Why Customer Reviews Are The Backbone of Your Local Business
Let's face it, in today's world, everyone's a critic, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. For local businesses, customer reviews serve as the digital word-of-mouth that can either make or break your reputation. So, how do you make reviews work for you?
Firstly, authenticity matters. Consumers are savvy; they can sniff out fake reviews from a mile away. Encourage satisfied customers to leave real, heartfelt reviews. Maybe you run a pet grooming service in NSW, and a client's dog went from scruffy to chic—ask them to share their happiness online!
Next, respond to reviews—both good and bad. A timely and thoughtful response to negative reviews can turn a potential PR crisis into a show of excellent customer service. Meanwhile, thanking those who leave positive reviews fosters goodwill and encourages more of the same.
But how do you get those reviews in the first place? Easy, just ask. Whether it's a note at the bottom of a receipt, a CTA at the end of an email, or even a sign at the counter, a simple request can go a long way. To boost this, consider offering a small incentive, like a discount on their next purchase.
So, how does this link to ROI? Well, according to multiple studies, customers are likely to spend 31% more with a business that has excellent reviews. More trust equals more business. Plus, reviews can impact your SEO, particularly for local searches. You know those keywords like "best pizza in Inner West Sydney" or "top-rated plumber in NSW"? Reviews help you rank for them.
If you're looking to harness the power of customer reviews to its fullest but aren't sure how, book a free consultation with us. We can guide you through best practices tailored to your business needs.
