How to get more Google reviews for your business

Ask every customer you have done good work for, make it easy with your Google review link or QR code, and offer nothing in return. Google bans discounts or free goods in exchange for reviews, so a reward puts your profile at risk. Reply to the reviews you get. More reviews and positive ratings can help your local ranking.

PIER Creative & Web
October 27, 2026
  • Google’s guidance is to remind customers to leave reviews, using a link or QR code.
  • Incentives such as discounts in exchange for a review are strictly prohibited.
  • Replies to reviews are public, so keep them short and conversational.
  • Review count and score factor into local ranking.

How do you get more Google reviews?

You ask, and you make it easy. Google’s own guidance is to remind customers to leave reviews, and to share a link or QR code that takes them to your review form.

  1. Ask. Ask every customer you have done good work for, not only the ones you expect to be happiest.
  2. Share your review link or QR code. Google describes how to copy your link or create a QR code from your Business Profile. Customers need to be signed in to a Google Account to leave a review.
  3. Reply to each review. Google says replies are public and help build relationships with customers. Keep them short and conversational.

Can I offer a discount for a review?

No. Google states that offering incentives, such as discounts on goods or services, in exchange for a review, a change to a review or the removal of a negative review is strictly prohibited. Reviews must reflect a genuine experience.

Why do reviews matter for local ranking?

Google says local results are based primarily on relevance, distance and prominence, and that review count and review score factor into local search ranking. More reviews and positive ratings can improve your local ranking. There is no way to request or pay for a better ranking.

I’m too busy to ask customers for reviews. What can I do?

Put the ask where the job ends. Add your review link or QR code to your invoice, quote follow-up or receipt, so asking takes no extra time. You set the link up once and reuse it.

Questions about Google reviews

What if I get a negative review?

Reply promptly. Google’s tip is to respond in a timely manner, because a prompt response shows you value feedback. If you believe a review breaks Google’s content policies, you can flag it.

Can I delete a bad review myself?

No. You can request removal of a review that breaks Google’s posting guidelines.

Do customers need a Gmail account?

Customers must be signed in to a Google Account. They can create one with a non-Gmail email address.

Sources and references