Nothing winds me up more than seeing brilliant pubs struggle because they’ve got three Google reviews from 2019. Meanwhile, the chain down the road with mediocre food is packed because they’ve got 200 five-star reviews.
Here’s the truth: most punters check Google reviews before deciding where to go. If you’re not actively getting reviews, you’re losing customers to pubs that are.
Make It Dead Easy for Customers to Leave Reviews
The biggest mistake landlords make is hoping reviews will just happen. They won’t. You need to make it simple.
Get some small cards printed with a QR code that links directly to your Google review page. Pop them on tables, hand them out with receipts, or stick them by the till. When someone says they’ve had a great time, hand them a card and say “Would you mind leaving us a quick review? Just scan this with your phone.”
Most people want to help – they just don’t know how or forget by the time they get home.
Train Your Team to Ask (The Right Way)
Your staff are your secret weapon here. Train them to spot the right moments – when customers are clearly enjoying themselves, after they’ve complimented the food, or when they’re settling up after a great evening.
The key is timing and approach. Nobody wants to be hassled when they’re trying to leave. But a friendly “Glad you enjoyed your meal – we’d really appreciate a Google review if you get a moment” works wonders.
Consider setting up a simple reward system for staff who generate the most reviews each month. Running a gamification scheme can boost motivation without breaking the bank.
Follow Up With Regular Customers
Your regulars are goldmines for reviews, but they’re often the ones who never think to leave them. They assume you know they love coming in.
Have a chat with your loyal customers. Explain that reviews really help local businesses like yours compete with the big chains. Most regulars are happy to help once they understand the impact.
You can also follow up via social media or email newsletters if you collect addresses for events or offers.
Quick wins:
- Put up a simple sign: “Love our pub? Please leave us a Google review!”
- Mention reviews in your social media posts
- Respond to every review (good or bad) professionally
- Use our free SmartPubTools FOH app to track which staff are best at encouraging reviews
Getting more Google reviews isn’t rocket science – it just takes a bit of organisation and consistency. Start with the QR codes and train your team. You’ll see results within weeks.
Try SmartPubTools free today and get your pub management sorted while you’re building that review count.
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SmartPubTools FOH App — Free, Forever
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