How to Get More 5-Star Google Reviews Without Feeling Awkward

It’s no secret that Google reviews can make or break your local business. But let’s be honest—asking for them can feel awkward.

You don’t want to seem pushy. You don’t want customers to think you’re begging for praise. And you definitely don’t want to annoy them after you’ve worked hard to provide great service.

Here’s the good news: There’s a way to get more 5-star Google reviews naturally, without feeling weird, and without pestering your customers. In fact, many customers are happy to leave a great review if you simply make it easy for them.

This guide will show you how.

Why Google Reviews Matter More Than Ever

Before we get into the “how,” it’s worth understanding why Google reviews are so important for your local business:

• They build trust. Most homeowners read reviews before hiring a contractor or local pro.
• They improve your local SEO. The more quality reviews you have, the more likely you are to show up in local search results and on Google Maps.
• They help you stand out. If your competitors have 15 reviews and you have 85, who do you think a homeowner will call first?
• They filter good customers. Customers who read your positive reviews come in with more trust and less price resistance.

In short, getting more 5-star Google reviews can help you get more (and better) customers without spending more on advertising.

Why Asking Feels Awkward

It often feels awkward to ask for a review because:

• You feel like you’re imposing.
• You fear the customer will say “no” or ignore you.
• You’re not sure when or how to ask.
• You don’t want to sound desperate.

The truth? It only feels awkward when you don’t have a system.

Once you create a simple, consistent review strategy, it becomes a natural part of your business process—and it stops feeling weird.

What a Great Review Profile Looks Like

To visualize your goal, here’s an example of what a strong Google Business Profile with 5-star reviews looks like:

When potential customers see a page like this, it immediately builds trust and confidence in your business.

A Simple System for Getting More 5-Star Reviews

Here’s a step-by-step system you can start using immediately:

1. Deliver a Review-Worthy Experience

Before you ask, earn it.

• Communicate clearly throughout the project.
• Show up when you say you will.
• Clean up after yourself.
• Solve problems quickly.
• Be friendly and respectful.

When you do these consistently, customers want to leave you a great review.

2. Ask at the Right Time

Timing is key. The best time to ask for a review is:

• Right after you’ve completed the job and the customer is expressing gratitude.
• When they say something like, “It looks great!” or “We love it!”

Example:

“I’m so glad you’re happy with your new deck. Would you mind sharing that in a quick Google review? It really helps us show others that we take care of our customers.”

When you ask in the moment, it feels natural, not awkward.

3. Make It Easy for Them

Don’t just say, “Can you leave me a Google review?” and leave them to figure it out.

Make it easy:

• Text them a direct link to your Google review page.
• Include a QR code on your invoice or thank you card.
• Email them a follow-up with a direct review link.

You can generate your Google review link here:
Create a link to get Google reviews

4. Use Simple Scripts

You don’t have to overthink what to say. Keep it short, friendly, and genuine.

In person:

“It would really help us if you could leave a quick Google review about your experience. It only takes a minute, and it helps people know they can trust us.”

In a text or email:

“Hi [Name], thanks again for choosing us for your [project]. If you’re happy with the work, would you mind leaving us a quick Google review? It helps us grow and helps other homeowners feel confident hiring us. Here’s the link: [Your Review Link] Thank you!”

5. Follow Up (Without Being Pushy)

People get busy and forget. A gentle follow-up can double your chances of getting the review.

Example:

“Hi [Name], just following up to see if you had a chance to leave a quick review. No rush, but it would mean a lot to us. Thank you!”

If they don’t respond after that, let it go. You’ve done your part.

Overcoming Common Objections

“What if they leave a bad review?”

If you’re delivering quality work, most reviews will be positive. A few negative reviews aren’t the end of the world, and they can make your positive reviews look more authentic.

If you do get a bad review:

• Respond calmly and professionally.
• Acknowledge their concern.
• Share how you’ve addressed it or would like to resolve it.

“What if I feel uncomfortable asking?”

Remember: you’re not asking for a favor. You’re asking for feedback that helps your business and helps future customers. Most happy customers are glad to help.

What Happens When You Make Reviews Part of Your Business?

When you consistently ask for and collect Google reviews:

✅ You build trust faster with potential customers.
✅ You stand out from competitors who don’t have reviews.
✅ You get more high-quality leads.
✅ You attract customers who value quality, not just the cheapest price.
✅ You grow your business without spending a fortune on ads.

Final Thoughts

Building a strong reputation online is one of the best investments you can make in your local business. Google reviews are free, powerful, and can give you an edge over your competition.

Start asking today, and you’ll thank yourself tomorrow.

Need More Local Marketing Tips?

If you want to learn how to use simple systems like this to get more leads and build your local business, check out The Local Creator Academy for step-by-step guides designed specifically for local contractors and service providers.

Rick Wedding

Since 1987, Rick Wedding has lived and breathed decks and outdoor-living construction—from span tables and footing depth to the evolution of composite decking—while managing territories across Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and the greater Midwest. 38 years on job sites and dealer yards gives him a rare, end-to-end view of how deck builders work, bid, and turn building materials into lifestyle spaces. In 2010 he shifted that expertise online, becoming the go-to strategist who turns contractor know-how into local-authority websites and high-converting content. Today, Rick couples that deep deck knowledge with practical AI workflows—voice-to-estimate sheets, photo-based material take-offs, and prompt libraries tailored to the outdoor living space. The result: builders cut hours of admin and lock jobs faster. Bottom line: Rick speaks two native languages—deck construction and artificial intelligence—and he translates between them so outdoor-living pros can win more work with less effort.