The guide
Why reviews decide.
Reviews give prospective customers first-hand accounts of a business. Google says more reviews and positive ratings can help local ranking, and helpful replies show responsiveness, but review count or a request does not establish a position.
Get your direct link.
Your Google Business Profile gives you a share-for-review link. Save it in your phone; print it as a QR by the register. The difference between "search for us on Google and find the review button" and one tap is most of the battle.
Use one neutral moment for everyone.
After a genuine customer's service or transaction is complete, use the same simple request regardless of whether they praised or criticized the experience: "Would you share an honest Google review? Here is the direct link." Do not tell them what rating or wording to leave.
What not to do.
Never buy or incentivize reviews. Do not filter unhappy customers away from the button; respond to reviews, including critical ones, calmly and factually. A useful reply can show how the business handles a problem.
The rhythm.
Build the same neutral request into the normal closeout for every genuine customer. Consistency is easier to operate and avoids selectively asking only people expected to leave a positive review.