A Simple System for Gathering Reviews
In today's digital age, having a great online reputation is not only desirable; it is crucial. Positive client reviews are effective social proof, influencing new consumers and increasing your credibility. But how do you continuously obtain this vital feedback without making it seem like a tremendous task?
The solution is to develop a repeatable system. This blog will walk you through a basic method for effectively requesting and collecting customer feedback, using your CRM and simple communication templates.
Step 1: Strategically Segment Using CRM Filters
Your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system has a wealth of client data. Instead of randomly soliciting reviews, use its filtering capabilities to generate lists. This enables you to focus and customize your strategy.
Consider these filters while creating your initial review request list:
- Recent Engagement: Clients that have recently completed a project, purchased something, or had a nice interaction are ideal candidates. Their experience is still vivid in their thoughts. Sort by: "last activity date," "deal close date," and "service completion date."
- Long-Term Clients: Loyal clients who have been with you for a long time are likely to have a high opinion of your company and can provide informative testimonials.
- Exclusion Filters: Make sure to exclude people who have pending support issues, do not contact, recent complaints, or who have recently written a review.
Actionable Tip: Make a dynamic list in your CRM that changes automatically based on these criteria. This guarantees you always have a fresh list of clients to contact.
Step 2: Check-Up First
Before going into a review request, especially with clients you haven't interacted with in a while, it's critical to re-establish contact. A simple, no-strings-attached check-in can make a huge difference. This demonstrates that you appreciate the relationship beyond just the purchase.
Why should you check up first?
- Gauge Current Sentiment: Their situation or attitudes toward your company may have altered. A check-in helps you to detect unsolved concerns and get informal positive comments.
- Personal Touch: It makes your subsequent review request seem less transactional and more like a natural extension of a beneficial relationship.
- Opportunity to Add Value: You may discover an opportunity to provide additional support, give pertinent information, or just remind them of the excellent outcomes of your previous collaboration.
Check-Up Email/Text Template:
Subject (Email): Checking In & Hope You're Doing Well!
Hi [Client Name],
Hope you're having a great [week/month]!
I was just thinking about our work together on [briefly mention project/service] and wanted to see how things are going. Are you still seeing positive results from [mention specific outcome]?
No need for a lengthy reply, just wanted to touch base!
Best,
[Your Name]
Step 3: Simplify the Request
Once you've (re)connected and the feeling is favorable, it's time to submit the review request. The objective is to make it as simple as possible for your customers to write a review. Clear and respectful communication is essential.
General guidelines for review request templates:
- Personalize: Always address the client by name. If possible, briefly describe the project or service they got.
- Explain How it Helps: Describe how their feedback benefits your company and other potential consumers.
- Make It Easy: Include direct links to your favorite review platforms (e.g., Google, Yelp, industry-specific websites).
- Keep it short: Respect their time.
Requesting a Review Email Template:
Subject: We'd Love Your Feedback on Your Experience with [Your Company Name]!
Hi [Client Name],
Hope you're doing well!
Following up on our recent chat and I hope you're still enjoying the benefits of [Product/Service].
We're always striving to improve and provide the best possible experience for our clients, and your feedback is incredibly valuable in helping us do that. It also helps other customers like you make informed decisions.
If you have a few moments, we would be grateful if you could share your experience by leaving us a review on [Platform Name - Link Directly to Review Page].
It typically only takes a minute or two.
Thank you for your time and for being a valued client of [Your Company Name]!
Best regards,
[Your Name] [Your Company]
Requesting a Review Text Template:
Hi [Client Name], thanks for choosing [Your Company Name]! We'd love it if you could share your experience with a quick review: [Direct Link to Review Page]. Your feedback means a lot to us! Thanks, [Your Name] @ [Your Company Name].
Pro-Tip for Text Messages: Text messages have high open rates but need to be concise.
By using this simple yet disciplined strategy, you may generate a steady supply of genuine client evaluations, boosting your online reputation and attracting new customers. Begin today, and watch your positive feedback grow!