We live in a digital world, which means word travels fast, whether you want it to or not. Customers can now share their opinion of you, good or bad, on a multitude of sites right from their smartphone. Instead of using a phone book or word of mouth to find a restaurant, we use Yelp. Looking for something on Amazon? It better be rated at least 4 stars and have a large number of reviewers, or it is unlikely getting purchased.
By the time a consumer gets to the review reading stage, they have usually decided that they need your product or service, and they are trying to determine which company will best provide it.
Online reviews certainly matter, but why?
Consumers read online reviews. According to a consumer review survey, 84% of people trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation and 91% at least occasionally read online reviews to determine if a local business is good or bad. That is nine out of ten consumers reading reviews!
It matters what they say. 68% form an opinion about a company by reading anywhere from one to six reviews. And 58% put the highest weight on the overall star rating.
A variety of sites are used. Consumers choose Yelp, Google, Amazon and Facebook as their most preferred review sites. Having positive reviews on a wide array of websites is the best way to use reviews to your advantage.
Your online reputation can make or break your business, and managing it is critical in maintaining a positive image. PMD offers reputation management– a unique two-part approach to help you manage what’s being said about you. First, a real-time dashboard that notifies and shows you everything said about your business on more than 100 review sites and social mediums. Next, a push for favorable ratings to encourage 4 or 5-star raters to write a public review. Those who scored you lower than a 4 will be prompted to submit feedback directly to you.
Again referencing the consumer survey discussed here, 7 out of 10 people will leave an online review for a business if asked. How could your online ratings improve by requesting your happy clients and members review you publicly?
Are you ready to stay on top of your online presence? We’re ready to help!