Sign in

GetReview Australia - Complete Onboarding Guide

GetReview Australia
Complete Onboarding Guide

Welcome to GetReview Australia!

Need Help? Contact our Australian support team:

📧 Email: support@getreview.com.au

🚀 Quick Start Guide - Get Up and Running in 5 Minutes

For busy business owners who want to start collecting reviews immediately:

1
Upload Your Logo: Go to Settings → Review Link → Upload your business logo
2
Connect Google: Go to Settings → Integrations → Connect your Google Business Profile
3
Send First Request: Click "Quick Request" → Add customer details → Send SMS
4
Print QR Code: Go to Reviews → Click QR Code → Download & print for your counter
5
Start Collecting: Your customers can now scan the QR code or click SMS links to leave reviews!

Done! Now continue reading this guide to unlock all the powerful features and best practices.

Welcome & Getting Started

G'day and welcome to GetReview Australia! You've made a smart choice investing in your business's online reputation. Whether you run a café in Melbourne, a tradie business in Brisbane, or a medical practice in Perth, this platform will help you collect more positive reviews and manage your online presence like a pro.

What GetReview Australia Does for Your Business

GetReview Australia is your complete review management solution, designed specifically for Australian businesses. Here's what it can do:

  • Collect More Reviews: Send automated SMS requests and use QR codes to make it easy for happy customers to leave reviews
  • Manage All Reviews in One Place: See reviews from Google, Facebook, Yelp and more in a single dashboard
  • Respond Faster with AI: Generate professional replies to reviews instantly using artificial intelligence
  • Share Social Proof: Automatically post your best reviews to Facebook and Instagram
  • Protect Your Reputation: Catch unhappy customers early with private feedback before they leave bad reviews
💡 Did You Know? 88% of Australian consumers read online reviews before visiting a local business. Having more positive reviews can increase your foot traffic by up to 35%!

How This Guide Works

This guide is organised to help you get the most out of GetReview Australia. You can:

  • Follow it step-by-step if you're new to review management
  • Jump to specific sections using the table of contents
  • Use the Quick Start Guide if you need results immediately

Australian Compliance & Best Practices

⚠️ Important: GetReview Australia is designed to comply with Australian Consumer Law and Google's review policies. We include mandatory opt-out links in all SMS communications and ensure your review collection practices are ethical and legal.

Understanding Your Dashboard

Your GetReview Australia dashboard is your mission control centre. Here's what you'll see when you first log in:

GetReview Australia Dashboard - Settings and Review Link Configuration

Main Navigation Areas

⭐ Reviews

View and manage all your reviews from different platforms. This is also where you'll find your QR code for in-person review collection.

📨 Requests

Send review requests via SMS or email to your customers. Access quick requests for immediate sending or create campaigns for bulk outreach.

🎨 Widgets

Create and manage website widgets to display your reviews on your business website for instant social proof.

⚙️ Settings

Configure your review link, connect social media accounts, and customise your platform settings.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to Watch

Your dashboard shows several important metrics that help you track your reputation management success:

Metric What It Means Good Target
Review Volume Total number of reviews received this month 5-10% of your customer base
Average Rating Your overall star rating across all platforms 4.0 stars or higher
Response Rate Percentage of reviews you've replied to 80% or higher
SMS Success Rate Percentage of SMS review requests successfully delivered 95% or higher
💡 Pro Tip: Check your dashboard daily for the first week, then weekly once you're comfortable. Set aside 10 minutes each morning to respond to new reviews and send quick requests to yesterday's customers.

Managing Your Business Profile

Your business profile is what customers see when they interact with your review link and what appears on your Google Business Profile. Keeping this information accurate and up-to-date is essential for building trust and credibility with potential customers.

Profile Overview - Business Information Display

Accessing Your Profile Settings

  1. Click on Profile in the left sidebar navigation
  2. You'll see your business profile overview with all your key information
  3. Click on any section to edit the details

Profile Sections Overview

📸 Information and Photos

  • Profile photo (appears on your review link)
  • Cover photo (featured on your profile page)
  • Business name and address
  • Website URL
  • Business description
  • Category and phone number

📰 Updates

  • Post news about your business
  • Announce events and promotions
  • Share special offers
  • Sync directly to Google Business Profile

⏰ Hours

  • Regular hours (weekly schedule)
  • Special hours (holidays, events)
  • Temporary closures
  • Auto-sync with Google

Editing Business Information and Photos

Your business information appears on your review link and helps customers recognise and trust your business:

  1. Navigate to Profile → Information and Photos
  2. Click the Information tab
  3. Update any of the following fields as needed
Information Tab - Edit Business Details

Profile Photo vs Cover Photo

Photo Type Recommended Size Where It Appears Best Practice
Profile Photo Square (500x500px) Review link header, thumbnails Use your logo or icon
Cover Photo Rectangle (1200x400px) Profile page banner Use a professional photo of your business, products, or team
💡 Photo Tips:
  • Profile photo: Should be recognisable at small sizes - your logo works best
  • Cover photo: Choose a high-quality image that represents your brand - storefront, popular product, happy team
  • File format: JPG or PNG, keep file size under 2MB for fast loading
  • Consistency: Use the same profile photo across all platforms for brand recognition

Managing Business Updates

Updates (also called "Posts" on Google Business Profile) are short announcements that appear on your profile. They're perfect for promoting events, news, or special offers.

Updates Section - Create News and Events

Creating a New Update

  1. Go to Profile → Updates
  2. Click the + New Update button
  3. Choose update type: News or Event
  4. Upload an eye-catching image (1200x900px recommended)
  5. Write your message (keep it under 150 words)
  6. Set the date (events need start/end times)
  7. Toggle Live to publish immediately
  8. Click Save

Update Types

Always test your review link before going live:

  1. Click the Preview button (eye icon at the top right of your Review Link settings)
  2. Test both desktop and mobile versions
  3. Try both positive and negative feedback paths
  4. Make sure all your connected platforms are working
Review Link Preview - Mobile and Desktop Views

Using QR Codes

QR codes are brilliant for Australian businesses because they make it incredibly easy for customers to leave reviews on the spot. No typing, no searching - just scan and review!

Where QR Codes Work Best

  • Retail counters: Perfect for cafes, shops, and service desks
  • Restaurant tables: Especially effective for takeaway orders
  • Tradie vehicles: Put them on your ute or van for job completion
  • Medical practices: At reception or in waiting areas
  • Beauty salons: At the payment counter

Accessing Your QR Code

  1. Go to the Reviews section in your dashboard
  2. Look for the QR code icon in the toolbar
  3. Click to open Kiosk Mode or download the QR code
QR Code Interface - Kiosk Mode and Download Options

Kiosk Mode vs Downloaded QR Code

📱 Kiosk Mode

Best for: Tablets at reception desks or counters

  • Full-screen interface
  • Always up-to-date
  • Professional presentation
  • Great for high-traffic areas

🖨️ Downloaded QR Code

Best for: Printed materials and signage

  • Print on receipts, menus, business cards
  • Add to storefront windows
  • Include in email signatures
  • Put on vehicle signage

QR Code Printing Ideas for Different Business Types

Update Type Best Use Cases Example Duration
News Announcements, new products, achievements "New winter blend featuring notes of chocolate and caramel!" 7 days (auto-expires)
Event Special occasions, promotions, limited-time offers "Valentine's Day special: Buy two lattes, get a free croissant!" Until event date passes
Business Type Where to Place QR Codes Timing Strategy
Cafe/Restaurant Table tents, receipts, takeaway bags After meal completion, with the bill
Retail Shop Shopping bags, receipts, counter display At point of purchase
Tradie/Contractor Vehicle signage, job completion forms Immediately after job completion
Healthcare Practice Reception desk, appointment cards After consultation, not during waiting
Beauty/Wellness Mirror displays, appointment reminders End of treatment when client is happy
💡 Mobile Staff Tip: If you're often on-site (like tradies or mobile services), open GetReview Australia on your phone, tap the QR code button, and show it to customers directly. No printing required!

QR Code Best Practices

  • Size matters: Print at least 3cm x 3cm for easy scanning
  • Positioning: Eye level is best, avoid placing too low or too high
  • Call to action: Add text like "Scan to leave us a review!"
  • Test regularly: Make sure your QR codes still work as you update your review link
  • Keep it simple: Don't clutter the area around your QR code
Examples of QR Codes in Business Settings - Mobile Phone Scanning

Sending Quick Review Requests

Quick requests are perfect for those moments when you've just served a happy customer and want to capture their positive experience immediately. It's like having a virtual assistant that can instantly send a professional review request.

When to Use Quick Requests

  • Just completed a service: Perfect timing when customers are satisfied
  • Customer compliments your business: Strike while the iron's hot
  • End of appointment: Natural transition point for medical/beauty businesses
  • After problem resolution: When you've turned a negative into a positive

How to Send a Quick Request

  1. In the Reviews section, click the Quick Request button in the top right corner
  2. Select your channel (Email or SMS)
  3. Click Next
  4. Enter the customer's name and contact details (mobile number for SMS or email address for Email)
  5. Check the consent box (this is legally required in Australia)
  6. Review the message template and personalise if needed
  7. Click Send
Quick Request Interface - Channel Selection Step

Understanding Consent Requirements

⚠️ Australian Law Compliance: Under the Spam Act 2003, you must have explicit consent before sending SMS messages to customers. GetReview Australia includes this consent step to ensure compliance. Never skip this step!

Valid consent includes:

  • Asking permission before sending: "Can I send you a quick SMS to leave us a review?"
  • Including opt-out information in every message
  • Respecting opt-out requests immediately
  • Only sending review requests, not marketing messages

Messaging Channel Options

Channel Status Best For Delivery Rate Response Rate
SMS ✅ Available Now Most businesses (default option) 98%+ 15-25%
Email ✅ Available Now Professional services, follow-up campaigns 95%+ 10-20%
WhatsApp Business 🔜 Coming Soon Younger demographics, service businesses 95%+ (estimated) 25-35% (estimated)
💡 Channel Selection Tips:
  • SMS: Best for immediate requests and high-priority customers. Most Australians read SMS within 3 minutes of receiving them.
  • Email: Ideal for professional services (accountants, lawyers, consultants) and when following up with customers who prefer email communication.
  • WhatsApp (Coming Soon): Will be perfect for businesses serving younger demographics who prefer messaging apps over traditional SMS.

Customising Your Quick Request Message

Your default message template is professionally written, but you can personalise it for your business:

💡 Message Personalisation Tips:
  • Keep it short and friendly
  • Mention the specific service (e.g., "Thanks for your haircut today!")
  • Always include the mandatory variables: {{name}}, {{review_link}}, {{opt_out_link}}

Sample Messages for Different Industries:

Business Type Sample Message
Cafe "Hi {{name}}, thanks for visiting us today! If you enjoyed your coffee & meal, we'd love a quick review: {{review_link}}. Reply STOP to opt out {{opt_out_link}}"
Hairdresser "Hey {{name}}! Hope you love your new look! If you're happy with your cut, please leave us a review: {{review_link}}. Text STOP to unsubscribe {{opt_out_link}}"
Plumber "Hi {{name}}, thanks for choosing us for your plumbing needs today. If we did a good job, a review would help us heaps: {{review_link}}. Reply STOP to opt out {{opt_out_link}}"

Quiet Hours and Timing

GetReview Australia automatically respects quiet hours (9 PM to 11 AM) to avoid annoying customers with late-night or early-morning messages. Messages sent during quiet hours are automatically queued and delivered at 11 AM in the recipient's time zone.

⏰ Best Timing Tips:
  • Service businesses: Send within 1 hour of service completion
  • Restaurants: Send 2-3 hours after the meal
  • Retail: Send within 30 minutes of purchase
  • Tradies: Send immediately upon job completion
  • Healthcare (GPs, dentists, physios, naturopaths): Send 24 hours after appointment to allow recovery time and reflection on care quality

Sending to Multiple Customers

You can send quick requests to multiple customers at once:

  1. Click Add Client to create additional rows
  2. Fill in details for each customer
  3. Ensure you have consent from all recipients
  4. Send to all at once
Multiple Customer Quick Request Interface - Bulk Review Requests

Managing Review Campaigns

While quick requests are great for immediate opportunities, campaigns are perfect for systematic review collection. Think of campaigns as your automated review collection assistant that works even when you're busy serving customers.

When to Use Campaigns vs Quick Requests

📱 Quick Requests

  • Immediate opportunities
  • One-off customers
  • Face-to-face interactions
  • When you're present to ask for consent

📊 Campaigns

  • Regular customer databases
  • Scheduled follow-ups
  • Bulk customer communications
  • Automated review collection

Setting Up Your First Campaign

  1. Navigate to Requests → Campaigns
  2. Click Create New Campaign
  3. Give your campaign a name
  4. Choose your communication channel (Email or SMS)
  5. Select your contact list ("Not Contacted" list or "All Contacts" to reach your entire customer base)
  6. Pick one of your pre-created review request templates
  7. Decide whether to send the campaign immediately or schedule it for a later date
  8. Check the preview to make sure everything looks right
  9. Click Send
Campaign Creation Interface - New Campaign Setup

Campaign Best Practices by Use Case

While campaigns in GetReview Australia follow a standard setup process, you can use them strategically for different business goals:

Use Case Contact List Strategy Timing Recommendation
Initial Launch Use "Not Contacted" list or import recent customers from past 3-6 months Send during business hours on Tuesday-Thursday
Ongoing Collection Regularly add new customers to contact list and send weekly Consistent schedule (e.g., every Tuesday at 10am)
Follow-up Reminder Create list of non-responders from previous campaign Wait 7 days after initial request before reminder
Post-Resolution Manual entry of customers after complaint resolution Send 2-3 days after issue is resolved
💡 Campaign Strategy Tip: The key to successful campaigns is proper contact list management and timing. Use the "Not Contacted" list feature to avoid sending duplicate requests to the same customers.

Contact List Management

You can add contacts in several ways:

Option 1: CSV Upload

Prepare a CSV file with the following columns:

  • First Name (required) - Customer's first name
  • Last Name (required) - Customer's last name
  • Phone (required) - Mobile number including country prefix (e.g., +61 for Australia)
  • Email (optional) - Customer's email address
CSV Upload Interface
💡 CSV Formatting Tips:
  • Phone numbers: Must include country prefix. For Australian mobiles, use +61 followed by the number without the leading 0. Example: +61412345678 (not 0412345678)
  • Download template: Use the example file provided in the platform to ensure correct formatting
  • Data source: Export customer data from your existing system (EFTPOS, booking software, POS system like Square, Xero, or Bookings)
  • Check your data: Remove duplicate entries and verify phone numbers before uploading
⚠️ Phone Number Format: The most common mistake is incorrect phone number formatting. Always include the country prefix (+61 for Australia) and remove any leading zeros. GetReview Australia will reject improperly formatted numbers to ensure successful SMS delivery.

Option 2: Manual Entry

Perfect for smaller lists or when you want to be selective about who receives requests.

Manual Contact Entry Interface
💡 Manual Entry Tips:
  • Add contact button: Click "Add contact" to quickly add individual customers after each transaction
  • Upload from CSV: For bulk uploads, use the CSV upload option instead
  • Phone number format: Select +61 (Australia) from the dropdown, then enter the mobile number without the leading 0
  • Email optional: While email is optional, including it provides a backup contact method if SMS fails

Option 3: Integration Sync

Connect GetReview Australia with your existing customer management system for automatic updates.

Campaign Scheduling Best Practices

  • Timing: Send campaigns on Tuesday-Thursday for best response rates
  • Frequency: Don't send more than one review request per customer per month
  • Personalisation: Reference the specific service or visit date when possible
  • Follow-up: Send one gentle reminder 7 days after the initial request
⚠️ Compliance Reminder: Only include customers who have given consent to receive marketing communications. If in doubt, send a quick request in person rather than adding them to an automated campaign.

Viewing & Managing Reviews

The Reviews section is where you'll spend most of your time in GetReview Australia. It's your command centre for monitoring what customers are saying about your business across all platforms.

Understanding Your Review Feed

Your review feed automatically imports reviews from all connected platforms:

  • Google Business Profile: Imports instantly (within seconds)
  • Facebook: Updates every 15 minutes
  • Other platforms: Usually within 2-3 minutes of posting
Review Feed - Mixed Reviews from Multiple Platforms

Review Feed Filters

Use the filter options to focus on what matters most:

Filter When to Use Action Required
All Reviews Daily overview check General monitoring
Reviews Without Reply Priority response management Reply to all unreplied reviews

Review Priority System

Not all reviews need the same level of attention. Here's how to prioritise:

🚨 High Priority

  • 1-2 star Google reviews
  • Reviews mentioning specific problems
  • Reviews from recent customers
  • Reviews with lots of detail

Response time: Within 2-4 hours

⚠️ Medium Priority

  • 3-star reviews
  • Positive reviews without replies
  • Reviews on secondary platforms

Response time: Within 24 hours

✅ Low Priority

  • 5-star reviews with existing replies
  • Very old reviews
  • Generic positive comments

Response time: Within 48-72 hours

Understanding Review Patterns

💡 Pattern Recognition: Look for patterns in your reviews. Are multiple customers mentioning the same issue? Are certain staff members getting consistent praise? Use these insights to improve your business operations.

Common patterns to watch for:

  • Time-based patterns: Do you get more negative reviews on busy days?
  • Service-specific patterns: Which services get the best/worst reviews?
  • Staff-related patterns: Are certain team members mentioned frequently?
  • Seasonal patterns: Do reviews change with seasons or events?

Managing Fake or Inappropriate Reviews

Unfortunately, not all reviews are genuine. Here's how to handle problematic reviews:

Identifying Fake Reviews:

  • Generic language with no specific details
  • Posted by accounts with no profile picture or history
  • Multiple similar reviews posted in short timeframes
  • Reviews that mention competitors or services you don't offer

Action Steps for Inappropriate Reviews:

  1. Document the review with screenshots
  2. Report through the platform's official channels (Google, Facebook, etc.)
  3. Respond professionally if the review stays up
  4. Focus on getting more legitimate positive reviews to dilute the impact
⚠️ Never: Ask friends or family to leave fake positive reviews. This violates platform policies and Australian consumer law. Focus on earning genuine reviews from real customers.
  • Click Send Reply
  • AI Reply Generation - Review with Response Example

    AI Reply Quality and Customisation

    The AI learns from your business type and previous responses to generate appropriate replies. Here's what it considers:

    • Review sentiment: Positive, negative, or neutral tone
    • Specific issues mentioned: Service problems, staff praise, etc.
    • Your business type: Different responses for cafes vs medical practices
    • Australian language patterns: Uses appropriate local language and tone

    Platform-Specific Reply Capabilities

    Platform Reply Method Features
    Google Business Profile Direct API integration Reply directly from GetReview Australia, edit/delete replies
    Facebook Direct link Opens Facebook page for manual reply
    Yelp Direct link Opens Yelp page for manual reply
    Other platforms Direct link Copy/paste AI-generated response

    Reply Templates by Review Type

    Positive Reviews (4-5 Stars)

    AI-Generated Example:
    "Thanks so much for the lovely review, Sarah! We're thrilled you enjoyed your experience with us today. Your kind words about our team really make our day. We look forward to seeing you again soon! 😊"

    Key Elements:
    • Personal greeting using customer's name
    • Specific acknowledgment of their experience
    • Appreciation for specific compliments
    • Invitation to return
    • Appropriate emoji use

    Negative Reviews (1-2 Stars)

    AI-Generated Example:
    "Hi Michael, thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I'm genuinely sorry to hear that your experience didn't meet your expectations. We take all feedback seriously and would love to make this right. Please contact us directly at [phone] so we can discuss this further and find a solution. We appreciate the opportunity to improve."

    Key Elements:
    • Professional acknowledgment
    • Genuine apology without admitting fault
    • Commitment to improvement
    • Private contact invitation
    • No defensive language

    Mixed Reviews (3 Stars)

    AI-Generated Example:
    "Hi Jennifer, thanks for your honest feedback about your visit today. We're glad you enjoyed some aspects of your experience, and we appreciate you pointing out areas where we can improve. Your suggestions help us provide better service for all our customers. We'd love to welcome you back and show you the improvements we're making!"

    Key Elements:
    • Balanced acknowledgment
    • Focus on both positives and improvements
    • Appreciation for constructive feedback
    • Commitment to improvement
    • Re-engagement invitation

    Editing AI-Generated Responses

    Always review and personalise AI responses before sending:

    ✏️ Editing Checklist:
    • Check the customer's name is spelled correctly
    • Add specific details about their visit if you remember
    • Ensure the tone matches your brand voice
    • Remove any generic phrases that don't apply
    • Add your business name or personal signature

    Response Time Best Practices

    Review Type Recommended Response Time Why It Matters
    Negative (1-2 stars) Within 2-4 hours Shows you care and can prevent escalation
    Mixed (3 stars) Within 24 hours Demonstrates commitment to improvement
    Positive (4-5 stars) Within 48 hours Shows appreciation and encourages return visits

    Common Reply Mistakes to Avoid

    ⚠️ Avoid These Mistakes:
    • Generic responses: "Thanks for the review" without personalisation
    • Defensive language: Arguing with negative reviewers publicly
    • Over-apologising: Multiple apologies in one response
    • Private information: Sharing customer details publicly
    • Copy-paste responses: Identical replies to different reviews

    Sharing Reviews on Social Media

    Your positive reviews are powerful marketing content - and GetReview Australia makes it incredibly easy to share them on your social media channels. This feature turns your happy customers into your marketing team!

    Why Share Reviews on Social Media?

    • Social proof: Reviews are more trusted than self-promotional content
    • Content creation: Solves the "what to post" problem for busy business owners
    • Increased engagement: Review posts typically get higher engagement rates
    • Customer retention: Seeing their review shared makes customers feel valued
    • Attract new customers: Showcases real customer experiences to potential clients
    📱 Social Media Impact: Businesses that regularly share customer reviews on social media see an average 25% increase in new customer enquiries and 18% higher customer retention rates.

    Connecting Your Social Media Accounts

    Before you can share reviews, you need to connect your business social media accounts:

    1. Go to Settings → Integrations → Social Media
    2. Click Connect Facebook Page and follow the prompts
    3. Click Connect Instagram Business Account
    4. Authorise GetReview Australia to post on your behalf
    5. Test the connection with a sample post
    Social Media Connection Interface - Facebook and Instagram Integration
    ⚠️ Account Requirements: You need a Facebook Business Page (not personal profile) and an Instagram Business Account to use this feature. Personal accounts cannot be used for automated posting.

    How to Share a Review on Social Media

    1. In your Reviews section, find a positive review (4-5 stars work best)
    2. Click the Share button on the review card
    3. GetReview Australia automatically generates an attractive post design with your branding
    4. Customise the caption if desired (or use the auto-generated one)
    5. Select which platforms to post to (Facebook, Instagram, or both)
    6. Click Post and the review will be published immediately

    Social Media Sharing Best Practices

    📅 Posting Frequency Tips:
    • Share 2-3 reviews per week for maximum engagement without overwhelming followers
    • Best times to post: Tuesday-Thursday between 10am-2pm for Australian audiences
    • Mix it up: Alternate between different types of reviews and customer demographics
    • Respond to comments: Engage with followers who comment on your shared reviews

    Choosing Which Reviews to Share

    Review Type Should You Share? Why/Why Not
    5-star with detailed feedback ✅ Excellent choice Provides specific social proof
    4-star with positive comments ✅ Good choice Shows authenticity (not all perfect)
    5-star without text ⚠️ Use sparingly Less engaging, lacks detail
    3-star or below ❌ Don't share Negative impact on brand perception

    AI Automation Features

    GetReview Australia offers two powerful AI automation features that can save you hours each week while maintaining professional customer engagement. These features work in the background, automatically responding to reviews and sharing your best customer feedback on social media.

    🤖 AI Auto Reply

    Automatically responds to Google reviews

    • Replies generated using AI within minutes of review posting
    • Customisable tone (Formal or Informal)
    • Adjustable length (Short, Normal, Long)
    • Supports multiple languages
    • Maintains consistent brand voice

    📱 AI Auto Share

    Automatically posts reviews to social media

    • Shares positive reviews to Facebook and Instagram
    • Customisable posting frequency
    • AI-generated captions matching your tone
    • Selects reviews that highlight your business
    • Professional branded design
    💡 Automation Benefits: Businesses using AI Auto Reply see 95%+ response rates (vs 30-40% manual average), and those using AI Auto Share generate 3-5 social media posts per week without any manual effort.

    Setting Up AI Auto Reply

    AI Auto Reply works exclusively with your Google Business Profile reviews, automatically generating and publishing professional responses based on your preferences.

    AI Agent Settings - Auto Reply and Auto Share Configuration

    Configuration Steps:

    1. Navigate to AI Agent from the left sidebar
    2. Find the AI Auto Reply section
    3. Toggle the switch to Enable
    4. Select your preferred tone: Formal (professional language for corporate businesses, law firms, medical practices, financial services) or Informal (warm, approachable tone for hospitality, retail, cafes, salons, and most local businesses)
    5. Choose your response length: Short (1-2 sentences for quick acknowledgment), Normal (2-3 sentences for balanced, professional response), or Long (3-4 sentences for detailed, personalized response)
    6. Select your language (English by default, multiple languages available)
    7. Click Save
    🎯 Tone Selection Guide:
    • Formal: Law firms, medical practices, financial services, consultants, corporate businesses requiring professional distance
    • Informal: Cafes, restaurants, hair salons, retail shops, gyms, tradies, real estate, automotive, and most customer-facing businesses

    How AI Auto Reply Works:

    Step What Happens Timing
    1. Review Posted Customer leaves review on Google Immediate
    2. Detection GetReview Australia detects new review Within seconds
    3. AI Generation AI generates response based on your settings 1-2 minutes
    4. Publishing Response automatically posted to Google 2-5 minutes total
    ⚠️ Quality Assurance: While AI Auto Reply is highly accurate, we recommend:
    • Reviewing auto-generated responses weekly to ensure quality
    • Manually editing responses to negative reviews for sensitive situations
    • Adjusting tone/length settings if responses don't match your brand voice
    • Testing with a few manual reviews first before enabling full automation

    Setting Up AI Auto Share

    AI Auto Share automatically selects your best reviews and posts them to your connected Facebook Page and Instagram Business Account, complete with professionally designed graphics and AI-written captions.

    Configuration Steps:

    1. Navigate to AI Agent from the left sidebar
    2. Find the AI Auto Share section
    3. Toggle the switch to Enable
    4. Select your preferred tone: Formal (professional captions for corporate brands) or Informal (casual, engaging captions with emojis)
    5. Choose your caption length: Short (1-2 sentences), Normal (2-3 sentences with relevant hashtags), or Long (detailed captions with hashtags and context)
    6. Set your posting frequency: Once a day (daily posts at optimal times), Every 3 days (posts twice per week for balanced consistency), or Every 7 days (weekly posts, less frequent but still consistent)
    7. Select your language
    8. Choose which platforms to post to: Facebook, Instagram, Google
    9. Click Save

    Review Selection Criteria:

    The AI automatically selects reviews based on these factors:

    • Rating: Prioritises 5-star reviews (occasionally 4-star for authenticity)
    • Content quality: Chooses reviews with detailed, specific feedback
    • Recency: Prefers newer reviews to keep content fresh
    • Variety: Rotates between different customer experiences
    • Visual appeal: Selects reviews that will create engaging social posts
    📅 Frequency Recommendations:
    • Once a day: Best for businesses with high review volume (10+ reviews/week) and active social media presence
    • Every 3 days: Ideal for growing businesses (5-10 reviews/week) who want consistent content without daily posting
    • Every 7 days: Perfect for most small businesses (5-10 reviews/month) to maintain consistent social proof without overwhelming followers

    Caption Examples by Tone:

    Informal Tone (Long):
    "We're absolutely thrilled with this amazing feedback from Sarah! 🌟 It's customers like you that make what we do so rewarding. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us! ❤️ We can't wait to see you again soon! #CustomerLove #HappyCustomers #LocalBusiness #SupportLocal"
    Formal Tone (Short):
    "We appreciate this positive feedback from our valued client. Thank you for choosing our services."

    Managing Automated Content

    Monitoring Auto Replies

    Even with automation enabled, you should monitor AI-generated responses:

    • Check your review feed daily for any auto-replies that need editing
    • Look for patterns in review sentiment that might need human attention
    • Watch for negative reviews that may require more personalised responses
    • Adjust tone/length settings if responses consistently miss the mark

    Reviewing Auto Shared Content

    Keep track of what's being posted to your social media:

    • Follow your business's Facebook Page and Instagram account
    • Check posts weekly to ensure quality and brand alignment
    • Respond to comments on shared review posts to boost engagement
    • Monitor which posts get the most engagement (helps refine AI selection)

    When to Disable Automation

    ⚠️ Consider Temporarily Disabling Automation:
    • During crisis management: If receiving multiple negative reviews, respond manually
    • Special circumstances: Business changes, rebranding, or major incidents
    • Testing new settings: Disable while experimenting with tone/length options
    • Social media breaks: If running specific campaigns or need posting control
    • Platform issues: If experiencing technical problems with Google/Facebook integration

    Automation Best Practices

    Practice Why It Matters Recommended Frequency
    Review auto-replies Ensure quality and catch any AI errors Weekly spot-check (5-10 mins)
    Check social media posts Verify brand alignment and engagement Weekly review
    Respond to engagement Comments on shared reviews need replies Daily (2-3 mins)
    Adjust settings Fine-tune based on performance Monthly optimization
    Test manual overrides Important reviews need personal touch As needed for key reviews
    🚀 Maximizing Automation Success:
    • Start conservative: Begin with weekly social posts and review after 2-3 weeks
    • Monitor first month closely: Check auto-replies daily for the first 2-4 weeks
    • Adjust as needed: Change tone/length if AI responses don't match your voice
    • Manually handle sensitive reviews: Override automation for complex situations
    • Celebrate wins: Share great auto-generated responses with your team

    Website Widgets

    Website widgets are one of the most powerful features for converting website visitors into customers. They display your best reviews directly on your website, providing instant social proof to potential customers.

    Why Website Widgets Matter

    • Instant credibility: Visitors see real customer experiences immediately
    • Higher conversion rates: Social proof increases conversion by up to 34%
    • SEO benefits: Rich snippets help your website rank higher in Google
    • Always current: Widgets automatically update with new reviews
    • Professional appearance: Integrated design matches your website
    🎯 Conversion Impact: Websites displaying customer reviews see an average 270% increase in conversion rates compared to those without social proof elements.

    Types of Widgets Available

    GetReview Australia offers three main widget types to display your reviews on your website:

    📝 Carousel Widget

    Best for: Homepage, about page, service pages

    • Horizontally scrolling card layout
    • Shows 3 reviews at a time
    • Customer photos and names
    • Star ratings with Google branding
    • Full review text with emojis
    • Professional card design

    📋 Grid Widget

    Best for: Testimonials page, service pages

    • Masonry-style grid layout
    • Multiple reviews visible at once
    • Responsive design (adjusts to screen size)
    • Customer profile pictures
    • Full review text displayed
    • Easy to scan format

    ⚡ Pop-Up Widget

    Best for: All pages (non-intrusive social proof)

    • Single review card display
    • Compact, minimal design
    • Shows customer photo and name
    • Star rating visible
    • Brief review snippet
    • "Powered by" branding option

    Setting Up Your First Widget

    1. Navigate to Widgets from the main navigation menu
    2. Choose your widget type from the tabs at the top: Carousel, Grid, or Pop-Up
    3. Preview how the widget looks with your existing reviews in real-time
    4. Click the Embed Widget button in the top right corner
    5. Copy the generated embed code from the popup window
    6. Paste the code into your website's HTML (where you want the widget to appear)
    7. Save your website changes and refresh to see the widget live
    8. Test on both desktop and mobile devices to ensure proper display

    Widget Installation by Platform

    📅 Update Strategy:
    • Post regularly: Aim for 1-2 updates per week for best Google visibility
    • Include photos: Updates with images get 40% more engagement
    • Be timely: Promote seasonal offers and upcoming events
    • Keep it brief: Short, punchy messages perform better than long text
    • Use keywords: Include relevant search terms naturally in your updates

    Managing Business Hours

    Accurate business hours are crucial for customer satisfaction. Nothing frustrates customers more than showing up to a closed business! GetReview Australia syncs your hours directly with Google Business Profile.

    Setting Regular Hours

    1. Navigate to Profile → Regular Hours
    2. For each day of the week, toggle Open or 24 Hours
    3. Set opening and closing times using the dropdowns
    4. Click the + icon to add split shifts (e.g., lunch break closures)
    5. Click Save at the bottom when finished
    Regular Hours Interface - Weekly Schedule
    ⚠️ Double-Check Your Hours: Incorrect hours are the #1 source of customer complaints on Google Business Profile. Make absolutely certain your listed hours match when you're actually open. Consider factors like:
    • Staff availability
    • Seasonal changes
    • Public holidays
    • Special circumstances (tradies may have "by appointment only" hours)

    Adding Special Hours

    Special hours let you inform customers about temporary schedule changes for holidays, events, or closures:

    1. Go to Profile → Special Hours
    2. Click + New Special Hour
    3. Select the date from the calendar
    4. Choose Closed or set custom hours
    5. Click Save
    Special Hours Interface - Holiday and Event Hours

    Common Special Hours Scenarios:

    Scenario How to Handle Advance Notice
    Christmas Day Mark as "Closed" 2 weeks ahead
    Australia Day Set special hours (e.g., 10am-2pm) 1 week ahead
    Private Event Mark specific date range as "Closed" or reduced hours As soon as booked
    Extended Hours (Sale) Set longer hours for sale dates 1 week ahead
    Emergency Closure Immediately mark as closed, remove when reopening As soon as possible
    🗓️ Special Hours Best Practices:
    • Plan ahead: Add public holiday closures at the start of each year
    • Update promptly: If you need to close unexpectedly, update immediately
    • Remove old entries: Clean up past special hours to avoid confusion
    • Communicate widely: Post updates on social media when hours change
    • Common Australian holidays to prepare for: Christmas/Boxing Day, New Year's, Australia Day, Good Friday/Easter, Anzac Day, Queen's Birthday (varies by state)

    Profile Maintenance Checklist

    Keep your profile fresh and accurate with this monthly maintenance routine:

    Task Frequency Takes
    Review business information for accuracy Monthly 5 minutes
    Update cover photo for seasonal relevance Quarterly 10 minutes
    Post business updates/news Weekly 15 minutes
    Add upcoming special hours As needed 5 minutes
    Verify regular hours still accurate Monthly 3 minutes
    ⚠️ Google Sync Note: Changes to your profile information in GetReview Australia automatically sync to your Google Business Profile within 15-30 minutes. However, Google must approve certain changes (like business name or address), which can take 1-3 business days.

    Your review link is the most important part of GetReview Australia. It's the webpage your customers visit to leave reviews, and it needs to be set up properly to maximise your success.

    Step 1: Upload Your Business Logo

    1. Navigate to Settings → Review Link
    2. Click on the Experience tab
    3. Click Upload Logo and select your business logo file
    4. Make sure your logo is clear and professional (PNG or JPG, max 2MB)
    Review Link Settings - Logo Upload and Experience Filter
    💡 Logo Tips: Use a square logo if possible (it displays better on mobile). Avoid text-heavy logos as they may be hard to read on smaller screens. Your logo builds trust and makes the review process feel more professional.

    Step 2: Configure the Experience Filter

    This is where GetReview Australia gets clever. The experience filter helps you direct happy customers to leave public reviews while capturing feedback from unhappy customers privately.

    1. Choose your filter type (thumbs up/down, star ratings, or happy/sad faces)
    2. Set the threshold - typically 4-5 stars go to public reviews, 1-3 stars go to private feedback
    3. Customise the messaging for each path
    Experience Filter Configuration - All Filter Options

    Filter Options Explained:

    Filter Type Best For Customer Experience
    Thumbs Up/Down Simple businesses (cafes, retail) Quick and easy decision
    Star Ratings Service businesses (restaurants, hotels) More nuanced feedback
    Happy/Sad Faces Healthcare, family services Friendly and approachable
    ⚠️ Compliance Note: The experience filter must always include an option for customers to leave public reviews if they choose. This ensures compliance with Google's review policies and Australian consumer protection laws.

    Step 3: Add Review Platforms to Your Review Link

    Now you'll add the review platforms where customers can leave reviews:

    1. Still in Settings → Review Link, click on the Sites tab
    2. You'll see platforms that are already integrated (like Google) automatically appear here
    3. Click Add Custom Integration to add additional review sites
    4. Enter the platform name (e.g., "ProductReview.com.au")
    5. Paste the URL of your business's review page on that platform
    6. Click Save
    Review Sites Tab - Adding Review Platforms
    Add Custom Integration Interface

    Popular Review Platforms for Australian Businesses:

    • Google Business Profile: Essential for all businesses
    • Facebook: Great for local businesses
    • TrueLocal: Popular Australian business directory
    • Yelp: Especially popular in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne
    • ProductReview.com.au: Australian product and service review site
    • TripAdvisor: Essential for restaurants, cafes, and tourism businesses
    💡 Focus Strategy: Start with Google and 2-3 custom platforms most relevant to your industry. Don't overwhelm customers with too many options — focus on the platforms where your target customers actually look for reviews.
    📝 Important Distinction:
    • Full Integrations (Settings → Integrations): Google, Yelp, Booking, TripAdvisor, Airbnb, Trustpilot, Facebook, and others can be fully integrated for automatic review importing and management from the Integrations section.
    • Custom Integrations (Review Link → Sites): Any platform can be added as a "custom integration" by entering its name and URL. These appear as clickable options on your review link, directing customers to leave reviews directly on those platforms.
    • Best Practice: Use full integrations (Settings → Integrations) for platforms where you want to import and manage reviews. Use custom integrations (Review Link → Sites) for additional platforms where you just want to give customers the option to review.

    Step 4: Customise Review Link Text Messages (Optional)

    You can customise the text that appears on your review link pages.

    Texts Tab - Customise Review Link Messages
    💡 Text Customisation Tips:
    • Filter Page: The first screen customers see - keep it friendly and inviting
    • Positive Experience: Thank customers and guide them to your review platforms
    • Negative Experience: Show empathy and provide a way for customers to share feedback privately
    • Consent text: Required for compliance - customise but ensure legal requirements are met

    Step 5: Additional Settings

    The Other tab provides advanced privacy and compliance options:

    Other Tab - Privacy and Compliance Settings
    ⚠️ Privacy Settings: These toggles control consent requests and public review prompts. Most Australian businesses should leave these enabled to ensure proper consent and give customers the choice of public or private feedback.

    Step 6: Preview and Test Your Review Link

    Website Platform Installation Method Difficulty
    WordPress Add to Custom HTML widget or page builder Easy
    Wix Use "Embed Code" element from Add menu Easy
    Squarespace Add Code Block in desired location Easy
    Shopify Edit theme code or use App Block Moderate
    Custom HTML Paste directly into HTML where desired Easy (if familiar with HTML)
    💡 Placement Strategy:
    • Homepage: Use Carousel widget above the fold or in the middle section
    • Service pages: Place Grid widget near call-to-action buttons
    • Contact page: Add Carousel widget to build trust before enquiry
    • All pages: Enable Pop-Up widget for consistent social proof

    Best Practices for Getting More Reviews

    Now that you understand the tools, let's talk strategy. Getting consistent reviews requires more than just having the right software - it requires building a review culture in your business.

    The Perfect Timing for Review Requests

    Business Type Best Time to Ask Why This Works
    Cafe/Restaurant 2-3 hours after meal Customer has digested, still remembers experience
    Retail Immediately after purchase Customer is excited about their purchase
    Service Business Within 1 hour of completion Results are visible, satisfaction is high
    Healthcare 24 hours after appointment Allows time for treatment effects to be noticed
    Tradies Immediately upon job completion Customer can see the finished work

    Training Staff to Ask for Reviews

    Your team is your frontline review collection force. Here's how to train them effectively:

    The Perfect In-Person Ask

    1. Gauge satisfaction first: "How was everything today?"
    2. Make it easy: "We'd love a quick review! I can send you a link via SMS right now."
    3. Get consent: "May I have your mobile number to send you the link?"
    4. Send immediately: Use Quick Request while customer is still present
    5. Thank them: "Thanks! It'll only take 30 seconds and really helps our small business."
    🎯 Staff Training Tips:
    • Role-play the review request process during team meetings
    • Set team goals for review collection (e.g., 5 per week)
    • Celebrate wins when great reviews come in
    • Never pressure customers - make it genuinely optional
    • Focus on asking satisfied customers only

    Building a Review Collection Culture

    The best businesses make review collection a natural part of their customer service:

    • Make it visible: Display your QR code prominently at checkout/reception
    • Add to receipts: Include QR code on printed receipts with a friendly message
    • Email signatures: Add review link to staff email signatures
    • Follow-up sequences: Set up automated campaigns for recent customers
    • Thank you cards: Include QR code on thank you cards for high-value customers

    Incentive Guidelines (What's Allowed in Australia)

    ⚠️ Important Legal Information: Under Australian Consumer Law and platform policies:
    • ❌ DON'T: Offer payment, discounts, or rewards ONLY for positive reviews
    • ❌ DON'T: Gate incentives based on star ratings
    • ❌ DON'T: Ask customers to remove negative reviews in exchange for anything
    • ✅ DO: Offer small thank-yous for ANY review (positive or negative)
    • ✅ DO: Run contests where review submission is optional entry method
    • ✅ DO: Thank customers genuinely without expecting specific feedback

    Monthly Review Collection Targets

    Set realistic goals based on your business size and customer volume:

    Business Size Monthly Customer Volume Realistic Review Goal Target Conversion Rate
    Small (1-5 staff) 100-500 customers 10-25 reviews/month 5-10%
    Medium (6-20 staff) 500-2000 customers 25-100 reviews/month 5-10%
    Large (20+ staff) 2000+ customers 100+ reviews/month 5-10%
    📈 Growth Strategy: Start with a 5% conversion rate goal (5 reviews per 100 customers), then gradually increase as your team gets more comfortable with the process. Top-performing businesses achieve 15-20% conversion rates.

    Troubleshooting & FAQs

    Common Issues and Solutions

    SMS Delivery Problems

    Issue: Customer didn't receive the SMS review request

    Solutions:
    • Verify phone number format includes +61 country code
    • Remove leading zero from Australian mobile numbers
    • Check customer hasn't opted out previously
    • Confirm customer's phone number is correct
    • Try resending - sometimes there are carrier delays

    Google Integration Issues

    Issue: Can't connect Google Business Profile

    Solutions:
    • Ensure you're logged in with owner or manager account
    • Check your Google Business Profile is verified
    • Try disconnecting and reconnecting the integration
    • Clear browser cache and try again
    • Contact support if issues persist

    Review Not Appearing

    Issue: Customer left a review but it's not showing in GetReview Australia

    Solutions:
    • Wait 2-3 minutes - reviews aren't always instant
    • Check the platform connection is still active (Settings → Integrations)
    • Verify the review was actually published on the source platform
    • Refresh your browser page
    • Check review filters aren't hiding it

    Frequently Asked Questions

    General Questions

    Question Answer
    How much does GetReview Australia cost? Pricing varies by plan. Visit www.getreview.com.au or contact sales@getreview.com.au for current pricing and package options tailored to your business size.
    Can I cancel anytime? Yes, GetReview Australia operates on flexible subscription terms. 
    Do customers see GetReview Australia branding? Your review link is branded with YOUR logo. Small "Powered by GetReview" appears at the bottom.
    How many review requests can I send? Limits depend on your plan. Please check your account dashboard or contact support for your specific allowance details.
    Is my customer data secure? Yes. GetReview Australia uses bank-level encryption and complies with Australian privacy laws. We never sell customer data.

    Technical Questions

    Question Answer
    Which platforms can I import reviews from? Google, Facebook, Yelp, TripAdvisor, Booking.com, Airbnb, Trustpilot, and more. Custom integrations available.
    Can I export my review data? Reviews are posted directly to their respective platforms (Google, Facebook, etc.). GetReview Australia displays and manages these reviews but doesn't store them independently.
    Does the widget slow down my website? Widgets are designed to load asynchronously to minimise impact. However, like any third-party content, they may have a small effect on page load times. The impact is typically minimal and worth the conversion benefits they provide.
    Can I use GetReview Australia on mobile? Yes! The platform is fully mobile-responsive. Access from any device with a web browser.
    What happens to reviews if I cancel? Reviews remain on their original platforms (Google, Facebook, etc.). 

    Need More Help?

    Get in Touch with Our Australian Support Team

    📧 Email: support@getreview.com.au 

      ⏰ Support Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm AEST

    Average response time: Under 24 hours during business hours

    Glossary of Terms

    Term Definition
    Quick Request Feature for sending immediate review requests to individual customers via SMS or email
    Campaign Bulk review request sent to multiple customers at once, can be scheduled or sent immediately
    Experience Filter First screen customers see on review link, directs happy customers to public reviews and unhappy customers to private feedback
    Review Link Your custom branded webpage where customers can choose which platform to leave a review on
    QR Code Scannable code that opens your review link instantly on smartphones, perfect for in-person review collection
    Widget Embeddable code that displays your reviews on your website (Carousel, Grid, or Pop-Up styles)
    AI Reply Automatically generated professional response to reviews using artificial intelligence
    Integration Connection between GetReview Australia and other platforms (Google, Facebook, etc.) for automatic review importing
    Custom Integration Manually added review platform link that appears on your review link but doesn't auto-import reviews
    Kiosk Mode Full-screen display of your QR code designed for tablets at reception desks or counters
    Response Rate Percentage of reviews you've replied to (important for SEO and customer perception)
    Opt-Out Link Mandatory link in SMS messages allowing customers to unsubscribe from future communications (Australian law requirement)
    Quiet Hours Time period (9 PM - 11 AM) when SMS messages are automatically delayed to avoid disturbing customers
    Review Feed Main dashboard view showing all your reviews from all connected platforms in chronological order
    Social Proof Psychological phenomenon where people trust businesses that others have positively reviewed

    🎉 Congratulations! You're Ready to Grow Your Business

    You've completed the GetReview Australia onboarding guide! You now have all the knowledge you need to:

    • Collect more reviews than ever before
    • Manage your online reputation professionally
    • Respond to reviews quickly with AI assistance
    • Showcase social proof on your website and social media
    • Build a sustainable review collection process

    Next Steps: Start with the Quick Start Guide if you haven't already, then pick one feature to master each week. Before you know it, you'll be a review management pro!

    Remember: Our Australian support team is here to help.
    Email us anytime at support@getreview.com.au

    Here's to your business's success! 🚀

    © 2025 GetReview by Five Star Hub.