The Benefits of Online Reviews for Small Businesses During Covid-19
In the past several decades, the internet has become a regular part of most people’s daily lives. Consumers use the internet for everything from banking to choosing a restaurant. Online reviews can make or break a small business. If you are a Connecticut small business owner, you may be looking for ways to increase your profits and grow your business, especially after the economic downturn caused by COVID-19. Whether you own a retail store, restaurant, marketing company, or another type of business, managing your online reputation is vital. The way that your business handles online reviews can be a major contributor to your business’s success or failure. Potential customers may also be looking at them for information on your company’s continued COVID-19 precautions.
How Can Online Reviews Influence the Success of A Small Business?
Most consumers want to make an informed decision when it comes to spending their hard-earned money on products or services. Small businesses – especially startups and new businesses – must carefully manage their online presence. Whether the reviews are on Facebook, Yelp, TripAdvisor, or another website, online reviews can make a huge difference. One recent survey conducted by BrightLocal showed that nearly 90 percent of consumers read online reviews for local businesses.
Consumers May Look to Online Reviews to Learn About Your Business’s Covid-19 Precautions
Potential customers have used online reviews for years; however, savvy consumers are now using online reviews for more than just information about the quality of a product or service. Potential customers are also looking to online reviews for information about a business’s COVID-19 safety measures. Almost 70 percent of consumers surveyed said that they would not patronize a business if online reviews reported that the business was neglecting COVID-19 health and safety precautions. Not only can lax health and safety measures put your employees and customers at a greater risk of contracting the virus, but they may also have a direct impact on your bottom line.
How to Respond to Positive and Negative Reviews
It can be difficult for a small business owner to know how to handle online reviews. The survey conducted by BrightLocal showed that 20 percent of consumers who write online reviews expect a response within one day of posting the review. Most experts agree that it is best to respond to negative and positive reviews in a professional, gracious manner. Even if you think that the customer’s review is unfounded, take the customer’s concerns seriously and offer to discuss the issue with them in greater detail in your response. If you receive a positive review, thank the customer for their positive feedback and encourage them to use your business again.
Contact a Stamford, CT Small Busines Lawyer
If you have a small business or are interested in starting a small business in Connecticut, it is crucial to have a skilled business law attorney on your side. Contact an experienced Norwalk business law attorney from the Law Offices of Peter V. Lathouris, LLC for help with startups, business sales and purchases, contract review and drafting, and more. Call us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
Sources:
https://smallbiztrends.com/2020/12/brightlocal-online-reviews-popularity.html