Google Business Profile for Real Estate – Class 4: Reviews
Hello to all you passionate real estate professionals out there! Welcome back to another exciting deep dive into the world of Google Business Profile for Real Estate. In our last episode, we discussed using Google Business Profile to help create services and custom services. Today, let’s focus on the mightiest tool in your digital toolbox: Reviews.
Why Google Reviews Are Gold
In the vast landscape of online reviews, none shine brighter than Google reviews. Here’s why:
- Visibility: Picture this, you’re an exceptional agent with dozens of five-star reviews, but they’re hidden away on page two of Google. The joke goes, “Want to hide a secret? Place it on page two of Google search results.” For potential clients, if it’s not on page one, it may as well not exist.
- Trustworthiness: With 93% of users basing their buying decisions on online reviews, you’re not just collecting stars; you’re building trust. Those positive reviews are your silent testimonials.
- Networking: Reviews aren’t just for potential clients. Other agents might recommend you based on the stellar reviews they see online. In essence, Google reviews create a professional echo chamber, amplifying your reputation far and wide.
Getting (and Keeping) Those Reviews
I won’t sugarcoat it; getting reviews can be tricky. Here are some road-tested strategies:
- Perfect Timing: Don’t rush it. While it’s tempting to ask for a review in the midst of the excitement of a sale, it might be more strategic to wait. After all, in the whirlwind of moving, who has the time? Check in with your clients a month or two after, not just for a review but genuinely. It strengthens the bond, and hey, reviews tend to flow after.
- Make It Personal: A generic “Please review us” isn’t going to cut it. Ask your clients to share their story. How did you help them? What did they experience during the buying or selling process? Make it about them, not just you.
- Add A Touch of Visuals: Encourage your clients to attach photos – maybe that moment when you handed them the keys or a snap from the closing day. Such images bring a human touch to the digital realm and boost trust.
Navigating the AI Review Landscape
AI is more integrated into our online processes than we might realize. Often, reviews might go “missing”, or get flagged, all due to the ever-watchful eye of Google’s AI. If you’re facing this, don’t fret:
- Be Genuine: Google’s AI can sense when reviews seem forced or fake. A sudden surge in reviews can raise red flags. So, grow your reviews organically.
- No Incentives: As much as you might want to reward those who leave reviews, Google might perceive it as manipulation. So, always ensure your reviews come from genuine experiences and not from contests or incentives.
- Diversify: While Google is the kingpin, don’t forget other platforms. Share reviews across various platforms, but always ensure they reflect genuine interactions.
In the real estate world, a good review can be the bridge between you and your next big client. By leveraging Google reviews and using them strategically, you’re not just boosting your online presence; you’re fortifying trust and laying the foundation for a successful real estate journey. Until next time, when we dive into the visual aesthetics of your Google Business Profile, keep those reviews coming and remember – every star tells a story!
Join Us for the Next Class
We’ve got so much more to cover, and I want to make sure it’s easy to absorb and implement. You can find all the upcoming classes at kfaclub.com/marketing. I hope this was helpful, and I can’t wait to see you in our next episode Boost Your Real Estate Business with Google Business Profile: The Power of Photos and Videos.
About the Speaker
Larry Hales is a seasoned and multi-faceted technology professional. His passion all-things tech began with his first computer in 1984 and it has stayed with him ever since. Larry is the CEO and Co-Founder of MarketingHero. Previously, he served as the Marketing Technology Director at West, Williston Financial Group Company, where he coaches and guides Real Estate Agents on how to better leverage technology in their business. His 25 years of photography, design and printing, combined with his knowledge of digital advertising and brand building, gives him a unique perspective of marketing from different angles. When he isn’t busy being a proud computer geek, Larry enjoys trail running, hiking, mountaineering, rock and ice climbing, and anything else that gets him outside.
