How to Get More Google Reviews for Your Salon
When someone searches "salon near me", Google shows three businesses on the map before anything else. The number of reviews, how recent they are and how good they are all play a big part in which salons appear there.
Salons with hundreds of reviews didn't get lucky. They asked every client at the right moment, week after week.
Why recent reviews matter
A salon with 40 reviews from the last six months often looks more trustworthy, to clients and to Google, than one with 200 reviews from three years ago. Aim for a steady trickle every week, not a burst once a year.
When to ask
- Right after a visit, while the client is still happy, ideally the same day.
- When a client compliments you in person or on WhatsApp.
- After a big change such as bridal makeup, a colour correction or a dramatic cut.
Don't ask a client who looked unhappy. Ask them what went wrong instead.
What to send
Make it one tap. Get your direct review link from your Google Business Profile and send it with a short, personal message.
"Thank you for coming in today, Nida! If you loved your hair, a quick Google review would really help our small salon: [link]"
Mention the stylist's name if you can. Clients are far more willing to help a person than a business.
Five habits that multiply reviews
- Put a small QR code at reception that opens your review page.
- Send the link with the WhatsApp invoice.
- Let stylists see their own reviews. It soon turns into friendly competition.
- Reply to every review within a few days.
- Never offer discounts in exchange for reviews; it breaks Google's rules.
How to reply to a bad review
Everyone reading your reviews is watching how you respond. Stay calm, keep it short, and take the conversation private.
"Hi Sana, I'm sorry your visit wasn't what you expected. That isn't the standard we aim for. Please message us on WhatsApp so we can put it right."
Don't argue, don't share the client's details, and don't write an essay. One calm reply beats a dozen defensive ones.
Beyond reviews: the rest of your profile
- Correct opening hours, including holidays.
- Real photos of your salon and work, updated monthly.
- Your services and prices listed.
- Your online booking link.
Send review requests in one tap
Salonipy includes ready-made WhatsApp templates for review requests, alongside campaigns, birthday wishes and win-back reminders. See the marketing tools.
Related: Salon marketing software · Salon marketing ideas · Client retention