How to increase Google reviews for your business (without asking out loud)

When a customer looks for a business near them, they check the star rating and read the latest reviews before deciding. For a local business, Google reviews are a 24/7 storefront.

Why reviews matter

According to BrightLocal's 2026 research on U.S. consumers, the vast majority of people read local business reviews, and many look primarily at the most recent ones. Google also considers the number and rating of reviews as factors that contribute to local visibility.

The problem: satisfied customers don't write reviews

Asking verbally isn't enough. The customer has to remember, search for your business, and find the review button. The more steps there are, the fewer reviews you'll get.

How to increase them the right way

• Make it instant: use a link or an NFC tag near the checkout or table.
• Ask at the right time: immediately after providing good service.
• Respond to reviews: even negative ones, and stay calm.
• Don't offer incentives: Google's rules do not allow discounts or gifts in exchange for reviews.
• Don't choose who can review: ask all customers, not just the happy ones.

The Digital Dope NFC tag

We've created an NFC tag with our design that comes pre-configured with a direct link to your business's review page. The customer simply holds their phone close, and the right page opens—no app or searching required.

The tag doesn't guarantee positive reviews: it makes it easy for anyone who wants to leave one.

Digital Dope is a Shopify Partner and Meta Business Partner, and one of the first Shopify partners in Italy.