How I Write 5-Star Reviews That Rank on Google

 

Why 5-Star Reviews Matter More Than Ever

We’ve all seen them: the little stars under a business name on Google Maps. For most people, that number decides whether they walk in or scroll past. But here’s the secret—not all 5-star reviews are created equal. Some sit buried at the bottom, while others rise to the very top and get tagged as “Most Relevant.”

That’s where I come in. As a Local Guide and reviewer, I’ve written 5-star Google reviews that don’t just blend in they rank on top. And today, I’ll share exactly how I do it.

💡 Want to know if your reviews are helping or hurting your visibility?
 Get a free Google Review Audit from Mr Rated. I’ll analyze your reviews, profile, and ranking—then give you 3 action steps.
 Get My Free Audit →

The Power of 5-Star Google Reviews

How They Build Instant Trust

A 5-star review is like a digital handshake. Before a customer even calls you, they’ve already decided if you’re trustworthy based on what strangers said.

Their Role in Google Maps & Local SEO

Google uses reviews to decide how visible you should be on Maps. Detailed, consistent, and keyword-rich 5-star reviews push your listing higher.

The Influence on Buying Decisions

Studies like BrightLocal’s Consumer Review Survey show that 98% of people read online reviews before buying. That means your reviews aren’t just feedback they’re sales drivers.

My Approach to Writing Reviews That Rank

 

 

 

Here’s the truth: I don’t just write reviews; I craft experiences in words. My process is simple, repeatable, and it works.

Step 1: Be Honest and Authentic

I never write fluff. A 5-star review should be genuine, pointing out real strengths of the business. Authenticity is what makes people (and Google) trust you.

Step 2: Use Detail Customers Care About

Instead of “Great store”, I write:
 “Dick’s Sporting Goods Pineville has one of the best selections of shoes and sports jerseys in Charlotte, plus staff who know their stuff.”

That’s helpful to future customers, so Google marks it relevant.

Step 3: Naturally Add Keywords People Search For

If someone is searching “family soccer fields Charlotte,” and my review says “Strikers Soccer Center has the best family-friendly fields in Charlotte”, it matches search intent.

Step 4: Add Photos or Videos

Photos prove the review is real. At Costco, I added pictures of carts full of fresh produce and electronics aisles. That boosted my review into the “Most Relevant” section.

Step 5: Keep It Conversational

I write like I talk. Short sentences, real stories, even small humor. Example: at Chili’s, I mentioned the waiter forgot straws but laughed it off with kindness. That storytelling makes the review relatable.

Examples of My 5-Star Reviews Ranking High

 

Costco Wholesale GMB Dashboard

 

Here are real case where my reviews hit the top:

Why My Costco Tyvola Review Is Both “Most Relevant” and “Highest”

When you leave a review on Google, it doesn’t always get noticed. But sometimes, when you combine the right mix of detail, keywords, and visuals, Google rewards you big time. That’s exactly what happened with my review of Costco Wholesale on Tyvola Road, Charlotte.

My review didn’t just land in the Most Relevant section it also holds the Highest spot. Out of more than 6,800 reviews, Google chose mine to showcase at the very top. That speaks volumes about how the algorithm values quality and detail.

1. Detailed, Helpful Content

I didn’t just say, “Costco is great.” I explained why. I mentioned:

  • Fresh groceries

  • Electronics

  • Consistent value

  • Excellent customer service

Google loves reviews that answer real customer questions, and my detail gave it context.

2. Natural Keyword Optimization

Phrases like “fresh groceries,” “electronics,” “customer service” line up perfectly with what people actually search for. That’s why Google’s algorithm sees it as relevant to more queries.

3. Photos Add Credibility

I uploaded multiple photos—carts full of goods, the warehouse interior, checkout, even the parking lot. Reviews with images don’t just feel more authentic, they get prioritized.

4. Balanced, Relatable Tone

The review isn’t robotic. It’s personal, positive, and written like I’m talking to a friend. Google pushes reviews that read naturally and build trust.

5. Authority as a Local Guide

With 90+ reviews and 300+ photos, I’ve built credibility on Google. Local Guide trust adds weight, making my reviews more likely to rank.

The Takeaway

Google picked my Costco review out of more than 6,800 reviews and put it at the very top—both Most Relevant and Highest. That proves the formula works: detail + keywords + photos + authenticity.

To see my 5-star Google review about Costco click here

🚀 Want reviews that land in Most Relevant and Highest like mine?
Let’s optimize your Google Business Profile and build a review growth system for your business.

Google Reviewer Tips for Businesses

If you’re a business owner, here’s how you can help your customers leave reviews that actually rank:

Encourage Detailed Reviews, Not Just Stars

Instead of asking “Leave us a review,” ask:
 “Can you share what you liked most about our service or product?”

Why Photos Make Reviews More Powerful

Customers who upload photos alongside text reviews get more attention from Google.

Timing: Ask Right After a Positive Experience

Catch customers when they’re happy like after a successful service call, a great meal, or a smooth checkout.

Want reviews that land in the ‘Most Relevant’ section?
 I help businesses create strategies that get real, keyword-rich 5-star reviews.
 Set Up My Review System →