Here in the digital world of the 21st century, let’s give some thought to happy client reviews and, in particular, how we use them.
Some salespeople appear to be more interested in seeing their ‘names in lights’ on sites like the major property portals and Rate My Agent.
Less, if any, attention is given to Google and Facebook.
Search Engines
When a client searches your salesperson’s name online, they probably use a Search Engine, and it’s probably Google.
Try it out – ‘Google’ your salesperson’s name:
Do the top search results point to your agency’s website, or to realestate.com.au, ratemyagent.com.au or similar site?
Your agency website or a personal profile website controlled by your agency should be at the top of the search, otherwise you are handing over search prominence to third parties. That’s never a smart thing to do.
Give thought to putting focus on getting Google and Facebook reviews elicited directly from happy clients.
The Reward
Two years ago, a Pittard client in Queensland began a quest to have 100 Google Reviews on his website. To make it easier for salespeople and clients to do this, Pittard designed the Rate-Us quick links for Google and Facebook reviews.
Recently, the leader told me, “I got two listings last week where the clients told me that they called me in because of all my good reviews on Google”. For the effort came the reward.
Discipline
All this cost the leader was a bit of effort, and a lot of diligence and follow-up. Every listing and sale his salespeople made, the leader asked the question, “Where is the Review?” Eventually the team got the message and asking for reviews became a discipline.
Focus
The focus on Google and Facebook reviews begins with the leader. We make the decision, we convince the team how important it is, and it is up to us to follow up to ensure that asking for reviews becomes a discipline.
From focus comes consistent results: Listings, sales and profit.
Don’t allow your salespeople’s profile to fall into the hands of others outside the agency. Take control and get reviews in your own right.
Direct enquiry to your website. After all, you own that!
PS Pittard periodically broadcasts a webcast entitled How To Make Sales In a Tough Market. This webcast is free and designed for agency principals. It is by invitation only, as we cannot accept some agents due to ourcontractual obligations to our current members. For more information and to check your eligibility, please follow this link.