How a Vacation Taught Me the Secret to Getting More Reviews
In July, my fiancée, Kim, and I took a vacation up to North Conway and stayed at a cozy campground along the Saco River with friends. We spent lazy afternoons on the beach and took two tubing trips down the river. That area has always been special to me—I grew up camping there with my cousins—and even after all these years, it’s just as fun.
One evening, after a long day by the water, we didn’t feel like cooking. We asked the campground staff for restaurant recommendations, then hopped online to check reviews. The most popular suggestion surprisingly had very few recent reviews. Another option, however, had plenty of fresh feedback—even reviews from the day before. Naturally, we went with the latter.
And it paid off: the meal was great, the drinks were cold, and our waiter was friendly and attentive. What surprised me was that the restaurant wasn’t packed. It was a Tuesday, but based on the reviews, I had expected a much busier place. Then I realized why they had so many positive reviews.
At the end of the meal, after processing our payment, our waiter thanked us, handed us a business card with a QR Code, and simply asked: “If you enjoyed your experience, would you mind leaving us a review?”
That was it. No pressure, no gimmick—just a genuine request at the right moment.
It reminded me how powerful reviews can be, and how easy it can be to ask. In my own event business, we used to wait weeks before asking for feedback. Eventually, we shifted to recording quick video testimonials right after events, capturing clients while their excitement was still fresh. Those authentic moments turned into some of our best marketing tools.
So, how does your business ask for reviews? If you need some inspiration, here are five proven strategies:
5 Powerful Ways to Increase Reviews for Your Small Business
1. Deliver an Experience Worth Reviewing
The best way to get positive reviews is to earn them. Customers share when their expectations are exceeded. Add small touches, follow up, and resolve issues with empathy to create “wow” moments.
2. Ask at the Right Time
Timing matters. Ask when customers are happiest—right after a purchase, service, or event. A simple request like “Would you mind leaving us a quick review?” is often enough.
3. Make It Easy
Reduce friction by sharing direct links, using QR codes, or adding “Leave a Review” buttons on your website. The simpler it is, the more reviews you’ll receive.
4. Respond to Every Review
Show appreciation for every review—positive or negative. As I share in The Small Business CEO’s Playbook:
“Remember, how you handle these reviews, whether privately or publicly, will best reflect the type of business you run.”
5. Showcase Reviews & Testimonials
Don’t just collect reviews—promote them. Display them on your website, social channels, and marketing. As I wrote in my book:
“Reviews about your business are a great way to gauge how your company, products, and services meet your customers’ needs.”
Final Thoughts
Reviews are more than stars—they’re stories that build credibility. By creating experiences worth talking about, asking at the right time, making it easy, responding with care, and showcasing testimonials, you can create a steady flow of authentic reviews that fuel your growth.
Want More Small Business Growth Strategies?
For more actionable ideas on marketing, customer service, and building your reputation, grab your copy of The Small Business CEO’s Playbook today.
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