Nearly all consumers (97%) now use online media when researching products or services in their local area. There’s also evidence to suggest that online reviews are the primary way to choose where to shop locally. Likewise, a negative review can drive customers away. Positive public endorsement of a brand by a celebrity can provide high social proof, which can directly impact sales. The more people that use, or enjoy a product, the more likely others are to follow. Social proof is the level of credibility that the public provides to a service or product. This provides social proof to other potential customers. Online reviews give power to the customers to tell their side of the buying story. 91% of 18-34 year olds trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, and 93% of consumers say that online reviews influenced their purchase decisions. How powerful is this route to market is on customer buying decisions? The answer is very. Sites like Yelp, Google Maps and TripAdvisor allow customers to give advice, or to read past customer experiences directly from the source.

Your potential customers are turning to online review sites to learn all they can about your service or product. Like it or not, in the confusing and busy world of online shopping, people want reassurance before committing to a purchase. Find out how to use online reviews to connect with your customers, improve your brand image and encourage positive buying recommendations. 93% of customers read online reviews before buying a product.

Yahoo system mechanic reviews