I received a message from Google this morning (screenshot below) about a review I wrote in support of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.

That's Right, 5000 views! 

When I wrote it, I wasn't doing so thinking it would garner that magnitude of attention.  It goes to show though how meaningful and important reviews are for your organization.

Are you collecting Google reviews for your business?  If you're not, you should be. 

In many cases, online reviews about your business are happening without you even knowing it - and to that point, if you haven't already, be sure you have claimed your business on Google's local service (Google My Business).

Ok, You Have Your Google Business Account.  Now What?

Once you have your account access, you'll be able to add/update all of the pertinent information about your locations, as well as be able to view [and respond to] your existing reviews.

Responding to reviews (good and bad) shows you are not only paying attention to what others are saying about your business but that you are also taking a proactive role in showing your gratitude for the praises and/or taking action to address the criticisms. 

Reviews Are Important

In 2018, we released an article entitled "The Importance of Online Reviews" and the validity of its content still reigns true and useful today - in many ways more so, as much of our buying decisions center around peer reviews of the products and services we buy.

Additionally, it is believed by many that Google will continue to deepen its use of customer/buyer sentiment of a brand as a ranking signal for placement in search results.  This makes sense.  After all, if Google delivers relevant content for what you are searching, from the most reputable sources, it's a win for both sides.

Let's Get Cracking!

It's time to take control of our online reviews and start realizing their benefits to our business.  Reviews don't always come easy, but they do come a lot easier if they are asked for.  What can you start doing today to collect more Google reviews?

Bonus Content Alert

If you're interested in how we at Captivation ask for reviews from our valued clients - send me a message 😉

Thank you for reading and make it a great week!