How to Get More Google Reviews and Improve Local Search Ranking
Imagine a small deli opening in your area, but no one is going there, they cannot attract any customers. They find out about Google Business Profile and start getting Google Reviews. Suddenly their online visibility is boosted, helping them reach more potential customers, driving traffic through the door. This is not something unfamiliar to local businesses, but the biggest question is “how do you get more Google reviews?”
Google reviews are vital when it comes to your local search engine optimisation (SEO) efforts, impacting your ranking in local search results. The more positive reviews you have, the more credible your business is, which can boost your ranking, helping you reach your targeted local community.
Google's algorithms love reviews and use them as ranking signals. Positive reviews are also social proof. Potential customers will trust what past customers say more than messages your brand sends out. Reviews help to influence potential customers buying decisions.
It's important when getting more Google reviews that you do it ethically without breaking Google's rules:
Simply asking a customer to leave a review is the simplest and easiest way to get more Google reviews. It's important to get your timing right. For instance, the deli we mentioned at the start of this blog. Once a client has purchased an item from them and returns, you can ask them if they were happy with their purchase, and if so, would they consider leaving you a Google review.
Should there be a problem, it offers an opportunity to rectify the situation before asking for the Google review, increasing the chances of a positive review.
Email campaigns are effective in getting more Google reviews. Create personalised emails to thank the client for their business and then ask for a view. Ensure you add a link to your Google Business Profile, making it easy for the customer to leave the review.
It's important to make it quick and easy for customer to leave you reviews. If you streamline the process, they are more likely to see it through:
Responding to every review is essential to your local SEO success, showing you appreciate your customer feedback and you care what they have to say. This helps you build long-term relationships, while boosting your online reputation.
Take the time to thank the customer for their review. Keep responses short and personalised.
Negative reviews must be replied to professionally, acknowledging the problem and apologising. Offer a solution or ask for the clients contact details so you can handle the issue offline. Remember, don't get defensive, the customer is always right. When you can rectify a negative review, you can turn the negative into a positive. You may even get the customer to change their review into a positive one.
Monitor your reviews regularly and respond to all reviews quickly, showing engagement and that you care what your customers have to say.
What to Avoid When Getting More Google Reviews
Do not resort to black hat and unethical techniques. There are some Google review practices you are going to want to avoid at all costs, reducing a negative impact on your reputation and ranking:
Get more reviews and boost your local SEO rankings. Actively asking for reviews from customers is a great way to ensure you get more reviews, while adhering to Google's best practices. Reviews are essential to your success. Do you need help with your local SEO strategy? Get in touch with Genie Crawl now for your customised strategy to help your business achieve long-term success.
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