How to Get 10 Google Reviews This Month (Without Being Weird)
Google reviews aren't just for restaurants. Churches with 10+ reviews rank higher in search AND build instant trust with visitors checking you out online.
Why Reviews Matter for Churches
Here's what happens when someone finds your church on Google:
- They see your name, address, and photos
- They see your star rating and number of reviews
- They decide whether to click, scroll, or move on
A church with 0 reviews looks abandoned. A church with 3 reviews from 2019 looks stagnant. A church with 15+ recent reviews looks alive and welcoming.
The data: Businesses (yes, churches count) with 10+ reviews rank significantly higher in local search results. More reviews = more visibility = more people finding you.
The Problem: Asking Feels Awkward
Most pastors never ask for reviews because it feels... commercial. Like you're treating church like a business.
Here's the reframe: You're not asking people to promote your "business." You're asking them to help newcomers find a church home. That's ministry.
When a single mom Googles "church near me" at 11pm on a Saturday night, your reviews might be the thing that makes her show up Sunday morning.
The Script: Exactly What to Say
Use this Sunday. From the pulpit, after service, or via text:
"Hey, quick favor. If our church has meant something to you, would you leave us a Google review this week?"
"When people search for a church in [your city], your review helps them find us. It takes 2 minutes and it's a real way to help someone who's looking for a church home."
"Just Google '[Your Church Name] [City]' and click the reviews section."
That's it. No guilt. No manipulation. Just a simple ask.
The System: Get 10 Reviews in 2 Weeks
Week 1:
- Sunday: Mention it from the platform (use the script above)
- Monday: Text/email your leadership team directly — they'll do it
- Wednesday: Follow up in any midweek communication
Week 2:
- Sunday: Quick reminder ("Thanks to those who left reviews — if you haven't yet, this week would be great")
- Personally ask 5 specific people who you know love the church
Result: 10-15 reviews. Enough to transform your Google presence.
Make It Easy
The easier you make it, the more reviews you'll get:
- Create a direct link: Go to your Google Business Profile, click "Get more reviews," and copy that link
- Put it everywhere: In your email signature, on your website, in your weekly bulletin
- QR code: Generate a QR code for that link and display it in your lobby
Pro tip: Don't ask everyone at once. A flood of reviews followed by silence looks suspicious to Google. Aim for 2-3 per week over several weeks.
What to Do With Bad Reviews
It'll happen eventually. Someone will leave a 1-star review. Here's the playbook:
- Respond publicly and graciously. "We're sorry your experience wasn't what you hoped for. We'd love to talk — please reach out to [email]."
- Don't argue. Ever. You'll look defensive.
- Let it go. A few negative reviews among many positive ones actually looks more authentic than a perfect 5.0.
Start This Sunday
You now have everything you need. The script. The system. The strategy.
The only thing left is to do it. This Sunday. Don't overthink it.
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