Reviewed by Joe Chierotti, CEO, Defamation Defenders · Updated October 2026 · 7 min read
Ask every customer for a Google review with a direct link, respond to every review within a few days, never offer incentives or only ask happy customers, report reviews that break Google’s policies, and keep your Business Profile complete. A steady flow of recent, genuine reviews helps both your local ranking and your conversion rate.
- Ask every customer, ideally by email or text with a direct link.
- Respond to every review, positive and negative.
- Incentives and review gating break Google’s rules and the FTC’s rule on fake reviews.
- Report fake and policy-violating reviews.
- Recent reviews matter to customers.
Table Of Content
How to get more Google reviews
- Ask at the moment of satisfaction, in person and by email or text.
- Use your direct review link or QR code.
- Ask everyone, not just happy customers.
- Make it part of your process, not a one-time push.
In BrightLocal’s 2025 consumer survey, 40% of consumers said they’re most likely to leave a review when asked by email.
How to respond to Google reviews
| Review | Response |
|---|---|
| Positive | Thank them by name, mention something specific, keep it short |
| Negative | Acknowledge, apologize where appropriate, offer to resolve offline |
| Fake | Politely note you can’t find the customer, invite contact, and report it |
In the same survey, only 7% of consumers said they don’t expect owners to respond.
We check reviews against Google’s policies and file reports and appeals for you, with pay after removal available.
Rules to follow
- No incentives for reviews.
- No review gating (filtering who gets asked).
- No reviews from owners or employees.
- No buying reviews; the FTC’s rule on consumer reviews bans fake reviews.
Keep your Business Profile strong
- Accurate hours, categories, services, and photos
- Posts and updates
- Answers to common questions
Google reviews FAQs
How can I get more Google reviews?
Ask every customer with a direct link, by email or text, right after a good experience.
Should I respond to every Google review?
Yes. Most consumers expect a response.
Can I offer a discount for a Google review?
No. Incentivized reviews break Google’s rules and FTC rules.
How do I remove a fake Google review?
Report it under the policy it violates and appeal if needed.
Send us your Business Profile and any reviews you’re concerned about.
Get My Free AssessmentCall 1-800-785-1749
Defamation Defenders is an online reputation management company, not a law firm. This article is general information, not legal advice.
