Fantastic customer reviews can hold a lot of weight when it comes to local businesses. For many shoppers, reviews are one of the first things they look at before deciding on a purchase. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth are so important for the success and growth of a local business.
Having great Google reviews can boost your search engine optimization (SEO) and bump your local business to the top of search rankings. Keep reading to learn about 8 tips for getting more customer reviews for your local business.
1. Remember that simple gestures go a long way
Some of the great things about supporting local businesses are the unique details and thoughtful touches that often come with a purchase. As a small business owner, you have the opportunity to personalize not only your products but also the experience each customer has when they enter your store or online shop. Consider including a thank you note with each purchase. Simple yet thoughtful touches play a huge role in customers wanting to leave a five-star review.
2. Give an incentive for reviewing your business
Offering a free, personalized gift or a 10%-off coupon for writing a review is a great way to incentivize customers, and it encourages them to come back for more.
3. Respond to positive reviews
Engaging with all of your positive reviews is important for showing your appreciation. Those customers, as well as other potential customers, will be able to see how much you care about their experience. This is also a good opportunity to ask if you can share their review on your website or social media so that others can see how much they love your product or service.
4. Always reach out to customers who leave negative reviews
If you do receive a negative review, reach out right away to find out what can be done to correct any issues. You can send them an email and also respond to the review directly, letting them know they should have something in their inbox from you. This way, they won’t miss your message, and you’ll be able to help in whatever way you can.
5. Make leaving a review an easy process
People typically don’t want to go out of their way to leave a review. Make it as simple a process as possible. Consider including a direct link on your website or within the links you have listed on social media so that it’s easily accessible.
6. Send a call-to-action email after each purchase
Send follow-up emails to each buyer after they make a purchase—so make sure to get their email if they were shopping with you in your physical store. You might include a quick note asking how they’re liking their new purchase, followed by a call-to-action link directing them to leave a review. If you decide to incentivize leaving a review, you can also mention that in the email!
7. Have “How was your visit?” cards at the counter of your store
For brick-and-mortar stores, spend some time creating cards for your counter that ask shoppers about their visit. Include the link to your reviews as well as the contact information for your store. These cards can be a great way to let your customers know you truly care about their experience—whether they made a purchase or not.
8. Simply ask!
When someone comes into your store and you take the time to help them find the perfect items, they’ll be so appreciative of your assistance. If you feel like you had a great interaction with them, simply ask them if they would leave a review. If you do have review cards at your counter, give them one before they go so they’ll remember later.
Customer reviews are crucial for improving your ranking on search engines, which is particularly important for local businesses. If you’re looking for additional support with getting your small business seen, consider working with an experienced SEO agency to increase your visibility online.
First Rank Digital was created with the intention of ensuring our client’s online success and providing a premium customer service experience. We understand that for any business, every dollar of your investment is important, and with First Rank Digital you can feel comfortable knowing that a positive ROI is our top priority.
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