Ask at the right moment
The best time to ask is while the job is fresh: it's just finished, they've seen it, and they've paid. A week later the moment has gone. Ask every customer, not only the ones you think will be kind: Google doesn't allow picking only the happy ones.
- In person first. "If you're happy with it, a Google review really helps a small business like mine. I'll send you the link."
- Then the link, the same day. One tap to the review form, so they don't have to search for you.
- One reminder at most. If they haven't left one after a few days, a single friendly nudge, then leave it.
Get your review link
Google's own help for Business Profiles says customers can leave a review by visiting a Google link or scanning a QR code, both made from your Business Profile. Open your profile while signed in to the Google account that manages it and look for the option to ask for reviews; Google's help page Tips to get more reviews links to the current steps.
Save the link in your phone's notes so it's always ready to paste, and put the QR code on your invoice, your van or a card you leave behind.
Messages you can copy
Short and personal works best. Change the names and the job.
- After the job: "Thanks for having me today, Mrs Shaw. If you're happy with the boiler service, would you mind leaving a quick Google review? It makes a big difference to a small business. Here's the link: [your link]"
- The one reminder: "Hi Mrs Shaw, just a quick one: if you get a minute, here's that review link again. No worries if not. [your link]"
- A regular customer: "You've had me round for a while now, so if you'd ever be happy to say so on Google, here's the link: [your link]. Thanks either way."
What's not allowed
Asking for genuine reviews is fine: Google's content policy says businesses may encourage reviews that represent a genuine experience, as long as they offer no incentive and don't try to influence the rating or what's written. The same policy and UK law rule out the rest.
- No rewards for reviews. Google bans offering payment, discounts, free goods or services in exchange for a review, or for changing or removing a bad one. That includes "10% off your next clean if you leave five stars".
- No picking only happy customers. Google doesn't allow businesses to "selectively solicit positive reviews" or to discourage negative ones.
- No fake reviews. Not from you, your family, staff or a friend posing as a customer. Google treats reviews based on a conflict of interest, such as employment or a personal connection, as manipulation.
- No hidden incentives. The CMA's guidance on the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 lists fake reviews and concealed incentivised reviews as banned practices for UK businesses. Read the CMA's fake reviews guidance if you're unsure.
Reply to every review
Google recommends replying to reviews. A short thank you to a good one is enough; use the customer's name and mention the job. To a bad one, reply calmly, say what you'll do, and offer to talk it through by phone. Google also says replies should be conversational, not promotional, so don't use them to advertise deals. Other customers read the replies as much as the reviews.
Where Knockround fits
Knockround keeps your jobs, quotes and invoices, and sends each invoice with a Pay button for Apple Pay, Google Pay or card, so you know the moment a job's paid: that's when to send your review link. It doesn't ask for reviews for you. Try it on the plumbing demo with made-up customers. It's free for 7 days with no card needed, then £19.99 a month.
Written by the Knockround team, 29 October 2026, from Google's content policy and review tips, and the CMA's guidance on GOV.UK, all read the same day.