Nothing convinces people you’re good at what you do like somebody else saying it.
Reviews and testimonials are incredibly powerful. There’s an indication of customers that are so happy that they took the time to share their appreciation of the experience. And roughly 70% of online shoppers read and consider reviews before buying.
You need reviews. How do you get them?
First, figure out where your audience is most likely to leave reviews.
For local businesses, Google My Business is the single most important destination. Many people look for your business through Google Maps and Search, and reviews are visible right next to the business information. Directory and neighborhood sites like Nextdoor are also important.
Online and hybrid businesses have a lot more platforms to be aware of. Social media, Amazon, your website, podcast platforms … what you focus on will be a function of where you’re most visible, where your audience engages, and what you do.
Next, you need to drive reviews.
A few people will volunteer their opinions, but many will need a nudge. Here are a few options:
- Lean on goodwill. Got friends or regular customers who like you already? Ask them to leave you a review. It’s a good way to get a jumpstart when you don’t have a huge customer base yet.
- Offer a tangible benefit. Percent off, free product or service, or loyalty points. Be careful with this one; you don’t want people leaving reviews just for an incentive. It should be just enough that it’s worth their time.
- Reach out after a positive experience. Send an email or a text and ask for a review after a successful milestone — a support ticket resolved, a purchase, an onboarding or a contract/repeat purchase. Thank them and ask them to share their experience.
- Give them a feedback card. Works best in person. Restaurants, barbers, doctors … give them a card that asks “how did we do?” and gives them a place to add a review. A QR code to an online form is a plus.
When you ask, don’t just say “give us a review.” Offer a clear CTA. Here are a few to get started:
- How did you like the product/service?
- What measurable result have you had since using product/service?
- What challenges were you able to solve with this product/service?
- What opportunities could you take advantage of with this product/service?
- What would you say to someone considering using our company?
Finally, and most importantly, showcase good reviews. Don’t publicize the trivial (“ate here, it was good, will come back”). Reciprocate effort for effort. And reply to every one. A few areas where you can showcase good reviews:
- Homepage
- Printout on wall/by register (for local business)
- Public thank you on socials
- Monthly review feature on socials/site
- Review/testimonial page on site
Reviews are the lifeblood of your business. They give you social proof, make it clear that your business is providing a valuable service and lower the barrier to purchase for potential customers. Don’t neglect them. Use these tips to drive reviews and build your business. And if you need a hand, don’t hesitate to reach out … just drop us a line, anytime.
Best Regards,
David Brandon
Copywriter
Rainmaker Digital Services