Get More 5-Star Reviews: Build Trust That Converts
93% of consumers read reviews before choosing a business. Here's how to build a review engine that drives bookings.
Why Reviews Are Your Best Marketing
Reviews are the modern word-of-mouth. Before booking with you, potential clients are reading what others say about your salon.
Review Statistics
Reviews also directly impact your Google ranking. More (and better) reviews = higher visibility in local search.
How to Ask for Reviews (Without Being Awkward)
Ask immediately after service, when they're admiring their new look. The mirror moment is your best friend. "You look amazing! If you love it, we'd really appreciate a quick review."
Send a direct link via text or email. QR codes at the register. The fewer clicks, the more reviews. Google has a simple link format you can share.
Every stylist should know how to ask naturally. Make it part of the checkout flow, not an afterthought. Consider small incentives for staff who generate reviews.
Send an automated text or email 2-4 hours after the appointment. "Hi [Name], hope you're loving your new look! If you have 30 seconds, a review helps us so much: [link]"
Review Request Scripts That Work
In-Person Script
"You look absolutely stunning! I'm so glad you love it. If you have a minute later, we'd really appreciate a Google review — it helps other people find us. I can text you the link?"
Text Message
"Hi [Name]! Thanks for visiting today. We hope you're loving your [service]. If you have 30 seconds, a review would mean the world to us: [link] 💜"
Email Follow-Up
"Subject: How was your visit, [Name]?
We loved having you in the chair yesterday! Your feedback helps us grow — and helps others discover their next favorite salon. Leave a review here: [link]"
Repeat Client
"Hey [Name], you've been coming to us for a while now and we so appreciate you! If you haven't already, would you mind sharing your experience? It really helps: [link]"
Where to Focus Your Review Efforts
Google (Priority #1)
Directly impacts local ranking. Most important for discovery. Focus 70% of effort here.
Yelp
Still relevant in many markets. Good for credibility. Focus 20% of effort.
Social proof for existing audience. Good for referrals. Focus 10% of effort.
Responding to Reviews (Good and Bad)
Every review deserves a response. How you respond matters as much as the review itself.
Responding to Positive Reviews
- • Thank them by name
- • Mention something specific from their visit
- • Invite them back
- • Keep it genuine, not robotic
Responding to Negative Reviews
- • Respond within 24 hours
- • Acknowledge their concern
- • Apologize for their experience
- • Take it offline (phone/email)
- • Never argue publicly
Monitoring and Managing Reviews
Review Management Checklist
- □Daily: Check for new reviews across all platforms
- □Within 24h: Respond to every review
- □Weekly: Analyze review trends and feedback themes
- □Monthly: Track review count and average rating
- □Quarterly: Address systemic issues mentioned in reviews
What Not to Do
Google detects and removes them. Can result in suspension. Not worth the risk.
Against most platform policies. "Free service for a review" is a violation.
Google specifically prohibits filtering who you ask for reviews.
You'll never win. Stay professional — potential clients are watching.
Review Benchmarks for Salons
| Rating | Reviews | Avg. Rating | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poor | Under 20 | Under 4.0 | Losing business to competitors |
| Average | 20-50 | 4.0-4.4 | Competing, but not standing out |
| Good | 50-100 | 4.5-4.7 | Building trust, driving bookings |
| Excellent | 100+ | 4.8+ | Dominating local search, premium pricing power |
Related Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
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