If you run a business, you might have noticed that customer reviews have become increasingly commonplace in recent years. Now, more than 84% of buyers consider online reviews as trustworthy as referrals from friends and family. If you’re on a mission to attract sensational reviews, rather than satisfactory ratings, here are some key elements on which to focus.
Quality
Whether you’re selling products or services, it’s crucial to ensure that your brand is synonymous with quality. Work with reputable partners and suppliers if you manufacture products for sale, invest in high-quality components and make sure every individual part or process meets expectations. It takes a vast array of parts, from a liquid level sensor to hinges to facilitate smooth opening and closing to manufacture a refrigerator, hundreds of components to put a car together and a huge selection of pieces to create toys and gadgets.
If quality is not a priority, there’s every chance that your customers may be disappointed. With services, it’s important to invest in high-quality machinery and cutting-edge technology to produce the best results. Implement quality control checks and measures, analyze performance and follow up any complaints or negative comments. If you get a bad review, addressing the issue will help to reduce the risk of similar problems further down the line.
Value
When you go shopping, or you’re browsing the Internet looking for local businesses to provide a service, it’s natural to look out for discounts and offers. While lowering prices can turn heads, value is often the most significant benefit for consumers. Customers want to feel like they have got the best deal, even if that means paying slightly more. If you’re a retailer, for example, you can enhance value and entice customers by offering more than just a competitive price. With the holidays looming, why not add a gift-wrapping service or the chance to personalize cards or presents? You could also explore options like offering next-day delivery or free standard delivery or providing a discount for multiple purchases. You can also add value by using better quality materials or offering exclusive or limited edition products.
Service
Have you ever been to a restaurant and left feeling disappointed because the food was great, but the service was dismal? Customer service can make all the difference when it comes to clients and shoppers rating businesses. With reviews carrying more weight than ever before, it’s critical to go out of your way to engage with customers, to provide effective support measures, to deliver on your promises and to sell the human side of your brand. Treat every individual as a VIP, reward loyal customers and keep in touch with your clients. Use live chat, social media, email and phone lines to respond to queries and questions promptly and deal with issues as quickly as possible. Communicate with customers, be honest and identify solutions if problems arise. If there’s a delay with a delivery, for example, let the client know, explain what has happened and offer compensation and a promise to get the package to them the next working day.
Every business owner wants their venture to attract rave reviews. If you’re getting three stars instead of five, now is the time to aim higher.
