If you’ve ever asked yourself, how do I review a business on Google, you’re not alone. Millions of consumers rely on Google reviews before choosing restaurants, service providers, medical offices, attorneys, and local businesses. Writing a review not only helps others make informed decisions—it also impacts a business’s visibility and reputation in search results.
Whether you’re leaving positive feedback, sharing constructive criticism, or updating a past experience, this step-by-step guide explains exactly how to post a Google review, edit it, delete it, and ensure your review follows Google’s policies.
Why Google Reviews Matter
Google reviews influence:
- Local search rankings
- Consumer trust
- Business credibility
- Click-through rates
- Brand reputation
According to Google’s documentation on local search visibility, reviews are a ranking factor in local results and Google Maps listings. See Google’s guidance in its Business Profile Help Center.
Reviews shape public perception. A thoughtful, honest review can support transparency and help both consumers and businesses improve.
What You Need Before Posting a Google Review
Before you can leave feedback, you must have:
- A Google account
- Access to Google Search or Google Maps
- An internet connection
- A device (mobile, tablet, or desktop)
If you don’t have a Google account, you can create one at accounts.google.com.
Step-by-Step: How Do I Review a Business on Google?
Step 1: Sign In to Your Google Account
- Visit Google.com
- Click “Sign In” (top right corner)
- Enter your credentials
You must be signed in to submit a review.
Step 2: Search for the Business
Type the business name into:
- Google Search
- Google Maps (maps.google.com)
Make sure you select the correct location if multiple branches exist.
Step 3: Locate the Reviews Section
Once you find the business listing:
- On desktop: Look for the review stars and click “Write a review”
- On mobile: Scroll to “Reviews” and tap “Rate and review”
Step 4: Choose a Star Rating
Google uses a 1–5 star system:
- ⭐ 1 Star – Poor experience
- ⭐⭐ 2 Stars – Below average
- ⭐⭐⭐ 3 Stars – Neutral
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Stars – Good
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars – Excellent
Your star rating influences the overall business rating displayed in search results.
Step 5: Write Your Review
Include:
- Specific details
- Timeline of experience
- Product or service description
- Professional tone
Example structure:
I visited [Business Name] on [date]. The staff was attentive and the service was completed within the quoted timeframe. I appreciated the clear communication and fair pricing.
Avoid:
- Personal attacks
- Profanity
- False claims
- Irrelevant commentary
Google enforces content policies outlined in its Review Policies.
Step 6: Add Photos (Optional)
You may upload images that:
- Show products
- Display services performed
- Highlight atmosphere
Photos add credibility and engagement.
Step 7: Post Your Review
Click Post.
Your review may appear immediately or after moderation.
How to Edit a Google Review
Experiences evolve. You can update feedback anytime.
To Edit:
- Go to Google Maps
- Click your profile icon
- Select “Your contributions”
- Click “Reviews”
- Find the review
- Click the three dots → “Edit review”
Make updates and save.
How to Delete a Google Review
If you wish to remove your review:
- Go to “Your contributions”
- Locate the review
- Click three dots → “Delete review”
- Confirm
Deletion removes it permanently.
How Long Does a Google Review Stay Posted?
Reviews remain visible indefinitely unless:
- The user deletes it
- The business flags it and Google removes it
- It violates Google policy
Google may remove reviews that contain spam, hate speech, or conflicts of interest.
What If a Review Is Removed?
Reviews may be removed if they violate policies. Common causes:
- Inappropriate language
- Promotional content
- Off-topic material
- Fake reviews
- Conflicts of interest
See Google’s Prohibited and Restricted Content Policy.
Best Practices for Writing an Effective Google Review
Be Specific
Mention staff names, services, or unique details.
Stay Honest
Authenticity matters.
Keep It Balanced
Even positive reviews should feel genuine.
Avoid Legal Accusations
Claims like fraud or criminal conduct can create liability issues.
Can Businesses Respond to Your Review?
Yes.
Business owners can publicly reply. This transparency helps:
- Resolve disputes
- Thank customers
- Clarify misunderstandings
Businesses are encouraged by Google to engage respectfully.
How Google Reviews Impact Business Reputation
Reviews influence:
- Google Maps rankings
- Local pack placement
- Consumer trust
- Click-through rates
Strong review signals improve local SEO performance.
For businesses seeking structured support, Google Reputation Manager provides reputation strategy solutions that focus on ethical review management and search visibility enhancement.
What to Do If You Posted a Negative Review
If your goal was constructive feedback:
- Ensure accuracy
- Avoid emotional wording
- Stick to facts
- Update if issue is resolved
Constructive reviews often lead to improved service outcomes.
Ethical Review Guidelines
Do NOT:
- Post fake reviews
- Accept payment for reviews
- Review your own business
- Coordinate review manipulation
The Federal Trade Commission addresses deceptive review practices here:
👉 FTC Guidance on Reviews
What If You Can’t Leave a Review?
Possible reasons:
- Account restriction
- Policy violations
- Business listing suspended
- Technical issues
Try:
- Updating your app
- Clearing cache
- Logging out and back in
How Businesses Can Manage Google Reviews
While this guide focuses on “how do I review a business on Google,” businesses must manage feedback responsibly.
Strategies include:
- Monitoring reviews regularly
- Responding professionally
- Encouraging satisfied customers to leave feedback
- Avoiding incentives that violate policy
For structured reputation solutions, visit Google Reputation Manager to explore professional support options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I review a business on Google without a Gmail account?
Can I leave an anonymous Google review?
Your profile name appears publicly. You cannot post fully anonymous reviews.
Why can’t I see my review?
It may be under moderation or flagged.
Can businesses delete negative reviews?
Only if they violate policy and Google approves removal.
Can I review a business twice?
You can edit your review, but only one review per account per listing.
How long does Google take to post reviews?
Often instantly, but sometimes within 24–48 hours.
Can I include links in a review?
Links may trigger moderation and removal.
Do Google reviews affect SEO?
Yes. Reviews influence local ranking factors.
How Google Reputation Manager Supports Review Strategy
Online reviews directly influence search visibility. Poorly managed feedback can harm brand perception.
Google Reputation Manager helps individuals and businesses:
- Strengthen review signals
- Improve response strategy
- Address unfair content
- Build positive authority
- Improve search visibility ethically
👉 Visit https://googlereputationmanager.org/ to request a confidential consultation.
MLA Citations
Google. Write Reviews and Add Ratings of Places. Google Business Profile Help, https://support.google.com/business/answer/3474122.
Google. Maps User Contributed Content Policy. Google Support, https://support.google.com/contributionpolicy/answer/7400114.
Federal Trade Commission. Consumer Reviews. FTC, https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/consumer-reviews.