Local Business Reviews: Why They’re Important & How To Get Them

Still, waiting for customers to leave reviews? You might be missing out on one of the most powerful tools in your digital marketing toolkit.

Today, your online reputation is often a potential customer’s first impression. A few bad or worse, no reviews can lead them straight to your competitors.

• Do you feel awkward asking for reviews?
• Are you unsure where customers should leave their feedback?
• Do you think one or two reviews are enough?

The truth is that customer reviews shape consumer behaviour. Your online reputation speaks before you do, from Google star ratings to detailed testimonials. That’s why having a strong local review strategy isn’t optional—it’s essential.

At Make Me Local, we help small businesses like yours turn customer feedback into a powerful asset. Whether through Google review optimisation or online reputation management, we equip you with the tools to build trust and visibility.

Call us on 0800 772 0022 or email hello@makemelocal.com to get started. Your customers are ready to talk—let’s make sure the world hears them.

 

“Reviews don’t just build trust—they drive visibility, conversions, and local SEO success. Start collecting meaningful feedback and watch your business grow. Let Make Me Local craft a smart review strategy that builds trust and drives results.”

 

The Impact Of Reviews On Local Business Success

1. Online Reviews Influence Buying Decisions

Modern consumers rely heavily on reviews. Over 90% of customers read reviews before making a purchase. That means your reviews directly impact sales, enquiries, and website traffic.

Having a consistent stream of verified customer feedback gives your brand credibility. It’s not just about five stars—it’s about recent, relevant, and trustworthy user-generated content that shows others you’re worth choosing.

2. Boost Visibility With Local SEO Reviews

Reviews are a direct ranking factor in Google’s local algorithm. A solid Google review strategy helps improve your map pack rankings and organic local results. You gain an edge when your profile has more genuine reviews, especially with keywords and locations mentioned. If you’re struggling to rank, read our Local SEO basics guide to discover how reviews feed into broader SEO.

3. Build Trust With Star Ratings

A visible star rating on Google Search results can drastically increase your click-through rate. It’s a trust-building signal that can make or break a customer’s decision to click. Moreover, the star rating impact is powerful for mobile users searching “near me” services as well.

4. Encourage More Engagement With User Content

Customers love to share their experiences. You create authentic engagement by tapping into user-generated content like photos, testimonials, and videos. It’s content you didn’t have to produce, but it works powerfully in your favour. You can explore how customer engagement strategies help reinforce your online presence in our dedicated blog.

 

Practical Tips To Get More Reviews

1. How To Ask For Reviews

Asking for reviews doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Try:

• Sending a follow-up email after a purchase
• Including a review request in your thank-you page or invoice
• Using QR codes in-store or on packaging
• Asking verbally at the end of a successful service

Check our customer feedback guide for templates and suggestions that work.

2. Best Places To Collect Reviews

While Google is king, don’t neglect social media marketing platforms like:

• Facebook
• Trustpilot
• Yelp
• Industry-specific sites (like Checkatrade or Houzz)

Each plays a role in your online reputation management strategy.

Our reputation boost service can help you identify where you’re underperforming and build a more substantial presence.

3. What To Do About Negative Reviews

Negative feedback isn’t the end—it’s an opportunity. Respond professionally, acknowledge concerns, and offer a resolution. Your calm and helpful reply is a trust-building signal in itself.

Make Reviews Part Of Your Funnel

Add review requests to your email marketing, SMS follow-ups, and post-sale automation. The easier it is for customers to leave reviews, the more likely they’ll do it.

 

How Can Professionals Make Reviews Work for Your Business

You don’t need hundreds of reviews overnight—but you do need a plan. With the right professional support, you can:

• Increase customer trust
• Improve Google search rankings
• Drive more traffic to your site
• Build a brand that stands out locally

Let us help you create a review strategy that gets real results.

 

Choose Make Me Local And Create A Positive Online Reputation

At Make Me Local, we specialise in helping small businesses build trust and visibility online. Here’s why local businesses choose us:

• Custom-built websites optimised for local SEO
• Proven reputation boost service that drives honest feedback
• End-to-end Google review tips and strategies
• Transparent analytics and measurable growth
• Personalised, jargon-free support that makes a difference
• Integration of business trust signals into your online presence

Want a local agency that understands small businesses? Get in touch today. If you’re ready to build and manage a strong online reputation, call our Make Me Local experts today on 0800 772 0022 or email us at hello@makemelocal.com. Let’s discuss how we can help you grow your business with effective reputation management.