By Simon Google Reviews play a critical role in shaping public perception, increasing business credibility, and improving local SEO rankings. Whether you’re a consumer looking to share your experience or a business owner encouraging customers to leave feedback, understanding how to leave a review—and leave a good one—can make a real impact.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Why Google Reviews Matter
- Step-by-Step Guide to Leaving a Google Review on Mobile
- How to Leave a Google Review from Desktop
- What Makes a Good Google Review?
- Tips for Writing Helpful Reviews
- Which Platform is More Efficient: Mobile or Desktop?
- The Types of Reviews That Drive Business Growth
Why Google Reviews Matter
Google Reviews are not just about star ratings—they are a key factor in customer decision-making. According to a BrightLocal study:
- 87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses.
- 74% of consumers say that positive reviews make them trust a business more.
- Businesses with more positive reviews are 270% more likely to attract new customers.
Google Reviews influence how businesses appear on Google Search and Maps. More high-quality reviews = better rankings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Leaving a Google Review on Mobile
Most reviews today are submitted from mobile devices. Here’s how to do it:
For Android and iOS Users (Using Google Maps App)
- Open Google Maps App on your phone.
- Search for the business (e.g., “Joe’s Coffee Shop”).
- Tap on the business listing.
- Scroll down until you see the “Reviews” section.
- Tap “Write a Review.”
- Select your star rating (1 to 5).
- Add your written feedback in the text box.
- Optionally, upload photos of your experience.
- Tap “Post” to submit your review.
Example Review (Mobile):
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Loved the cozy atmosphere and the lattes were top-notch. Friendly staff and fast WiFi. Will definitely return!
How to Leave a Google Review from Desktop
Writing a review from a desktop or laptop can be more comfortable for users who want to type detailed feedback.
Steps (Using Google Search or Google Maps on Desktop):
- Go to Google.com or open Google Maps.
- Search for the business name.
- In the business profile on the right (or at the top in Maps), click “Write a Review.”
- Log in with your Google account (if you’re not already).
- Rate with stars, then add your comments.
- You can also add photos if needed.
- Click “Post”.
Example Review (Desktop):
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The service was excellent, and the food came out hot and fresh. My only suggestion would be to expand the menu. Otherwise, great experience!
What Makes a Good Google Review?
Not all reviews are equally helpful. The best reviews:
✅ Are specific about the service or product
✅ Include details like the time of visit or staff interaction
✅ Are balanced—even positive reviews can mention areas for improvement
✅ Include photos (for restaurants, salons, hotels, etc.)
✅ Use professional, polite language
Ineffective Review:
⭐
Bad place. I didn’t like it.
This kind of review lacks context and doesn’t help future customers or the business.
Tips for Writing Helpful Reviews
If you want your review to stand out and help others, follow these tips:
1. Be Honest but Constructive
Write about what actually happened. If something went wrong, explain the issue calmly and fairly.
2. Mention Specific Products or Staff
Instead of “Great service,” say “Sarah was extremely helpful in choosing the right foundation shade.”
3. Include Photos
Visual content makes your review more trustworthy and engaging.
4. Use Keywords
If possible, use keywords related to the business (e.g., “best Thai food in Los Angeles”) which may also help SEO.
5. Update Your Reviews
If you return and have a different experience, update your review. Google allows you to edit it.
Which Platform is More Efficient: Mobile vs. Desktop?
Mobile Reviews Pros:
- More convenient and accessible
- Easier to post immediately after a visit
- Higher volume of reviews come from mobile users
- Ability to upload photos directly from your device
Mobile Reviews Cons:
- Typically shorter and less detailed
- Autocorrect errors or rushed text
Desktop Reviews Pros:
- Easier to type long, detailed reviews
- Ideal for users who want to write in-depth feedback
- Better for editing and formatting reviews
Desktop Reviews Cons:
- Less spontaneous
- Lower percentage of users submit reviews from desktop
Efficiency Verdict:
Mobile reviews are more efficient in terms of volume and accessibility. However, desktop reviews tend to be more thorough and helpful for potential customers and businesses alike.
The Types of Reviews That Actually Help a Business Grow
Here’s what helps a business beyond just the star rating:
1. Detailed, Keyword-Rich Reviews
Mention the service, product, and location. This improves a business’s local search visibility.
Example:
“I had the best sushi at Sakura Japanese Restaurant in downtown Seattle. The spicy tuna roll was fresh and the miso soup was flavorful.”
2. Photo Reviews
Images increase trust and encourage more engagement.
3. Balanced Feedback
Constructive criticism helps businesses improve and shows honesty.
Example:
“The ambiance was lovely and the staff attentive. The only downside was the 20-minute wait, but it was worth it.”
4. Repeat Visit Reviews
Returning customers who update their reviews provide social proof of consistent service.
5. Positive Storytelling
If you had a great experience, share it like a mini story—people relate more to narratives.
Example:
“It was my birthday and the staff at La Bella surprised me with a small cake. It made my day special.”
Encouraging Others to Leave Reviews (For Businesses)
If you’re a business owner, here are tips to help you collect more meaningful reviews:
- Ask politely right after a successful transaction.
- Provide a QR code or link to your Google review page.
- Respond to every review—especially negative ones.
- Avoid incentivizing reviews with gifts (violates Google’s policies).
- Educate your team to ask for reviews naturally.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Fake Reviews: Google detects and removes these. They can also lead to penalties.
- One-word reviews: “Good” or “Bad” are not helpful.
- Overly emotional language or caps lock: Makes the review seem unprofessional.
- Leaving reviews for the wrong business: Double-check the name and location.
Final Thoughts
Google Reviews are a powerful tool for consumers and businesses alike. Whether you’re sharing your experience from your phone in a café or writing a detailed account on your laptop at home, each review has the potential to influence others and shape reputations.
Use your review power wisely—be honest, specific, and constructive. If you’re a business, make it easy for customers to review you and respond to their feedback meaningfully.
TL;DR Summary
| Topic | Mobile | Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | ✅ Very Easy | ❌ Less Convenient |
| Detail | ❌ Often brief | ✅ More detailed |
| Review Volume | ✅ Higher | ❌ Lower |
| Photo Uploads | ✅ Direct from camera | ✅ File upload required |
| Best For | Quick reviews | In-depth feedback |
Both platforms matter, but a detailed, honest review with context and photos will always be the most effective, no matter where it’s posted from.