Ask every customer, at the moment they are happiest, and make reviewing take seconds. A Google review card (NFC + QR) at the point of service removes the search step, and a consistent staff ask does the rest. Never offer rewards for reviews or only ask happy customers — both break Google's policies.
1. Ask at the right moment
The best time is right after a visible success: the haircut is finished, the meal is cleared, the treatment went well. Train staff to ask then — not by email a week later.
2. Make it one tap
Most people are willing but won't search for your listing. A Google review card on the counter, table or bill folder opens your review page directly. A QR on receipts and delivery bags helps too.
3. Give staff a simple script
"We're a local business and reviews really help us. If you've got a moment, just tap here." Short, honest, and the same for everyone.
4. Reply to every review
Thank positive reviewers by name and respond calmly to negative ones with a way to fix the issue. Future customers read the replies.
What not to do
- Don't offer discounts, gifts or entries for reviews.
- Don't ask only the customers you think are happy ("review gating").
- Don't write reviews for yourself or ask staff to.
- Don't let staff post reviews from the shop's device for customers.
These practices break Google's policies and can lead to reviews being removed.