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Online reviews have become one of the most important methods people use in determining who’s going to get their business. Even more so than personal recommendations from friends and family, online reviews influence more than 90 percent of today’s buying decisions.
To take it a step further, most people don’t even consider businesses who have less than a four-star rating. Simply put, this means that managing your online reviews is a critical task. Still not convinced? Read on!
Top five ways that online reviews help your business
- 91 percent of people read online reviews. This means that the vast majority of people who are thinking about doing business with you will look you up and form an opinion before they buy.
- Almost 70 percent of people read between one and six online reviews before making a decision. Some of the more popular ratings and reviews sites include Google, Facebook, and Yelp, but depending on what industry you’re in, you might also need to focus on Trip Advisor, Expedia, Angie’s List, Houzz, Trustpilot, or an online review site that is specific to your niche.
- Online reviews give you a glimpse of how your customers see you. Though many business owners are afraid of negative feedback, it is absolutely the best way to improve your customer service and to connect with your audience in a meaningful way.
- Online reviews demonstrate your brand’s personality. They allow you to interact with your customers through responses; even if the review is not stellar, you have the chance to rectify the situation and show others that you are paying attention. Fifty-three percent of customers expect businesses to respond to their reviews, and many say that a company’s responses (or lack thereof) can change their opinion of a company. If you get a bad review, your response is your chance to make things right.
- Almost 200 million people use Yelp every day. If a potential customer is trying to decide between your business and your competitor, chances are they are going to head over to Yelp to look at what other people are saying about you before they buy. If your reviews and ratings are good, if you have taken the time to respond to your reviews, they’ll know immediately that you are paying attention and that you care. This alone can set you apart from the rest.
Take control of your online reviews
Getting a handle on your online reviews is easy:
- Search your business online and find all the review sites where you are listed.
- Claim your listing so that you can add photos, logo, and ensure your information is correct.
- Respond to all of your reviews, even if it’s just to say, “thank you!”
- Encourage your customers to review your business to boost your visibility.
At Fusion Workspaces in Palm Desert, we know that running a business can be complicated. Not only are we your headquarters for flexible office space, but our professional staff is also ready to support you with all kinds of administrative help when you need it. Drop by for a tour today; we’d love to show you how we can help.
