Reviews – Love them or hate them, online reviews play a huge role in how consumers buy from local business.
Lets start by breaking down a typical search by a consumer. You have a need for a plumber, maybe a Lawyer. You might reach out to social media or call a friend asking if they can recommend someone. So you may or may not have located anyone from a referral. So next step would be to do a search in the local area… something similar to “Plumber Philadelphia”or “Laywer Philadelphia”. You slide down to the business listings….now here is the important part….YOU click on the business with the most leads and the highest ratings. The Most leads and HIGHEST ratings. Why do we emphasize “MOST leads and HIGHEST ratings” because you need those reviews.
Even if you got a referral you are still going to check reviews…without the reviews their is not enough information to make an informed educated decision if you can TRUST the business.
In a recent conversation with Google they said the amount of reviews you have and the star rating has an impact on how you rank on the business listings. Other factors include verifying and completely filling out the “info” section at Google my Business. Once set up don’t change the info in Google My Business. Making sure you regularly log into Google My Business. Using Google My Business to respond to each review. Adding photos was also important – for more from Google read here https://support.google.com/business/answer/7091?hl=en
Below are several blog posts you may find helpful for your Review efforts and helping your SEO….94% check online reviews before contact a business.
Brian Brown is a Digital Marketing Consultant in Philadelphia with over 20 yrs experience.
