In today’s digital age, online reviews significantly influence purchasing decisions. Why? Because they provide authentic and honest insights that traditional marketing campaigns can’t replicate.
Customer reviews, the modern-day equivalent of word-of-mouth recommendations, can make or break the reputation of a local business and have a substantial impact on sales.
Still skeptical about the importance of reviews for small businesses? Consider these key online review statistics:
- When shopping online, more than 99.9% of people read reviews at least occasionally.
- 91% of consumers said positive reviews made them more likely to support a business.
- 79% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
- Only 13% of people would consider using a business with a two-star or lower rating.
Online reviews provide social proof of the quality of your offerings, establish your expertise, and build trust. This makes it extremely important for local businesses to accumulate as many positive reviews as possible.
Here are eight techniques to encourage reviews for your local business:
1. Collect Email Addresses During Billing
Ask for email addresses and phone numbers during purchase. This is a significant step toward securing a review. Customers willing to share their contact details usually had a satisfactory experience and are likely to share their feedback.
Once you have their email address, send a friendly follow-up after a week, asking for an honest review about their experience with your business.
Important: Always review and follow the latest official guidance from the review platform on soliciting reviews.
2. Use In-Store Placards To Encourage Reviews
For brick-and-mortar stores, in-store signage can spur reviews. This includes banners, flyers, brochures, and window clings. You can also include a review request at the bottom of bill receipts.
Additionally, having a kiosk with an in-store app can direct customers to a review page on your business website. Or, use a QR code that points to a list of review platforms, allowing customers to choose where to leave their review.
These cues show customers you value their opinions and appreciate their feedback.
3. Verbally Mention How Much You’d Appreciate Honest Feedback
Train your employees to politely ask for reviews, especially when the rapport is right. For instance, a friendly staff member can say, “It’d be great if you’d consider dropping a review about [business name].”
This personalized request will come across as heartfelt instead of pushy.
4. Offer Incentives On Future Purchases
While loyal customers might already recommend your business, others might need a nudge. Offer discounts, coupons, or other incentives for leaving a review. Just ensure the incentives are not solely for positive reviews, as this can contravene platform guidelines. Give the same coupon to both two-star and five-star reviewers.
5. Include Review Reminders On Your Website
Make it straightforward for customers to leave a review. Use call-to-action buttons and pop-ups (in a non-intrusive way) to lead them to your review pages. Consider using direct link generators to create unique review links that bring customers directly to the review submission form.
6. Leverage Social Media
Utilize platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to ask specific questions about your business’s performance and direct followers to leave a review. Engaging customers with tailored questions can encourage fun, insightful reviews while boosting your social media presence.
7. Thoughtfully Respond To All Reviews
Respond to every review, good or bad. A personalized, timely response shows that you care about customer feedback. For negative reviews, respond quickly, acknowledge your mistake, explain courteously, and offer a resolution or compensation if necessary. This approach can turn dissatisfied customers into loyal ones and demonstrate your commitment to improving customer satisfaction.
8. Delight Your Customers With A Great Experience
A stellar in-store experience is crucial for generating high-quality reviews. Exceed customer expectations, and they’ll feel compelled to share their positive experiences. Exceptional service translates into positive reviews and repeat business.
Find Reviews For Your Business
If you’ve been managing your reviews, great job! If not, start by checking review platforms relevant to your business, such as Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Depending on your industry, there may be specific sites where your customers leave feedback.
Online Reviews Can Change Your Business Trajectory
Online reviews are essential for monitoring your business’s performance, gathering feedback, and expanding your customer base. Both good and bad reviews are valuable: good ones attract new customers, while bad ones offer opportunities for improvement and show your willingness to take accountability.
Embrace online reviews to give potential and current customers a genuine insight into your business. They provide an authenticity that’s crucial for success, especially on a local level.
More Resources
- Tips for Promoting Your Local Business on Instagram
- Online Review Statistics Every Marketer Should Know
- Guide to Improve Your Local Search Rankings
Featured Image: Black Salmon/Shutterstock
