

With Momentum, you're equipped to harness the full potential of Google reviews and solidify your position as a trusted local business. Reach out to us today to get started!