How to get more Google reviews for your trades business

When someone searches 'furnace repair Brampton' or 'plumber near me', Google's local results lean heavily on reviews: how many you have, how recent they are and what they say. The good news is that most happy customers are willing to leave a review. They just need to be asked at the right moment, with a link that makes it easy.

1. Get your direct review link

In your Google Business Profile, choose 'Ask for reviews' or 'Share review form'. Google gives you a short link that opens the review box directly. This one link removes most of the friction.

2. Ask the same day

The best time is a few hours after the job is done, when the customer has seen the result but hasn't moved on. A week later, the moment has passed.

3. Keep the request short

Thanks for choosing [Business] today, [Name]! If we did a good job, would you leave us a quick Google review? It really helps a small local business: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.

4. Ask everyone, the same way

Google's policies don't allow 'review gating', meaning only sending the link to customers you think are happy. Ask every customer. If someone wasn't happy, it's far better to hear it and fix it.

What not to do

• Don't pay for reviews or offer discounts or gifts in exchange.
• Don't write reviews for customers or post from staff accounts.
• Don't ask for reviews to be posted on-site from your own phone or tablet.
• Don't argue in public replies. Thank positive reviewers and respond calmly to negative ones.

5. Reply to every review

A short, personal reply shows future customers you care. Mention the job if you can, for example 'Glad the new water heater is working well, Sam'.

Scalemint's Google review requests send the right message after every finished job, so your reviews grow steadily without you having to remember.