The local business Google review playbook
When to ask, what to say, and how to reply, so reviews keep coming in every week.
Reviews are one of the biggest factors in how you rank on Google Maps, and in whether someone calls you or the next business on the list. The good news is that most happy customers will leave a review if you ask at the right moment and make it easy.
1. Ask within an hour of the job
Satisfaction peaks right after the work is done. Send the request the same day, ideally right after the invoice is paid or the appointment ends. Okyme can trigger this automatically.
2. Use text, not just email
Text messages get read in minutes. Keep it short, personal, and include a direct link that opens your Google review form.
- Use the customer's first name
- Mention the service you did
- One link, one ask, no extra steps
3. Ask everyone, the same way
Don't filter who you ask or offer incentives for reviews. Both go against Google's policies. A consistent, automated ask keeps you compliant and builds a steady flow.
4. Reply to every review
Thank positive reviewers by name and mention the service. For negative reviews, respond calmly, take it offline, and fix the problem. Future customers read your replies too.
5. Put your reviews to work
Share new 5-star reviews on social media, add a review widget to your website, and quote them in your ads.