Online reviews can make or break your business reputation. With advancing technology, more people are relying on online reviews to make informed buying decisions which in turn affects your sales.
Since a big percentage of people come online to read reviews, it is essential that brands have online reviews written by the existing customers who have experienced their product or service.
Here are some ways Brands can generate genuine reviews from their existing customers:
1. ASK FOR A REVIEW AT THE RIGHT TIME
Customers understand the importance of reviews for business and would not mind leaving a review if asked for it. The best time to ask is at the time of doing business with them when the buying experience is fresh in their mind.
For example: if you are in the real estate business, ask for the review while handing over the key to their new home, if you are offering a service, ask them immediately after the service is completed.
As per a survey conducted by Bright Local, below is how the customers responded to being asked for a review.
2. MAKE THE PROCESS EASY
Make the process of writing a review easy by creating multiple platforms for customers to write reviews like your own website or a popular review website, share direct links with clients to write a review, make the review writing process mobile & tablet friendly.
3. INCENTIVIZE REVIEWS BUT DO NOT BUY THEM
Offering incentives would work as a good motivation for customers to write a review and would also make them feel appreciated. However, make sure you do not influence them to write a positive review and keep the focus on generating genuine reviews.
4. ALWAYS RESPOND TO REVIEWS – POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE
It is essential that you not only focus on resolving negative reviews but also ensure you thank the customers for leaving a review. This makes the customer feel valued and appreciated.
