The interconnectedness of consumers online has lead to many changes for business. One of these being the fact online reviews can make or break your business. Though this may feel unfair (why does one anonymous, angry customer have so much sway over my business!?), online reviews are the new word of mouth. Fortunately for you, when you step out and take control of online review sites, you can use them to help your business. Let’s start with Yelp, one of the most trusted review sites.
Yelp is a website and app that combines review ratings with business locations to give users the best options closest to them. For example, Yelp users type in “best pizza near me” and Yelp delivers pizza restaurants near their location and the feedback given by previous patrons. Yelp users then decide where to go based on the rating of the business. So, you can see why it is important to be well ranked on Yelp. One or two bad reviews can leave potential customers skipping your business and going to your competitors. Managing your reputation on Yelp is a key factor in your business success.
Set-Up Yelp
1. Add your business on Yelp
- Go to the Add your Business on Yelp.
- Put in your business information: business name, address, phone number, web address, hours, categories, and email address.
- Then, click “Add business.”
- It may take a few days for your business and edits to show up.
2. Claim your business on Yelp
If you find that your business is already on Yelp (and many are), you just need to claim it.
- Click the “Claim My Business” button if your business is already on Yelp and follow the steps.
3. Fill in ALL information
One of the most important things you can do for your business is to put in every bit of information that you can. This means all locations, hours of operation, price range, and any other important details for your business. A lack of information or wrong information, especially business hours, can frustrate a potential customer and make them go elsewhere.
Photos are another great thing to add to your Yelp listing. High-quality images will set you apart from other businesses, and give customers a preview of what they will get when they do business with you. Adding at least five great photos is key to a stellar Yelp listing.
Manage your reputation with Yelp
Listing your business on Yelp is a great start to managing your online reputation. By providing information to potential customers, you start your business relationship off on the right foot. You also get the chance to respond to or even remove negative or unhelpful reviews. Take the time to get your Yelp listing updated today.
