Hairdressers and barbers are well placed to get Google reviews, because there's an obvious moment when the customer is happiest: when they see the finished cut in the mirror. Asking then, with a review card or stand to hand, gets far more reviews than a link sent days later. Reviews matter in this trade, as most people searching for a new hairdresser or barber compare ratings and read a few reviews before booking.
When to ask
Ask at the mirror, after you've shown the back of the cut and the customer has said they're happy. If they pay at a reception desk, the receptionist can ask again there. Avoid asking before the cut is finished or while the customer is still in the chair with a gown on and their phone in a bag.
What to say
- "Glad you like it. If you've got a minute, a Google review would really help us. You can just tap your phone on this."
- "We're a small salon and reviews make a big difference. If you'd like to leave one, there's a stand on the desk."
Customers often mention their stylist or barber by name in reviews, which is good for the team and for anyone reading.
Cards, stands and stickers in a salon or barbershop
- A card at each station. Each stylist or barber keeps a Google review card at their mirror and hands it over at the end of the appointment.
- A stand on the reception desk. A Google review stand next to the card machine catches customers while they pay and book their next appointment.
- A sticker on the mirror or station. A small NFC sticker on the station means the card can't go missing.
Use your booking system too
If you use an online booking system, it may let you send a follow-up message after each appointment. Add your Google review link to that message. It catches the customers who were in a hurry and didn't leave a review at the time.
Photos
Many people look at the photos on a salon's Google profile before booking. Add your own photos of finished work regularly (with the customer's permission), and don't be shy about mentioning to customers that they can add a photo to their review if they'd like to.
Things to avoid
- Offering money off the next cut for a review. Google doesn't allow incentives.
- Only asking regulars or customers who seem delighted. Ask everyone.
- Asking staff, or their friends and family, to post reviews.
Our article on Google's review rules covers what's allowed.
When a customer isn't happy
Hair is personal, and occasionally someone leaves unhappy and writes about it. Reply calmly, say you're sorry it didn't turn out as they hoped, and invite them back to have it looked at. People reading the review later will judge the salon by that reply. Our guide on how to respond to Google reviews has examples.
Common questions
Should every barber or stylist have their own review card?
Yes, if you can. It means the card is always within reach at the end of the appointment. Bundles of 3, 5 or 10 cards bring the price per card down.
Can customers mention their stylist in the review?
Yes, and many do. Thank the staff member by name in your reply.
Is it better to ask in the chair or at the desk?
Usually at the mirror once the cut is finished, then again at the desk if they didn't get to it.