Tips for getting customer reviews and referrals

The key to getting more positive reviews is asking the right people at the right time. Here are a few things that you can do to start getting a steady stream of positive ratings from your existing customers.

1. Provide excellent customer service

The first obvious step to getting more reviews and referrals is providing top-notch service that people can’t help but tell others about. Consider yourself a servant to your customers; do everything in your power to make sure they get what they’re looking for. Creating a delightful experience for your customer gives you a better chance of securing a positive rating from them in the future.

2. Don’t delay

Ask customers for reviews right after they’ve had a positive experience with your business, while it’s still fresh in their minds. Most people are more than willing to share a positive experience with others if you ask them. And Index lets you request customer reviews in just a few taps. You can include your business logo and review link for sites like Google My Business and Yelp for a professional look and feel.

3. Create a referral program

Collect phone numbers from customers, prospects, and leads who have opted in to receive text messages from you. You can offer incentives and discounts to encourage sign-up. Then, utilize those customer lists to drive new business through marketing campaigns, sales, and business updates.

• A reward for everyone: Both the person doing the referring and the person being referred get a reward, like 20% off their next purchase.
• A drawing: For each person they refer, customers earn a chance to be entered into a drawing for a large prize. The greater number of people they refer, the greater their chances of winning.
• A points-based system: Customers earn points that they can redeem for coupons or free stuff based on the number of people they refer.

4. Use social media

Social channels are an easy way for you to ask for customer reviews and referrals, and for people to let their friends and family know about you. Be sure to use posts and links that are easy for people to share with a larger network of friends.

5. Say, “thank you”

It sounds basic, but a simple thank you really matters. Be sure to follow up and thank the customers who have taken the time to leave you positive reviews. Index makes it easy to send follow-up messages right from your keyboard so your thank-you is tailored, but also reusable and easy to send.

Asking existing customers to refer others to your business is not only a great way of growing your business, it can also help you expand your social network and build relationships with current and future customers.