How to Get More Reviews
Let’s dive into the #1 way to improve your online presence: just getting more reviews! It’s simpler than you think, and with the right timing and messaging, you’ll see results fast.
The Power of the Ask
Key Points:
Most happy guests will leave a review - they just need to be asked.
Asking is not pushy, it shows you care about their experience.
Guests are most willing right after a great stay.
Don’t overthink this! Asking for a review is just like asking for feedback in person. If they had a great time, they’ll often be glad to share it.
Best Practices for Asking
Key Points:
Ask while the good vibes are fresh, within 24 hours of checkout.
Be specific: “We’d love a Google review about your stay in the Treehouse Suite!”
Provide a direct link to your Google review form (no searching required).
Remove friction. If they have to search for your listing or log into accounts, they’ll drop off. Make it easy and personal. You’ll see the difference.
Sample Review Request Email
Sample Text:
Subject: How was your stay with us?
Body:
Hi [Guest Name],
We hope you had a relaxing stay at [Property Name]! If you have a moment, would you consider leaving us a quick Google review? Your feedback helps other guests and means so much to our small business.
[Insert Direct Google Review Link]
Thanks again for staying with us. We hope to welcome you back soon!
Save this template and adapt it to your voice. Bonus points if you reference something personal from their stay, they’ll appreciate the attention to detail.
Other Moments to Ask
Key Points:
At checkout (verbally or via printed card)
In a post-stay email or SMS
In your guest book with a QR code
After a handwritten thank-you note
There’s no one right way, what matters is that you ask. Mix it up, test different methods, and see what gets the best response.
Don't Offer Incentives
Key Points:
Google prohibits review incentives (discounts, gifts, etc.)
Focus on authentic feedback
Let guests know how much their honest opinion helps others
Stick to ethical review collection; it protects your credibility and ensures your reviews stay published. Guests can tell when feedback is real, and so can Google.
Workbook / Group Activity
Prompts:
What is your current review request process (if any)?
How could you make your ask feel more natural or personal?
Try writing a one-sentence review request you could use in person or by email.
Time to get practical. Review your current process and jot down a few improvements you could make this week. This small shift can have a huge payoff.
Part 4: Handling Bad Reviews Gracefully