Reviews as one of the most valuable marketing tools

Reviews have great power, but you’ve probably already experienced this. In today’s world, one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs is that these reviews are no longer just spread by word of mouth, but are also available online, leaving a lasting trace. Therefore, it is important to consciously manage this and create a so-called business review profile.

Key data:

• In 2017, 85% of consumers trusted online reviews as much as if someone had personally recommended the business or service to them.
• The number of people who read online reviews is even higher, at 91% of consumers. 74% stated that if they read positive feedback, they trust the given business more, even if they had never been there before.
• 50% of people constantly read online reviews. This number was only 33% in 2015.
• 9% of consumers rated themselves as not caring much about online reviews. This number was 29% seven years ago.
• 5% of respondents do not bother with these reviews. Two years ago, 11% said the same.

 

The starting point – Google My Business

Google My Business is a platform that, if managed properly after registration, can not only give you a more prominent place in Google search results, but also help potential customers easily find your service and related information. You can read more about this in this case study. In Hungary, many users visit this platform when looking for a specific service provider or business in the area, so it is worth managing it consciously, because how good it is when someone visits your confectionery for a cake with their friends after reading positive reviews about you online. It is also essential to keep this platform under control, because we can get ahead of our competitors.

 

TripAdvisor – If your activity is related to guests and travel

TripAdvisor defines itself as “the world’s largest travel site”, so if you work in hospitality or have accommodation, it is worth taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the site. TripAdvisor simply summarises everything a tourist wants to know. It shows programmes and attractions, and also recommends accommodation and restaurants. Of course, consumers can also leave reviews here, so it is easy to see which are the most popular places in the region.

Árukereső – If you sell products

One of the most important factors for consumers is to get the product at the best possible price. Of course, there is not much chance that someone will visit all the stores or browse all the advertising leaflets. Árukereső, however, is a platform where, by searching for a single product, the system displays all available prices. The buyer takes into account the price of the product and the reliability of the store – which is judged by the points and reviews given by others. To reach more customers, you need to be a leader not only in price, but also in consumer reviews.

Don’t ignore social media either

The function of Facebook has long ceased to be limited to helping people connect, but it also has a decisive business significance. In the case of company pages, in addition to local marketing settings, consumer reviews are also gaining increasing emphasis.

Don’t let the “Fake it!” feeling tempt you!

Many have wondered why it wouldn’t be possible to fake customer reviews. We advise you not to do this! If Google’s system detects even one such fake review, it can remove your entire business from the online space. And if your business is removed from Google My Business, it will be as if it doesn’t exist for online browsers. Learn how to keep your Google My Business profile up to date! Patience, a reliable profile of your business will slowly but surely develop with careful consideration. Of course, it is possible that some negative reviews will slip in, but by responding to them, online users will also see that they are dealing with a conscientious entrepreneur.

How do I ask my customers to leave a review?

Consumers are extreme. They often review businesses on their own if they have given more than expected. And they also voice their opinions when they are dissatisfied. Feedback helps you develop and build your business.

Most customers are happy to review online the business they frequent and are completely satisfied with. If you have regular customers who have not yet reviewed your store online, ask them to do so! There are many ways to get your guests to review your business online. It is worth drawing attention to it in person, you can even hand them a small business card in this regard, so that they are sure not to forget to search for your business. If you already have an email address list, it is worth sending personalised emails to customers, through which they can reach the platform where they can review your business with a few clicks.

I’ve read this article and I’m completely uncertain. What should I do now?

As a business leader, do you manage the company, consciously coordinate marketing tools, and reach customers? We help you reach more customers and increase trust in your company.