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Google Reviews provide a simple way for clients and customers to engage with brands openly and transparently. They assist in demonstrating that a business is trustworthy and reputable, but will also have the added benefit of boosting website rankings. Since higher rankings = more website traffic, there is a dual benefit that can come from working to get more reviews.
Below, we outline how gaining Google Reviews could help to grow your brand equity, and how to get more of them!
What are Google Reviews?
A user can log into their Google account and leave a short note and star rating (out of 5) to summarise their experiences with a particular brand. These reviews can be accessed via the company’s Google My Business page and will appear under the company name and navigation buttons.
How Do Google Reviews Help?
Increased Trust
A more transparent brand is a more trusted brand. Modern businesses are moving online and digitising processes and services that previously required a face-to-face meeting or a phone call. Getting positive reviews will go a long way to making your business more appealing to potential clients when they see all those stars appear in Google. With 73% of local customers trusting a business more if they see positive reviews, it’s worth the effort in attaining them.
Ability to Interact with Customers
Some businesses might worry about having an open forum for client feedback freely available online, due to the potential for negative feedback. However, having a ‘review management process’ to handle negative reviews can showcase your business’ customer support and problem-solving abilities to potential clients. Addressing any issues that arise publicly, and outlining how you went about trying to resolve the issue, can show review readers how your business solves issues for your customers. And for those sought-after positive reviews, show that you’re appreciative of your client support by writing a comment to thank them.
Better Local Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
A large number of positive reviews can boost your local website rankings so that you place in the very competitive ‘map listings’ area, which pops up on Google search for both desktop and mobile searches. These map listings considerably increase the chance of a user clicking on your business, with the added benefit of clearly displayed “directions” and “website” buttons for direct navigation to your location or website.
Bonus Tip!
If you are asking a customer to leave a review, ask if they will mention the location and the service or product that you supplied to them. Google can pick up on these mentions, giving you an added boost in search rankings.
How to Encourage Reviews
1. Ask Your Customers!
The best way to get more reviews is simply to ask! Approach trusted, happy customers and ask if they would be happy to leave a review for you.
2. Make it Simple
Have a templated email that you can send to them to guide them through the process. You can even generate a custom link to direct them straight to your Google Reviews.
3. Assist Techno-Dinosaurs
The process of logging into a Google account, or even understanding what a Google account is, can be difficult if you don’t use one often, or don’t realise you are using one! Have a step by step guide on how to sign-in or create an account.
4. Keep it consistent
Let front-line staff know that you are actively looking to get Google reviews so they can assist by asking customers (who have had a positive experience) at the point of sale. Then celebrate the reviews that staff win and keep track of your progress by monitoring your My Business account and responding to new reviews.
As always, we love to hear your feedback our services or content! Get in touch today or leave us a Google Review!
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