What’s the first thing you do when you’re looking for a great restaurant, a new gym, or to get your fireplace rebuilt? Ask for a recommendation from someone you know! Recommendations are a great way to get trusted insight on pricing and quality of work before making a purchase decision. They are especially helpful when if your service requires someone unfamiliar to enter your home and potentially meet your family.

Recommendations are also a marketing helpful resource for businesses. According to Small Business Trends 85% of the small businesses surveyed said customers learn about them through word of mouth. People tend to prefer an honest, personal experience from a previous customer. This is especially true when it comes to what the company has to say about itself. Because customer opinions are so highly valued, small business like, Chimney Doctors, have consistently received new customers. Many of these are based on word of mouth recommendations, as well as online reviews.

Why Write A Review?

Sharing information about a company you like with a friend who asks is great. However, leaving a customer review for the company can have a greater impact. Many customers don’t have a personal recommendation to rely on. So, in turn, they go to online reviews to help select the right company. Online reviews are a virtual word of mouth. Thus helping aid potential customers in getting a feel for a businesses’ quality of service, pricing, and professionalism. Reviews also help companies begin to receive stars and average rank on sites like Google and Facebook.

Where To Leave A Review

Deciding where to leave a review? If so, think of the places you go to look for service and let these sites be your first choice. Hubspot.com has a great list of top review sites, however for service businesses like us we’d recommend Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Any review though is appreciated.

So, have you’ve received exceptional service from a business? Then one of the best ways to show your appreciation is to leave them a review! It won’t take up too much of your time. In addition, it’s a thoughtful way to show continued support for that business.