A topic that's close to my workday and, I'd argue, the very lifeblood of any local business: the almighty review.
Now, I've had a lot of conversations with fellow sole traders and small business owners, and it never ceases to amaze me how many of us are leaving a massive, golden opportunity on the table. We work our socks off, provide stellar service, and then... nothing. We don't actively encourage our clients to shout about it. And even worse, a lot of us aren't even using the most powerful, free marketing tool out there: our Google Business Profile.
We're all busy. We're juggling client work, invoicing, chasing leads, and maybe even trying to remember to eat lunch. But overlooking your Google Business Profile is like owning a beautiful shop on a bustling high street and keeping the shutters permanently down. It's free! It's right there! And it’s the first thing most people see when they search for a business like yours.
Why Your Google Business Profile is a Game-Changer
Think about your own behaviour. You need a plumber, a hairdresser, or a graphic designer. What do you do? You 'Google it'. You see a list of businesses, and what's the first thing your eye is drawn to? The star rating, isn't it? And those little snippets of text from other people.
This isn't just about a star rating; it's about social proof. It's a digital handshake, a virtual nod of approval from someone who has already trusted you with their business. A well-maintained Google Business Profile with a healthy stream of positive reviews tells potential clients:
- You're legitimate: It shows you're a real business, operating in a real place.
- You're good at what you do: Those five-star reviews aren't just for show; they're a testament to your skills and customer service.
- You're a safe bet: In a sea of options, a strong review profile makes you the obvious choice.
The Anatomy of a Great Review
So, what makes a review truly powerful? It's not just a "Great job!" from a mate. The best testimonials are:
- Specific: A review that says, "Nic did a fantastic job on my voiceover; he really listened to my ideas and the new campaing is already bringing in more enquiries" is infinitely more valuable than "He's alright." Specifics build trust and give future clients a clear picture of what to expect.
- Authentic: They don't sound like they were written by a PR agency. They use natural language and often mention a specific pain point that you, the expert, solved for them.
- Client-driven: When you ask a client for a review, encourage them to write it in their own words. Tell them to talk about the problem they had, how you solved it, and the outcome. This makes it relatable to others facing similar issues.
It's Not "Asking," It's "Collaborating"
I get it. Asking for a review can feel a bit awkward, like you're begging for praise. But reframe it. You're not asking for a favour; you're inviting a collaboration. Your clients are your biggest advocates. When they share their positive experience, they're not just helping you; they're helping others find a trusted professional.
Think about the sheer power of this. It's free marketing, driven by the people who know your work best. It's a no-brainer!
Takeaway Actions for a Brighter Future
Ready to start building a review empire? Here are three simple things you can do today:
- Claim and complete your Google Business Profile: Make sure your service area is correct, your opening hours are up to date, and you've shared a great description of what you do. Add some photos of your work!
- Make it easy: Don't just ask clients to "leave a review." Send them a direct link to your Google review page. A simple, polite email a day or two after the work is complete works wonders. Something like, "It was a pleasure working with you. If you have a moment, I'd be so grateful if you could share your experience on my Google profile. It really helps me out!"
- Engage with your reviews: Don't just let them sit there. Respond to every single one, good or bad. Thank people for their kind words. If a review isn't so positive, respond professionally and offer to resolve the issue. It shows you care.
And on that note, if I've ever had the pleasure of working with you, or if you've simply enjoyed these ramblings, I'd be eternally grateful if you'd help me out.
Click here to leave a review for Nicholas Pandolfi on Google.
Cheers, and here's to building trust, one great review at a time!