Key takeaways
- Create the review link or QR code from your own verified Business Profile and test it before sharing.
- Google currently creates review QR codes in a computer browser, not on mobile.
- Ask all genuine customers for honest feedback; do not offer rewards or filter for only happy customers.
The best review request is short, timely and easy to act on. Google lets a business share a direct review link or QR code from its Business Profile. You can place it on a receipt, in a thank-you message or near the exit of a physical store.
Before you print cards, make sure the code opens your business's review form and that your team understands Google's rules. The QR illustration above is decorative; it is not a working review code. This guide builds on the Business Profile setup guide.
Table of contents
Generate the link and QR code from your profile
- On a computer browser, sign in to the Google account that manages your Business Profile.
- Open the profile, choose Read reviews, then Get more reviews.
- Copy the link. For a QR code, right-click the displayed code and save the image.
- Open the link in a private browser window and scan the printed test code with a phone before using either with customers.
Google's current review-link instructions say the QR generator is available on a computer browser. The interface may change, so follow the current controls in your account if the wording differs. A customer will need a Google account to leave a review.
Place the request at the right point in the journey
Ask after the service, delivery or stay is complete, while the experience is fresh. A hotel can place a small card at checkout; a salon can include the link in its thank-you message; an online store can put it on a delivery follow-up. Keep the request optional and do not pressure the customer while standing over the phone.
For a printed card, put a brief prompt above the QR code, the business name below it, and a short readable link as a fallback. Test the printed version at the actual size and under ordinary indoor light. A broken or tiny code wastes more trust than it gains.
Use clear, neutral request messages
WhatsApp template: “Thank you for choosing [business]. If you have a moment, would you share an honest Google review about your experience? Here is our link: [review link]. Your feedback helps other customers decide.”
Email template: “Thanks for visiting [business] on [date]. We would welcome your honest feedback about what went well or what we can improve: [review link].”
Receipt line: “Tell us about your experience: scan this code to leave an honest Google review for [business].”
These are reusable examples, not messages sent to customers. Replace the placeholders, use the customer's preferred language, and keep requests relevant to a real visit or purchase. If you also ask for private service feedback, do not use it to decide which customers receive the public review link.
Stay within Google's review policies
Google's guidance prohibits incentives such as discounts, free goods or services in exchange for reviews, review changes or removals. Avoid offering a prize for “five stars,” drafting reviews for customers, or asking staff to post as customers. Genuine negative feedback may be uncomfortable, but it belongs in the same open request process as positive feedback.
Reply courteously to reviews from your profile without disclosing private customer details. If a review appears to break policy, use Google's reporting route; disagreement alone is not a policy violation. Track the number and themes of reviews over time, and use recurring complaints to improve the service. For broader local search work, see the Google Maps SEO guide.
Check the printed card and request process
Before ordering many cards, make one paper proof. Scan the QR code with both Android and iPhone if your customers use both, then check that the right business name appears. Try the backup short link too. A generic icon or QR image copied from a blog post will not lead to your profile; generate the real code from your own account. Keep enough white margin around it so a phone camera can focus.
Tell staff to offer the same honest-review invitation to every eligible customer after service. Record where you place the link, such as receipts, email or checkout cards, and review whether customers can actually use it. If few people respond, improve timing or clarity before sending more reminders. Review volume is an outcome of real experiences and a convenient request path, not a reason to pressure customers.
Sources and further reading
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