Complete Instructions On How To Reply To Google Reviews
Businesses with a physical address can sign up for a Google Business Profile. With a profile, companies can build their social proof by collecting reviews from customers. Responding to customers’ comments strengthens your reputation and improves trust. When you receive feedback, do you know how to reply to Google Reviews?
Instructions On How To Reply To Google Reviews
Responding to reviews helps develop a strong relationship with your customers by showing them you care about their thoughts. Some businesses struggle with writing appropriate replies, but you’ll find plenty of feedback response examples online. Moreover, this simple act can also boost your company’s online reputation.
The following steps explain how to reply to Google reviews:
- Log in to your Google Business Profile Account (GBP)
- Navigate to the dashboard and click the “Read Reviews” tab
- Scroll to the review that needs a response
- Enter your comments in the dialog box
- Click “Reply” to submit your response
Helpful Tips for Responding To Positive Reviews
Certain businesses believe that positive reviews should speak for themselves. However, responding to positive feedback can make the customer feel valued as an individual.
Furthermore, all good review examples contain certain elements to build customer retention and trust:
- Always begin by thanking the customer
- Try to personalize your reply by using the customer’s name
- Reference to a particular part of the customer’s comment, indicating you’ve read it carefully
- Promote the idea of a return visit for another great experience
Guidance For Replying To Negative Comments
While some business owners will panic at the first negative comment, these actually provide an opportunity to show responsibility. By responding thoughtfully and with the intent to resolve the issue, you show authenticity and trustworthiness. Below are our tips for responding to bad reviews:
- Send a reply promptly to show attentiveness to the customer’s needs
- Apologize sincerely with a personalized message
- Address the customer’s concerns using respectful language
- Provide contact information to discuss the matter privately in detail with a member of your team
- Close by thanking the customer for the feedback to help you improve service
Once you post your reply, the customer will receive a notification of your response. The customer will also have an opportunity to update their review.
How To Create A Business Profile
At the beginning of this article, we mentioned logging into your Google Business Profile to reply to reviews. This is a free tool that can help you manage your company. It’s available to businesses with in-person contact with customers during stated hours. Also included in this definition are service-based industries that travel to their customers, such as landscapers and plumbers.
By setting up your profile, you’ll enjoy several important benefits:
- Improve local SEO
- Integrates with Google Maps
- Booking and direct messaging option
- Free marketing
- Customer engagement through replying to reviews and answering questions
It’s free and easy to register a business with Google:
- Sign in or create a Google account
You can use your Gmail account if you have one. If not, simply create an account.
- Check to see if you have an existing profile
Occasionally, Google will auto-generate your profile with information found online, or someone else previously claimed your account. In both instances, you can take control of your profile by following the verification process.
- Add your business
Complete your profile with your business name, address, and phone number.
Don’t Set It Up And Forget About It
Unfortunately, many business owners don’t understand the importance of a well-optimized and active GBP. According to some statisticians, 40% of businesses never post, and 58% don’t optimize their profile for local search.
Often, business owners don’t have the time to manage their profiles. Yet, when you neglect your business profile, Google’s algorithm will view it as inactive and lower it in search results. However, hiring a marketing firm, like conversionMOXY, can remove the burden of maintaining your profile.
Our company offers full-service review management solutions across review platforms. With custom responses reflecting your brand voice, we completely manage your online reputation. Here’s what a few of our clients say about our services:
ConversionMOXY has been handling our SEO and web presence for 4+ years as well as misc. marketing tasks. We are very pleased with the team and the results. – Tysen G.
They are the cream of the crop – top of the line – in their industry! Their products clearly illustrate that they are knowledgeable and up-to-date on all things technology. This is the business you need to help build your web presence! – Anastasia P.
How To Reply To Google Reviews FAQs
If you’re struggling with managing your online reputation, you’re not alone. However, don’t let your challenges stunt your growth. Below, you’ll find answers to a few questions we hear frequently from business owners.
Do Reviews Impact SEO?
Absolutely. Google has stated that, along with other factors, receiving quality reviews increases your visibility to prospective customers.
How Do I Respond To A Positive Review With No Comments?
Sometimes, customers reward you with 5-star services, but don’t leave any comments. When this happens, thank them for their positive review and ask them questions to begin a conversation. For example, ask what prompted the review or if they had any suggestions to make their experience even better.
Is Google The Only Platform To Collect Reviews?
No. You can also use Facebook, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. There are also specialized sites such as TripAdvisor, Trustpilot, and Angi. However, Google is the best for local SEO.
Let ConversionMOXY Manage Your Online Reputation
Take charge of your online reputation with professional services from conversionMOXY. Call us today at 800-849-5642 to begin a conversation.