Table of Contents
Why Do Google Reviews Matter?
Building Trust and Credibility
Google reviews are like the word-of-mouth recommendations of yesteryear, but on a global scale. Whether you’re running a local business or an e-commerce superstore, these reviews can significantly influence your reputation. Positive reviews act as social proof, turning curious browsers into confident customers, while negative reviews can raise red flags, causing potential clients to think twice before engaging with your business.
Impact on Search Engine Rankings
Aside from bolstering trust, Google reviews also play a crucial role in your search engine rankings; businesses with a higher number of positive reviews are more likely to appear at the top of search results. Google’s algorithm favours companies that are well-reviewed, rewarding them with increased visibility. This, in turn, can drive more traffic to your website and boost sales.
Customer Feedback
Of course, Google reviews are more than just a rating; they provide valuable customer feedback. These insights help businesses understand what they’re doing right and where there’s room for improvement. By paying attention to this feedback, companies can make informed decisions to enhance their products or services, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
How To Leave A Google Review On Google Search (Desktop)
Step 1: Search for the brand or business you wish to review.
Step 2: Locate the brand’s business profile, to the right of the search results.
Step 3: Click ‘write a review’. If necessary, login to your Google account.
Step 4: Leave a star rating and review.
Step 5: Click ‘Post’.
How To Leave A Google Review On Google Maps (Desktop)
Step 1: In Google Maps, search for the brand or business you wish to review.
Step 2: Locate the brand’s business profile, to the left of the map.
Step 3: Scroll down and click ‘Write a review’.
Step 4: Share your experience, star rating and photos.
Step 5: Click ‘Post’.
How To Leave A Google Review On Mobile Browser
Step 1: Search for the brand or business you wish to review.
Step 2: Locate the brand’s Google Business Profile.
Step 3: Tap ‘Reviews’
Step 4: Click the number of stars you wish to award the business.
Step 5: Once redirected to the review page, share your experience and photos.
Step 6: Click ‘Post’.
How To Leave A Google Review On The Google Maps App
Step 1: Search for the brand or business you wish to review.
Step 2: Swipe up on the brand’s business profile.
Step 3: Click ‘Reviews’.
Step 4: Click the number of stars you wish to award the business.
Step 5: Once redirected to the review page, share your experience and photos.
Step 6: click ‘Post’.
Encouraging Customers to Leave Google Reviews
While the most organic reviews come from unprompted customers, there’s no harm—and plenty of benefit—in encouraging your customers to leave a review on your Google My Business page.
Engaging with Your Customers
Connecting with your customers is key to excellent service. Asking for feedback shows that you genuinely care about their experiences and are eager to learn and grow from their input. It demonstrates your commitment to continually providing high-quality service.
Integration
Got an email marketing strategy? Great! If you’re not using it to ask for reviews, you’re missing out. Emails and social media are perfect platforms to remind your customers how much their feedback means to you.
Timing
Timing is everything. Ask too soon, and your customer might not have formed a complete opinion. Wait too long, and they might have moved on. Find that sweet spot where their experience is still fresh.
Ease
Make it easy for your customers to leave a review. Provide a direct link to your review page in your emails and on social media. The simpler the process, the more likely they are to follow through.
Google reviews are just one of the factors that impact businesses’ online ranking, demonstrating trustworthiness and expertise. As such, reaching out to your clients and customers for feedback isn’t just good business sense – it’s essential for greater online visibility. As a Bristol SEO agency, it forms a key part of our local SEO strategy for our clients.
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