Why reviews are so hard to get
Google reviews influence whether people choose your business and how you show up on Google Maps. But asking for a review in person rarely works: the customer has to search for your business, find the listing, scroll to the reviews… and forgets along the way. Every step you remove brings in more reviews.
Step 1: get your review link
Google gives you a link that opens the review window directly:
- Go to your Google Business Profile (search for your business name on Google while signed in, or open it from Google Maps).
- Look for the “Ask for reviews” option.
- Copy the link it shows you.
Google's menus change from time to time; if you can't find the option, search for “ask for reviews” in the Business Profile help.
Step 2: create your QR code
- Open the editor, choose Link and paste your review link.
- In Design, add your logo in the centre and a frame with text such as “Enjoyed it? Leave us a review”.
- Check that it scans properly, create your free account and download it as PDF or SVG for printing.
Why use a dynamic QR code
- If the link changes (a new listing, a second branch), update the destination and your signs keep working.
- Stats: see how often the code is scanned each day, so you know whether the sign works or needs moving.
- One QR code per spot: one on the counter, one on the receipt and one on the table, to compare which performs best.
- Several languages: if you get lots of tourists, a “By language” rule can send them to a page on your site in their language that links to the review.
- Free, with no scan limits and no expiry.
Where to put it
| Spot | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Counter or till | Customers are waiting with their phone in hand |
| Receipt or invoice | They take it home |
| Tables | A relaxed moment after the meal |
| Bags and parcels | It arrives once they've tried the product |
| Thank-you card | Personal and friendly |
Recommended size: at least 3 × 3 cm for close-up scanning and much larger on wall posters. Dark code on a light background, always with a clear call to action.
What Google's rules say
Google has rules on how to ask for reviews, and breaking them can get reviews removed or your listing penalised. In short:
- Don't offer anything in return for a review (discounts, gifts, prize draws).
- Don't ask only happy customers, and don't screen people before asking (so-called review gating): ask everyone equally.
- Don't write reviews of your own business or ask staff to do so.
Check Google's content policies before your campaign, as they can change. The most effective approach is still the simplest: give great service and make it easy.
Privacy
The QR code only counts scans by day, country and device. We don't store IPs and we don't know who scanned or who left a review.
FAQ
Where do I find the link to ask for reviews?
In your Google Business Profile, under the “Ask for reviews” option. Copy that link and use it as your QR code's destination.
Can I offer a discount in exchange for a review?
No: Google's rules prohibit incentives for reviews. You also shouldn't ask only satisfied customers.
Will I know how many reviews come from the QR code?
You'll see how often the code is scanned, but not who leaves a review. Compare scans with new reviews on your listing to get an idea.
What if my review link changes?
Update the destination in My QR codes and your printed signs keep working.