Most businesses have more happy customers than reviews. That’s not because people don’t like you. It’s because leaving a review isn’t on their mind. They got what they needed, and they moved on with their day.
The fix is simple: ask. But how and when you ask makes a big difference. Here’s an approach that works well for Charleston small businesses, whether you’re a contractor, a dental office, a shop on King Street or a restaurant in Mount Pleasant.
Ask at the right moment
The best time to ask is when the customer is happiest. That’s usually right at the end:
- The job is finished and they’ve seen the result
- They just thanked you or said something nice
- They picked up their order and it was exactly right
- Their appointment went smoothly
If they say something like “this looks great,” that’s your cue. A simple, friendly line works: “I’m really glad you’re happy with it. Would you mind leaving us a quick Google review? It helps other folks find us.”
Waiting a week and sending a cold email usually gets a lot less response. The good feeling fades and the moment is gone.
Make it one tap
Saying “find us on Google and leave a review” asks the customer to do a lot of work. They have to search, find the right listing, figure out where the review button is, and so on. Many will mean to and then forget.
Instead, send your direct review link. Google gives every Business Profile a short link that opens the review box right away. To find yours:
- Sign in to the Google account that manages your Business Profile.
- Search for your business name on Google, or open your profile in Google Maps.
- Look for an option like “Ask for reviews” or “Get more reviews.”
- Copy the link it gives you and save it somewhere handy, like a note on your phone.
Google moves its buttons around from time to time, so if you don’t see it right away, look around the profile’s main menu.
Send it by text
Email works, but text tends to work better for most local businesses. People read their texts, and the link opens right on the phone they’re already holding. Keep it short and personal:
“Hi Sarah, thanks again for choosing us today. If you have a minute, a quick review would mean a lot: [your link]. Thank you!”
Use their name. Mention what you did if it fits. And send it the same day, ideally within an hour or two.
A few rules to keep it honest
- Ask everyone, not just the happiest customers. Google’s rules don’t allow “review gating,” where you only ask people you expect to be positive.
- Don’t offer anything in exchange. No discounts or freebies for reviews. It breaks Google’s policies and can get reviews removed.
- Don’t write reviews for customers or ask staff and family to post them.
- Don’t pester. One ask and maybe one gentle reminder is plenty.
Make it part of the routine
The businesses that build up reviews over time usually aren’t doing anything fancy. They just ask consistently. Make it a step in how you finish a job, just like handing over an invoice or saying thank you. If you have staff, give them the link and the short script so everyone can do it.
And when reviews come in, reply to them. That’s a whole topic of its own, but a short, genuine thank-you goes a long way.