Online Reviews: The New Word of Mouth
In the old days, a handshake and a verbal recommendation could secure a new job. Today, it’s those online reviews that serve the same purpose.
Building Trust Through Reviews
1. Real People, Real Opinions:
Online reviews are testimonials from real customers. They’re your digital word-of-mouth, and they matter.
2. Star Ratings Matter:
Those stars next to your business name aren’t just decoration. They’re a quick way for potential customers to gauge your credibility.
3. Everyone’s Looking:
Did you know that over 90% of consumers read online reviews before making a decision? Make sure yours are up to scratch!
Reputation Management: More Than Just Damage Control
Don’t think of reputation management as merely reacting to negative reviews; it’s about shaping how the world sees your tradie business.
Responding to Reviews
1. The Good:
Thank positive reviewers. It fosters goodwill and encourages more positive feedback.
2. The Bad:
Negative reviews can sting, but they also provide an opportunity to showcase your commitment to customer satisfaction.
3. The Ugly:
Sometimes, reviews are downright unfair. Handle these with grace and professionalism.
Monitoring Your Reputation
1. Use Tools:
There are tools available to help you monitor mentions of your business online. Google Alerts, for example, can notify you when your business is mentioned.
2. Respond Quickly:
Quick responses show attentiveness and can mitigate issues before they blow up.
Creating and Maintaining a Positive Online Presence
1. Encourage Reviews:
Satisfied customers are often happy to leave a review if asked. Make it a part of your service to request feedback.
2. Share Your Successes:
Use your website, social media, and other platforms to showcase your best work.
Practical Tips for Tradies
You’re busy with the tools; managing an online presence can be overwhelming. Here’s how to break it down:
– Ask for Reviews, Politely:
A simple request can make a big difference. Hand over a business card with your review site on it.
– Responding to Reviews, Quickly and Professionally:
Whether thanking a positive review or addressing a negative one, swift professional responses make all the difference.
– Consider Reputation Management Services:
If this all sounds like too much, professionals like us at Onside Online can handle it.
In Summary
Building Success Online
There’s no getting around it; online reviews and reputation management are essential for tradies in the digital age. It’s about more than just handling negative feedback; it’s about actively shaping your business’s online image.
Keep those positive reviews flowing, address the negative ones with professionalism, and use all the digital tools at your disposal to build an online reputation to be proud of.