The Power of Build your online reputation the right way
BY ALIYAH ROSS
CONTENT MARKETING COORDINATOR As a REALTOR®, managing your online reputation is essential to the growth and livelihood of your business. Your name is being shared through the grapevine, and new prospects are on the hunt to learn all about why they should choose you to help with their big home purchase. What will they find?
WHY ONLINE REVIEWS?
For years, real estate has been a business by word of mouth. Happy clients refer your services to other prospects, and the cycle continues. However, in today’s technologicallyadvancing world, the digital word of mouth is a bigger deal than ever before and can be the main funnel for leads. This starts with online reviews. Research shows that 88 percent of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
ASKING FOR REVIEWS
With the constant hustle and grind of your day-to-day duties as an agent, you’re probably thinking, “How do I
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find the time to manage my online reputation?” Although it will take some additional work, it’s not as hard as it seems. You just need to ask. Statistics show that 70 percent of people leave a review when asked. So, set aside time in your schedule to connect with recent clients who were satisfied with your service. Ask them to spend just a couple of minutes to leave some thoughts about their experience. Another good time to ask for a review is at closing. Your clients are most likely in a good mood at this stage of the process, which increases your chance of getting a positive review. Data is also on your side. According to the National Association of REALTORS®’ 2019 Homebuyers and Sellers Generational Report, 90 percent of buyers use their real estate agent again in the future or refer them to others. But remember, your chances of getting a review at all decreases the more you let time pass.
RESPONDING TO REVIEWS
Responding to reviews is a must to maintain a good reputation with potential clients. In fact, 30 percent of consumers say they positively judge a business that publicly responds to online reviews. This means responding to the good, the bad and the ugly. How to Handle Positive Reviews When someone leaves a negative review, you’re usually quick to respond. That’s because your brand’s reputation is in question, so you want to sort things out in the best way possible. However, when you leave a positive review alone,
