Introduction
Google Business Reviews: the digital word of mouth that could make or break your business. In the grand theater of the internet, these reviews are the audience’s applause… or sometimes, their tomatoes. So, grab your coffee (but maybe put a lid on it), as we delve into five mind-boggling stats about Google Business Reviews that’ll have you rethinking your whole online strategy.
- “97% of Consumers Read Online Reviews” – That’s Almost Everyone!
According to BrightLocal, a whopping 97% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses in 2017. That’s like if you walked into a party of 100 people, 97 of them would be chatting about the latest reviews they read. Imagine the other three covering their ears and loudly singing to themselves. This stat screams how crucial it is to not only have reviews but to ensure they’re the kind that makes people want to join your party. - “Consumers Require at Least 40 Online Reviews Before Trusting a Business’s Star Rating” – Talk About High Standards!
PowerReviews reveals that consumers typically expect a business to have at least 40 reviews before they trust its star rating. Gone are the days when a handful of reviews could do the trick. Now, it’s like your online reputation needs to fill an entire movie theatre before customers believe it’s not just your mom and best friend in the audience. - “Positive Reviews Make 68% of Consumers More Likely to Use Local Businesses” – The Power of Positivity!
BrightLocal also found that positive reviews encourage 68% of consumers to use a local business. This is the digital equivalent of a standing ovation. On the flip side, negative reviews can be the rotten tomato that spoils the show. This stat is a reminder to not only provide top-notch products or services but also to gracefully handle the occasional tomatoes (aka negative reviews). - “89% of Consumers Read Businesses’ Responses to Reviews” – They’re Listening!
Bazaarvoice points out that a staggering 89% of consumers read businesses’ responses to reviews. Your replies to reviews are not a shout into the void; they’re more like a spotlight moment on stage. Whether you’re saying “thank you” or offering a solution to a complaint, your responses are almost as important as the reviews themselves. It’s your chance to show you’re not a business that just takes the applause and ignores the hecklers. - “Google Accounts for 57.5% of All Reviews Worldwide” – The Big Cheese of Reviews!
ReviewTrackers notes that over half of all reviews worldwide are on Google. That makes Google the big cheese, the head honcho, the review overlord of the internet. It’s not just a platform for reviews; it’s the platform. If online reviews were a kingdom, Google would be sitting on the throne, casually munching on review sandwiches.
Conclusion
So there you have it, five stats about Google Business Reviews that are both astonishing and essential for any local business owner. In the digital age, these reviews are the front-row critics of your business performance. Ignoring them is like ignoring a leak in your boat; sure, you can keep sailing, but eventually, you might find yourself swimming.
Feeling overwhelmed by the world of Google Business Reviews?
Fear not! At Rankit Digital Marketing, we’re like the seasoned stage managers of the online review world. Let us help you turn those reviews into a standing ovation for your business. Contact us today, and let’s start managing your online reputation like the pros!