Picture this: you had just had a phenomenal experience at a new restaurant near your home. You get to your house with your stomach full while still thinking about the delicious food and excellent service you received. Now, would you pick up your phone, go to social media, and write a review about it? Some of you may have said yes, but others may not have thought of doing so. Reviews have the power to make or break a business, so the more positive reviews you have, the better. Read about the importance of customer reviews and how to ask for them below.
Why are Customer Reviews Important?
4 out of 5 Americans read customer reviews before making any purchase decision. Reviews, or testimonials, gives others the chance to hear feedback from real people who purchased your product or service. They give your product or service the personality and description that you are not able to provide. Positive testimonials can give your business a reputation boost, higher ratings on search engines and social media platforms, and an increased potential to reach a larger audience online.
How Do you Ask Customers for Reviews?
The best time to ask your customers for reviews is shortly after they purchase your product or service. Since your product and the experience they had with you is still fresh in their mind, they will be able to give you a much more accurate and truthful review. Keep some of the following tips and tricks in mind when asking customers to give your business a review.
1.Ask the Customer for “Feedback”, Not a Review
The word “review” can be slightly intimidating for some people, so it may benefit you to ask for feedback instead. It may allow customers to feel more comfortable with providing their honest opinion about their product or service, even if it is a negative one. Asking for feedback or input will make your customer feel valued, and ultimately strengthen that business to customer relationship.
2.Offer an Incentive
Use your manners and thank your customers for writing you a review! Your customers are taking the time out of their day to give you their feedback about what you did well on or what you could improve upon. Most businesses offer discount codes for future purchases, extend a current subscription, or give away a free product. However, when offering an incentive for writing a review, be sure to make it known that there is no obligation to write a POSITIVE review. In the end, you want your customers to be honest about their experience, so ensure that your customers know they will receive the incentive regardless of the content in their review.
3.Respond Immediately when Necessary
The last thing you want to do is leave an angry customer “on read”. You will want to act on any negative review you receive as soon as possible. Customers want to know that they are being heard and that their review is making a difference. So, if a negative review comes your way, try to mend the situation as quickly as possible. Address the customer personally, make them aware that you appreciate their feedback and that you are actively working to address the issue. If applicable, you may even want to offer the customer a refund, different product, or discount on their next purchase.
If you need assistance with your digital marketing strategies, contact us at Bad Rhino!
