How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Beauty or Wellness Business

Why Reviews Are the New Currency for Med Spas?
In the beauty and wellness industry, glowing Google reviews are as good as gold. Med spa clients trust online reviews almost as much as personal recommendations – in fact, about 88% of consumers trust online reviews like word-of-mouth from friends. A high Google rating doesn’t just boost trust; it also drives more clicks and bookings. For example, one study found that improving your star rating from mediocre to excellent can increase clicks from Google by 25–39% (5-star businesses get ~39% more clicks than 1-star competitors).
In other words, a 4.7★ or 4.8★ rating isn’t just vanity – it directly leads to more people choosing your spa over others. Plus, Google’s own algorithm factors in review quantity and quality for local search rankings. This means the more positive, recent reviews you have, the higher you’re likely to rank for searches like “best med spa near me” or “top-rated salon in [Your City]”. In 2026’s competitive landscape, Google reviews are the new currency for med spas and salons – they fuel your local SEO, build instant client trust, and ultimately attract more bookings. It’s no longer optional to “have a few good reviews”; you need a strategy to consistently collect great reviews and use them to stand out.
When to Ask for a Review: Timing Is Everything
The best time to ask is when your client is happiest. Timing your review requests can make all the difference. For med spas and beauty clinics, capitalize on the post-treatment glow – literally and figuratively. For example, right after a client sees their fresh facial glow or enjoys their relaxing massage, they’re in a positive, grateful mood. This is the perfect moment to gently ask for a review while the delight is still fresh. In fact, experts suggest asking as soon as the appointment is completed in health & beauty services. If you wait days or weeks, the excitement may fade and clients might forget to follow through.
1️⃣ On-site, immediately after service: Train your front-desk staff or providers to ask in person at checkout if the client seems happy. A simple, genuine prompt like, “We’re so glad you loved your treatment! If you have a moment, we’d really appreciate you sharing that in a quick Google review – it helps other clients find us,” can work wonders. The client is still basking in the results (say, admiring their just-done Botox or hair color), making them more inclined to share positive feedback.
2️⃣ Within a few hours via text: If you didn’t ask in person, sending a follow-up text or email within an hour or two of the visit can be very effective. For instance, once a client leaves your spa, an automated text saying “Thank you for visiting [Spa Name]! We hope you loved your experience. If so, please let others know by leaving us a Google review [link]” catches them while they’re still thinking about their visit. Text messages have an open rate of about 98%, so timing a review request via SMS on the same day yields high visibility.
3️⃣ After “results” are visible (when applicable): Use discretion based on the service. If you run a medical aesthetics clinic where some treatments take a day or two to show full results (e.g. a chemical peel or injectables), it might feel more natural to check in a few days later. Ensure the client is happy with the outcome, then ask for the review. For example: “Hi Jane! It’s been a few days since your treatment – hope you’re loving the results. If so, it would mean a lot if you could share your experience in a Google review. Thanks for being a valued client!” This way, you’re asking at a moment when the client is appreciating the service outcome.
❌ What not to do: Don’t delay too long (or you risk the client’s enthusiasm cooling off or forgetting to review), but also don’t ask before the client has experienced the value. Avoid phrasing that seems desperate or pushy – for instance, never pressure a client who is still in discomfort or unsure about their results. And don’t bombard them with repeated requests (more on that later). Aim for that sweet spot: when the client is happy, grateful, and likely to recommend you. Studies show that customers are most willing to leave a review immediately after a positive interaction – the best timing is right after a successful interaction because fresh reviews not only capture genuine sentiment but also help your ranking (Google sees review recency as a signal). So, make review requests a standard part of your post-service routine at the ideal moment. Timing is everything!
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How to Ask for Reviews Without Sounding Pushy
Many spa owners feel a bit awkward about asking for reviews – but it doesn’t have to be cringey or salesy. The key is to keep it genuine, simple, and client-centered. Instead of “begging” for a five-star review, frame your ask around helping others and getting feedback. Here’s how:
Ask warmly and personally: Whether in person or via message, use a friendly, appreciative tone. For example, at the front desk you might say: “I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed your facial! It would help us a ton if you could share that in a quick Google review – so others who need a skin reset can find us too.” Notice this script thanks the client and emphasizes how their review helps people “like them” find the business. This feels much more natural than a hard sell. You’re essentially inviting them to support a small business they already like, rather than demanding a favor.
Be clear, but not demanding: There’s nothing wrong with a direct ask, as long as it’s polite. In follow-ups, don’t beat around the bush with vague hints; explicitly ask for a review in a courteous way. For instance, an email might say, “If you had a great experience, would you mind taking one minute to leave us a Google review? Your feedback helps us improve and helps others know what to expect.” Clients appreciate the honesty. Surveys show 86% of consumers are willing to write a review when asked nicely, so a straightforward request is often welcomed. Just avoid overly forceful language (“please, please give us 5 stars!!”) or any hint of a bribe (like offering a discount for a review – that’s against Google’s policies, which we’ll cover later).
Use “you” and focus on their experience: Make the request about sharing their story rather than helping your business. For example: “Your skin is glowing! Others would love to hear about what treatment you did. It would be awesome if you share a quick review about your experience at our spa.” Phrasing like “share your feedback” or “let others know about your results” keeps the focus on the client’s perspective. It feels less like you’re asking for a favor and more like you value their opinion.
Provide an easy path: One big way to not sound pushy is to make leaving a review ridiculously easy. If it takes only one click, the ask feels smaller. Say something like “I’ll text you a direct link to our Google review page to save you time – thank you so much!” Then follow through with that link (more on the tech to do this next). When clients don’t have to figure out how to review, your request feels helpful rather than burdensome. Compare these two asks from a customer’s point of view:
A: “Sure, you can leave us a review. Just search our spa on Google Maps, click on our listing, scroll to reviews and then click write a review…” (This is cumbersome 😓). Vs.
B: “Sure! Here’s a card with a QR code that goes right to our Google review form – just scan and drop a quick comment when you have a minute.” (This is easy 👍).
Clearly, option B doesn’t come off as pushy – it comes off as considerate, because you’re saving them effort .
Be sincere and gracious: However you phrase it, sincerity is key. Smile when you ask in person. In text, a little personalization can go a long way (like mentioning the exact service they got or thanking them for choosing you out of many options). The goal is to make the client feel good about helping you. Something as simple as “Thank you again for coming in today – it made our day to help you feel beautiful. If you can spare a moment to leave a review, we’d be so grateful,” can resonate because it’s honest and appreciative. You’re not just collecting stars; you genuinely value their feedback.
Pro tip: Have a few go-to scripts for different scenarios. For example, if a client is raving about their treatment results while still in the spa, train your staff to respond with something like: “I’m so happy we could help you. If you wouldn’t mind sharing a sentence or two in a Google review, that would help us a ton!”. On the other hand, if you’re following up via email, your script might differ (more formal greeting, include the link, etc.). We’ll provide specific templates in the next section – feel free to copy-paste and tweak them for your voice. The bottom line is: when you ask kindly and make it easy, clients typically don’t mind at all. In fact, many are happy to support their favorite local spa – sometimes all they need is a little nudge and a friendly ask.
Tech and Tools to Automate the Review Process (Hands-Free Methods)
Let’s face it – running a med spa or salon is busy. You might not always remember to ask every single client for a review. That’s where technology can be your best friend, automating the review request process so you get a steady stream of feedback without the manual legwork. Here are some tech-powered methods (including a few clever low-tech hacks) to make collecting reviews virtually hands-free:
Create a QR Code for Reviews: QR codes are everywhere now – and they’re perfect for bridging offline to online. Consider printing a nice little sign or card for your checkout desk, mirrors, or treatment rooms that says “Love your results? Scan to leave a review!” and include a QR code that leads directly to your Google review page. Clients can simply point their phone camera and be taken straight to the review form. For example, one salon printed “Review Us” cards with a QR code and a note that their feedback helps others find the business. It’s unobtrusive, yet effective. You can generate a Google review QR code easily (Google provides a share link for your Business Profile – you can turn that into a QR code using free tools). This way, even if you forget to verbally ask, the prompt is physically present. Some med spas place these at the front desk or even hand the client a card with their aftercare instructions – it gently reminds them to share their experience.
Use Direct Links and Shortlinks: If QR codes aren’t your thing, at least have a direct link to your Google review page handy. Google Business Profile lets you generate a short URL that customers can click to start a review. Customize this link (using a URL shortener like bit.ly with a custom alias, e.g., bit.ly/YourSpaReview) to make it look clean and trustworthy. This link can be used everywhere – on your website (“Leave a Review” button), in follow-up messages, even on your business card. By reducing the steps (searching, finding the review section, etc.), you significantly increase the chances a client will actually follow through. Think of it as removing friction: one click and they’re ready to write.
Automated Email and SMS Follow-ups: Perhaps the most powerful method is to set up an automatic review request after each appointment. Many modern spa software platforms (and dedicated review tools) allow you to trigger an email or text to clients a certain time after their visit. For instance, with the Workee spa platform, you can configure a workflow: Appointment completed → 2 hours later, send a “thank you & please review” text or email. This means you never have to remember – every client gets a polite nudge at the optimal time. This kind of automation is a game-changer: it ensures consistency (no client slips through the cracks) and it frees up your mental space. Consistency is key – if 100% of happy clients get a request, a good chunk will respond, swelling your review count steadily.
Leverage Your Booking System’s Capabilities: Check if your scheduling or CRM software has built-in review prompts. Many do! For example, some online booking systems will redirect clients to a “Thank You” page post-appointment that can include a review ask. Others send a follow-up survey email, where you can slip in a Google review link. If you use an all-in-one system (Workee, MindBody, Vagaro, etc.), explore the settings for “client communications” or “reviews/reputation management.” If it’s available, turn it on and customize the message. If not, don’t fret – you can use an external tool or integration. There are dedicated review generation tools that integrate with your appointment software to pull client contacts and shoot out review requests via text. The downside is some of these can be pricey for a small clinic – which is why newer solutions like Workee have built this functionality into a broader platform you may already use.
Smart Follow-up via AI assistants (Workee’s approach): One cutting-edge approach is using AI to optimize your review outreach. Workee, for example, has an AI-driven “Co-Pilot” that not only automates messages but can personalize them and time them smartly. After each visit, Workee can automatically send a friendly thank-you text with your review link, without you lifting a finger. Essentially, it’s like having a virtual assistant who knows when to ask and even how to phrase the request optimally. The personalization might include the client’s name and the service they got (making the message feel hand-written just for them). This level of tailoring can subtly boost response rates, because a message that says “Hi Sarah, we’re thrilled you loved your microdermabrasion treatment with us. It would mean a lot if you share a quick Google review about your experience” feels very personal. Using AI to handle review requests ensures you’re asking at the right time, every time (for example, skipping a request if a client no-showed or had a known issue, and adjusting timing if needed).
In-store Tech (Tablets or Kiosks): Some clinics set up a tablet at the reception where clients can leave feedback before they leave. Be careful with this – Google reviews must be left from the user’s own account (so a kiosk might violate terms if people log into their accounts on your device). A better approach is to use the tablet to collect an internal survey or testimonial, then later invite those who gave positive feedback to post it online. However, avoid “gating” (i.e. filtering who you ask based on sentiment – more on why that’s bad in the “What Not to Do” section). If you do use an in-shop device, perhaps use it to guide them to scan a QR code on their own phone or to send themselves the review link.
Integrate review asks into all communications: Think of every digital touchpoint as an opportunity. Your email signature can have a line like “⭐ Had a great experience? [Review us on Google]”. Your appointment confirmation or follow-up email can include a gentle reminder (“We thrive on your feedback – please let us know how we did on Google!”). Even social media can play a role: occasionally post on Instagram or Facebook celebrating a lovely review and saying “If you’ve visited us, we’d love to hear from you too!”. By weaving the request into various channels, you make review collection a continuous, low-pressure drumbeat.
Bottom line: Modern tools can remove the awkwardness and effort of asking for reviews by automating the process. Whether it’s an automatic text with a review link after each visit, a QR code on your counter, or an AI assistant nudging clients for feedback, take advantage of tech to make things easy. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also likely get many more reviews because you’re asking consistently and conveniently. And more reviews = more social proof for your spa’s future clients!
Templates You Can Steal: Email, Text & Social Review Request Scripts
Knowing when to ask is one thing – but you might also be wondering how exactly to phrase the request. To make your life easier, here are some ready-made templates for different scenarios. Feel free to copy-paste and customize these for your med spa or salon. (Pro tip: insert your Google review link where indicated, and tweak the tone to match your brand voice.)
📧 Email Template (Post-Visit Follow-Up)
Subject: Thank You from [Your Spa Name] – Share Your Feedback?
Hi [Client Name],
Thank you for visiting [Your Spa Name] for your [Service Name] this week! We hope you’re feeling absolutely [relaxed/refreshed/glowing] after your visit. It was our pleasure to have you.
If you have 60 seconds to spare, we’d be grateful if you could share your experience in a Google review. Hearing your feedback not only makes our day, but it also helps others know what to expect when looking for quality wellness services.
👉 [Click here to leave a Google review](YOUR REVIEW LINK) – it’s quick and easy, and it would mean the world to us.
Thank you so much for your support, and we hope to see you again soon!
Sincerely,
[Your Name] – Owner, [Your Spa Name]
(Feel beautiful, stay beautiful ✨)
💬 SMS/Text Message Template
Hi [Name]! Thank you for choosing [Your Spa Name]. We hope you loved your [service] today. 💖 When you have a moment, could you drop us a quick Google review? It helps other beauty lovers find us. Tap here: [Review Link] ← (thank you so much!)
(Keep this text short and sweet – SMS requests should feel like a casual friendly nudge. The little heart or sparkle emojis add warmth, but use whatever fits your vibe. And always include the direct link to make it one-tap for them.)
💻 Social/Instagram DM Template
Hey [Name]! 😊 It was so great seeing you at [Your Spa Name] yesterday. We’re thrilled you enjoyed your [service] – you were glowing when you left! If you don’t mind, we’d love for you to share a few words in a Google review about your experience. Here’s a direct link to make it easy: [Review Link].
Thank you for being such an awesome client! 🙏💕 Your support means a lot – and can help others discover us too.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need anything at all. Have a fantastic day!
(This can be sent as a direct message on Instagram or Facebook to a client, especially if that’s a common communication channel for you. It’s friendly and personal. Note the use of emojis and a warm tone appropriate for a beauty brand. Always thank them and make them feel that their voice matters.)
📜 In-Person Script (Front Desk)
Lastly, although not a “template” you copy-paste, here’s a quick in-person script you can practice with your team:
Staff: “I’m so happy to hear you loved your treatment today! We absolutely loved having you. If you have a moment when you get home, would you mind sharing that in a Google review? It really helps other people find out about our services. I can text you a direct link to make it super easy.”
Client: “Sure, I can do that!” 🤗
Staff: “Thank you so much! I’m sending the link to your phone right now. We really appreciate it – and we appreciate you!”
This kind of live ask, coupled with an immediate text link, feels natural and grateful. Adjust the wording to what feels right for you, but the structure is: compliment/thank the client, ask politely for the review, explain why it helps, and make it easy (offer to send link). When done with a smile, it doesn’t come off as pushy – it comes off as caring that they had a good experience and want others to know.
Feel free to adapt any of the above templates. The goal is to have a go-to phrase or message ready, so you’re never tongue-tied about asking for a review. By using these templates across email, text, and social, you’ll cover all your bases in reaching clients on the channels they use most.
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Responding to Reviews (With Grace and Professionalism)
Getting more reviews is only half the battle – how you respond to those reviews is equally important. Both positive and negative reviews deserve your attention, and handling them gracefully will boost your reputation even further. Remember: you’re not just replying to the reviewer; you’re also speaking to everyone else who sees your responses (which could be hundreds of potential clients). In fact, 97% of people who read reviews also read businesses’ responses to reviews, so your replies matter for demonstrating professionalism. Here’s how to tackle it:
Respond to positive reviews with gratitude and specifics: When a happy client leaves a 5-star review, don’t just say “Thanks.” Take a moment to personalize your response. Thank them by name if possible, acknowledge what they liked, and reinforce the positive. For example: “Thank you Samantha for the wonderful review! 😊 We’re thrilled to hear you loved your hydrafacial and that Jenna made you feel so comfortable. Helping you glow is why we love what we do! We can’t wait to see you again – you’re absolutely a part of the [Spa Name] family. 💕” This kind of response shows warmth and that you remember the client (mentioning the service or staff). It also sneaks in a bit of marketing (highlighting what service they did, which others will see). Keep it brief, cheerful, and genuine.
Pro tip: using keywords in responses (like “hydrafacial” or “med spa in [City]”) can subtly help your SEO too, but only do so in a natural way. The main goal is to show any reader that you appreciate your clients deeply.
Address negative reviews promptly and professionally: Eventually, it happens – an unhappy client or a less-than-perfect review. Take a deep breath and approach these as an opportunity to showcase your customer service. First, respond quickly (ideally within a day or two). A prompt reply shows you care and may prevent the issue from escalating. Begin by apologizing for their experience (even if you disagree, you can say “I’m sorry to hear you left feeling that way”). Then, take the conversation offline if possible: encourage them to contact you directly so you can make it right. For example: “Hi John, thank you for your review. I’m truly sorry to hear you were disappointed with your appointment. This is definitely not the experience we want for our clients. I’d love the chance to make this right for you – would you be willing to contact me at [personal email/phone] so we can discuss a solution? Your satisfaction is our top priority.” This response hits several marks: it’s calm, non-defensive, and focused on resolution. Importantly, it also signals to others reading that you take feedback seriously and will go the extra mile to fix issues. Never get into a public argument or blame the client – that will only make you look worse. If the review was a misunderstanding or contains false info, you can politely correct any factual inaccuracies after apologizing (e.g., “I’m sorry you felt your session was short; our records show you did receive the full 60 minutes, but I apologize if it felt rushed.”). Always end by inviting them to talk one-on-one. Often, a dissatisfied client will either calm down after your response or even update their review once you resolve the issue. In fact, responding to a negative review professionally can sometimes turn that client into a loyal one if you resolve their concern – it shows you care.
Be consistent – reply to all reviews if you can: Yes, it can be time-consuming, but the effort is worth it. Replying to every review (good or bad) sends a strong signal that you are engaged and customer-focused. Potential clients notice this. 45% of people are more likely to visit a business if it responds to negative reviews – that’s almost half your prospects giving weight to your responses. Even a simple “Thank you so much!” on a positive review is better than silence. For negative ones, as we discussed, a thoughtful response can actually increase conversions. (Fun fact: businesses that increased their review response rate from 10% to 30% saw an 80% boost in conversions on average – likely because people trust them more.) If you have dozens of reviews coming in, prioritize at least the newer ones or any that have detailed comments. The public nature of Google reviews means your replies become part of your online presence. Think of it as free space to showcase your brand’s voice and values.
Have a few response templates on hand: Just like asking for reviews, responding can be made easier with some ready phrases. For positive reviews, your template might be: “Thank you [Name] for the [kind words/lovely review]! We’re so happy you enjoyed [service]. [Technician/Staff] loved working with you – you absolutely made our day. Hope to see you again soon! 💖” For negative: “Hi [Name], thank you for your feedback. We’re sorry to hear about [issue]. This isn’t the norm for us and we want to make it right. We’ll be reaching out to you personally, or please contact us at [contact] so we can resolve this. Thank you for giving us the chance to improve.” Adjust based on the situation, but having a skeleton to follow ensures you cover the bases even if you’re feeling emotional about a critique. Always keep it professional, polite, and solution-oriented. No matter how unfair a negative review might seem, take the high road in your response – remember, it’s as much for future readers as for the original reviewer.
Leverage good reviews in your replies: When someone leaves a glowing review highlighting something specific (say, they loved the ambiance or a certain product), you can subtly market those points in your response. “Thank you for mentioning our décor – we put a lot of love into making the spa feel relaxing for guests like you!” or “So glad you enjoyed the Vitamin C serum in your facial – it’s one of our favorites for that post-facial glow.” This not only shows you read their review carefully, but it also reinforces those positives for anyone else reading.
In summary, responding to reviews is your chance to continue the conversation and show exceptional client care. Always be timely, thankful, and tactful. By doing so, you build even more trust. Prospective clients browsing your reviews will see a business owner who is engaged and caring, which can tip the scales in your favor. And don’t dread negative reviews – handle them with grace, and they can actually become a positive story about your customer service. (Plus, a mix of reviews with professional responses can make your overall profile look more trustworthy than a perfect 5.0 with no feedback – people know real businesses aren’t perfect!). So embrace the feedback loop: get reviews, respond to them, learn from them, and watch your reputation soar.
Dealing with Google Review Challenges (Spam, Gating, and Other Issues)
As you actively gather more Google reviews, you might encounter some bumps along the way. Here’s how to handle common issues and pitfalls while staying on the right side of Google’s rules:
Fake or spam reviews: It’s frustrating, but sometimes businesses get hit with a fake review (from a competitor or a malicious troll) or an irrelevant spam review. The good news is Google has policies against this. If you spot a review that is clearly not from a real client (e.g., you have no record of them, or it’s gibberish/promotion), you can flag it for removal in your Google Business Profile dashboard. Provide a brief explanation if possible. Google may take a few days, but if it violates guidelines (hate speech, advertising, personal rant not about your business, etc.), it often gets removed.
Pro tip: Rally your regular clients or staff to also flag the same review – multiple flags might get quicker action. In your response to a fake review, you can also politely state: “We don’t have any record of you as a client, and this comment doesn’t describe our services. We take feedback seriously, so if you were a client, please reach out to us to discuss – we suspect this review may be mistaken or spam.” This way others see your side of the story even if the review stays up. Don’t panic – one fake negative review among many positives won’t destroy your rating, especially if you respond professionally.
Negative reviews that seem unfair: Sometimes a real client leaves a harsh review that you feel is unjustified or one-sided. Resist the urge to lash out. Follow the response steps above. If the review contains false information that violates Google’s policies (like accusing your business of illegal activity, or using profanity), you can also flag it. But if it’s just an opinion you disagree with, you likely have to live with it – and respond with grace. Your thoughtful response is more important than the review itself in many cases. Potential clients often give leeway when they see a business owner handling a tough review in a classy way.
Review gating (Don’t do it!): Review gating means only encouraging happy customers to post public reviews and diverting unhappy ones to a private feedback form. While it might sound tempting (who wouldn’t want only 5-star reviews out there?), it’s explicitly against Google’s guidelines since 2018. Google wants authentic, unbiased review profiles – and the FTC in the US also views review gating as deceptive. Companies caught doing it can face penalties or fines (up to $44,000 per violation under the Consumer Review Fairness Act). More practically, if Google suspects you’re cherry-picking reviews (say, using software that pre-screens sentiment), they could suspend your Business Profile or delete reviews. It’s not worth it. Avoid any process that says “Rate us internally first, and only those who rate 5 stars get the Google link.” Instead, ask all customers equally. Embrace negative feedback as a chance to improve. A few 4-star reviews or even the occasional 3-star actually make your profile more credible (remember, consumers trust an aggregate in the 4.2–4.8 range more than a “too good to be true” 5.0). So don’t gate – play it straight. If you’re worried about bad reviews, focus on fixing the underlying issues and encourage unhappy clients to talk to you (so maybe they won’t vent online). But do not systematically suppress or filter reviews – it’s risky and unethical. As Google and the FTC put it: ask for feedback from all customers, don’t only ask those you think will be positive.
Incentives for reviews: Along the same lines, don’t offer bribes for reviews – e.g., “10% off if you leave us a 5-star review!” This is against Google’s policy too. While it might get you a few quick reviews, if those reviewers mention they got an incentive, Google might remove them. Plus, it can come off as disingenuous to savvy consumers. You can encourage reviews by highlighting how it helps or by making it fun (like a social media shoutout to reviewers, or a sincere thank-you note), but no explicit rewards for a review. One workaround some businesses use is a general loyalty program or entry into a raffle for all feedback (whether private or public) – but tread carefully. The spirit of the rule is to let reviews occur organically, not as transactions. Focus on providing such great service that people want to rave about you.
If you get a sudden influx of reviews: Perhaps you ran a successful campaign and reviews are pouring in. Great! But note that a sudden spike can sometimes trigger Google’s spam detection, especially if many reviews happen in one day or from people who haven’t left reviews before. To avoid issues, don’t ask hundreds of people at once in the same day (pace it out), and ensure each client writes their review on their own device/network (e.g., don’t have 10 people submit reviews using your spa’s Wi-Fi in a short span – that looks fishy to Google’s filters). If Google withholds some reviews from showing, don’t panic – they often appear after a short delay once verified.
Getting a review removed (the right way): Outside of flagging spam or policy violations, there isn’t a magic “remove review” button for legitimate negative reviews. Beware of any service that claims they can “remove bad reviews” for you – they often use shady tactics or violate policies. The best approach for a truly problematic review (say, it’s defamatory or clearly not about your business) is to report it through Google My Business support channels and also respond publicly. Google will decide if it stays or goes. Focus your energy more on burying bad reviews with good ones by ramping up your great review acquisition, rather than trying to scrub the internet.
Legal issues: In rare cases, businesses have sued reviewers for defamation – but this is almost always a bad idea for a small business. It draws more attention to the bad review and makes you look antagonistic. Save legal action for only the most extreme, false, malicious cases (and even then, consult carefully). Generally, it’s better to resolve things amicably. If a review is unfair but not removable, you can always post a calm response and then ask loyal clients to post some new positive reviews to balance things out.
Keep an eye on your reviews: Make it a habit to monitor your Google reviews regularly. You can get email alerts from Google when new reviews come in – enable those notifications so you never miss one. Timely awareness means timely responses. Plus, by reading all your reviews, you might spot trends (e.g., multiple people mention the front desk wait time) that you can act on to improve your business. Show your team both the praise (to boost morale) and the critiques (to fix issues). In short, treat your Google reviews like a dynamic conversation about your business – stay engaged with it.
The takeaway: Stay honest and transparent in your review strategy. Don’t game the system – Google is smart and clients are perceptive. By handling negatives with professionalism, avoiding shady practices like gating or fake reviews, and continuously encouraging authentic feedback, you’ll build a rock-solid online reputation. It’s far better to have 95 reviews with an average 4.7 and a couple of thoughtful low-star responses, than to attempt some trick for a perfect score and risk losing credibility or being penalized. Keep it real, keep it ethical, and you’ll reap the long-term rewards of consumer trust.
Turning Reviews Into Marketing Gold
Congratulations – you’re collecting a healthy number of Google reviews! Now don’t let that awesome feedback just sit on Google. Repurpose those reviews as marketing material to attract even more clients. In the beauty and wellness space, social proof is everything. Here are creative ways to turn your reviews into an asset across your marketing channels:
✅ Social Media Shout-outs: Showcase your best reviews on your social platforms. For example, make “testimonial posts” featuring a short quote from a client review, paired with a nice client photo or an image of your spa. A post might say: “‘Best med spa experience ever! My skin has never felt so good.’ – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Review by Sarah H.” Add a friendly caption like “Thank you, Sarah, for the wonderful review! We’re blushing ☺️💖.” This not only fills your social feed with positive content but also encourages others to chime in. You can even create an Instagram Story highlight for “Client Love” where you regularly add new review shout-outs. Sharing reviews on Facebook or Instagram also subtly reminds your followers who haven’t reviewed you yet to maybe go ahead and do so. Post a screenshot of your best review and ask followers to leave their own feedback – a great engagement tactic. Just be sure to get permission if you’re using a client’s full name or photo alongside a review (or stick to first name, last initial for privacy).
Pro tip: Tools like Canva have pre-made testimonial templates to make these posts look stylish.
✅ Embed reviews on your website: Your website is often the first impression for potential clients – reinforce trust by displaying real client reviews there. Create a dedicated “Reviews” or “Testimonials” page on your site that pulls in your Google reviews. This could be as simple as copy-pasting a few of the latest 5-star reviews (with the client’s name or “Google User” and date for authenticity). Even better, use a plugin or widget that automatically updates with new Google reviews. There are free tools that can fetch and display your Google Business reviews in a dynamic feed on your site. Not only does this show fresh content to visitors, but those review texts are often keyword-rich (clients mentioning your services, city, etc.), which can give you an SEO boost. Having dozens of glowing reviews on your own site can be the deciding factor for someone who’s on the fence about booking. It’s like having mini case-studies of happy clients front and center. Also, consider sprinkling short review blurbs on various pages: e.g., on your homepage, highlight “★ Rated 4.9 on Google – See what our clients are saying!” and include a rotating carousel of review snippets.
✅ Use reviews in email marketing: When you send out newsletters or promotional emails, throw in a “Recent Client Spotlight” featuring a quote from a 5-star review. For instance, if you’re promoting a new laser treatment, and you happen to have a great review about that service, include it: “I was nervous to try laser hair removal, but the team at XYZ MedSpa was incredible – and the results are amazing! – 5⭐ Google Review from Emily”. This can boost conversion by showing real satisfaction behind the service you’re marketing. It also reinforces to your email subscribers (many of whom may be past or potential clients) that your spa is consistently delivering excellence.
✅ Turn reviews into video testimonials: This takes a bit more effort but can be powerful. Identify a few clients who left stellar reviews and who you suspect might be camera-friendly (or just ask generally on social media if any happy clients would share their experience on video). Record short testimonial videos – even 30 seconds each – where they basically speak what they wrote in their review and maybe add more detail. Videos of actual clients talking about their glowing skin or how your massage helped their wellness can be incredibly authentic and persuasive. You can share these videos on your website, YouTube, social media, or even play them on a loop on a screen in your spa’s waiting area. Video testimonials build a human connection that written words sometimes can’t. If live client videos aren’t feasible, another idea is to create a simple animated slideshow of review quotes set to calming music, perhaps with before-and-after images (for med spas, visuals of results are gold). There are apps that can turn quotes into attractive motion graphics. The idea is to make your reviews multi-media.
✅ In-spa displays: Leverage your physical location too. You could frame a “Review of the Month” printout and hang it at reception. Or have a digital photo frame that slides through recent reviews. When new customers walk in, seeing evidence of others’ satisfaction can immediately build trust. It’s like having dozens of people vouching for you as they walk through the door.
✅ Use Workee to add reviews on your booking pages: If you’re using Workee for your booking site or client portal, see if they offer a way to showcase reviews there. Workee’s platform is all about client experience – it likely has an option to display testimonials or pull in your Google rating as a badge on your booking page. At minimum, you can manually add a section like “⭐ 4.9 average from 150+ Google Reviews” on your Workee-powered booking site. Future clients scheduling appointments will see that and feel reassured. (If you’re not on Workee, many booking systems or website builders have embeddable review sections too.)
✅ Leverage reviews in advertising: If you run ads on Google or social media, consider incorporating your great rating or a quick quote in the ad creative. For example, a Google search ad can include “★★★★★ 150+ 5-Star Reviews” as an ad extension or within the copy. Facebook Ads could use an image that literally screenshots a 5-star Google review as the visual – that catches eyes and instantly signals quality. Any marketing channel can benefit from the voice of your happy customers.
✅ Turn high-star reviewers into brand ambassadors: Identify clients who have left you not just a 5-star, but also a glowing paragraph. These are your superfans. You can engage them further – maybe invite them to try a new service at a discount, knowing they might spread the word. They’re likely already talking you up to friends. You could even feature a mini interview with them on your blog (“Client Spotlight: How Jane achieved her skincare goals at our clinic”). With their permission, of course. The idea is to celebrate your loyal clients and by extension show prospects how wonderful your client relationships are.
One caution: Always maintain privacy and courtesy. If a review mentions a sensitive treatment (like something medical or personal) and you want to share it, be sure to anonymize if needed. Most Google reviews are public, so quoting them is fine, but if you’re going to use a client’s full name or photo in marketing, get a quick written OK. Generally, people love being showcased, but it’s good practice to ask.
By amplifying your best reviews across multiple channels, you squeeze maximum value out of each kind word a client shares. It creates a virtuous cycle: someone sees a rave review on your Instagram, it reinforces their decision to book, they have a great experience, they leave their own Google review, which you then share as well. Your “review voice” gets louder and louder, attracting new clients who already feel they can trust you. In the med spa and beauty world, trust and word-of-mouth are everything – and a smart review marketing strategy is like word-of-mouth on steroids. So go ahead and brag (humbly) about those 5 stars ⭐ – you earned them, and they’ll help bring in even more business.
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What Not to Do When Collecting Reviews
We’ve covered a lot of proactive strategies, but it’s equally important to know the pitfalls to avoid. Missteps in review management can hurt your reputation or even get you in hot water with Google. Here are the big “don’ts”:
❌ Don’t try to cheat or buy reviews: It might be tempting to quickly boost your rating by asking all your family and friends to write reviews or even paying for fake reviews – but resist that urge. Not only can fake reviews be spotted by savvy consumers (and they will call you out), Google’s algorithms are pretty good at detecting inauthentic review patterns. If they suspect you’re posting fake positive reviews, they can remove them or penalize your listing. Plus, in some jurisdictions posting fake reviews is against the law. The risk far outweighs the benefit. Focus on getting real reviews from real clients, even if it’s slower. Authenticity builds long-term trust; fake reviews, if discovered, can permanently damage your credibility.
❌ Don’t ignore your reviews: A bunch of unanswered reviews – especially negative ones – gives the impression you don’t care. As discussed, make sure you’re responding. Ignoring reviews is a lost opportunity to engage with your customer base and shape the narrative. Prospects might interpret no response as complacency. Even a simple “Thanks!” on a positive review or “We hear you” on a negative goes a long way. So, carve out time each week (or set up notifications) to check and respond. It shows you’re active and attentive.
❌ Don’t argue publicly or get defensive: We touched on this, but it’s worth reiterating. If you get a critical review, never start an online back-and-forth trying to prove the customer wrong. That’s a battle you can’t win in the court of public opinion. For example, a defensive reply like “This isn’t our fault, it was your behavior…” will only make you look worse. Stay professional. Other readers don’t know the full story – they’re judging how you handle it. Always take the high road in public, and if needed, have the detailed discussion in private.
❌ Don’t offer incentives in exchange for positive reviews: As we explained in the review gating section, giving discounts, freebies or special treatment in return for a review (especially a positive one) is against Google’s terms. Also, don’t run contests or raffles that specifically require leaving a positive review as entry. If you want to do a raffle around feedback, make it about completing a survey or generally supporting you, without saying “must give 5 stars.” It’s a subtle line, but important. Google actively discourages this practice to keep reviews impartial. Beyond the rules, incentivized reviews also come off as less credible to outsiders (“Did they only say that because they got 50% off?”). You want reviews to be perceived as genuine.
❌ Don’t overwhelm clients with requests: Persistence is good, pestering is not. If you’re automating, ensure you’re not bombarding people. For example, don’t email, text, and call the same person all in one day about a review. Choose one primary channel (whatever your client demographic responds to best). It’s fine to send a single follow-up if someone didn’t respond the first time (e.g., a second gentle reminder a week later), but after that, let it go. You don’t want a client to feel harassed. Also, space out your asks. If a client visits you weekly, you shouldn’t ask them for a review after every appointment! One review request per client in a several-month span is enough unless that person has multiple distinct experiences to talk about. Use common sense; put yourself in their shoes.
❌ Don’t forget the basics (verify your Google Business Profile, etc.): Before embarking on a review campaign, make sure you’ve covered the prerequisites. Your business should be properly listed on Google (Google Business Profile verified), so that customers can actually find and review you easily. Also, if your category or industry has any special guidelines (for example, healthcare-related reviews might have HIPAA considerations – a med spa should be careful not to solicit content that violates patient privacy), be mindful of those. Essentially, get your Google house in order – correct name, address, phone, and category – so when the reviews come, everything is smooth and legit.
❌ Don’t obsess over a single bad review: It’s going to happen eventually – you get a 1 or 2-star review that drags your perfect 5.0 to a 4.8. Take a deep breath. It’s not the end of the world! In fact, as we mentioned earlier, a couple of less-than-perfect reviews can make your profile more believable. The worst thing to do is panic or react in a way that draws more attention to it (like a defensive rant or pleading with the person publicly). Handle it calmly, learn any lesson from it, and focus on getting more positive reviews to drown it out. One bad review only defines your reputation if you don’t have enough good ones. So see it as motivation to double down on your review acquisition (and service improvement).
❌ Don’t break confidentiality or professionalism in responses: When responding to reviews (especially negative ones), never disclose private client info or specifics that aren’t appropriate. For example, if someone complains vaguely, don’t reply with “I see you actually purchased a Groupon and showed up 20 minutes late…” even if true – that could violate privacy or just make you look petty. Similarly, for med spa treatments, keep medical details private. A good rule: your response should be something you’d be comfortable showing to any future customer (or even a regulator). Keep it courteous and general; invite a private follow-up for specifics.
By avoiding these missteps, you’ll keep your review strategy on the up-and-up and maintain the goodwill you’re working so hard to build. In essence, do the opposite of these “don’ts”: be honest, be engaged, be courteous, and let the quality of your service speak through authentic client voices. The good news is, if you’re delivering great experiences (which, as a dedicated beauty/wellness professional, you likely are), the positive reviews will flow and far outweigh any negatives. Just steer clear of shortcuts that seem too good to be true – they usually are.
How Workee Makes Review Collection Effortless (Ask at the Right Time, Every Time)
We’ve sprinkled mentions of Workee throughout this guide – now let’s talk specifically about how Workee can help you turbocharge your Google reviews (while simplifying your life). Workee is an all-in-one booking and client engagement platform designed for med spas, salons, and wellness providers. One of its superpowers is automating your client follow-ups, including review requests, in a smart way. Here’s what Workee can do to ensure you consistently get more reviews without even thinking about it:
Automatic, perfectly-timed review requests: With Workee, you can set it and forget it. The system will automatically send a personalized thank-you email or text after each appointment – and it includes your Google review link. For example, an hour after a client’s visit, Workee can text: “Hi Jane, thanks for visiting [Spa Name]! We hope you loved your facial. 💕 If you have a moment, please let others know about your experience: [Google Review Link]. Thank you!” You can customize the message, but the beauty is that Workee handles the sending every single time. No more forgetting to ask or manually messaging people. This consistency can dramatically increase your review count. And it’s not just a blunt blast – Workee’s AI can detect context (e.g., if an appointment was marked as a no-show or cancelled, it can skip the review ask to avoid awkwardness).
Smart follow-up and reminders: If a client doesn’t click the review link, Workee can gently remind them a few days later. It won’t spam them, but a one-time polite reminder can nudge those who intended to review but got busy. Workee basically acts like your personal follow-up assistant, ensuring no good opportunity slips by. As noted earlier, this kind of systematic follow-up is something even big brands use to get tons of reviews – now you have that power too, without needing an enterprise team.
Personalization that feels human: Workee can merge in the client’s name, the service they had into the review request message. This level of detail makes clients feel the request is uniquely for them (not a mass blast), which can improve response rates. For instance, “Hi John, we hope you’re enjoying your massage therapy session results with Kelly from yesterday…” – it reads like a one-on-one note. Personal touches = higher likelihood of action.
AI insights and suggestions: Workee’s AI Co-Pilot doesn’t stop at sending review texts. It actually analyzes your overall booking and feedback patterns to give you advice. For example, it might notice you haven’t gotten any new reviews in a while and suggest ramping up requests, or it might highlight that clients who book a certain service are very likely to give 5-star reviews – insight you can use to focus marketing on that service. It’s like having a little consultant in your software that’s constantly thinking of ways to boost your reputation. As we saw, Workee can even alert you to clients who haven’t returned in a while and prompt you to engage them – indirectly, every happy returning client is another chance at a review, so it all feeds into the same growth loop.
No awkwardness, no extra apps: Perhaps the best part is that Workee bakes the review process right into your normal workflow. You don’t need a separate review platform subscription (saving you money and complexity). The review request just rides along naturally with appointment follow-ups. It feels like a seamless extension of your customer service. You can concentrate on providing a great experience in person, and trust that Workee will handle the polite ask afterward. For many spa owners, that’s a relief – it removes the mental load of remembering to ask, and the potential awkwardness of doing it face-to-face in every situation. Workee basically says “I got you” – every client will be kindly asked at the optimal time.
Workee helps with other follow-ups too: As a side benefit, Workee’s automated follow-up system can also send “it’s time to rebook” reminders, referral invitations, or post-care instructions. So not only are you getting reviews, you’re also nurturing repeat visits and referrals on autopilot. It’s an ecosystem that fuels itself: More happy visits → automated review asks → more reviews → more new clients find you → they book (via Workee) → they get follow-ups → they return and review… and so on. Workee is the engine keeping this cycle running smoothly.
All of this is done in a way that’s friendly and not salesy. The platform is designed with small business owners in mind, so it’s straightforward to set up. You decide what the review request says and when it sends, and Workee takes it from there. By using a tool like this, you’re essentially implementing all the best practices we discussed (timing, ease, consistency, personalization) without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a dedicated marketing assistant focused on growing your Google review presence – except it’s software working 24/7 for you.
To sum up: Workee helps you ask for reviews at the right time, every time – automatically. It ensures no happy client slips through the cracks, and it helps turn each client’s experience into public social proof for your business. For a med spa or beauty clinic aiming to shine online, it’s a no-brainer addition to your tech stack.
Ready to supercharge your reputation? Workee makes it easy:
✅ Book a free audit — we’ll show how to increase your bookings in 30 days (with no hard sell, just actionable tips tailored to your business).
✅ Try Workee: Smart follow-ups + reviews without awkward asks. Experience how AI can transform your client communications.
✅ Don’t leave reviews to chance — Workee automates it for you, so you can focus on what you do best (making clients feel gorgeous!), while the reviews roll in.
By implementing the strategies in this guide – and leveraging tools like Workee to save time – you’ll be well on your way to becoming the top-rated, most trusted med spa or salon in your area. Here’s to seeing your Google review count (and your bookings) climb sky-high in 2026! 🚀
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You may also be interested in:
25 Email & Text Message Templates to Rebook No-Shows and Lost Clients at Your Med Spa
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Why More Med Spas Are Switching to Online Booking (and Should You?)
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get more Google reviews for my med spa?
To get more Google reviews for your med spa, ask clients at the right time — typically right after their appointment when they’re most satisfied. Use automated follow-ups via email or SMS, provide a direct review link or QR code, and personalize your ask. Tools like Workee can automate review requests and send smart reminders so you never miss an opportunity. Always make it easy for the client and be genuine in your request.
When is the best time to ask clients for a Google review?
The best time to ask for a Google review is immediately after the client’s appointment, when they’re feeling relaxed, happy, or excited about their results. You can ask in person at checkout, send a follow-up text 1–2 hours later, or automate a review reminder with your booking system. Timing matters — don’t wait too long, and don’t ask before the client has experienced results.
What’s the easiest way to ask for a review without sounding pushy?
Keep it simple and human. Use friendly scripts like: “We’re so glad you loved your visit! If you have a minute, we’d appreciate a quick Google review — it helps others find us.” Avoid sounding robotic or salesy. Always provide a direct link or QR code so clients don’t have to search. With tools like Workee, review requests feel personal and are automatically sent at just the right time.
What tools can I use to automate Google review requests?
There are several tools that help automate review requests for beauty and wellness businesses. Workee sends personalized review texts/emails after each appointment. Automation ensures consistency and increases your review volume without manual work.
Can I ask for a Google review via text message?
Yes, asking for a review via SMS is one of the most effective ways to get responses. SMS open rates are nearly 98%, and a short, friendly text with a review link works well. Just make sure to send it shortly after the client’s visit, and personalize the message. For example: “Hi [Name]! Hope you enjoyed your facial today. 💆♀️ If you have a sec, would you mind sharing your experience in a quick Google review? [Review Link]”
Can AI help me get more reviews?
Absolutely. AI tools like Workee Co-Pilot can automatically send review requests, personalize the message with the client’s name and service, and remind clients who haven’t reviewed yet. AI also helps track which clients reviewed, so you don’t over-message or miss follow-ups. It’s like having a smart assistant managing your online reputation in the background.
Why are Google reviews important for local SEO?
Google reviews directly impact your local SEO ranking. Businesses with more positive, recent, and keyword-rich reviews tend to rank higher in Google Maps and local search results like “med spa near me.” Reviews also increase click-through rates, trust, and booking conversions. A med spa with a 4.8+ average rating is more likely to get clicks and calls than one with a 3.9, even if both rank similarly.
What should I do if someone leaves a bad review?
First, respond quickly and professionally. Acknowledge their experience, apologize if appropriate, and offer to resolve the issue privately. Avoid getting defensive or arguing publicly. For example: “Hi [Name], we’re sorry to hear your experience didn’t meet expectations. We’d love to connect with you directly to make it right — please reach out at [email/phone].” Bad reviews happen — how you respond can build more trust than the review itself.
Is it okay to offer a discount for a review?
No — Google’s policies prohibit incentivizing reviews, including offering discounts, freebies, or other rewards in exchange for a review. Doing so could get your reviews removed or your business penalized. Instead, ask politely, provide value, and make the process as easy as possible. Let happy clients review you because they want to, not because they’re getting something.
How do I find my Google review link?
To get your Google review link:
1. Go to your Google Business Profile.
2. In the dashboard, click “Get More Reviews” or “Share Review Form.”
3. Copy the short link and use it in texts, emails, or QR codes.
You can also paste this link into Workee or other booking software to automatically include it in follow-up messages.
Can I show my Google reviews on my website?
Yes, and you should! You can manually copy-paste 5-star reviews onto your website or use widgets that display live Google reviews. Many platforms (including Workee, Wix, WordPress, and Squarespace) allow you to embed testimonials. Adding reviews boosts trust and conversions, and also helps with SEO by keeping your site content fresh and keyword-rich.