As a salon professional, you know that your online reputation is crucial to the success of your business. A positive online presence can help increase visibility and searchability, which ultimately leads to more clients and revenue. One of the most effective ways to build a positive online reputation is by receiving reviews from your clients. Receiving online reviews is essential for both stylists and salons alike. When potential clients are searching for hair or esthetic services in their area, they often turn to review sites like Yelp or Google My Business. Having positive reviews on these platforms can make all the difference when it comes to attracting new clients. In this blog post, we’re going to break down how to ask your guests for reviews, salon incentives for leaving reviews, as well as best practices to make the most of each client testimonial.
HOW ONLINE REVIEWS HELP YOUR SALON’S SEO
To make a long story short, SEO is utilizing specific keywords to increase the likelihood of your business appearing near the top of search engine results. Online client reviews can be the perfect way to hit these keywords without even lifting a finger, especially when clients include specifics of their service. Positive reviews from satisfied clients can help increase your visibility in search engine results pages, as they provide social proof that your business is reputable and trustworthy. This can lead to higher click-through rates and more traffic to your website. Furthermore, client reviews often contain keywords related to the services you offer, which can help improve your ranking for those specific terms. By encouraging happy clients to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business and Yelp, you can boost your online presence and attract new customers who are searching for the services you provide.
If SEO confuses you but you want to learn more, click HERE to read another S.O.S. blog!
Or, if you prefer to leave it to the experts, click HERE to check out our SEO Solutions!
HOW TO ASK YOUR CLIENTS FOR ONLINE REVIEWS
So, how do you ask your salon guests for reviews? There are several options available to you that don’t feel awkward or pushy. Consider using social media marketing to encourage clients to leave a review after their appointment. You can do this by reposting other client testimonials and asking new guests to do the same. You may also consider displaying posters or mirror clings in your salon with instructions on how to leave a review. Make it as easy as possible for them to leave the review by including QR codes or direct links to Facebook, Yelp or Google Reviews.
To learn more about how to utilize QR codes in your salon/spa, click HERE to catch this S.O.S. blog post!
Another option is simply asking during the checkout process; after a client has paid for their service, ask if they would be willing to leave a review about their experience. You might even consider offering incentives for leaving a review such as bonus points in your loyalty program or a complimentary service upgrade.
To learn more about our loyalty programs for salons, click HERE! When asking for reviews, it's important to have best practices in place. Responding to each review (both positive and negative) shows that you value feedback from your clients. Additionally, having a script prepared for asking in person or on social media can help ensure consistency and professionalism. Most importantly, make sure to UTILIZE these reviews by reposting them on your social media platforms and websites! So many consumers rely heavily on the recommendation and feedback of other customers before making a purchase or booking an appointment, so it’s so important to have these testimonials easily accessible and visible online.
HOW TO RESPOND TO REVIEWS (POSTIVE AND NEGATIVE)
POSITIVE
Show your sincere gratitude for the kind words your guest took the time to leave! A personalized response expressing thanks can go a long way in building customer loyalty and attracting potential clients. We also recommend mentioning specific aspects of their experience that stood out, such as exceptional service or skilled stylists. And finally, inviting them to return for future services or recommending additional treatments can continue to strengthen the already strong relationship with this client!
NEGATIVE When it comes to negative online reviews as a salon business, it is crucial to remain cool, calm, collected and most importantly, professional while addressing the concerns raised by the guest. Start by acknowledging their feedback and apologize for any inconvenience caused. Offering a solution or asking for more information demonstrates your commitment to resolving the issue promptly. Encouraging further communication offline, such as through email or phone, allows you to address their concerns privately and find a suitable resolution. By taking responsibility for any mistakes made and showing genuine concern for the customer's satisfaction, you can potentially turn a negative review into a positive one and showcase your dedication to quality service. Don’t let a bad review get you down, things happen that are out of your control but you do have control and ability to rectify the situation the best way you see fit!
CONCLUSION
Receiving online reviews is one of the most effective ways to ensure a positive online reputation for your salon. By following these tips and implementing best practices, you can increase visibility and attract new clients with ease. Don't be afraid to ask your salon guests for reviews – it's simple but incredibly powerful! Ignoring or simply not encouraging online client reviews is not only a missed opportunity, it could also be hurting your salon businesses online reputation. Take the simple steps we covered in this blog post to increase awareness around client testimonials and how to encourage them and respond to them.
For even more digital marketing goodness, check out our YouTube Marketing Academy as well as all the resources and support we have for you here on our website
‘Til next time,
Your Team At Salon S.O.S