Online reviews are one of the most effective tools for increasing visibility, building trust, and attracting new customers. According to Pew Research, 93 percent of U.S. adults say that online reviews influence their purchasing decisions. The Spiegel Research Center found that adding reviews can increase conversion rates by up to 270 percent, particularly for unfamiliar brands or higher-cost services. Harvard Business Review reports that a one-star increase in Yelp ratings can result in a 5 to 9 percent increase in revenue.
Despite these benefits, most small businesses do not take full advantage of this opportunity. Often, this is due to the lack of a clear, structured approach in place. This bulletin outlines a practical and research-backed method that encourages customers to leave honest reviews on platforms like Google and Facebook.
Why Reviews Matter
Google prioritizes businesses with frequent, high-quality reviews in local search results
Potential customers trust reviews as much as personal recommendations
Actively maintained review profiles show that a business is responsive and engaged
What You Should Avoid (According to the FTC and Google)
Do not offer incentives only for positive reviews
Do not pre-fill star ratings or suggest how many stars to choose
Do not solicit reviews from employees or create fake ones
What You Can Do
Ask all customers for their honest feedback
Offer a small thank-you for their time, regardless of whether their review is positive or critical
Provide a simple form with links to your review profiles
Include language that makes it clear you are seeking sincere feedback
Recommended Review System
Create a Review Form that includes:
A short introduction inviting honest input
Links to your Google and Facebook review pages
A free-response field for a testimonial
A checkbox to indicate whether the customer left a review
Clear language that any incentive is for their time, not for a positive review
Provide a Small Thank-You
A $10 Amazon or coffee gift card is usually enough
Send the thank-you to everyone who completes the form, not just those who leave a high rating
Optional Add-Ons
Include a “Review Us” link in your email signature
Mention your feedback form in follow-up emails after service is completed
Remind staff to share the form consistently with clients
How to Get Started
Risingline can help you implement this review strategy by setting up the process and handling the technical components. This includes creating a branded, secure form, embedding direct links to review platforms, and setting up simple tracking mechanisms. While we handle the setup, the success of the system depends on consistent participation from your team to share the form with clients and encourage feedback.
Typical rollout includes:
We build and configure the review form
We provide direct links and suggested messaging
Your staff introduces the form to selected clients after services are rendered
Reviews are tracked and monitored over time
If you’re interested in getting started or would like to discuss a tailored approach, we’re here to support you.
Notice: provided for informational purposes only; not legal, financial, or professional advice.
Notice: The information provided in this document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. All materials and guidance offered by Generose Corporation dba Risingline are subject to its Client Services Agreement and are provided without warranty as to accuracy, completeness, or applicability to any specific situation. While Risingline takes reasonable precautions to ensure the reliability of the information presented, compliance with regulatory requirements varies based on specific circumstances, jurisdiction, and evolving standards. Recipients are encouraged to conduct independent due diligence and consult with qualified professionals before implementing any recommendations. Generose Corporation dba Risingline expressly disclaims any liability for actions taken or not taken based on this document. Receipt of this information does not establish a client, advisory, or fiduciary relationship between Risingline and the recipient.