According to an article by Search Engine Land, this year’s Local Consumer Review Survey shows an increase in consumer trust and consumption of online reviews.
According to the survey:
- 52% of consumers are more likely to use a local business if they have positive reviews
- 72% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
- Only 15% of consumers said they hadn’t used to Internet to search for local businesses
Not only are online reviews important because of their influence on consumers, but they are also essential in establishing brand awareness, reputation and visibility on the web.
What is your practice’s online review strategy?
These figures suggest that getting patients involved in online reviews is essential. But, what are you doing to gain reviews from satisfied past and present patients? MyAdvice recommends that you set up a local Google+ business page and merge it with your Google+ Local listing. Then, verify your listing and encourage patients to post reviews there. This will build up your review count, and therefore increase your visibility in search engines.
You can promote your listing through any of the channels you already use to communicate with patients. Whether by mail, word-of-mouth, email or through social networking sites like Facebook, make a practice of encouraging reviews as part of your message.
Have any questions?
Contact us with any questions regarding online patient reviews or furthering your Internet marketing strategy. We’re glad to help!
