3 ways to collect more reviews

It’s no secret that online reviews have become an essential factor in consumer decision-making. Reviews provide social proof, build trust, and influence potential customers.. They also make for great marketing material! 

As a business owner, it is crucial to actively collect reviews to enhance your online reputation and attract more customers. You will of course need to consistently collect reviews, so here are three ways to help you collect more reviews and leverage their power to grow your business.

#1 Simplify the Review Process:

One of the main reasons customers hesitate to leave reviews is the perceived complexity or inconvenience of the process. To overcome this barrier, it's essential to simplify the review process as much as possible. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Optimize review platforms: Identify the platforms most relevant to your business, such as Google My Business, Yelp, or review apps like Loox or Judge.me. Ensure your business profiles are claimed and updated with accurate information, including contact details and links to review pages.
2. Email follow-ups: After a purchase or service completion, send a personalized email thanking the customer for their business. Include a direct link to your preferred review platform to make it easy for them to leave feedback. Consider using automation tools to streamline this process and send timely reminders to increase response rates. The Loox app and Judge.me app both have automated emails you can set up to send review requests. My personal favorite is Loox and you can read more about why I love it here.
3. Mobile-friendly approach: Most of your customers are using their phones to access your website, so it's crucial to ensure your review collection process is mobile-friendly. Optimize your website and review pages for mobile devices, making it convenient for customers to submit reviews on the go.

#2 Incentivize and Encourage Reviews:

Sometimes, a little motivation can go a long way in encouraging customers to leave reviews. Implementing incentives and actively encouraging reviews can significantly boost your collection efforts. Here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Offer discounts or rewards: Consider providing a small discount, coupon code, or exclusive offer to customers who leave a review. This incentive can entice customers to take the time to share their experiences. Just ensure you comply with the guidelines and policies of review platforms, as some may have restrictions on incentivized reviews. (I do this one in my business!)
2. Run contests or giveaways: Organize periodic contests or giveaways where customers are entered into a draw by leaving a review. This not only encourages participation but also generates buzz around your brand and increases the chances of receiving valuable feedback.
3. Share success stories: Showcasing positive reviews and success stories on your website and social media can motivate other customers to share their experiences. Consider creating a dedicated testimonial section on your website or featuring customer spotlights on your social media channels. Highlighting the value of reviews can inspire others to leave their feedback.

#3 Provide Exceptional Customer Experiences:

The foundation of receiving positive reviews lies in providing exceptional customer experiences. When customers have outstanding interactions with your brand, they are more likely to leave positive reviews without any additional prompts. Here are some key elements to focus on:

1. Personalized service: Go above and beyond to understand your customers' needs and preferences. Train your team to deliver personalized experiences that exceed expectations. When customers feel valued and appreciated, they are more inclined to share their positive experiences.
2. Prompt and responsive support: Ensure your customer support team is accessible and responsive across various channels. Address customer queries and concerns promptly, demonstrating your commitment to exceptional service. Positive experiences with support can often lead to glowing reviews.
3. Proactive follow-ups: Implement post-purchase follow-ups to check in with customers and ensure their satisfaction. Use this opportunity to request feedback and reviews, providing a direct link to your review platforms. This proactive approach can not only encourage reviews but also help identify and address any potential issues before they escalate.

If you would like for me to help you set up your review app and automated emails, you can book a mentoring session with me here. 

As always, let me know if you found value in this blog post and feel free to send it to someone who may need to read this information as well! Community is everything. 

To your success, 

Meaghan Weisheipl