How to leverage location reviews for SEO success

Getting more location reviews and monitoring them properly plays a key role in a good local SEO strategy, because reviews don’t just influence potential customers, they also impact your search engine rankings. In fact, ignoring reviews for your location could make some voice assistants overlook your business altogether. 

A Semrush study revealed that businesses with average review scores of less than 4.5 on Yelp are less likely to appear in Siri results. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a marketing guru to build a good review strategy for your location. And with the right tools on your side, it won’t take up too much of your time either.

The impact of location reviews on local SEO

Search engines like Google consider the quantity, quality, and recency of location reviews when determining local search rankings.

 Location reviews for wedding cake companies 

Reviews on multiple platforms, such as Google, Yelp, and industry-specific sites, can enhance a business’s online presence. Search engines view this diversity as a sign of a well-rounded and credible business.

When customers use local keywords in their reviews, it helps search engines understand the business’s relevance. This can improve rankings for those keywords. Listings with positive reviews and high ratings are more likely to attract clicks from search engine users. A higher click-through rate signals to search engines that the business is relevant and valuable, leading to better rankings. Even the act of responding to reviews can boost local SEO. Active engagement shows search engines that the business is attentive to customers, improving rankings.

Helping hand: Use Semrush Local to monitor and respond to reviews efficiently, boosting your online reputation and search rankings.

How to get more positive location reviews

One of the most straightforward ways to gather reviews is to simply ask for them. Reach out to happy customers via email, text, or in person and request a review. Personalized requests tend to have higher success rates, so tailor your message to the customer’s experience. For instance, after a successful project, you might send a thank-you email with a polite request for feedback.

Make it as easy as possible for customers to leave reviews. Provide direct links to your profiles on popular review platforms such as Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Include these links in email signatures, on receipts, and on your website.

A Google review link

Take advantage of free tools like Semrush’s Google Review Link and QR Code Generator. It generates links for your various digital channels and QR codes to display in-store, on business cards, and in print marketing. Customers can quickly scan the code with their smartphones to go directly to your GBP review page.

Monitoring and managing location reviews

Proper review management allows you to stay on top of customer feedback, address concerns quickly, and highlight positive experiences. Respond promptly to both positive and negative reviews. Whether a customer leaves a glowing review or a critical one, replying swiftly can enhance your relationship with them. For positive reviews, thank customers for their kind words and for choosing your business. For negative reviews, address the issues raised professionally and offer to resolve any problems.

A business’s response to a location review

Analyze feedback to identify common issues and areas for improvement. Use review analytics tools to spot trends in customer comments and ratings. Look for recurring complaints or suggestions that could help you enhance your service. For instance, if multiple reviews mention long wait times, it might be time to streamline your processes or increase staff numbers during peak hours.
Lastly, keep an eye on your online presence by regularly updating your business profiles. Focus on making sure your NAP (name, address, phone number) is consistent across all directories. Use a listing management tool to make life easier.