The Chiropractor’s Guide to Getting More Google Reviews
When it comes to establishing your practice, chiropractic reviews are the best. They not only enhance the online visibility of your clinic. They build trust with potential patients by giving them social proof. To establish a solid online visibility and attract more patients, Google Business Reviews are most critical.
Asking for reviews doesn't have to be embarrassing or awkward. Using the right mindset and a few smart tools, it can be an easy part of your patient care routine. You can ask your patients for reviews that build your clinic's credibility and get you noticed.
Here in this article, I will be discussing effective tips that have benefited numerous practices. We will be discussing everything from the timing of your requests to automating the process using tools such as Noterro. Let's see how you can utilize reviews to benefit your clinic.
Why Google Reviews Matter (Probably More Than You Think)
As a person who has been working with health professionals, I have witnessed the potential of Google Business Reviews firsthand. Google Business Reviews are no longer a nice-to-have; they are a must-have in any chiropractor's growth strategy. Here's why:
- Increase Visibility in Local Searches: Google favours companies with improved reviews and ranks them higher during searches. Positive reviews not only build trust but also strengthen your local SEO for chiropractor, making it easier for potential patients find you. Your reviews increase visibility when people search for a chiropractor in your area, and they're prominently featured in local search results especially on platforms like Google Maps.
- Create Social Proof and Credibility: Chiropractic reviews are evidence that your practice is effective and can be relied upon. The higher the number of reviews, the higher the social proof, and the higher the importance when patients have to make their decision.
- Influence Patient Choice: According to a 2024 BrightLocal survey, 83% of consumers have as much faith in Google reviews as they do in word-of-mouth recommendations. Patients are more likely to choose a chiropractor based on what they've heard about their experience.
- Increase Appointment Scheduling: A perfectly optimized Google Business Profile with great reviews can allow prospective patients to schedule an appointment from search, without even going to your website.
Now that we know why Google reviews matter so much, let's take a glance at how you can begin collecting them for your clinic in a natural and organic manner.
A helpful read: The Secret Business Problem You’re Probably Overlooking in Your Chiro Clinic
How to Obtain More Google Reviews Without Begging
One of the most common complaints I hear is how to ask for Google Business Reviews without being too sycophantic.
The truth is, it doesn't have to feel forced or uncomfortable. If executed well, asking for reviews is an acceptable part of the patient process. Here are the strategies that have proven effective for me so far:
1. Ask at the Right Time
I have learned through the years that timing is everything. You know, when a patient leaves your clinic feeling satisfied and good about the treatment they had, that's the time that they would most likely sit down and write a review.
But the catch is to ask them at the right time.
I've asked many health care professionals about this, and the only thing that has worked for me consistently is asking as soon as relief or euphoria is expressed by the patient.
For instance, when a patient says, "I feel so much better today!" then it's the perfect time to ask for a review.
Why?
Because that's when the patient has fresh emotions, and they're appreciative. Instead of blurting, "We'd love a review," I recommend keeping it a natural conversational topic, like this:
"I'm so glad to hear that you're recovering! If you've got a spare few minutes later in the day, we'd be ever so thankful if you could pop us a Google review. It helps others find us."
You're not asking for it, you're just offering them the chance to tell you what their experience is. It's real, and it shows you care about their opinion.
Also read: Affiliate Marketing for Chiropractors: 8 Simple Strategies for Big Results
2. Let Automation Do the Asking For You (But Keep It Warm)
Now I get it. You're either a clinic owner, administrator, or someone with your mobile practice. You've got a lot of work vying for your attention. The last thing you need to do is spend time manually asking each and every patient to review you. That's where automation comes in.
Based on my experience with Noterro, a clinic management system, and with clinics in general, I have seen how review collection can be transformed with automated tools.
You can have automatic reminders via email or SMS after every appointment with Noterro, for example. You can have a link straight to your Google Business Reviews page so patients don't have to look for it.
Automation does a few things:
- Consistency: All patients receive a review request at the right time.
- Timeliness: The reminder is being sent not long after they come by, so the experience is still on their mind.
- Hands-off: No longer do you need to do follow-ups by hand after every visit. The system handles it for you.
Having this automation done in advance saves you time while ensuring all patients are given an opportunity to provide their feedback.
You might also like: How to Successfully Manage a Clinic and Mobile Practice on Wheels
3. Make It Easy for Patients
One of the most prevalent errors I see with clinics is failing to expect patients will go out of their way to find the review page themselves. Trust me when I say that the less work you put into it, the more reviews you will get.
I've found out that some other chiropractors put QR codes on the front desk or even send a reminder follow-up email or an SMS text reminder for their next appointment with a direct link to the review page. Nobody wants to search for a link or log into various platforms to leave a review.
Patients want convenience. So give it to them.
"Scan the QR code or tap on the link in your text message to leave us a review. It'll only take 30 seconds, and we'd really appreciate it."
Clear, straightforward, and brief.
By removing any barriers, you make it appear to be effortless. And remember, the easier you make it for a patient to post a review, the more likely they will be to do so.
Bonus read: How to Turn Your Chiropractic Clinic into a Patient Magnet
4. Educate Your Staff to Help
Even though I hope that everything could be done automatically, I realize that the human element still has its place. Your treatment team and front-desk staff are a significant part of the review process. When you teach your staff to request reviews at the right moment, it becomes part of the culture of practice.
It's not about requesting reviews, it's about teaching your staff to remind patients informally that a review will keep the clinic in business. I've discovered that the best way is to make it a natural thing.
For example, if you're discharging a patient following a successful interaction, your receptionist can inform them something like:
"I'm so glad you're having a better day today! If you have a moment, we'd greatly appreciate a Google review. Here's the link/QR code to make it really easy."
A simple statement, with the tools (QR code or direct link) attached, makes the process very simple and discreet.
Also read: How to Elevate Your Chiropractic Clinic’s Perceived Value for Free
5. Respond to Each Comment
One of the greatest things I've learned after all these years is that answering your reviews is an indication that you care about your patients and what they have to say.
Google even favors those businesses that answer their reviews on a regular basis. And answering is also a sign of your clinic's commitment to giving great patient care.
Whether it's a positive or negative review, you must respond to it. If it's a positive review, thank the patient for it. If it's a negative review, respond to them professionally and attempt to correct the issue.
Here's an example of a positive response to positive feedback:
"Thanks a lot for your kind comments, Sarah! We're happy to hear that your neck is better. We'll see you on your follow-up visit!"
For negative feedback, such a response is professional:
Thanks for letting us know. Apologies that our normal standard was not achieved in your instance. Do please get in touch so that we can discuss how we can put things right.
Following up shows that you value each patient comment and are always looking for ways to enhance your practice.
You should also check out this helpful guide on: How to Handle Negative Reviews Without Hurting Your Chiropractic Practice
6. Reuse Reviews in Places Where People Already Look
I've noticed over the past years how your chiropractic reviews are magnified when you post patient reviews on social media. Social media is a great platform upon which you can highlight the good feedback you've got and the success stories of your clinic.
By requesting patients' permission to post their reviews, you not only respect their feedback but also demonstrate to others that your practice is deserving of trust by actual individuals. I've seen practices utilize their patient testimonials and make them a standard social media post, with authentic stories that resonate with prospective patients.
For example, you can say:
“We love to hear from our patients! Well done, Sarah, for returning for two visits and having the pain in your back resolve—good on you!”
It's simple, truthful, and lets your patients tell you their own truth. Having discussed the do's of best practices in reviews, let's now discuss the don'ts so that you stay on track and within ethics for your review process.
Another helpful read: 6 Chiropractic Loyalty Program Ideas to Retain Clients
What Not to Do When Asking for Reviews
While I've given you great methods for gathering reviews, there are a few things you don't want to do. I've worked with a lot of clinics over the years who attempted to "game" the system, but you have to remain in compliance with Google's review policies.
And here's what not to do:
- Offering incentives: Google prohibits incentivizing reviews. Do not give away freebies or discounts for writing good reviews.
- Pressuring unhappy patients: If a patient isn’t satisfied, don’t push them to leave a review. Instead, address their concerns directly and improve their experience.
- Sending the same message to everyone: Personalize every request for review. A standard message is perceived as insincere and less likely to respond.
- Review gating: Don't gate your patients, but simply invite the happy ones to leave a review. Invite all patients to leave a review.
By sticking to the ethical review procedures, you will be more authentic, credible online. Let's end with a quick rundown of how you can guide your patients to post better reviews.
Also read: How to Train Your Chiropractic Staff to Ask for Referrals Confidently
Final Thoughts
Collecting more chiropractic reviews does not necessarily need to be a hassle or a negative experience. By asking at the right time, having requests be a default, and keeping it simple for patients, you can establish a good online reputation.
Software such as Noterro's chiropractic practice management software simplifies the process, enabling you to collect reviews with ease while concentrating on providing the best care for your patients.
Remember that Google Business Reviews are a mirror of how much care and professionalism your clinic embodies. The more you open yourself up to the process and engage with patients, the more your reviews will give patients confidence, attract new patients, and ultimately grow your clinic.
FAQs
Do Google reviews really help me show up on Google Maps?
Yes. Clinics with frequent, high-quality reviews are more likely to appear in the top search results.
How often should I check reviews?
Once or twice a week is enough. Just stay on top of any negative ones and take time to thank people for the positives.
What if someone leaves a fake review?
You can flag it on your Google Business Profile. If it violates their policy, Google may remove it. Either way, respond politely to show others you’re paying attention.
Table of Contents
When it comes to establishing your practice, chiropractic reviews are the best. They not only enhance the online visibility of your clinic. They build trust with potential patients by giving them social proof. To establish a solid online visibility and attract more patients, Google Business Reviews are most critical.
Asking for reviews doesn't have to be embarrassing or awkward. Using the right mindset and a few smart tools, it can be an easy part of your patient care routine. You can ask your patients for reviews that build your clinic's credibility and get you noticed.
Here in this article, I will be discussing effective tips that have benefited numerous practices. We will be discussing everything from the timing of your requests to automating the process using tools such as Noterro. Let's see how you can utilize reviews to benefit your clinic.
Why Google Reviews Matter (Probably More Than You Think)
As a person who has been working with health professionals, I have witnessed the potential of Google Business Reviews firsthand. Google Business Reviews are no longer a nice-to-have; they are a must-have in any chiropractor's growth strategy. Here's why:
- Increase Visibility in Local Searches: Google favours companies with improved reviews and ranks them higher during searches. Positive reviews not only build trust but also strengthen your local SEO for chiropractor, making it easier for potential patients find you. Your reviews increase visibility when people search for a chiropractor in your area, and they're prominently featured in local search results especially on platforms like Google Maps.
- Create Social Proof and Credibility: Chiropractic reviews are evidence that your practice is effective and can be relied upon. The higher the number of reviews, the higher the social proof, and the higher the importance when patients have to make their decision.
- Influence Patient Choice: According to a 2024 BrightLocal survey, 83% of consumers have as much faith in Google reviews as they do in word-of-mouth recommendations. Patients are more likely to choose a chiropractor based on what they've heard about their experience.
- Increase Appointment Scheduling: A perfectly optimized Google Business Profile with great reviews can allow prospective patients to schedule an appointment from search, without even going to your website.
Now that we know why Google reviews matter so much, let's take a glance at how you can begin collecting them for your clinic in a natural and organic manner.
A helpful read: The Secret Business Problem You’re Probably Overlooking in Your Chiro Clinic
How to Obtain More Google Reviews Without Begging
One of the most common complaints I hear is how to ask for Google Business Reviews without being too sycophantic.
The truth is, it doesn't have to feel forced or uncomfortable. If executed well, asking for reviews is an acceptable part of the patient process. Here are the strategies that have proven effective for me so far:
1. Ask at the Right Time
I have learned through the years that timing is everything. You know, when a patient leaves your clinic feeling satisfied and good about the treatment they had, that's the time that they would most likely sit down and write a review.
But the catch is to ask them at the right time.
I've asked many health care professionals about this, and the only thing that has worked for me consistently is asking as soon as relief or euphoria is expressed by the patient.
For instance, when a patient says, "I feel so much better today!" then it's the perfect time to ask for a review.
Why?
Because that's when the patient has fresh emotions, and they're appreciative. Instead of blurting, "We'd love a review," I recommend keeping it a natural conversational topic, like this:
"I'm so glad to hear that you're recovering! If you've got a spare few minutes later in the day, we'd be ever so thankful if you could pop us a Google review. It helps others find us."
You're not asking for it, you're just offering them the chance to tell you what their experience is. It's real, and it shows you care about their opinion.
Also read: Affiliate Marketing for Chiropractors: 8 Simple Strategies for Big Results
2. Let Automation Do the Asking For You (But Keep It Warm)
Now I get it. You're either a clinic owner, administrator, or someone with your mobile practice. You've got a lot of work vying for your attention. The last thing you need to do is spend time manually asking each and every patient to review you. That's where automation comes in.
Based on my experience with Noterro, a clinic management system, and with clinics in general, I have seen how review collection can be transformed with automated tools.
You can have automatic reminders via email or SMS after every appointment with Noterro, for example. You can have a link straight to your Google Business Reviews page so patients don't have to look for it.
Automation does a few things:
- Consistency: All patients receive a review request at the right time.
- Timeliness: The reminder is being sent not long after they come by, so the experience is still on their mind.
- Hands-off: No longer do you need to do follow-ups by hand after every visit. The system handles it for you.
Having this automation done in advance saves you time while ensuring all patients are given an opportunity to provide their feedback.
You might also like: How to Successfully Manage a Clinic and Mobile Practice on Wheels
3. Make It Easy for Patients
One of the most prevalent errors I see with clinics is failing to expect patients will go out of their way to find the review page themselves. Trust me when I say that the less work you put into it, the more reviews you will get.
I've found out that some other chiropractors put QR codes on the front desk or even send a reminder follow-up email or an SMS text reminder for their next appointment with a direct link to the review page. Nobody wants to search for a link or log into various platforms to leave a review.
Patients want convenience. So give it to them.
"Scan the QR code or tap on the link in your text message to leave us a review. It'll only take 30 seconds, and we'd really appreciate it."
Clear, straightforward, and brief.
By removing any barriers, you make it appear to be effortless. And remember, the easier you make it for a patient to post a review, the more likely they will be to do so.
Bonus read: How to Turn Your Chiropractic Clinic into a Patient Magnet
4. Educate Your Staff to Help
Even though I hope that everything could be done automatically, I realize that the human element still has its place. Your treatment team and front-desk staff are a significant part of the review process. When you teach your staff to request reviews at the right moment, it becomes part of the culture of practice.
It's not about requesting reviews, it's about teaching your staff to remind patients informally that a review will keep the clinic in business. I've discovered that the best way is to make it a natural thing.
For example, if you're discharging a patient following a successful interaction, your receptionist can inform them something like:
"I'm so glad you're having a better day today! If you have a moment, we'd greatly appreciate a Google review. Here's the link/QR code to make it really easy."
A simple statement, with the tools (QR code or direct link) attached, makes the process very simple and discreet.
Also read: How to Elevate Your Chiropractic Clinic’s Perceived Value for Free
5. Respond to Each Comment
One of the greatest things I've learned after all these years is that answering your reviews is an indication that you care about your patients and what they have to say.
Google even favors those businesses that answer their reviews on a regular basis. And answering is also a sign of your clinic's commitment to giving great patient care.
Whether it's a positive or negative review, you must respond to it. If it's a positive review, thank the patient for it. If it's a negative review, respond to them professionally and attempt to correct the issue.
Here's an example of a positive response to positive feedback:
"Thanks a lot for your kind comments, Sarah! We're happy to hear that your neck is better. We'll see you on your follow-up visit!"
For negative feedback, such a response is professional:
Thanks for letting us know. Apologies that our normal standard was not achieved in your instance. Do please get in touch so that we can discuss how we can put things right.
Following up shows that you value each patient comment and are always looking for ways to enhance your practice.
You should also check out this helpful guide on: How to Handle Negative Reviews Without Hurting Your Chiropractic Practice
6. Reuse Reviews in Places Where People Already Look
I've noticed over the past years how your chiropractic reviews are magnified when you post patient reviews on social media. Social media is a great platform upon which you can highlight the good feedback you've got and the success stories of your clinic.
By requesting patients' permission to post their reviews, you not only respect their feedback but also demonstrate to others that your practice is deserving of trust by actual individuals. I've seen practices utilize their patient testimonials and make them a standard social media post, with authentic stories that resonate with prospective patients.
For example, you can say:
“We love to hear from our patients! Well done, Sarah, for returning for two visits and having the pain in your back resolve—good on you!”
It's simple, truthful, and lets your patients tell you their own truth. Having discussed the do's of best practices in reviews, let's now discuss the don'ts so that you stay on track and within ethics for your review process.
Another helpful read: 6 Chiropractic Loyalty Program Ideas to Retain Clients
What Not to Do When Asking for Reviews
While I've given you great methods for gathering reviews, there are a few things you don't want to do. I've worked with a lot of clinics over the years who attempted to "game" the system, but you have to remain in compliance with Google's review policies.
And here's what not to do:
- Offering incentives: Google prohibits incentivizing reviews. Do not give away freebies or discounts for writing good reviews.
- Pressuring unhappy patients: If a patient isn’t satisfied, don’t push them to leave a review. Instead, address their concerns directly and improve their experience.
- Sending the same message to everyone: Personalize every request for review. A standard message is perceived as insincere and less likely to respond.
- Review gating: Don't gate your patients, but simply invite the happy ones to leave a review. Invite all patients to leave a review.
By sticking to the ethical review procedures, you will be more authentic, credible online. Let's end with a quick rundown of how you can guide your patients to post better reviews.
Also read: How to Train Your Chiropractic Staff to Ask for Referrals Confidently
Final Thoughts
Collecting more chiropractic reviews does not necessarily need to be a hassle or a negative experience. By asking at the right time, having requests be a default, and keeping it simple for patients, you can establish a good online reputation.
Software such as Noterro's chiropractic practice management software simplifies the process, enabling you to collect reviews with ease while concentrating on providing the best care for your patients.
Remember that Google Business Reviews are a mirror of how much care and professionalism your clinic embodies. The more you open yourself up to the process and engage with patients, the more your reviews will give patients confidence, attract new patients, and ultimately grow your clinic.
FAQs
Do Google reviews really help me show up on Google Maps?
Yes. Clinics with frequent, high-quality reviews are more likely to appear in the top search results.
How often should I check reviews?
Once or twice a week is enough. Just stay on top of any negative ones and take time to thank people for the positives.
What if someone leaves a fake review?
You can flag it on your Google Business Profile. If it violates their policy, Google may remove it. Either way, respond politely to show others you’re paying attention.
