A Comprehensive Guide to Boosting Google Reviews for Your Hair Salon Business

So let me just get something straight, Google is very much alive and well - putting effort into your google reviews to build your salon business is SO worth it!

Think about it, when you’re in a new place how do you find where to go for dinner or breakfast? Yes, you may use instagram to search for places but it’s super likely that you’ve quickly run a google search to discover places near you…

Am I right?

In the superrr competitive world of hair salon business, establishing a strong online presence is crucial for attracting new clients and retaining existing ones. One powerful tool in your digital arsenal is Google Reviews – it absolutely IS a reflection of your salon's reputation and plays a significant role in influencing potential customers.

Here's a quick, comprehensive guide on how to garner more Google Reviews for your hair salon business.

1. Create a Google My Business (GMB) Profile:

Begin by claiming or creating your salon's Google My Business profile. This free tool allows you to manage your business information, interact with customers, and, most importantly, collect and showcase reviews. Ensure your profile is complete with accurate details, such as your salon's name, address, phone number, and business hours.

2. Offer Exceptional Customer Service:

The foundation of positive reviews is exceptional customer service. Train your staff to go above and beyond in making clients feel welcomed and satisfied. A happy customer is more likely to take the time to leave a positive review.

3. Timing is Key:

Capitalise on the positive vibes immediately after a customer's salon experience. Send a follow-up email or message expressing gratitude for their visit and kindly request them to share their thoughts on Google. Including a direct link to your GMB page can make the process more convenient for the client. You can even pop a QR code on colour tables, at front of house or place on mirrors so that people can easily leave a google review.

4. Incorporate Review Requests into your Routine:

Train your staff to subtly and genuinely ask for reviews. For example, hairstylists can mention how much they enjoyed working with a particular client and express their hope for a positive review. Make it a natural part of your customer interaction rather than a forced request. This is a great thing to focus on at checkout - make it your foh managers job to ask for reviews along with ensuring rebookings.

5. Utilise Social Media:

Leverage your salon's social media platforms to encourage clients to leave Google Reviews. Share snippets of positive reviews on your profiles and include a call-to-action asking others to share their experiences. Consider running occasional campaigns or contests to incentivise reviews. We once popped our review link on our stories and just mentioned how much it helped our small business, we received 10 new 5 star reviews within 24 hours!

6. Optimise the Review Process:

Simplify the review process for clients by providing clear instructions. Create a step-by-step guide for leaving a review on Google and share it on your website, social media, or in-store. The easier it is for clients to leave a review, the more likely they are to do so. Check out the back end of Google Business too - you will find a link that allows you to share a link directly to the review section, without any fuss at all.

7. Showcase Reviews on Your Website:

Feature a dedicated section on your salon's website that highlights positive Google Reviews. Not only does this add credibility, but it also encourages clients to leave reviews knowing their words will be showcased prominently. You can use other plug ins like Elfsight to pull across 5 star google reviews and drop it within your homepage or any page within your website.

8. Respond to Reviews:

Actively engage with clients by responding to both positive and negative reviews. Thank those who leave positive feedback and address any concerns raised in negative reviews. A responsive and caring approach demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction.

9. Implement a Loyalty Program:

Reward loyal clients with a loyalty program that includes incentives for leaving reviews. Whether it's a discount on their next visit or a free product, these incentives can motivate clients to share their positive experiences.

10. Monitor and Analyse:

Regularly monitor your Google Reviews and use the feedback to improve your salon's services. Pay attention to recurring themes in both positive and negative reviews to make informed business decisions.

11. Utilise blogs!

Blogs will position you as the expert in your field - you can use keyword rich blogs to increase your SEO. Consider topics and keywords that help you get found on google. For example

• Detailed blog post for each of the services that you do and explain who they are perfect for and why. Think about any questions that customers would have about that service and answer them in the blog

• Google LOVES new content - the more you create new content (ahem, blog posts) the higher you’re likely to rank. Trend reports, how to guides, local loves etc

• Write about other wonderful businesses in your city - be strategic about who you partner with. Perhaps if you’re in hair, you can link certain beauticians or makeup artists

• Pull across any articles that you’ve featured in and write your own blog, linking the original article to boost your SEO

A robust online reputation is essential for the success of your hair salon business. By implementing these strategies and fostering a customer-centric culture, you'll not only boost your Google Reviews but also enhance your salon's overall image in the digital landscape. Remember, a satisfied customer is your best advocate, and their positive reviews can be a powerful marketing tool for your salon.

Have fun guys and don’t forget to use our biz bestie, ChatGPT - I promise, you can smash this out 1x per month and create enough content for your website in a single day. You can even go a step further by linking your blogs to your email marketing, send out newsletters to your audience and showcase your blog posts!