Put a review stand or sticker where customers stop for a few seconds with their phone already in hand, which in most businesses means right next to the card machine. Other good spots are reception desks, restaurant tables and waiting areas. Avoid places customers walk past quickly, spots hidden behind other things on the counter, and metal surfaces, which stop NFC chips working.
The best places
Beside the card machine
When customers pay by card or phone, their phone or card is already in their hand and they're standing still. A stand within arm's reach of the card machine gets noticed far more than one at the other end of the counter.
On reception desks
Salons, clinics, gyms, garages and hotels all have a moment at reception when the customer pays, checks out or books their next visit. A stand on the desk catches that moment.
On tables
In cafés, restaurants and pubs, a sticker or small stand on each table lets people tap while they're waiting for the bill or finishing a drink.
In waiting areas
Customers waiting for a car, a prescription or an appointment have time on their hands. A stand on a side table or a sticker on the counter where they wait can work, although asking after the service is usually more effective than before it.
Places that don't work well
- Behind clutter. If the stand is surrounded by leaflets, a tip jar and a charity box, it gets ignored.
- By the exit. People leaving are already thinking about their next stop.
- On metal. Metal surfaces, including fridges, metal counters and equipment, stop most NFC stickers working. Use a stand, or stick the sticker onto wood, plastic or glass.
- High on a wall. Customers have to reach up to tap it, and most won't.
Tell customers what it's for
A stand or sticker should say plainly what happens when you tap it, for example "Tap to leave us a Google review". Staff pointing to it once at the end of each visit makes a big difference. Our guide on how to ask customers for Google reviews has wordings.
Test it where it sits
Once your stand or sticker is in place, test it with a couple of different phones from where a customer would stand. If people have to lean over or stretch to reach it, move it closer.
Products for each spot
- Counters and reception desks: a Google review stand.
- Tables and tills: Google review NFC stickers.
- Staff who move around: a Google review card.
Our guide to choosing a card, stand or sticker goes into more detail.
Common questions
Can I put an NFC sticker on glass?
Yes. Glass doesn't block NFC, so a sticker on the inside of a glass counter or door works, as long as customers can get their phone close to it.
How many stands does a shop need?
Usually one at each till. A larger shop or restaurant may add stickers on tables or at a second counter.
Why does my sticker work on the counter but not on the fridge?
Metal interferes with NFC. Move the sticker to a non-metal surface or use a stand.