Why reviews matter so much
On Google Maps, the rating and the number of reviews are the first thing a customer sees when hesitating between two places. They also look at the date of the latest reviews: a profile whose last review is eight months old feels forgotten. And Google names prominence, which includes reviews, among what ranks local results.
So the goal is not fifty reviews at once, but a few reviews every week, all year round.
What Google forbids
- Rewarding a review: discount, free dessert, prize draw, even “for any review, good or bad”.
- Filtering customers: first asking “are you happy?” and only sending the link to those who are.
- Reviews from staff or relatives, and reviews written on customers' behalf.
- Buying reviews, or swapping them with other businesses.
Fake reviews are also illegal in many countries (in France, a misleading commercial practice; in the US, the FTC bans them). Everything below follows these rules.
1. Ask in person, at the right moment
The best moment is when the customer has just told you they are happy: when paying, when thanking you, when complimenting a dish or a haircut. One simple sentence is enough:
“That makes my day! If you have two minutes, a quick Google review would really help us. The QR code is right here.”
“We are a small team, and Google reviews mean a lot to us. Would you mind leaving one?”
Say it in your own words, and teach the whole team the same sentence: that is what makes the difference over time.
2. Use the direct link to your reviews
Every extra step loses customers. The direct link opens your profile's Write a review window right away, without the customer having to search for you. Create it here, for free:
In your Google profile: Ask for reviews, then Copy link.
This link opens your profile's Write a review window directly. Test it on your phone before printing.
3. Put the QR code where customers wait
Print the QR code (Print a counter card button above) and place it where customers have a minute: on the counter by the till, on the table or in the bill folder, at the salon mirror, in the waiting room, on the exit door. A small card slipped in with takeaway orders works very well too.
4. Send a message after the visit
If you have the customer's number or email (booking, appointment, quote), send a short message the same day or the next, while the memory is fresh. For example:
“Hello Julie, thank you for coming to Le Comptoir last night! If you have a minute, your Google review would help us a lot: [link]. Have a lovely day, Camille”
One message, no pushy reminders. Follow your country's consent rules for texts and emails: a customer who booked can receive a message about their visit.
5. Add the link wherever you already write
- At the bottom of invoices, quotes and booking confirmations.
- In your email signature.
- In your Instagram bio, or in a story once a month (“Enjoyed it? Say so on Google”).
- In your WhatsApp Business automatic message.
6. Ask your regulars
Loyal customers have the most to say, and often they simply never thought of it. A personal message to a few regulars, or a sign saying “Here often? Tell Google”, usually brings lovely reviews.
7. Reply to every review
Customers who see that you reply are more likely to write too: they know their review will be read. Replying takes two minutes with our free Google review reply tool.
8. Keep the profile alive
A profile with recent photos and regular posts invites people to stop, and reminds customers they can leave a review there. See our Google profile guide to complete it.
9. Track your numbers every month
At the start of each month, note the number of reviews and the rating. If the pace drops, the team has usually stopped asking: talk it over again. Our free check shows you in 30 seconds where your profile stands.