Getting Positive GBP Reviews

How to Get Positive Reviews on Your Google Business Profile

Want to attract more positive reviews for your GBP? Explore actionable insights on how quality service and SEO can make a real difference!

04th May 25 | 5 mins read

By Sannidhi

Many businesses struggle to receive positive reviews on their Google Business Profile (GBP; formerly Google My Business, or GMB) despite having excellent websites with high-quality content, user-friendly interfaces, fast page load speeds, and strong backlinks. They often wonder why customers don’t leave reviews, particularly positive ones. Regardless of the business type or scale—whether a storefront or an online service—the answer may surprise you. The major reason customers may not leave reviews, especially positive ones, is often overlooked. In this blog, I will share strategies that encourage positive GBP reviews and explain how Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can play a role in this process. 

Do You Need a Website to Receive Positive Reviews?

Let’s explore whether a website is necessary for obtaining reviews on your business profile. Some may argue that a website is essential, while others disagree. The truth is that while a website is not mandatory for receiving reviews on your GBP, having one can enhance visibility and credibility. I have encountered businesses without websites that still boast solid positive reviews.

For instance, a restaurant in my city (Hyderabad, India) has over 10,000 reviews with an average rating of 4.3 (see screenshot below).

I have blurred the business's identifiable details—main image and name—to avoid any perception of a sponsored post. This restaurant is so well-regarded that it does not offer discounts on food delivery apps. The food is exceptional, based on my personal experience, and I frequently recommend it to others. Notably, this business relies primarily on its GBP reviews and word-of-mouth for success, despite lacking a website or mobile app.

Conversely, during market research for my client, I came across a USA-based real estate agency with an impressive website that effectively showcased E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust) aspects, which are crucial for rankings in Google Search. However, I was shocked to find that the majority of its reviews on Google Maps were negative. This example illustrates that even with a well-designed website, a business can struggle to garner positive customer reviews.

These examples highlight that a website is optional for obtaining reviews, whether positive or negative. Remember, many customers may not visit your website; they might search for their needs on Google Maps, find your GBP, and read reviews directly that influence their decision to consider your business. So, what motivates customers to leave reviews—positive or negative? Let’s explore the key factors that influence customer feedback.

Key Factors That Influence Positive GBP Reviews

The most fundamental aspect of receiving positive reviews for your GBP is the quality of the products and services you offer. Everything else, including SEO, is secondary. Whether you have an outstanding website, engaging social media posts, extensive media coverage, or even spend on advertisements, none of these factors matter more than the quality of your offerings. 

As mentioned earlier, the restaurant I referenced received numerous reviews due to its high-quality food and service. Reviews are based on the actual products purchased and services rendered, not merely on website content—unless the content itself is the product consumed by your audience (e.g., travel blogs, news sites, recipe sites). To put it simply, customer reviews are primarily influenced by the experiences you provide.

From my personal experience, many businesses have requested positive reviews from me, but I was reluctant to provide them due to their mediocre offerings. I’m sure you’ve encountered similar situations. This raises an important question: What’s the point of asking for reviews if your customers are dissatisfied with your products or services, regardless of how impressive your website or storefront may be? 

While you may occasionally receive negative reviews—some genuine and others potentially fake—don’t lose hope. Continue asking for reviews, as positive feedback will outweigh negative ones and help showcase your overall rating in a favorable light. The freshness of positive reviews is also significant; the more recent of them your business has, the better the chances of attracting prospective customers who may leave their own positive feedback—again, contingent on your offerings.

How Can SEO Help in Gaining Positive Reviews on Your GBP?

Now that we understand the importance of quality offerings, let’s discuss how Search Engine Optimization can further enhance your ability to gain positive GBP reviews. SEO can improve your business's website rankings, click-through rates (CTR), and conversions, and it can also indirectly help you gain positive customer reviews. 

By effectively showcasing the E-E-A-T aspects of your business on your website and its associated platforms (like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc...), you can enhance your credibility and encourage reviews. Here are some strategies to consider: 

1. Highlight awards and recognitions: Don’t be shy about showcasing any accolades your business has received. Displaying awards can significantly build trust and attract attention. 

2. Showcase reviews from your GBP and other sources: Feature glowing testimonials prominently on your website and social media. Let your satisfied customers do the talking! 

3. Include media mentions: If your business has been featured in articles or news segments, share those links. Media coverage can lend credibility and draw in potential customers. 

4. Share pictures with customers or clients when possible: Visual content can create a personal connection. When customers see themselves represented, they’re more likely to engage and share their experiences. 

5. Feature videos of customers: Video testimonials can be particularly compelling. They add a personal touch and help potential customers relate to your brand on a deeper level.

For tips on how to get reviews, be sure to check out the official guidance provided by Google.

Conclusion

While SEO can enhance your visibility and attract potential customers, it can only do so much in building trust and confidence in your offerings. The key to receiving positive reviews on your Google Business Profile lies in the quality of your products and services. Focus on delivering exceptional experiences that leave a lasting impression on your customers.

When your offerings are truly outstanding, positive GBP reviews will naturally follow. Remember, satisfied customers are your best advocates, so strive to make every interaction a memorable one. By prioritizing quality, you’ll not only boost your reputation but also encourage more positive feedback on your Google Business Profile.

So, make sure your offerings are awesome.

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Image credit: Colorful wall and Woman eating food