How to Remove Negative Reviews from Google
How to Remove Negative Reviews from Google (Without Crying Into Your Coffee)
You just got a bad review on Google.
Maybe it was unfair. Maybe it was a fake. Maybe it was just a customer having a bad day and now they’re taking it out on your entire life’s work.
Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re not powerless.
Here’s how to handle negative reviews the smart way (and yes, you can remove some of them). Let’s break it down like a professional… with a little humor to keep you sane.
Step 1: Don’t Panic. Seriously.
First thing: don’t reply in ALL CAPS.
Negative reviews sting, but reacting emotionally is a quick way to make things worse.
Give yourself a moment. Go for a walk. Eat a cookie. Then come back and handle it like the boss you are.
Step 2: Determine If You Can Remove It
Google won’t delete a review just because it hurt your feelings (sorry), but they will remove reviews that break their policies. These include:
✅ Fake reviews
✅ Spam or bots
✅ Reviews with hate speech, threats, or inappropriate content
✅ Reviews from someone who was never a customer
✅ Multiple reviews from the same person (hello, keyboard warriors)
Step 3: Report the Review to Google
If the review clearly violates guidelines, you can report it:
Go to your Google Business Profile
Find the review
Click the three dots > “Report review”
Choose the reason (e.g., “Conflict of interest” or “Spam”)
Then… wait. Sometimes it takes a few days. Sometimes longer. Sometimes Google acts like it went out for milk and never came back. Be patient.
Step 4: Respond Like a Pro (Even If It’s Unfair)
If the review isn’t removable, your best move is to respond with grace—and strategy. Here’s a script you can tweak:
“Hi [Name],
We’re sorry to hear about your experience and would love the chance to make it right. Please contact us at [email/phone] so we can learn more and work toward a solution. We care deeply about our customers and appreciate your feedback.”
Sounds calm, helpful, and… basically the opposite of petty. That’s the goal.
Step 5: Bury It With Positivity (AKA Review Gardening)
Now it’s time to grow some fresh 5-star flowers.
🌟 Ask your happy customers for reviews
🌟 Share a direct link to your review page
🌟 Let people know it only takes a minute and helps a lot
The more positive reviews you collect, the less that one bad apple will matter. Think of it like this: 1 bad review in a sea of 50 great ones? That’s called balance.
Step 6: Keep Watch and Stay Classy
You don’t need to obsess over every comment—but do check in regularly. Tools like Google alerts or review management software can help. And if you suspect review-bombing or a pattern of harassment, you can escalate through Google Business Support.
Final Thoughts: You Got This
Negative reviews happen. Even the best businesses (yes, even that one with perfect cappuccinos and fairy lights) get them.
What matters most is how you respond: with clarity, kindness, and confidence. Plus, when potential customers see you handle criticism well? That builds trust.
Need help managing your online reputation or getting more glowing 5-stars? That’s literally what we do. Reach out and let’s turn your reviews into gold.
www.inhousebrandlab.com
@inhousebrandlab by @imsodebs