Online reviews are crucial for small businesses to build trust with customers. Learn how to get started with collecting reviews and boost your reputation. Plus, check out our free sample emails to reach out to satisfied customers!
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You've made it! Your small business is up and running. Now, you need people to know how good your service is. How do you do that?
One great way is by getting online reviews. Reviews can help your business in a big way. Let's find out how!
The Big Deal About Online Reviews
When we want to buy something or need a service, we often look at the reviews first. We check what other people are saying about it. Your customers will do the same. They will look at what other people are saying about your business.
You might wonder, "What is a good score for my reviews?"
Generally, a score of 4 or higher (out of 5) is considered good. The higher the score, the better!
A high score tells people your business is trustworthy and offers good service. This is part of what we call Business Reputation Management. Always aim to provide the best service to get high ratings!
The Right Reviews in the Right Places
Google and Facebook are the two powerhouses in the realm of online reviews. They wield immense influence over consumers' buying decisions and shape the reputation of businesses. With billions of users worldwide, both platforms have become go-to sources for people seeking honest opinions and experiences shared by others.
However, different types of businesses need reviews in other places. For example, Yelp is the best place to have good reviews if you own a restaurant. Good Yelp reviews can make people want to come and taste your delicious food.
On the other hand, if you're in the home service business, like plumbing or interior designing, you should aim for reviews on platforms like Houzz. Good reviews on Houzz can bring you more customers who need your services.
How Many Reviews Do I Need?
How many reviews should you aim for? While there is no set number, having at least 10-20 reviews is a good start for a small business. However, the more reviews you have, the better!
Lots of positive reviews can increase customer trust and bring you more business. Always encourage your happy customers to leave a review.
Keeping Your Reviews Fresh
Good scores and many reviews are excellent, but keeping your reviews current is essential. Think about it. If you see a business with good reviews, but the latest one is from two years ago, you might wonder, "Are they still that good?"
That's why you should always aim to get new reviews. This not only shows that your business is active but also that you continually provide excellent service. Fresh reviews can highlight improvements or new services you've started offering.
In other words, continue asking for reviews even after reaching your ideal number. Keep the ball rolling! Encourage your customers to leave reviews after each purchase or service. This way, your reviews will always stay fresh, and potential customers can see that your high-quality service is consistent.
Getting Reviews - You Can Do It!
You might think it's hard to get reviews. But don't worry, it's easier than you think. We've created a simple email and text message that you can send to your customers to ask for a review.
Email:
Subject: We Value Your Feedback!
Dear [Customer's Name],
Thank you for choosing our [business/service]. We hope you're pleased with the work we did for you.
We're always working to give our customers the best service; your feedback helps us do that. Please leave us a review on [Preferred Review Platform]. It would mean a lot to us.
Thanks again for your business and your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
Text:
Hi [Customer's Name], thanks for choosing us! We'd love your feedback. Please leave us a review on [Preferred Review Platform]. Thank you!
Action Steps
So now you know. Reviews are powerful. They can help build trust in your small business; getting them is easier than you think. Follow these action steps to get started with collecting reviews right away!
Claim Your Online Profiles: Register and verify your business on review platforms for easy customer access.
Make Reviewing Easy: Include direct review links in emails, social media, and your website to simplify the review process.
Use the Sample Email and Text: Send personalized messages using the provided templates to request reviews from satisfied customers.
Respond to Reviews: Engage with customers by thanking them for positive feedback and professionally addressing concerns from negative reviews.
Keep It Fresh: Encourage new reviews to maintain an updated and relevant online presence.
Now you have all the tools you need to harness the power of reviews. Get out there and make your business the best it can be!
