Business reviews, the first thing I check when I’m looking for a new service, product, or provider. I search for and read online reviews, and they influence my decision. Zendesk says reviews sway 88% of customers.
Online reputation management is not only part of doing business but plays a massive role in attracting and keeping customers. It’s recommended you claim your business listing on major review websites and maintain the listing. Monitoring and responding keep you in the loop with customer issues and business problems.
Bad reviews will arrive and respond personally and courteously to limit the damage. I’m suspicious if I don’t see a bad review. No business is perfect, and I expect to see a few.
Google ratings are a significant influence since they affect the ranking in searches. Facebook comes in a close second because of the massive number of users on the site. Stellar reviews on these two are good for business.
Don’t rest your laurels on those reviews, use them. They’re an ideal marketing tool. How many reviews make an impact? About 40.
Is your business falling short? Send out an email or a text to your customer asking for a review a day or two after purchase. Keep the request short and sweet.
You can make the request a short survey, but be specific with your questions. Freeform narrative questions either invite customers to write a book or annoy them. Don’t forget to thank your customer for taking the time to review.
Author: Kris Keppeler, a writer who finds technology fascinating and loves humor. She writes for Crossing Genres on Medium.com and Does This Happen to You? on Channillo. Award-winning podcast producer who enjoys telling stories. Follow her @KrisKKAria on Twitter or on LinkedIn.
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