Is a happy customer really your most powerful marketing tool? Think about it about it this way: how often do you check out reviews before buying a service or a product? And, there’s your answer. The great thing about parachuting Google Reviews into your marketing strategy is that it is free, credible and simple for your customers to use. Your business can wear those star ratings with honour. It’s a public testament to buyers that you are tried, tested and trusted.
So, how do you get started with Google Reviews? More importantly, how do you encourage customers to drop those sweet Milky Stars after purchase? Read on for everything you need to know about Google Reviews but didn’t dare ask…
How Google Reviews Work
Unlike that jar of pickles, opening up Google Reviews to your customers is easy work. Once setup, they can simply leave reviews for your business directly through your Google My Business listing. These reviews include a star rating (from 1 to 5) and, should they desire, a written description of their experience. This feedback becomes visible to anyone searching for your business or services on Google, influencing potential customers’ perceptions and decisions.
Does My Business Need Google Reviews?
Just as a fish tank needs water, if you want your business to go swimmingly, then the answer is most likely a resounding ‘yes’. Google Reviews is particularly potent star system as reviews play a crucial role in local SEO and are a key factor in Google’s ranking algorithm. They contribute to building trust and credibility, not just with future customers but also with search engines. The end result? Positive reviews can significantly improve your business’s visibility and attractiveness in search results.
Getting Started: The Google My Business Essentials:
Already Have a Google My Business Profile (GMB)? Great! In that case, it could be time for a tune up before you introduce Google Reviews into your marketing strategy. First things first: ensure your GMB profile is as sharp as your services. Check that your contact details, email addresses, phone numbers and business addresses are current. And, like Beyonce, make prospective buyers fall crazy in love with a business description that sings your praises.
Other Google My Business considerations, include:
- Updating your product and service listings.
- Sprucing it up with fresh images and branding.
- Oh, and making sure your opening hours are accurate.
A polished profile not only attracts reviews but also gives them a splendid place to shine… like a star… like a review star… you get the pun… explaining puns is never a good thing.
Don’t Have a GMB Profile Yet?
Setting up a Google My Business profile is like laying the red carpet for reviews. Head over to Google My Business and voilà – you’re ready to invite those movie star reviews.
Remember, a complete and active profile is more likely to attract that review magic from your A-list customers.
5 Ways To Encourage Glowing
Google Reviews
When it comes to encouraging Google Reviews, having some level of plan and/or infrastructure is advised. That’s because you are asking somebody to do something for you. So make it simple and, as with the prevailing guidance around bears and camping, always ensure you are ready.
Here’s a few things to mix into your customer review strategy:
#1 Make It Easy to Review:
Simplicity is key. Embed direct review links on your website, in your emails and even on your digital receipts. The easier it is, the more likely they’ll leave that golden review.
#2 Ask at the Right Time:
As in life, timing is everything. Ask for a review when your customer is high in the joy of your product or service – like right after a purchase or a successful service experience.
#3 Subtly Incentivise:
Offer a token of thanks for their time. Think discount codes or entry into a prize draw. Remember, it’s about appreciation, not bribery. Putting a horse’s head in their bed is not advised.
#4 Respond to Reviews:
Show you’re listening. Responding to reviews, both good and bad, demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction.
#5 Leverage Social Media:
Take your quest for reviews to social media. Showcase the positive sentiment to other prospective buyers.
Summing up
So, there you have it. How do you rate this article? Remember, a good review system helps buyers which in turn, helps your business. It can even form part of an extended customer lifecycle management strategy to hook in and grow your current audience base.
Ready to turn those star reviews into
marketing gold?
Like us, you were born ready. Now, while we don’t like to brag, CMA racked up 6 out of 5 stars from our customers. With strategies that sparkle and solutions that shine (like a Google Review Star), we’re the partners you need to make your business the talk of the town.
Contact us today, and let’s create some five-star magic together!
