5 Secrets for getting more
When you buy something online or even look for a service provider online, what do you focus on? Chances are, you read the reviews. You can only assume that your potential clients are doing the same. As such, it's really helpful to have plenty of online business reviews connected to your services. Getting those reviews can seem like an uphill battle at first, but there are some secrets and tips you can rely on.
- Establish a good web presence.
When a current or previous client comes across your website or your social media accounts, you want them to feel compelled to leave a review. Of course, they're more likely to do so if you did a great job. But they're also more likely to leave a review if you have a polished, professional web presence.
If your website leaves something to be desired, or if your social media pages still contain the bare bones of content, then this is something to work on. If a client comes across a page that's as great as your services, they're more likely to want to contribute with a review.
- Claim ownership of your business pages.
Online business reviews sites like Yelp, Facebook, and Google my Business allow business owners to "claim" their business. From then on, when visitors see your page on these sites, they'll see that it has been claimed and is official. Previous clients are more likely to leave a review if they see the page has been claimed. This reassures them that they're reviewing the right company and that the right people will see the review.
- Respond to reviews.
When someone does leave a review of your business, good or bad, take a moment to respond. Thank customers for positive reviews. If you get a negative review, don't dwell on it, but write a sentence or two either apologizing that your services were not to the client's expectations, or briefly explain your side of what happened. Be as polite and business-like as possible. When other clients see that you value and respond to your reviews, they'll be more likely to review your business, too.
- Ask for reviews.
When you do finish providing a service or selling a product to a client, you can directly ask them to leave an honest review. You could include this request when you send a bill. The simple line "Please leave us a review on Yelp, Google, or Facebook" can go a long way.
If you have a customer compliment your work in person, you can also respond by asking them to leave a review. Most customers are happy to share their opinion and help you find additional business when they're pleased with your work.
- Consider reviews constructive feedback.
When you do read a review that offers some criticism, try to take that criticism constructively. Ask yourself how you can improve based on that review. For example, if a customer comments that they enjoyed the product but the packaging was flimsy, you may want to improve your packaging. Over time, customers will realize that by leaving you honest reviews, they can help you hone your services. This will make leaving a review feel worth their time, so you'll be likely to get more reviews.
If you follow these tips, the online business reviews should start rolling in. Before long, you'll have a long history of reviews, which will help you find more clients and will also help new clients learn what to expect. Business is all about the feedback and how you respond.