How to Use Email and SMS Campaigns to Get Google Reviews from Customers

Getting more Google reviews can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Reviews are a key ingredient to boosting your online reputation and building customer trust. 

The good news? With the right approach, email and SMS campaigns can make the process simple and effective. 

Here’s how you can do it.

Why Google Reviews Matter

Google reviews aren’t just about stars on your profile—they’re about trust.

They help your business rank higher on local searches, attract new customers, and show the world what you’re all about.

Think of them as digital word-of-mouth, but better because they work around the clock.

Step #1. Set the Stage for Success

Before you even ask for a review, make sure your business is ready to shine:

• Deliver a Great Experience: Happy customers are more likely to leave glowing reviews. Focus on excellent service.
• Create or Optimize Your Google Business Profile: Ensure your profile is complete with accurate contact information and inviting photos.
• Generate a Review Link: Use Google’s tools to create a direct review link. This makes it easier for customers to leave feedback.

Step #2. Email Campaigns Done Right

Email is an easy way to ask for reviews. Here’s how to make it work:

• Timing Is Key: Send your request soon after a positive interaction when your business is still fresh in their mind.
• Personalise the Message: Use their name and reference their specific experience.
• Keep It Simple: Make your email friendly and straightforward, and include a direct link to your review page.

Sample Email Template:

Subject: Your Feedback Matters!
Dear [Customer Name],
Thank you for choosing [Your Business Name]. We’d love to hear about your experience! Please take a moment to leave us a Google review here: [Insert Review Link].
Your feedback helps us grow and improve. Thanks for sharing!
Best,
[Your Name]

Step #3. SMS Campaigns for Quick Results

SMS messages are powerful because they’re short and grab attention fast. Here’s how to make them effective:

• Be Direct and Friendly: A quick “Hi [Name], we’d love your feedback!” goes a long way.
• Include a Direct Link: Make it super simple for them to click and review.
• Keep It Short: People are busy, so don’t overcomplicate it.

Sample SMS Template:

Hi [Customer Name], thank you for choosing [Your Business Name]! We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please leave us a review here: [Insert Review Link].

Step #4. Combine Email and SMS for the Win

Sometimes one channel isn’t enough. That’s where a combined approach works:

• Segment Your Audience: Some people prefer email, while others respond better to SMS. Tailor your approach accordingly.
• Automate Follow-Ups: Use tools to send reminders to customers who haven’t responded yet. A gentle nudge can often do the trick.

Step #5. Play by the Rules

It’s important to stay on the right side of the guidelines:

• Get Consent: Always ensure customers have opted in for communications.
• Avoid Incentives: Google frowns on offering rewards for reviews, so focus on earning authentic feedback.

Last thing: Always Measure Your Results

Track and analyze your campaign’s effectiveness to refine your strategies and boost your Google reviews.

Here’s what to monitor for better outcomes:

• Open and Click Rates: Are customers engaging with your emails or SMS messages?
• Response Rates: How many reviews are coming in compared to how many requests you’ve sent?
• Refine Your Strategy: If something isn’t working, tweak your timing, tone, or follow-up process.

Wrapping It Up

Getting Google reviews doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. 

With email and SMS campaigns, you can make the process easy, efficient, and even enjoyable for your customers. 

Just focus on providing value, asking at the right time, and keeping things simple.

If you’d like a simpler way to manage this process, we can help you do it with ease. 

At Smart Reviews, we’re here to make collecting and managing reviews straightforward, so you can focus on running your business. 

Let us take care of the details while you enjoy the results.