The interesting fact though, is that many local businesses completely ignore the power of reviews. That gives you a massive edge if you choose not to.
There have been ample studies to show up to 88% of consumers trust testimonials from 3rd party sites as much as personal recommendations. Even more so if it is a Google Review. Why?
Because potential customer will know that the review came directly from the people who wrote them and that you are not faking it.
Google reviews also increase the click-throughs to your website. They reinforce your geographic listing online and often increase your local search placement on search engine.
Product/service keywords in the reviews, positive sentiments and the number of reviews all help trigger trust signs to search engines to place you up higher when someone is searching for product/service under your category.
Positive reviews can lead to better click-through, which in turn can result in conversions and sales.
Simply put, the higher you rank, the more potential for sales.
Here's our top 3 tips to boosting reviews:
1. Embed reviews into your customer consultation process whether through automated emails, telephone scripting or posters at reception or at the till on site.
2. Make it REALLY easy to leave a review. Clear instructions and direct links are important here.
3. Offer rewards for genuine positive reviews!
Expert tip - don't forget Facebook reviews are another opportunity and may even show up in a Google results page when someone searches for your business.
If you don’t even have a Google My Business listing yet, get on it! To read more about Google My Business Listing, click here.
Have you experienced a bad review on Google, and you know it's a FAKE or unjustified? There are two ways to go about fixing this...
1. Respond, don't ignore
Say something along the lines, "Sorry you've had an unsatisfactory experience, but we don't seem to have you on record as one of our customers or having made an enquiry. Perhaps you have mistaken us for another business? If not, please get in touch with us at [email protected] so that we can fix things up for you." Viewers will no only doubt the review, but also see your exemplary approach towards customer satisfaction.
2. Flag as inappropriate
As long you're confident it's not a legitimate review.
If you're looking for some help setting up automated review gathering in your business, give us a shout :)
