Tutorial
The Ultimate Guide to Getting More Reviews
In today's digital-first world, online reviews are a cornerstone of success for retail, service, and eCommerce businesses. Reviews not only help establish credibility but also play a significant role in attracting new customers and improving platform rankings. So, how can businesses encourage customers to leave their reviews? Here is a rundown.
Step 1: Linking Methods
Linking methods are critical to simplifying the process of connecting customers to your review platform. The easier it is for customers to access your review page, the higher your chances of receiving feedback.
QR Codes:
These are versatile, scannable codes that customers can point their smartphone camera at to take them directly to your review request page.
QR codes are an easy way to get customers to leave a review on your product or service Links:
Share clickable links to your review page in digital formats such as emails, text messages, or social media posts.
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count NFC Chips:
Near Field Communication technology allows customers to access your review page with a simple tap of their smartphone on an NFC-enabled object.
NFC Chips, when placed prominently within your store, are a great way to increase your online reviews
Step 2: Distribution Methods
Distribution methods are the various ways you can deliver your review request to customers, making it easy and convenient for them to provide a review. By strategically using these methods, you can maximize your reach and ensure customers have multiple opportunities to share their experiences.
Text Message:
Send follow-up SMS messages with a direct review link after a purchase.
Text messages are a convenient way to request a review from your customer Email:
Leverage email campaigns to send personalized review requests post-transaction.
Send review request emails directly to your customer's inbox with automated post-purchase review request emails Receipts:
Add a link or QR code to printed or digital receipts that takes your customer to your review request page.
Send review request emails directly to your customer's inbox with automated post-purchase review request emails Invoices:
Add a link or QR code to printed or digital invoices that takes your customer to your review request page.
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count Product Packaging:
If you sell a physical product, adding a link or QR code to your product packaging is an effective way to solicit more reviews from each customer.
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count Packing Inserts:
A packing insert is a small slip of paper that you insert into the box that you ship to your customer. This packing insert contains a link or QR code to take your customer to your review request page.
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count Business Cards:
Add a link or QR code to a business card that takes your customer to your review request page.
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count In-Store Signage:
In-store signage is a creative way to solicit reviews from your customers. Here are a few ways to do so:
Counter Stands:
A counter stand is a small plastic structure designed to display your request for a review near counters and checkout areas in your store. Counter stands can utilize all three linking methods (QR, Link, and NFC).
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count Counter Stickers:
Similar to a counter stand, a counter sticker also requests a review, except it is designed to stick onto your counter or checkout area in your store. Counter stickers can utilize all three linking methods (QR, Link, and NFC).
Linking to your review page in texts and emails is a great way to boost your review count
Step 3: Messaging
Now that you know how to link your customer to your review page and the various ways to distribute those links, it's crucial to craft messaging that drives maximum participation. Your messaging should be clear, concise, and engaging while emphasizing the value of leaving a review.
Key Principles for Effective Messaging:
- Keep it Simple and Direct: Customers should instantly understand what you're asking them to do and how they can do it.
Example:
"We'd love your feedback! Scan the code and leave us a quick review on Google."
- Highlight the Benefit: Let customers know why their review matters and how it helps your business grow.
Example:
"Your review helps us serve you better and allows others to discover what we offer!"
- Make it Personal: Use personalized language that feels friendly and approachable.
Example:
"Your opinion means the world to us, and we'd love to hear about your experience."
- Incentivize: Encourage participation with small incentives like a discount, freebie, or giveaway entry.
Example:
"Leave a review and get 10% off your next visit!"
- Add a Sense of Urgency: Prompt immediate action with quick-response phrases.
Example:
"Takes less than a minute! Share your thoughts now."
- Make the Process Seamless: Reassure customers that leaving a review is quick and easy.
Example:
"Just scan, tap, and share—it's that easy!"
Tailoring Messaging to Distribution Methods:
- Receipts & Invoices: Add a review link or QR code to receipts to encourage feedback.
Example:
"Thank you for your purchase! Tell us how we did—scan this code to leave a review."
- Product Packaging & Inserts: Include a QR code or link directly on product packaging or inserts.
Example:
"Love your new product? Let us know! Your feedback helps us grow."
- In-Store Signage: Use eye-catching signage with clear calls to action.
Example:
"Enjoyed your visit? Tap or scan here to share your experience!"
- SMS & Email Follow-Ups: Send timely follow-ups with a direct link for reviews.
Example:
"Thanks for choosing us! Your review makes a big difference. Tap here to leave feedback in seconds.!"
- Business Cards & Flyers: Add QR codes or review links to cards and flyers for easy access.
Example:
"We value your thoughts—scan to leave a review and help us serve you better!"
Final Thoughts
Gathering online reviews doesn't have to be difficult. By using linking methods like QR codes, distribution techniques such as packaging and emails, and clear, engaging messaging, you can make the review process seamless for your customers.
Start small, test your approach, and refine it based on feedback. With the right tools and messaging, turning satisfied customers into loyal advocates is well within your reach. Take the first step today and watch your online reputation thrive!