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Google Review Response Templates by Industry [2026]

By the GMB Experts team. Published May 11, 2026.

Google Review Response Templates by Industry [2026], local SEO and Google Business Profile illustration

Responding to every review signals to Google that you're an active, engaged business, and to prospective customers that you care. But generic 'Thanks for the review!' responses look lazy and add nothing. These industry-specific templates give you a starting point you can personalize quickly.

In this guide

  1. 1. Why review responses matter
  2. 2. General principles for all responses
  3. 3. Restaurant, positive review template
  4. 4. Restaurant, negative review template
  5. 5. Dentist, positive review template
  6. 6. Dentist, negative review template
  7. 7. Attorney, positive review template
  8. 8. Attorney, negative review template
  9. 9. HVAC/Contractor, positive review template
  10. 10. HVAC/Contractor, negative review template
  11. 11. Salon/Spa, positive review template
  12. 12. Salon/Spa, negative review template
  13. 13. Universal neutral (3-star) review template

1. Why review responses matter

Google factors response rate into ranking algorithms. Profiles that respond to 80%+ of reviews within 48 hours rank higher than dormant profiles. Beyond rankings, prospective customers read responses to gauge how a business handles feedback.

2. General principles for all responses

Use the customer's name. Reference something specific from their review. Keep responses 30-80 words. Stay professional even when reviews are unfair. Never argue publicly, invite offline resolution. Sign with first name + business.

3. Restaurant, positive review template

'Thank you, [Name]! So glad you enjoyed [specific dish/experience]. Our team takes a lot of pride in [relevant detail]. We can't wait to welcome you back, try our [seasonal item] next visit., [Owner name], [Restaurant]'

4. Restaurant, negative review template

'Hi [Name], thank you for the honest feedback. I'm sorry [specific issue] didn't meet your expectations, that's not our standard. I'd appreciate the chance to make it right. Please email me directly at [email]., [Owner name], [Restaurant]'

5. Dentist, positive review template

'Thank you, [Name]! It was wonderful seeing you at your [appointment type]. We're so glad [Dr./Hygienist Name] made you feel comfortable. Looking forward to your next visit., Team [Practice Name]'

6. Dentist, negative review template

'Hi [Name], we're sorry your experience didn't match the standard we aim for. We'd like to discuss this privately, please call our office manager at [phone] so we can address your concerns directly., [Doctor Name]'

7. Attorney, positive review template

'Thank you for the kind words, [Name]. It was an honor representing you in your [case type]. Best wishes moving forward, please don't hesitate to reach out if anything else comes up., [Attorney Name], [Firm]'

8. Attorney, negative review template

'Hi [Name], thank you for the feedback. We hold ourselves to a high standard and take your concerns seriously. Due to confidentiality we cannot discuss case details publicly, but please contact our office at [phone] so we can address this., [Attorney Name]'

9. HVAC/Contractor, positive review template

'Thanks so much, [Name]! Glad [tech name] was able to get your [system type] back up quickly. We appreciate the trust, call us anytime for tune-ups or emergencies., [Owner], [Company]'

10. HVAC/Contractor, negative review template

'Hi [Name], I'm sorry about the experience. I'd like to make this right personally, please call my direct line at [phone] today. We stand behind every job and will fix what wasn't done correctly., [Owner Name]'

11. Salon/Spa, positive review template

'Thank you, [Name]! So happy you loved your [service]. [Stylist Name] mentioned how much they enjoyed working with you. See you for your next appointment!, [Salon Name]'

12. Salon/Spa, negative review template

'Hi [Name], thank you for sharing this. We never want a guest to leave unhappy. Please call our manager at [phone] this week so we can offer a complimentary correction or refund., [Salon Name]'

13. Universal neutral (3-star) review template

'Thank you, [Name], for taking the time to review us. We appreciate the honest feedback and would love to hear how we could earn the extra star next time. Please email me at [email]., [Owner Name]'

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How fast should I respond to reviews?

Within 48 hours ideally, especially for negative reviews. Google rewards quick response patterns.

Should I use the same template repeatedly?

Personalize each one. Repeated identical responses look automated and lose impact.

Can I delete bad reviews?

Only if they violate Google's policies. Honest negative reviews must stay, handling them well is more powerful than removing them.

Should I publicly offer refunds in responses?

Move resolution offline. Public refund offers attract bad-faith reviewers fishing for compensation.

Do I need to respond to 5-star reviews with no text?

A short 'Thank you!' is enough. Skip if it feels forced, prioritize the longer reviews.

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