Why Are You Not Getting Google Reviews? 5 Reasons and Fixes for Your Business

Luis

April 20, 2025

I used to check my Google Business Profile daily, hoping for new reviews to boost my small business's credibility. Nothing. Crickets. It was frustrating—customers loved my service, but they weren't leaving reviews. Sound familiar?

If you're struggling to get Google reviews, you're not alone. Reviews are critical: 90% of customers read them before choosing a business Statista. Without them, you're losing trust and sales. So, why aren't you getting reviews? Small Business owners often miss simple fixes that can turn happy customers into vocal advocates. In this post, I'll uncover five reasons your business isn't getting Google reviews.

1. Low General Traffic to Your Business

If your business isn't seeing enough customers—online or in-store—you're missing opportunities for reviews. Foot traffic and website visits are the lifeblood of reviews; fewer visitors mean fewer chances for feedback.

How to Fix:

→Boost Online Presence: Use SEO to rank for local keywords like "best café in [City]."
→Run Ads: Geo-targeted Google Ads drive traffic fast.
→Engage on Social Media Platforms: Share customer stories on social media platforms to draw local attention.

2. Not Enough Physical Traffic to Your Google Business Profile

Even with steady foot traffic, many customers struggle to find your Google Business Profile (GBP). Think of an unoptimized GBP like a hidden storefront in a busy mall—people walk right past it without knowing it exists. I've worked with numerous businesses whose customers were eager to leave reviews but couldn't because their GBP was buried on page 2 or 3 of Google search results.

How to Fix:

→Optimize Your GBP: Add photos, hours, and a clear description. Use keywords like "salon reviews [City]."
→Promote It: Add a "Leave a Review" link on your website and email signatures.
→Friends and Family: Ask them to leave a review on your GBP and promote it on social media platforms.

3. Leaving Reviews Isn't Easy for Customers

If leaving a review feels like a chore, customers won't bother. Complex processes or unclear instructions deter even happy customers. I once visited a restaurant with amazing food but no clear "Rate Us" prompt—guess how many reviews they had? None.

How to Fix:

→Simplify the Process: Use a direct GBP review link on your website, receipts, or table cards.
→Train Staff: Ask staff to politely request reviews: "We'd love your feedback on Google!"
→Automate with SkyRocket Reviews: Send personalized review prompts after purchases.

4. You're Not Using QR Codes Effectively

QR codes are a game-changer for in-store businesses, but many owners skip them or use them poorly. A retail store I advised had a QR code hidden on a back wall—nobody scanned it! When placed on receipts and tables, their reviews jumped around 100%.

How to Fix:

→Create a QR Code: Use QRCode Monkey to link to your GBP review page.
→Display Prominently: Print QR codes on receipts, menus, or signage.
→Track Scans: Use Bitly to monitor scans and optimize placement.

5. No Follow-Up Emails or Messages

Customers often forget to leave reviews unless reminded. Without follow-ups, you're leaving reviews on the table. I learned this the hard way: after adding follow-up emails and messages to my businesses, reviews have significantly increased.

How to Fix:

→Send Timely Emails: Follow up 1-2 days after visits.
→Use SMS/WhatsApp: Text messages have a 98% open rate vs Email with around 20% average Open Rate(Emarsys)
→Automate with SkyRocket Reviews: Schedule personalized follow-ups.

Ready to Skyrocket Your Reviews?

Don't let missed reviews cost you sales. Start implementing these fixes today and watch your review count grow!