How can I get more Google reviews for my local business?

Why the count and recency matter

• 97% of consumers read reviews for local businesses.
• 47% won't use a business with fewer than 20 reviews.
• 74% only care about reviews written in the last three months.
• 68% will only use a business rated four stars or higher.

Source: BrightLocal Local Consumer Review Survey 2026, 1,002 U.S. adults.

Step by step

1. Get your review link or QR code from your Google Business Profile (Google's instructions).
2. Ask at the high point: at delivery, checkout or the end of a job, in person.
3. Follow up by text the same day with the link.
4. Put the QR code at the register, on receipts and on invoices.
5. Make it routine: ask every customer, every week, so reviews stay recent.
6. Reply to every review, good and bad (how to reply).

What not to do

Google prohibits offering incentives such as discounts or free items in exchange for reviews (Google). The FTC's 2024 rule bans buying fake reviews and paying for reviews that express a particular sentiment (FTC). More in getting more Google reviews without breaking the rules.

Where video helps

Customers who already feel they know you from your videos are easier to ask. Garnet films the people and places behind East Texas businesses and keeps their Google Business Profiles fresh with the same footage. See Google Business Profile management.