How to Get More Google Reviews: Proven Tips for Local Businesses
Author
Funs Janssen
Date Published

Want to know how to get more Google reviews and boost your business’s reputation? For local business owners, service providers, and restaurant managers, a steady stream of positive Google reviews can mean the difference between standing out or getting lost in the crowd. But getting customers to leave those valuable reviews isn’t always easy—especially when daily operations keep you busy.
That’s where Trusthero’s innovative QR code system comes in. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to get more Google reviews by making the process seamless for your customers. You’ll discover how the right timing, thoughtful placement, and persuasive messaging can dramatically increase your review count—whether you run a bustling café, a neighborhood salon, or a thriving repair service.
In this article, you’ll learn how to set up Trusthero’s QR code system, the best moments and locations to prompt customers for feedback, and how to craft effective calls-to-action that get results. We’ll also share tips on training your staff, monitoring your reviews, and leveraging feedback to grow your business. Ready to turn more happy customers into five-star advocates? Let’s dive in!
Introduction to Trusthero’s QR Code System
Overview of Trusthero’s Features
Trusthero’s QR code system is designed to simplify and modernize the process of collecting customer feedback. With features like a review protection mechanism (that routes happy customers to Google reviews and unhappy ones to private feedback), customizable QR codes with your branding, and detailed analytics for tracking engagement, Trusthero equips local businesses to proactively manage their online reputation.
Importance of Google Reviews for Business Growth
For small businesses, service providers, and restaurants, Google reviews are essential. According to BrightLocal, 93% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase decision, and positive ratings can directly influence local search rankings. By using a Trusthero QR code system for customer feedback, you make it easier for satisfied customers to boost your reputation while catching and resolving issues before they become public.
Unique Insight: Trusthero’s review protection feature gives you a second chance to win back unhappy customers privately, protecting your brand and learning from real experiences.
Setting Up Trusthero’s QR Code System
Creating a Review Protection Page
- Set up a branded landing page that thanks customers and asks about their experience before sending them to Google reviews.
- Personalize the page with your logo, brand colors, and a friendly message for trust and consistency.
Generating and Customizing QR Codes
- Design QR codes with your logo and brand colors for recognizability.
- Test your QR codes on various materials (receipts, signage, menus) to ensure they’re easy to scan.
Strategic Timing for QR Code Deployment
Post-Purchase Engagement
The best timing for review requests is right after customers complete a transaction, meal, or service and their satisfaction is highest. For example, a café can print a QR code on each receipt or hand out a review card after payment. This approach capitalizes on positive feelings and increases response rates.
During Service Interactions
Train your staff to recognize and act on moments when customers express satisfaction. For instance, after a great haircut, a stylist at a salon can hand the client a card with a QR code, saying, “We’d love your feedback!” Timing review requests with peak satisfaction is proven to collect more Google reviews with Trusthero.
Follow-Up Communications
If a customer paid online or made a booking, include QR code review links in follow-up emails or SMS messages. This works especially well for service providers and restaurants offering take-out or delivery. According to Beambox, digital reminders can increase feedback rates by up to 30%.
Optimal Placement of QR Codes
Physical Locations
- Checkout Counters: Placing QR codes at payment stations ensures every customer sees your request.
- Receipts and Packaging: Include a QR code on receipts or to-go packaging to prompt post-visit reviews.
- Dining Tables/Waiting Areas: Table tents, menus, and waiting area signs are ideal for inviting feedback during dwell time.
- Entrances and Exits: Signs at entry/exit catch customers before they leave. (beambox.com)
Digital Platforms
- Email Signatures: Embed a QR code in every business email sent to clients.
- Social Media: Share QR code images or Google review links in your posts and profiles.
- Website: Place QR codes or clickable review links on your contact or testimonial pages.
Unique Insight: Rotate your QR code placements and monitor analytics in Trusthero to discover which locations get the most scans and reviews.
Crafting Effective Messaging for QR Codes
Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
- “Enjoyed your experience? Scan here to leave a quick Google review!”
- “Your feedback helps us grow—share your thoughts in a minute!”
Incentivizing Reviews (Compliantly)
Offer a thank you, loyalty point, or small perk for a review (but not for only positive reviews). Always stay within Google’s guidelines.
Educating Customers
Use simple instructions and graphics to show how easy it is. “Point your phone’s camera, scan, and leave your review in just one minute!”
Training Staff to Promote QR Code Usage
Staff Education
- Explain how reviews impact business visibility and growth.
- Share examples of how reviews have brought in new customers.
Personalized Requests
- Encourage staff to ask for reviews in person after a positive interaction.
- Practice scenarios so review requests feel genuine, not forced.
Unique Insight: Turn review requests into a team competition with rewards for staff who generate the most verified reviews each month.
Monitoring and Responding to Reviews
Regular Monitoring
- Set up Trusthero and/or Google My Business alerts to be notified of new reviews.
- Analyze the feedback to spot trends and address recurring issues.
Engaging With Reviewers
- Thank every reviewer—positive or negative.
- Address concerns promptly, offering to resolve issues offline when appropriate.
Analyzing QR Code Performance
Tracking and Improving
Use Trusthero’s analytics to monitor how many times your QR codes are scanned and which locations drive the most reviews. Try A/B testing different placements and messaging to refine your approach. According to qrcodechimp.com, businesses that actively optimize their campaigns can see up to 2x more Google reviews.
Ensuring Compliance with Review Policies
Stay Within Google's Rules
- Never filter customers or only ask happy ones for reviews—invite all feedback.
- Don’t offer gifts for only positive reviews.
Transparency and Privacy
- Be clear that feedback may be published online.
- Make it easy for customers to contact you directly with any concerns.
Leveraging Positive Reviews for Marketing
Showcasing Reviews
- Display great Google reviews on your website, menus, or social media feeds.
- Include testimonial snippets in email campaigns.
Using Feedback to Improve
- Train staff with positive reviews as teaching moments.
- Address constructive criticism and turn it into action steps.
Quick Takeaways
- Trusthero’s QR code system streamlines how to get more Google reviews for local businesses.
- Timing matters—ask for reviews right after a positive experience.
- Strategic placement of QR codes boosts visibility and responses.
- Clear, friendly messaging makes it easy for customers to leave reviews.
- Staff engagement is vital—train your team to make requests feel natural.
- Monitor your results and optimize your strategy for maximum impact.
- Responding to all reviews shows you value customer feedback.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive marketplace, local business owners, service providers, and restaurants can no longer rely on word-of-mouth alone—Google reviews are your digital reputation’s lifeblood. As we’ve explored, using Trusthero’s QR code system offers a modern, streamlined way to make it easy for your satisfied customers to share their experiences with just a quick scan. By being thoughtful about the timing of your requests—right after a positive interaction or purchase—and placing QR codes in high-visibility spots like receipts, tables, emails, and entryways, you dramatically increase the chances of receiving more authentic feedback.
Crafting a clear, inviting message and making the process as effortless as possible can turn a casual customer into a five-star advocate. Don’t forget the importance of training your team to confidently encourage reviews and responding to every piece of feedback to show you value your customers’ voices. Monitoring QR code performance and adjusting your strategies will keep your review collection efforts effective and evolving.
Now is the time to take action. Implement Trusthero’s QR code system and make Google reviews a natural part of every customer experience. Not only will you boost your online reputation and search visibility, but you’ll also gain invaluable insights to help your business grow and thrive. Start today—make every customer’s voice count, and watch your business rise above the competition.
FAQs
Share Your Thoughts!
We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried using QR codes to collect Google reviews at your business? Share your experience or any creative ideas in the comments below. If you found this guide helpful, please pass it along to your fellow business owners by sharing it on social media. What’s the most effective place you’ve found for a review QR code—at checkout, on receipts, or somewhere else? Let us know!
References

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