NATDA Magazine Nov/Dec 2023 | Page 33

1 . First Impressions Matter : In today ’ s hyperconnected world , the first point of contact between a potential customer and a business is often through an online search . 93 % of consumers use reviews as the first step in choosing a business . 80 % of consumers say they trust a business if they have above a 4-star rating . Hence , the first impression formed through Google Reviews can be a makeor-break moment for a business .
2 . Trust and Credibility : Trust is a cornerstone of successful business relationships , and Google Reviews play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining trust . 91 % of consumers say they trust online reviews just as much as a personal recommendation . Positive reviews signal to potential customers that the business is dependable , delivers quality products or services , and values its customers ’ satisfaction . A business with a strong history of positive reviews can gain a competitive edge by building trust with its audience .
3 . SEO Impact : Google ’ s search algorithm considers numerous factors to determine the ranking of websites in search results . One factor is the quantity and quality of online reviews . A business with a substantial number of positive reviews is likely to rank higher in search results , increasing its online visibility . One way to get the most positive reviews possible is by requesting a review via text - which is 35x more efficient than requesting by phone or email .
4 . Customer Feedback and Improvement : Google Reviews provide an invaluable source of feedback for businesses . They offer insights into what customers appreciate and what needs improvement . 46 % of consumers are more likely to visit a local business if the owner responds to negative reviews . This commitment to continuous improvement can lead to better customer satisfaction , which , in turn , can result in more positive reviews . One way to make the commitment to continuous improvement easier is by choosing the right platform that can help you gain more reviews , easily respond to reviews and keep track of all your reviews .
5 . Crisis Management : In today ’ s digital age , news , both good and bad , travels fast . When a business faces a crisis or negative publicity , Google Reviews can play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative . During a crisis , customers often turn to Google Reviews to express their opinions and share their experiences . A prompt , empathetic , and constructive response to negative reviews can demonstrate a commitment to customer satisfaction and damage control . Make sure you have a platform that can help you construct these responses and notify you of bad reviews so you can have a swift response .
In conclusion , Google Reviews are a powerful force that can either make or break a business . They serve as the first point of contact for many potential customers , influencing their initial impressions . Positive reviews build trust and credibility , while negative ones can deter customers . These reviews also impact a business ’ s online visibility , SEO rankings , and overall success . If your business wants to have a successful Google Review strategy , make sure you choose the right platform to send review requests and respond promptly to reviews .
About Kenect : Kenect is a revolutionary business communication tool that combines text messaging , payments , review management , broadcast messaging , video chat and more all with a simple and easy to use platform . Kenect offers a robust review management system , empowering businesses to proactively gather customer feedback and enhance their online reputation .
Kenect is a NATDA Membership Benefit Provider , if you are interested in learning more about Kenect and their services , please visit : https :// smart . kenect . com / natda-demo
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