How to get more Google reviews (without being pushy)

Reviews are often the first thing people look at when choosing between two businesses near them. The good news: most happy customers are willing to leave one. They just need a reminder and an easy way to do it.

Make it effortless

Every extra tap loses people. From your Google Business Profile, you can get a direct link that opens the review form for your business. Use that link everywhere instead of telling customers to "search for us on Google".

• QR code at the counter: turn your review link into a QR code on a small sign by the register or on each table.
• On receipts and invoices: a short line with the link or QR code.
• In follow-up messages: one text or email after a job is finished, with the link included.

Ask at the right moment

The best time to ask is right after a customer says something nice. "Thank you, that really means a lot. Would you mind sharing that on Google? It helps us more than you'd think." It feels natural because they've already said it out loud.

Keep the ask short

A simple script works well: "If you enjoyed today, a quick Google review would really help our small business. Here's the link." No pressure, no long explanation.

Reply to every review

Thank people for positive reviews, ideally mentioning something specific. For negative ones, stay calm, apologise for the experience, and offer to make it right offline. Future customers read your replies too, and a thoughtful response to a bad review can win more trust than the review loses.

What not to do

Google's review policies are strict, and breaking them can get reviews removed or your profile restricted:

• Don't offer rewards for reviews, such as discounts or freebies in exchange for a review.
• Don't only ask happy customers while steering unhappy ones elsewhere. Ask everyone the same way.
• Don't buy reviews or write them for yourself, friends or family.

Make it a habit

A steady trickle of fresh reviews beats a one-time burst. Build the ask into your routine and it adds up quickly. Want us to set up your review link, QR cards and reply templates? It's part of our Google ranking service.