Somedays it feels as though the internet is ruling our lives. Maybe it’s time you start taking advantage of this in your business.
Studies show that 80% of the population start their search for products and services on the internet. Whether they are looking for new products for their home, a new soccer team for little Johnny or the best place to start their businesses, the internet is the first place they go. Furthermore, a good portion of those folks either start or end their search with reviews.
While most property managers are aware of this trend, many property managers barely give their reviews a second thought. We have even heard it said, “It is what it is. What are we going to do about it?”
There are several actions you can take when it comes to reviews that can help your business.
- Ask for reviews – We encourage you to personally ask tenants for reviews. Leaving it to chance means you will receive more bad reviews than good. While most people don’t hesitate to leave a bad review, good reviews are harder to come by. So, ask. Whenever you know you have done an outstanding job or solved a problem for a tenant ask them to leave you a review. Help them by giving them a card with links where they can do that or send them an email to the links to your online review sites. This personal ask is a great way to build your online presence and ensure you review positive reviews.
- Respond to the reviews you receive – Respond to both good and bad reviews. Responding to a good review gives you the opportunity to thank the reviewer and show that you always go the extra step for your tenants. Responding to a bad review shows you can respond reasonably when something goes wrong. Apologize and explain how you will avoid this issue in the future.
- It’s about relationships – When a tenant is choosing a property, one of the most important qualities you can show them is your ability to build relationships. By responding to reviews and showing them their opinions matter you are proving you care. This gives them the sense that when they call with an issue you will respond. While this may not be as important as location when choosing a property, it is often a deciding factor.
In today’s world of social media and internet marketing, reviews are a simple way to get a leg up on the competition. Because so many property managers are too busy to consider their reviews, this is an area you can gain a huge advantage. If you aren’t sure you have time, there are services that will help you respond to reviews as well.
When was the last time you looked at your online reviews?