Online reviews are a golden bonus for brands. But how do you persuade (hopefully) satisfied customer to let loose with the praise? Fortunately, there’s one surefire way to get the job done, a strategy proven to work through the ages – offer a juicy bribe. Works like a charm almost every time.
So, you wish to avoid this questionable measure. Understandable. Your reputation is sagging already. One more misstep, and your goose is cooked. In that case, your next best move is simple -- ask customers for a product or service review. Oddly enough, this usually is the preferred method by brand marketers.
Be aware, however, there’s an art to the ask. You don’t just reach out and grab praise by the bucketload. Only a finely finessed approach will assure a steady stream of gushing reviews.
A digital marketers’ first step is to decide on a methodology. No need to wrack the brain over this one. Solutions are readily available. First, there’s the ubiquitous follow up email. Likely, the message will be packed with effusive thanks for a recent product purchase.
This is your opening. Follow the gushing with a polite review request. Short n’ sweet, it not only asks for an endorsement, it ensures absolute simplicity. Digital marketers may, for instance, include a handy link to popular review site or a review form conveniently stashed on the brand website.
Also readily consumed by customers are text messages requests. As with emails, these should be simple and direct, with instant access to review pages or sites. Remember, most users are time-squeezed. Brand marketers who address this condition by offering simple solutions will gain better results and more bragging rights.
Many digital marketers also rely on the on-the-spot request. This typically takes the form of an attractive popup, which asks for a review of the shopping experience immediately after an online purchase. Catch ‘em while they’re in the mood.
Certain brand marketers may prefer third-party interventions, particularly if they have other pressing priorities such as online gaming. For this leave-it-to-others group, there’s a fine assortment of review acquisition services, which, for a modest fee, will handle the whole process from start to finish.
A nice set of options for the digital marketer. No matter what method is used, however, one fact emerges – you’ll get more traction by asking. And if all goes as planned, you’ll also get a rosier reputation.
If you have questions or comments about generating reviews for your products and services, or about any other brand-related topic, feel free to send them our way. You can connect with the Young Company team at 949-376-8404 or bart@youngcompany.com. And be sure to follow us for the latest brand marketing news and tips.