Brick-and-mortar businesses have traditionally marketed through word-of-mouth. But now, online reviews are a crucial part of the marketing process for home service providers, such as plumbers. It’s just as unavoidable as advertising to consumers in other ways, but it’s a lot more valuable because consumers now rely on them.
Key Takeaways:
- Google has continued to dominate as an online reviewing platform for over a decade, its authority far surpassing competitors like Yelp, Angie’s List, and Thumbtack.
- Almost all of your customers are likely screening personal recommendations using online reviews.
- If you don’t have a steady supply of positive online reviews to bolster your rating, a single negative review can easily tank your rating and drive your business away.
“Even though 44% of respondents said they would ask friends or family when seeking a home service business, a staggering 90% of them are looking at online reviews before they decide to hire a home service business.
This data indicates a new trend: Almost all of your customers are likely screening personal recommendations using online reviews. If your reviews don’t reflect positive experiences, you might not convert some of your word-of-mouth referrals.”
