You're Sitting on Untapped Riches—Your Reviews

When was the last time you bought something online without checking the reviews?

Be honest. You probably can't remember, right? Whether it's a $15 phone charger or a $1,500 laptop, we've all become conditioned to scroll down to that review section before hitting "buy now."

So why wouldn't someone look at reviews before hiring a real estate agent? Or a contractor? Or any professional service that costs thousands of dollars?

Here's the disconnect I see every day: Most professionals have raving fans, but so few reviews. The people who could be singing your praises online aren't doing it. Why? Because you're not asking.

You're literally sitting on a goldmine of social proof that remains untapped. Let's fix that.

The Real Value of Reviews (a.k.a. Your Digital Reputation)

Today's buyer journey doesn't start with a handshake at an open house or a friend's referral over coffee. It starts on Google.

About 93% of consumers say online reviews impact their purchasing decisions. Think about that. Before they ever click your website or dial your number, they're looking at what others say about you.

This is where the Know–Like–Trust Framework comes into play:

• They need to know you exist.

• Then they have to like what they see.

• But they won't trust you—won't buy from you—until others say it's safe.

Trust is built faster when it's not just you saying you're great—it's others saying it for you. Those glowing reviews create a shortcut to credibility that your marketing copy simply can't match.

I learned this lesson early in my business. I could tell prospects I was great at optimization and systems all day long, but they'd nod politely with skepticism. But when I started showing them screenshots of client feedback? The energy shifted instantly. "Oh wow, so you really do get results."

Why Most Professionals Have So Few Reviews

The #1 reason is painfully simple: They don't ask.

But there are other culprits:

• It feels awkward or self-promotional

• It's not part of an automated workflow

• They assume happy clients will do it on their own

That last one is the biggest myth. Even the most satisfied clients don't automatically think, "I should go leave a five-star review!" They're busy living their lives. Just like you don't automatically think about reviewing your favorite restaurant unless prompted.

It's like baking a birthday cake but never lighting the candles. You've done the hard work (delivering great service), but you're skipping the finale that makes it memorable and shareable.

Think Bigger: Your Review Sources Are Everywhere

Most real estate agents only think about asking clients for reviews. But your potential review sources extend far beyond buyers and sellers:

• The co-op agent who said you were a dream to work with

• The lender who appreciated your responsiveness

• The title team who mentioned you're always on top of details

But here's my favorite hidden gem: People who ask you questions.

That social media follower who DMed you about market trends? That email subscriber who replied with a mortgage question? The person at an open house who peppered you with questions about the neighborhood?

If you gave them helpful answers, that's reviewable! "Clay was so generous with his knowledge, answering my questions thoroughly even though I wasn't an immediate client. That's the kind of professional I want in my corner."

How to Ask for Reviews (the Right Way)

Timing is everything. Ask when they're happiest—right after closing, immediately after solving their problem, or when they've just thanked you for your help.

Make it easy:

• Provide a one-click link directly to your Google Business profile

• Tell them what to say (yes, really—people appreciate guidance)

• Ask specifically for that 5-star rating if you've earned it

Here's a script that's worked wonders for me and my clients:

"Hey [Name]! If you found our conversation helpful, would you mind leaving a quick 5-star review? Here's the link: [LINK]. Just share what you appreciated about our interaction or what problem I helped solve. It takes less than 60 seconds but makes a huge difference for my business!"

Notice how this gives them:

1. A clear ask (5-star review)

2. A simple link (no searching required)

3. A content prompt (what to write about)

4. A time expectation (less than 60 seconds)

5. A reason why (it matters to my business)

Why You Should Automate the Review Ask

The best part about reviews is that once you've created a system, you can set it and forget it—until the glowing review rolls in.

Here's a sample workflow I've implemented with clients that consistently drives results:

1. Ask at closing – face-to-face when emotions are high

2. Email follow-up – 24 hours later with the direct link

3. Reminder email – 7 days later if no review yet

4. Final text or call – human, not spammy, about 14 days in

This might feel aggressive, but people understand the importance of reviews. And with each touchpoint, you're reminding them how much you value their opinion—which itself reinforces the quality of your service.

One of my real estate clients took this automated approach and went from 8 reviews to 47 in just three months. The impact on her lead generation was immediate—prospects started mentioning they chose her "because everyone online seems to love working with you."

Your Goldmine Awaits

You've helped dozens (maybe hundreds) of people. Most would sing your praises—if you asked.

Reviews are modern-day referrals—searchable, scalable, and permanent. While a traditional referral reaches one person, an online review influences thousands of potential clients for years.

Start today: Pick 5 people who would likely leave you a positive review and send the ask. Use the script above, personalize it slightly, and watch what happens.

Then come back and tell me about it in the comments—or better yet, leave a review of this article! (See what I did there?)

Want to take this further? Download my free Review Automation Checklist for a step-by-step guide to turning your satisfied clients into your most powerful marketing asset.

Question for you: What's holding you back from asking for more reviews? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let's problem-solve together!