Your online reputation can make or break your business. In 2025, customer reviews aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential for getting found online, building trust, and winning new customers. With AI-powered search engines and social media platforms prioritizing businesses with strong online credibility, small business owners need new, innovative strategies to collect more positive reviews and boost their reputation.
Here are our 5 tips on how to get more reviews and build your online reputation in 2025:
1. AI-Powered Review Requests
Tired of manually asking for reviews? AI can help you personalize and streamline the process! AI tools can help craft engaging review request messages via email or text, making it easier to reach customers at the right time. AI-powered chatbots can even follow up with customers who haven’t responded.
What You Can Do: Use free AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Gemini to write friendly, engaging review request messages. Then, send them via email or SMS using platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or Podium.
2. QR Codes for Instant Reviews
Make it effortless for customers to leave a review by placing QR codes on receipts, signage, and business cards. A quick scan should direct them to your preferred review platform—no searching required!
What You Can Do: You can create a free QR code in seconds using websites like QR Code Generator (www.qr-code-generator.com) or Canva’s free QR code maker. Print and display it at your checkout, add it to receipts, or even include it on packaging for takeout businesses.
3. The “Surprise & Delight” Method
Customers are more likely to leave a review if they feel appreciated. Offer a small, unexpected incentive—like a discount on their next purchase, a freebie, or early access to a new service—after they leave a review. Be careful to make it clear the incentive is not conditional on it being a positive review, but simply provide an incentive like a discount as a reward for a customer sharing their experience.
What You Can Do: Let customers know they’ll receive a small thank-you (like a discount or exclusive offer) after sharing their experience online.
4. Social Media Review Spotlights
Turn reviews into powerful marketing tools by sharing them on social media. Customers love seeing their words featured, and it encourages others to leave feedback for a chance to be highlighted.
What You Can Do: Post a “Review of the Week” on your Instagram or Facebook page to recognize happy customers and inspire more reviews. This knocks out two birds with one stone, both encouraging more reviews and acting as content for your social media channels.
5. Voice & Video Reviews – The Next Big Thing
As AI-powered search continues to evolve, video and voice search are becoming more influential. Businesses that collect video testimonials or voice-recorded feedback can stand out in search results and build even greater trust.
What You Can Do: Ask happy customers if they’d be willing to record a short video review and share it on your website or social media.
In 2025, online reputation isn’t just about having great service—it’s about making it easy and engaging for customers to share their experience. These simple, tech-savvy strategies will help you boost visibility, attract new customers, and stay ahead of the competition. Want to make review management even easier? EZlocal can help automate the process and ensure your business gets the recognition it deserves.