Google reviews are a trusted online review platform, much like Amazon, Yelp, TripAdvisor, Angi and Better Business Bureau reviews.
Each platform offers valuable information, but positive Google reviews are monumentally important to businesses. They are a digital form of word-of-mouth that consumers use to offer opinions, insights and recommendations. Potential consumers rely on those unfiltered comments to make purchasing decisions.
Google reviews are a cost-effective way to manage your brand. Unlike most forms of advertising, Google reviews are free. Priority Marketing recommends a strategic approach to online reviews that bridges digital, social media and email marketing, as well as public relations.
Businesses that effectively use Google reviews can reap the rewards of a five-star experience. Top-rated businesses show up higher in search results, generate additional sales volume and foot traffic, and secure a better reputation.
Moreover, a digital marketing agency can provide valuable insights into review management and reputation monitoring, allowing you to stay ahead of trends and consumer sentiment. They can implement strategies to encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and help address any issues that arise from negative feedback. With expert guidance, your business can maintain a strong and favorable online reputation, attract more customers, and ultimately achieve greater success in a competitive marketplace.
STAT: Surveys show that 93% of consumers use online reviews to influence their purchase decisions.
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixwdQrf3ZC0
Harness the Power of Google Reviews
Leaving a Google review is easy. After Googling a business, the listing will appear on the right side of a computer screen. Scroll down and click on the “Write a Review” button. Users can rate businesses with one, two, three, four or five stars, then type detailed feedback into a text box. Users can also upload photos. Once completed, simply click “Post” and the review will be online.
TELL US: Leave a review for Priority Marketing
There are many reasons businesses should harness the power of Google reviews, including:
- Transparency: Consumers want businesses to be transparent. That means giving honest answers if a customer has an experience that falls below five stars.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Google’s search engine algorithm, which determines what Google users see, gives preference to organizations with multiple positive reviews. This also boosts where a business is listed in Google Search and Google Maps.
- Feedback: Every Google review lets you know what customers think about your products and services. This is helpful advice businesses can use to improve.
- Decisions: Consumers read Google reviews for background information before they make a purchase. In many cases, Google reviews help individuals confirm decisions they already made.
STAT: 91% of consumers ages 18-34 trust online reviews as much as recommendations from family and friends.
Make Google Reviews Work on Your Behalf
Businesses can take a passive or active role when it comes to Google reviews. Actively focusing on Google reviews, however, means the platform can work on your behalf.
To get started, Priority Marketing recommends a simple three-step process to use Google reviews to your advantage:
- Verification: Businesses should complete Google’s verification process. According to Google, verification is required for a business to show up on Maps, Search and other Google services. Additionally, only verified businesses can respond to Google reviews. Claiming your business also allows you to input important details like the website URL, telephone number, store address and hours of operation. Verified businesses also can add photos to their listings; research shows people are 35% more likely to click through to websites if listings feature photos.
- Ask for reviews: A business’ relationship with a customer does not end after a transaction. Businesses can ask satisfied customers to go online and leave a review. One popular strategy is emailing surveys and links to review sites to customers, subscribers and supporters. This helps loyal, regular customers become an extension of a company’s marketing team.
- Acknowledge reviews: Respond to every review, whether it’s a one-star or five-star review. Customers want to know your brand is personable, friendly and, most importantly, responsive. Responding to reviews also builds SEO. For negative reviews, thank customers for their feedback and offer an option to address their concerns offline.
STAT: One study found that 68% of customers will leave a review if asked. So ask!
WATCH: Encouraging customers to write positive reviews
Ready to Start?
If you’re ready to create a plan that harnesses the power of Google reviews, our experienced team of marketing experts can help.
Please give us a call today at 239-267-2638 or send an email to LetsTalk@PriorityMarketing.com.
