Many small business owners and service professionals alike believe that if you build a website they (your potential clients) will come. A website is in a way like a business card. It’s a great tool, but unless you hand it out, it won’t do any good.
The great thing is, unlike a business card, once you’ve created a great website; you can take steps to get into the hands of various search engines, social networking sites, and listing services. This process of getting your website listed in local search directories will begin to automatically attract web traffic. But this is just the first step.
Today’s consumers are more savvy and wary about wasting money. So when they begin searching for a solution to their problem they want to be assured that you can help them. The best way to build that kind of trust is through reviews from your existing customers.
So let’s look at the two basic steps to get new customers using local online searches. First, make it easy to find your business by adding a listing to local business directories. Second, make it easy to see what others think about you by encouraging your clients to submit reviews to the sites that offer this feature.
Here are four of the most popular local directory sites. There are many others including some that target your specific industry. But get started with these four and then continue to add yourself to as many listing services as possible.
- Google Places.com
- Bing.com
- Yelp.com
- HotFrog.com
Ok, now that you’ve gotten your business listed it’s time to ask your loyal clients to help you out. Many business people bristle at the thought of asking their customers for referrals or testimonials; however, you’d be surprised how willing they are, especially if you make it easy for them.
Here a few easy ways to ask for reviews:
In Person: If you meet in person with your clients or speak to them over the phone, ask them if they’d be willing to submit a review for you. If they agree, follow-up with an email that has specific instructions and links to do so.
By E-mail: If you have a client list and permission to email them, send out an email to all of your existing clients with a request to review your services. Provide the links and instructions to do so. This doesn’t have to be a long email, just a quick greeting and a simple request, something like:
As you know I’m just getting my business started and would love your help. I would really appreciate you giving me an online review.
It’s very easy and only takes a minute. Simply go to:
My Yelp Reviews
Thanks again and hope to see you very soon!
Facebook and Twitter: If you have a Fan Page, or if your customers are on your personal Facebook page or Twitter account, you can send out a quick message and link to provide a review.
That’s it. Of course this is an ongoing process, continue to add yourself to directory sites and always encourage clients to write reviews.
If you have questions about promoting your business or service online, feel free to contact me at ron@clientwebpro.com.
