The $500 Question You're Too Afraid to Ask

Getting reviews is half the battle when it comes to ranking higher on Google Maps. You probably know by now that we talk about this all the time, and that’s because it’s true. Reviews don’t just build trust — they’re one of the biggest signals Google uses to decide if your business deserves to show up before your competitor across town. But even though reviews are this important, most businesses are still struggling to get them.

Jun 30, 2025

Getting reviews is half the battle when it comes to ranking higher on Google Maps. You probably know by now that we talk about this all the time, and that’s because it’s true. Reviews don’t just build trust — they’re one of the biggest signals Google uses to decide if your business deserves to show up before your competitor across town. But even though reviews are this important, most businesses are still struggling to get them.

Why? Because asking for reviews can be awkward. We get it. Nobody wants to feel like they’re begging or putting a customer in an uncomfortable spot. But let’s flip the script for a second…

What if every review was worth $500?

Imagine if someone told you that asking a slightly awkward question could make you $500. You’d probably start rehearsing that question in the mirror, wouldn’t you? Now, consider this: If the average customer is worth $500 to your business (and in many industries that’s actually on the low end), and if each 5-star review you get attracts just one new customer… then every time you ask for a review, you could be earning $500. Suddenly, that “Hey, would you mind leaving us a quick review on Google?” doesn’t feel so awkward anymore; it feels like a smart business move.

If you’re serious about growing your visibility on Google, you have to get over the fear of asking for reviews. Start seeing every review request as a potential $500 win for your business and not as an awkward, uncomfortable moment.

Make life easy when it comes to review by using Paige, our automated GBP optimization AI that can help you get more reviews and respond to them. Start your trial today for just $1!

About Author

Justin Silverman

Justin Silverman is the Founder and CEO of Merchynt, a local SEO technology company on a mission to make local SEO services not suck—one agency and small business at a time. Since launching Merchynt in 2019, Justin has helped over 20,000 businesses grow through data-driven Google Business Profile optimization and AI-powered local marketing tools like Paige. With more than a decade of experience in digital marketing and business growth, Justin previously held executive roles at Vista Group, where he served as VP of Global Partnerships and President of MovieXchange. He also led strategy and operations at Veezi, helping to scale tech products across international markets. Justin's career has spanned roles in marketing, partnerships, and operations, working with companies from early-stage startups to global enterprises. His deep knowledge of local search, combined with real-world leadership, positions him as a trusted voice in the local SEO and SaaS space. Under his leadership, Merchynt has become a go-to provider for agencies and small businesses seeking to dominate local search rankings through white-label solutions, AI automation, and performance-focused strategy. Justin continues to speak, write, and build tools with one mission in mind: to help 298 million businesses get found online by their perfect customer.