How to Get Your First 25 Google Reviews
Most service business owners know they need more reviews. The challenge is figuring out where to start.
The first 25 are usually easier to get than you think. You almost certainly already have satisfied customers who would help you — they just haven't been asked.
Step 1: Start With Customers You Already Know
Don't wait for future jobs to begin. Start with people you've already worked with.
Think about customers who complimented your work, customers who referred you to someone else, repeat customers, and anyone you had a solid working relationship with. Make a list of 25-50 people. You won't hear back from everyone, but you'll be surprised how many are willing to help.
Step 2: Send a Simple, Direct Message
Keep it short. Something like this works:
"Hi [Name], we really enjoyed working with you and wanted to ask a quick favor. Would you be willing to leave us a Google review? It helps our business a lot. Here's the direct link: [link]"
No pitch, no pressure. Just a genuine ask from someone they already know and trust.
Step 3: Always Use a Direct Review Link
Never send customers to search for your business themselves. Send them directly to your Google review page.
Every extra step is a chance for them to get distracted and never come back to it. Make it as frictionless as possible.
Step 4: Follow Up Once
A lot of reviews happen after the follow-up, not the initial ask. People intend to do it and just forget.
Send one friendly reminder after a few days. Keep it brief: "Just following up on that review — we'd really appreciate it if you have a minute." That's enough.
Step 5: Don't Stop at 25
Once you've reached 25 reviews, build a process that asks after every completed job. The businesses that build strong reputations don't stop at a milestone — they make it a consistent part of how they operate.
The Bottom Line
Your first 25 reviews can meaningfully change how new customers perceive your business. Start with the people you already have a relationship with, make the process easy, and build a habit that carries forward.
MarginCraft's Marketing Engine can automatically send review requests after jobs are completed so review growth becomes part of your regular process instead of something you remember to do only when business is slow.
See it in action
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Book a free demo and see how local service businesses use MarginCraft to stay organized and keep growing.
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