Where Are These Reviews?

The reviews I’m referring to are on your Google Business listing. When you do a Google search for a specific business (like Pioneer Media) or an industry (like local Web Designers), Google shows a dedicated box with information about your business. If you cannot find this information, you might have to submit your business to Google My Business. it’s free and highly recommended. The business information box has your business name, phone number, address, hours, reviews, a link to your website, and more. We’re going to focus on the reviews your business has.

Why Does This Matter?

The more quality (5-star) reviews your business has, the more credible the business looks at-a-glance. Your business might be listed on the page near your competition, which could have better reviews than you. You want your business to stand out against the competition, and this is a great way to accomplish that. Another benefit is increased search engine ranking. Google (and other search engines) wants to show the best businesses at the top of their search results, since those businesses will most likely satisfy the needs of the people performing the search. Standout reviews convey to Google that a particular business is well-respected and does exceptional work. Therefore, one of many (many!) SEO ranking factors is your Google 5-star rating. This in itself is a solid reason to make a concerted to improve your Google business rating.

What If I Have a Bad Review?

Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done about a bad review (unless the reviewer slandered your business). The best advice is to always provide quality customer service and drown the bad review with plenty of excellent ones. In the case of an extremely bad review, there is a “flag” icon next to all reviews. Clicking on that button take you to a page where you can make a case for why a certain review should be taken down. Other than that, just strive to provide the best service to every customer (even if some are more difficult than others).

How Can I Gain Better Reviews?

Ask around! After you complete a mutually beneficial transaction (you gain revenue and your customer loves your product/service), kindly suggest your customer or client write you an honest review on your Google listing (or Facebook Page, Yelp business listing, etc.). I recommend focusing on your Google listing first, since that’s the largest search engine, and they look to their own reviews first. Tell, text or email your best customers to encourage them to review you online. Make it easy. Include instructions on how to find the review box. This is all very important for your business marketing, branding and online presence.