How to get Google reviews without being pushy

Most happy customers never leave a review. It's not that they don't want to: nobody asked them at the right moment. Asking well is a routine, not a favour.

When to ask

Right when the customer is happy: when the job is done, when you hand over the keys, when they say thank you. A day later is too late for many.

How to make it easy

• Copy the direct review link from your Google Business Profile.
• Send it by WhatsApp or text with a short, personal line.
• Put a QR code with that link on the counter, the invoice or the van.
• If they say “I'll do it later”, remind them once, two or three days on.

A message that works

“Hi Sarah, thanks for choosing us. If you're happy with the work, would you leave us a Google review? It really helps: [link]”. Short, with their name and the link.

What not to do

• Offer discounts or gifts in exchange for reviews: it breaks Google's rules.
• Ask only happy customers and filter out the rest: also against the rules.
• Write reviews yourself or ask family and staff to.
• Buy reviews: Google spots them and can remove all of them, the good ones too.

And reply to every one

Thank people for good reviews with a line that isn't always the same. Answer bad ones calmly, without arguing, and offer to talk in private. Your next customers read every reply.