Product or service ratings and reviews can be some of your greatest sales tools. Over 70% of consumers say they look at product reviews before making a purchase, and nearly 63% indicate they are more likely to buy from a site with product ratings and reviews. Social proof can reassure hesitant shoppers, provide additional context, and reduce returns by ensuring buyers are satisfied with their purchases.

1 Follow up with buyers

Consider sending a message to customers after they complete a purchase. You’re most likely to get a review when the purchase is still top of mind. Know the rating and product review questions and be ready to help your buyer with any concerns as soon as possible, and encourage them to submit a review. Even if you don’t make the sale, it builds positive relationships to follow up.

2 Contact those who leave you glowing reviews

Saying thanks goes a long way! Make sure to contact those who leave you glowing reviews. Find out what you did right, and of course, find out how you can improve. These types of engagements build lasting relationships.

3 Contact those who leave you negative reviews

Ignoring negative reviews won’t make them go away. Respond to negative reviews, especially if you think the reviewer is justified in their complaint or other customers have complained about the same issue. Take this opportunity to learn from your clients and improve your business.

4 Give your customers a reason to review you

It may be something as simple as writing a personalized thank you note, but that gesture will go a long way in making your customers feel warm and fuzzy.

5 Offer an Incentive

Most customers will leave a review without an incentive, but sometimes an incentive can motivate them to act quickly and get that review posted. You have to do it ethically to offer coupons, discounts, or a freebie, but you cannot make it conditional upon a positive review.