Local reviews are an important part of any business. According to a study done by brightlocal.com, “88% of consumers read reviews to determine the quality of a local business” and “72% of consumers will take action after reading a positive review.” The issue with many business owners is that many do not know how to get reviews, or they do not have a process in place to get them. Having a good number of reviews is important, but it is important to have a steady flow of reviews as well. Getting 25 reviews in one month may seem great, but it can lower the credibility of the reviews. It is important to have a process in place that can consistently bring in reviews every month. Here are a few things you can try to get reviews coming in for your business.
Ask your customers
Obviously the first thing you need to do to get reviews is to ask. Depending on the type of company you own the time you ask may vary. For a mechanic, it could be a couple of days after the repair, or a plumber, before you leave the house. Make sure you ask.
Ask Through Email
If you already collect emails from your clients for newsletters, or promotions then you already have what you need to start asking. Construct an email asking them to leave a review for you. The danger in this is it may attract negative reviews as well, but if you give your customers a way to share their concerns privately you will find that many will choose to do it that way.
Hand out Cards
Maybe it would be better for you if you included a link on the card where they can leave a review on the back of a business card, or give you customer a card with a few steps on how to leave you a review.
Phone Calls
If you are really worried about getting negative reviews then calling your customers may be the best way for you. When calling you can screen each customer by asking how their experience was. If it was positive ask them to leave a review. If it was negative then you have them on the phone and can possibly repair a damaged relationship.
Having consistent and up to date reviews can greatly help your online reputation and image, bringing more customers to your business. There are many more ways that could bring in reviews, but hopefully this can get you started.
