5-Star Review Campaign Playbook

Days 1–30: fix the leak

Walk your customer journey and fix the two moments that generate complaints: usually waiting and follow-up. Then build the ask: a direct review link, a QR card at checkout, and a same-day email or text.

Goal for month one: every customer gets asked, no exceptions. Track asks and reviews on a whiteboard if needed. Related reading: generation email templates the four-part system.

Days 31–60: build the habit

Train the ask into the team with role-play and a reminder at the point of sale. Add the five-day follow-up message. Start responding to every review within two business days if you are not already.

Goal for month two: steady velocity. Ten to fifteen new reviews a month is transformative for most local profiles.

Days 61–90: compound

Showcase your best reviews on your site and in your emails. Ask satisfied reviewers for referrals using the two-sided reward approach. Review your numbers: velocity, rating, response rate, and the calls that mention reviews.

Goal for month three: a system that runs without you. That is the campaign won.

Keep reading

Where the details come from: FTC endorsement guides FAQ and Google guidance on helpful content and Local search marketing overview.