Recent reviews help new customers decide. According to BrightLocal (2026), 97% of consumers say they read reviews of local businesses. The good news: many happy customers don’t leave a review simply because nobody asks, or because it’s a hassle. Here are ways to ask that work and that follow Google’s rules.
What not to do
- Offer rewards: discounts, free drinks or raffles in exchange for reviews are prohibited by Google.
- Ask only happy customers: filtering who you ask (“review gating”) isn’t allowed either.
- Write them yourself, or have family or staff do it: Google can remove them and penalize the profile.
- Buy reviews: besides being prohibited, the FTC has rules against fake reviews in the US.
What works
1. A direct link
Google supports a link that opens the review window directly. Create it, along with a QR code, with our free review QR generator.
2. The QR where customers have time
On the table, the receipt, the takeout bag or at the register. The best moment is while customers wait: for the check, the order, the change.
3. Ask in person, ask everyone
One sentence is enough: “If you enjoyed it, a Google review really helps us — here’s the QR.” Say it to everyone, without choosing.
4. In messages you already send
If you confirm orders by WhatsApp or text, add the link at the end of your thank-you message.
5. Reply to the reviews you get
When people see you reply, they’re more likely to write.
When a complaint comes in
Take a breath, reply calmly and offer to talk privately. A well-handled complaint also shows how you care for customers. Templates in how to reply to reviews.
On LocalDual’s Growth and Pro plans we set up your QR and reply to your reviews with human review. Start with the free review.
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