The best way to get Google reviews is to ask your customers directly at the 'peak of satisfaction' using a frictionless, digital-first approach. For most Brisbane businesses, this means sending a personalised SMS or email with a direct link to your Google Business Profile immediately after a service is completed. By removing the technical hurdles for the customer and timing your request perfectly, you can transform a happy client into a powerful brand advocate.
At Local Marketing Group, we see many business owners waiting for reviews to happen organically. In the competitive South East Queensland market, hope is not a strategy. To rank in Google Maps and outrank your competitors in the 'Local Pack', you need a proactive, systematic process for gathering authentic feedback.
Why Google Reviews are the Lifeblood of Local SEO
Google’s algorithm prioritises three things for local search: relevance, distance, and prominence. Reviews fall squarely into the 'prominence' category. High ratings and, more importantly, a high volume of recent reviews signal to Google that your business is trustworthy and active.
For a local plumber in Chermside or a boutique law firm in the Brisbane CBD, reviews are more than just stars; they are social proof. Research shows that 98% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses. In Australia, where word-of-mouth is culturally significant, a strong Google profile acts as a digital referral when you target customers in South East Queensland.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Getting More Reviews
1. Create a Direct Review Link
Don't ask customers to "find us on Google." It’s too many steps. Instead, generate a direct link that opens the review window immediately. - Log into your Google Business Profile. - Look for the 'Ask for reviews' button. - Copy the short URL (e.g.,g.page/yourbusiness/review).
2. The Power of the SMS Request
In Australia, SMS open rates hover around 94%, significantly higher than email. If you are a service-based business—like a landscaper in Paddington or an electrician in Carindale—sending a text as you pull out of the driveway is incredibly effective.Example Template: "Hi [Name], thanks for choosing [Business Name] today! We’d love to hear your feedback. It only takes 30 seconds to leave us a review here: [Link]"
3. Utilise QR Codes In-Store
If you run a physical location, such as a cafe in West End or a hair salon in New Farm, physical touchpoints are essential. Place QR codes at the point of sale or on 'Thank You' cards tucked into shopping bags. Ensure the QR code is large enough to scan easily and includes a call-to-action like "Love your new look? Tell us about it!"4. Train Your Team to 'Plant the Seed'
The best reviews are requested in person and followed up digitally. Train your staff to identify a happy customer. When a client says, "This looks great, thank you!", the response should be: "I’m so glad you’re happy! I’ll send you a quick link later today—if you have a moment to share that feedback on Google, it really helps our local business."Real-World Example: A Brisbane Success Story
One of our clients, a boutique dental clinic in Indooroopilly, struggled to move past 20 reviews despite having hundreds of happy patients. We implemented a simple two-step process: 1. Front desk staff mentioned the review process during checkout. 2. An automated email was sent 2 hours after the appointment.Within three months, they reached 150+ five-star reviews. This didn't just look good; it moved them from position #5 to position #1 in the Google Maps results for "dentist near me," resulting in a 40% increase in monthly phone inquiries. This strategy is a key part of conversion optimization for local service providers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying Reviews
Never, under any circumstances, buy Google reviews. Google’s AI is incredibly sophisticated at detecting fake patterns. Not only will the reviews be removed, but your entire business profile can be suspended, which is a death sentence for local lead generation.Incentivising Reviews
It is against Google’s Terms of Service to offer a discount, gift card, or freebie in exchange for a review. While common in some industries, it risks your account being flagged. Instead, frame the request as a way to help your small business grow.Ignoring Negative Feedback
Getting a one-star review isn't the end of the world—unless you ignore it. Responding professionally to negative reviews shows potential customers that you are accountable. In Brisbane’s tight-knit business community, your reputation for customer service is defined by how you handle problems, not just how you celebrate wins.How to Handle the "I Don't Have a Gmail Account" Hurdle
Many older Australians or B2B clients may not have a Gmail account. While Google requires an account to leave a review, they can use any existing email address (like BigPond or Outlook) to create a Google Account without a Gmail address. If your demographic isn't tech-savvy, consider having a simple printed instruction card available.Conclusion: Consistency is Key
The "best" way isn't a one-time blast to your entire database. It is a consistent, daily habit of asking every satisfied customer. Google values the 'velocity' of reviews—the steady stream of fresh content—more than a sudden spike followed by months of silence.By automating your requests and making the process as simple as a single tap on a smartphone, you’ll build a formidable online presence that outshines the competition across Brisbane and beyond.
Ready to dominate the local search results? At Local Marketing Group, we specialise in helping Brisbane businesses grow their digital footprint through smart Local SEO and reputation management. Contact us today for a free audit of your Google Business Profile and let's start building your five-star reputation.