Did you know based on ReviewTrackers’ data, 63.6% of consumers check Google reviews before visiting a business? Of the consumers surveyed, 94% said that a negative review convinced them to avoid a business.
That statement is going to do one of two things; not impact you in the slightest, because your Google reviews are plentiful and positive. Or, you’re starting to sweat. But don’t panic just yet! We have some tips and tricks to get you on the right track. Regardless of the industry, a majority of consumers agree that online reviews are influential.
Let’s start at the beginning. Before you can manage your Google listing and engage with patrons, you need to claim and verify your business. This is usually a straightforward process, but if someone has already claimed it, or if it belongs to a different email or user, you may need to call Google itself to get things sorted. While this can be a frustrating task, it’s crucial that you have control over your business’s listing.
Once you’re the owner and manager of your listing, you can begin responding to reviews, as well as updating any service information, photos, and everything else that comes with the listing. Most importantly, is responding to the reviews, both positive and negative. According to the same ReviewTrackers’ survey, 53.3% of customers expect businesses to respond to their reviews.
45% of consumers say that they’re more likely to visit a business if they respond to the negative reviews
While you can’t delete negative reviews, you can take them and turn them into an opportunity to address their concerns and try to right the wrong. 45% of consumers say that they’re more likely to visit a business if they respond to the negative reviews. Responding to negative reviews helps improve perceptions for future customers.
With all this information, it’s important to drive customers to leave a review on your Google page. There are a few ways to do this, one of which is to just simply ask “if you could, please leave a review on our Google page,” after their service is rendered. Another way is to set up an email campaign targeted at past clients and encourage them to review your business. Driving more reviews will improve your appearance to prospective customers, and also give you a chance to address and correct any concerns or problems raised by past customers.
FreshMove Media is your partner in all things digital. We offer a variety of services, including reputation management and assistance with Google Ads. Reach out today to get started!