How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Salon (Ethically)

Why Google Reviews Matter More Than Ever

When someone searches "salon near me," Google decides who shows up first. One of the biggest factors? Reviews.

The Stats:

• 91% of consumers read online reviews before visiting
• Businesses with 4+ stars get 32% more clicks
• Reviews account for 15% of local ranking factors

The Right Way to Ask for Reviews

Timing is Everything

The best time to ask is right after a positive experience:

• Client just complimented their hair
• They're taking selfies
• They've tipped generously
• They're rebooking enthusiastically

The Ask

Keep it simple and direct:

"I'm so glad you love your hair! Would you mind sharing that in a quick Google review? It really helps us out."

Don't say:

• "Can you give us a 5-star review?"
• "If you leave a review, I'll give you a discount"
• "We need reviews to beat [competitor]"

Making It Easy: The Review Link Strategy

Step 1: Create Your Direct Review Link

1. Search your business on Google
2. Click "Write a review"
3. Copy that URL (or use a URL shortener)

Step 2: Put It Everywhere

• Reception desk QR code
• Business card
• Email signature
• Post-appointment email
• WhatsApp follow-up message
• Your website
• Receipts

Step 3: Remove Friction

One click to review. Nothing more.

Automated Review Requests with Gloora AI

The most effective approach combines personal asks with automated follow-up:

Immediately after service: Personal ask from stylist

2 hours later: Automated WhatsApp: "Thanks for visiting! If you loved your experience, share it here: [review link]"

3 days later: If no review, gentle reminder

This system consistently generates 5-10 new reviews per week for active salons.

Responding to Reviews (ALL of Them)

Positive Reviews

Always respond within 24-48 hours:

"Thank you so much for the kind words, [Name]! We loved having you and can't wait to see you again. 💜"

Keep it personal. Never copy-paste the same response.

Negative Reviews

This is where you can shine:

1. Respond publicly, apologize sincerely
2. Don't get defensive or make excuses
3. Take the conversation offline
4. Try to make it right
5. If resolved, politely ask if they'd update the review

Example:

"Hi [Name], we're truly sorry your experience didn't meet expectations. This isn't the standard we hold ourselves to. I'd love to make this right—please reach out to me directly at [email]. – Sarah, Owner"

What NOT to Do

• Buying fake reviews (Google will penalize you)
• Reviewing your own business
• Having staff write reviews
• Offering incentives for reviews
• Filtering who you ask (asking only happy clients is fine, but don't discourage unhappy ones from the platform entirely)

Google's terms are clear. Violations can get your reviews stripped or business suspended.

Review Goals by Salon Size

Solo/Small Salon (1-3 staff)

• Target: 50+ reviews
• Velocity: 4-8 new reviews/month

Medium Salon (4-10 staff)

• Target: 150+ reviews
• Velocity: 10-20 new reviews/month

Large Salon (10+ staff)

• Target: 300+ reviews
• Velocity: 20-40 new reviews/month

Beyond Google: Other Platforms

While Google is king, also maintain presence on:

• Facebook
• Yelp (especially in the US)
• Industry-specific platforms
• Your booking system's review feature

Measuring Impact

Track monthly:

• Total reviews
• Average rating
• Review velocity (new reviews/month)
• Response rate
• Conversion from search to booking

Conclusion

Reviews are social proof in the digital age. A consistent strategy for generating authentic reviews will improve your visibility, build trust with potential clients, and ultimately drive more bookings.

Start today: Create your review link and ask your next happy client.