Google Reviews Checklist

Adam Kirk • 10 November 2021

Before making any purchase, visiting a store or restaurant, or hiring someone for a service, what’s the first thing people do? Check for online reviews, of course. In a world where online reviews dictate consumers’ actions, it’s important that your business isn’t left in the dust. There are several free and simple things you can do to help your business gather reviews and let potential customers know you’re a good choice.

Here's how to get started:

Get a Google account for your business

Before anything else, you need to make sure you have created a Google account for your business (not personal). It’s free and doesn’t take long.

Create a Google My Business Profile

Next, you’ll create a Google My Business account. Once you’ve logged into your business’ Google account, search for Google My Business and set one up.

Verify your business address for GMB

One of the first steps to register your business is to verify your business address. Google will send a postcard to the address you list for your business that includes a PIN code. Once you receive that code, log back into your Google My Business account to verify your address.

A white background with a few lines on it

Utilize the “Get More Reviews” link

Google My Business makes it simple to get a short link to share. These short links lead people right to a page where they can give you a 5-star review. Go to your Google My Business home page and copy the link listed under "Get More Reviews."

A white background with a few lines on it

Write an email asking for reviews

Now you’re ready to email all of your previous and current customers and ask them to leave a review. Craft an email asking them to click on the link you created so they can easily leave a review.

A white background with a few lines on it

Automate the process with help from Oostas

If you're interested in automating the process of sending out emails or even putting a widget on your website to gather reviews, ask the Oostas Sales Team for options.

A white background with a few lines on it

Respond professionally to negative reviews

Not all your reviews will likely be 5 stars, but if you're worried about getting negative reviews, consider using a 3rd party service like the Oostas Marketing Dashboard, BirdEye, Trust Pilot, or Podium. But the best answer if you get a negative review is to overshadow it with positive reviews.

A white background with a few lines on it

Strategically time your request for reviews

Directly asking for reviews enables you to “screen” who you ask and when you ask. We recommend asking for a review soon after you’ve completed a job or delivered a product to your customer. Don’t wait. Ask them while they still remember the amazing experience they had with you.

A white background with a few lines on it

Respond to all reviews, even the good ones!

Anytime you get a review from a customer, you should respond on Google, thanking them for leaving a review. This is a great opportunity to engage with your audience who took the time to leave a review, and yes, Google notices if you respond. Every little thing helps increase your ranking.

A woman is sitting at a table using a laptop computer.

Key Elements of an Accessible Website

by Madison Mohn • 15 January 2025
Building an accessible website ensures everyone can engage with your content, regardless of their abilities. From optimizing color contrast to adding accessibility plugins, small steps make a big impact. Prioritize inclusivity and show your audience you care! Need help creating an accessible website? Reach out to us today, and let’s make the web a welcoming space for all.
A man and a woman are sitting at a table looking at a laptop.

SEO Basics for Small Business: How to Rank Higher in Your Local Area

by Madison Mohn • 4 November 2024
Ranking higher on local search results can make all the difference for small businesses. Local SEO helps you show up in searches specific to your area, bringing in more nearby customers. In this guide, discover essential steps like claiming your Google My Business listing, using local keywords, adding your business to local directories, and building local backlinks. Whether you’re a bakery or a handyman, these tips can boost your visibility and help you connect with your community. Dive into the basics of Local SEO and start showing up right where your customers are looking!
Two women are looking out of a window at a plant.

How a Simple Website Redesign Can Boost Your Local Small Business

by Madison Mohn • 24 October 2024
Is your website helping or hurting your local business? In this post, we explore how a simple website redesign can make a big impact—boosting your brand's first impression, improving user experience, enhancing local search rankings, and driving more sales. Discover practical tips for optimizing your site to make it more user-friendly, mobile-ready, and effective at turning visitors into loyal customers. If your site could use a refresh, read on to learn how a few changes can make all the difference for your business growth!
A woman is writing on a whiteboard in a room.

The 5 Most Common Website Mistakes Small Business Owners Make (and How to Fix Them)

by Madison Mohn • 18 October 2024
Discover the five most common website mistakes small business owners make and learn how to fix them. Improve navigation, mobile optimization, page speed, SEO, and calls to action to boost user experience and increase conversions.
Two men are sitting at a table looking at a laptop computer.

Why Small Businesses Need a Website

by Madison Mohn • 15 October 2024
Small businesses need a website. We break down 8 reasons why small businesses need a website and provide solutions to get your business the website it needs.
Two women are sitting at a table looking at a laptop.

The Anatomy of Effective SEO Content

by Madison Mohn • 26 September 2024
Learn how to optimize your web content for search engines while keeping it user-friendly. In this post, we’ll explore the key elements of effective SEO, focusing on creating a balanced approach that boosts visibility and engages readers without overloading your content with keywords.
A woman is sitting at a table using a laptop and a cell phone.

Understanding Websites: How Hosting and Domains Work

by Madison Mohn • 11 September 2024
Learn how domains and hosting work, why they're essential for your website, and the importance of keeping your login information secure to avoid disruptions.
A man and a woman are sitting at a table with a laptop.

Thank You, Lancaster, for Voting Us #1 Website Designer!

by Madison Mohn • 26 August 2024
Thank you, Lancaster, for voting us the #1 Website Designer! We’re beyond grateful for your support and trust in our work. In our latest blog, we’re celebrating this amazing achievement and giving a special shoutout to some of our incredible clients who also took home top honors this year. From the best breakfast spot to top-notch pest control, these local businesses are truly the heart of our community. Check out the full blog to see the winners, and join us in celebrating Lancaster’s finest! 🚀
A picture of a mountain in the clouds with a keyboard in the foreground

Streamline Your Web Development Process with Site Comments

by Madison Mohn • 15 July 2024
Discover how Site Comments can transform your web development workflow. This powerful collaboration tool enables seamless communication between team members and clients, centralizing feedback and speeding up the review process. Say goodbye to scattered emails and phone calls – with Site Comments, you’ll enjoy faster go-live times, better client service, and more time to scale your business.
Two women are sitting at a table using a laptop and a cell phone.

Social Media Marketing Packages for the Small Business

by Madison Mohn • 9 July 2024
Get found with Oostas social media marketing packages for small businesses. Schedule a consultation to get a custom proposal for your business and get started!
More posts
Share by: