How to Get More Google Reviews: A Step-by-Step Guide
Google reviews can be a game-changer for your business, helping to shape your online reputation and drive awareness about your top products or services. But getting those reviews can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Did you know that businesses with at least 20 reviews see a 70% increase in online engagement? Here’s how you can simplify the process and boost your review count using Google My Business and some handy tools.
Why Google Reviews Matter
Google Business reviews aren’t just nice to have; they’re crucial for building trust and attracting new customers. They influence how your business appears in search results and can significantly impact potential customers’ decisions.
Setting Up Your Google My Business Account
Creating Your Account
If you haven’t already, the first step is to create a Google My Business account. This free tool allows you to manage your online presence across Google Search and Maps. It’s your gateway to collecting reviews and enhancing your business’s visibility.
Finding Your Google Review Link
Once your Google My Business account is set up, follow these steps to get your review link:
- Search for Your Business: Go to Google.com and type in your business name.
- Get More Reviews: You should see a “Get more reviews” tab. Click on it and then select “Share review form.”
- Copy the Link: A pop-up will appear with various sharing options. Copy the review link to your clipboard.
If your business doesn’t show up in the search results, don’t worry. You can still get your link directly from your Google My Business page:
- Log In: Go to your Google My Business account.
- Share Your Business Profile: Find the “YOUR BUSINESS IS ON GOOGLE” box and click on “Share Business Profile.” This will open a pop-up with a direct link to your listing.
Shorten and Track Your Google Review Link
Now that you have your review link, it’s time to shorten and track it. This makes it easier to share and monitor its performance.
Using Bitly for Link Shortening
- Sign Up: Create a free account on Bitly.com.
- Create a Bitlink: Click on the orange “Create Bitlink” button at the top of the page.
- Enter Your URL: Paste the full Google review URL into the provided box and click “Create.”
- Customize and Share: You’ll be given a shorter, customizable URL. Copy this link or share it directly through your Bitly account.
Track Your Link’s Performance
With Bitly, you can track:
- Total Clicks: See how many times your link has been clicked.
- Referrers: Find out where your traffic is coming from.
- Geographic Locations: Learn where your clicks are originating.
This data helps you refine your strategy for requesting reviews and understand which methods are most effective.
Share Your Review Link
With your shortened and tracked link ready, it’s time to share it with your customers. Include it in follow-up emails, on social media, or even on printed materials to encourage more reviews.
Pro Tips for Success
- Ask at the Right Time: Request reviews at key moments, like after a successful service or purchase.
- Make It Easy: Use your shortened link to ensure the review process is quick and straightforward for your customers.
- Follow Up: Send a gentle reminder to customers who haven’t yet left a review.
Congratulations! You’re now equipped to harness the power of Google reviews to boost your online presence and attract more customers. Start sharing your link today and watch your reviews—and your business—thrive!
