Whether on social media or specialty websites, online reviews make a big difference in how potential clients see you. That's especially true if those discoveries are their first impression. One reason why Homesale Realty excels is our skill in reputation management.

Good reviews don't happen by accident. Yes, they're a reflection of all the hard work that you put into your relationships. But they also go a little bit further. Even your most satisfied clients won't necessarily think about leaving a review. In fact, negative reviewers are far more motivated!

The explanations boil down to a few little psychological quirks:

• People with complaints have a strong inner need to "make their voice heard."
• People who are thrilled with you assume you've already got tons of business!

With that in mind, a proactive approach to getting positive reviews should be part of your process.

If you haven't focused much attention on it so far, don't worry – it's never too late to begin.

While you can't prevent the occasional negative review, especially if the grievance is about the market or something else outside your control, you can make positive reviews a priority. Because truly satisfied contacts will be glad to help you, positive reviews can easily outnumber negative reviews 20 to one.

Here's a simple four-step process that can help you make it happen:

• Wait Until the Deal is Done ... Really Done
  For real estate agents, this means waiting until after closing day and even after move-in day. Some like to send their customers a pizza or Chinese food soon after the keys are handed off to make things a little less stressful. That's when you have the chance to ask for a review. Calling or visiting in person is often more effective than email, as clients are still used to seeing you around.
  
  
• Have Specific Feedback Questions in Mind
  Before you request a review, have questions in mind so you can get timely, actionable feedback. One way is the open-ended approach: "Can you tell me if there's anything else I could have done for you?" Gently introducing a question like this will give you a clear idea what kind of review a client might leave. It often strengthens their opinion since they can see you care about their needs.
  
  
• "It would be beneficial to me if ..."
  If the initial feedback you're getting from the client is favorable, you can feel free to request a review. The word "helpful" is golden here because most people like to help. Reciprocity is the word psychologists use for the very human feeling of wanting to help someone who has recently helped you. Even if you don't feel like the most charismatic person, this will make asking easier for both of you.
  
  
• Specify Which One or Two Websites You Want
  Different clients favor different sites. It's a wise idea to seek out reviews on all the major ones. The top websites for real estate reviews are Yelp, Google, and Facebook. If you know a client uses Facebook, you can also invite them to follow your Facebook business page. Guide clients based on your digital marketing strategy and let them help you counteract recent poor reviews on any platform.

Once you're used to asking for reviews, it'll be quick and easy. After all, this final request is a natural extension of an established relationship. BHHS Homesale Realty can help you learn how to deliver results for clients so they'll be even more eager to review you.

Contact BHHS Homesale Realty to learn more or get started today.