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​​The Value of Online Reviews for Local Businesses

Summary of Why Google Review Are Important

​• In 2020, 87% of customers read reviews before making a purchase decision and 97% use online media to research local products and services.

• According to an SEMrush survey, the average star rating was 4.1 and the business in the number one position had more positive reviews than those in positions 2 and 3.

• High star ratings, positive sentiment in review text, quantity and recency of Google reviews are the most important review-specific characteristics for ranking in the Map Pack and GBP conversion.

• Google reviews are the most valuable type of reviews for local businesses, accounting for 57.5%.
​
• Businesses should ask customers directly for reviews, include links to Google Business Profiles or review sites, and trigger review requests via text or email.
Online customer reviews have become a significant factor in determining a local business’s reputation. As more consumers have shifted to online shopping and researching, it has become more important than ever for businesses to garner positive reviews from their satisfied customers.

According to a BrightLocal survey, in 2020, 87% of customers read online reviews before making a purchase decision. A BIA/Kelsey and ConStat study shows that 97% of consumers use online media to research local products and services.

Google and other search engines prioritize businesses with higher volumes of positive reviews by featuring them in the Map Pack, which appears in search results 30% of the time and receives up to 70% of organic search traffic. The Map Pack displays the top three Google Business Profiles, along with their star ratings, customer reviews, and business information. SEMrush’s study of the Local Pack for 5,624 businesses found that the average star rating was 4.1, and the business in the number one position had more positive reviews than those in positions 2 and 3.

Whitespark’s survey of 42 SEO experts shows that high star ratings, positive sentiment in review text, and quantity and recency of Google reviews are the most important review-specific characteristics for ranking in the Map Pack. Additionally, reviews influence Google Business Profile conversions, where customers take action, such as clicking or calling. The top review characteristics for GBP conversion are high star ratings, positive sentiment in review text, quantity and recency of Google reviews, and presence of owner responses to reviews.

Besides boosting search rankings, customer reviews generate keyword-rich content that businesses don’t have to create. However, it is crucial for businesses to respond to reviews. Google interprets reviews differently for Map Pack and local organic rankings, where reviews account for a 17% share in the Map Pack and only a 5% share in local organic ranking.

Google reviews are the most valuable type of reviews for local businesses, accounting for 57.5% of all online local reviews, followed by Facebook reviews at 19%. Specialized businesses may find value in obtaining reviews on industry-specific or locally focused websites, but businesses should determine the authority of the site before seeking exposure or reviews there.

The key to obtaining positive reviews is to provide review-worthy products and services. Asking customers directly for reviews, including links to Google Business Profiles or review sites, and triggering review requests via text or email are effective strategies to encourage customers to leave reviews.
Citation Source: ​https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-reviews-impact-rankings/429783/

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  • Home
  • Services
    • SEO >
      • SEO Pricing 2023
      • Understanding the Basics of Search Engine Optimization
    • Review Pops
    • Digital Display Advertising
    • Geo Grid Articles
    • Retargeting
    • FREE Reputation Report
  • About US
    • Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Costs
  • Reputation Marketing
    • Get More Online Reviews
  • Book Consultation
  • Contact
  • SEO Blog
  • Why Should I Have Website for My Small Business?
  • Chicago SEO Service
  • Naperville Internet Marketing
  • Fast SEO Service
  • SEO Consultants
  • Display Ad Free Offer
  • Google Maps Changes
  • Google Maps Changes December 2021
  • Why You Might Be Struggling to Get More Customers