Reviews influence both whether you show up in local results and whether customers choose you once they see you. The businesses with the most reviews usually are not luckier. They just ask consistently.
Ask at the moment of happiness
The best time to ask is right after a customer says thank you, when the job is finished, the order is picked up, or the problem is solved. Make it a normal part of the process rather than an afterthought.
Make it one tap
Get your review link from your Google Business Profile and share it by text or email, or print it as a QR code at the counter. The fewer steps, the more reviews you get.
Ask for specifics
Invite customers to mention the service they received and their town. Specific reviews are more helpful to future customers and give Google more context about what you do and where.
Follow Google's rules
Never offer discounts or gifts in exchange for reviews, and do not only ask customers you expect to be positive. Both break Google's policies and can get reviews removed.
Respond to every review
Thank positive reviewers by name and mention the service. Reply to negative reviews calmly, take responsibility where it is fair, and offer to make it right offline. Future customers read the responses as closely as the reviews.