Yelp reviews can be a critical part of any business’s reputation management strategy. They are an excellent way to reach potential customers and help local businesses become more visible online. Negative reviews can have a devastating effect on your reputation as well as your bottom line. If you're not sure how to respond to a review, or want to manage your yelp reviews better, here are some helpful tips for getting started:
Review Requests Early
Asking for reviews from customers is one of the best things that you can do to your yelp company. This will increase your visibility and allow you to turn a negative review into a positive one that is a win for the business.
It's also a good idea to encourage your existing customers to write reviews on Yelp by sending them a special shout-out via email or other marketing materials. You'll encourage your customers to write reviews on Yelp and they will be more likely do so.
Use Coupons and Certificates
Another way to increase the number of reviews you have on Yelp is to take advantage of the deals and certificates that are offered by the site. There are many different types of vouchers you can use to receive a discount at the business. They're not only a great way to boost your reviews, but they'll also help you generate more revenue!
Avoid Spam Review Filters
In an effort to combat spam, Yelp has created a system of filters that prevents reviews from being posted that seem too short, vague, or negative. This means that if you ask your customers to write a review, make sure that the post is medium-length, and includes a photo.
Also, be sure to ask only for reviews when the reviewer is willing to do so. If you do not, you will be violating the yelp terms and may see your profile deleted.
Be aware that the algorithm can fail and it may be difficult to get genuine 5-star reviews removed from the system. The good news is that there are lots of options available for managing your Yelp reviews. And if you do get a review that's not genuine, there are ways to remove it.
React to Negative Yelp Reviews
It doesn't matter if the review is negative or positive, every yelp entrepreneur must be able respond to it. These responses are often the most critical, as they can change a customer's rating from one-star to five-star, win back a disgruntled customer, and show future customers that you are willing to address issues.
1. Name the reviewer.
It is important to address customers by their actual names when they leave negative reviews. This allows them to feel they're talking to someone, and it can also help prove that you care about their experience.