Reviews and testimonials have become powerful tools that can make or break a business. The customer voice has been amplified through the use of social media, giving voice to both positive and negative reviews. In real estate, where trust and credibility are paramount, it is important to understand how to leverage customer feedback and reviews, as well as manage challenging or negative reviews that you may also receive. From learning about how to when to best ask for a review from a client, to understanding how to best use them on you marketing channels, let’s explore the ways in which testimonials can be leveraged to grow your company and protect your brand.
Client reviews and testimonials play a crucial role in building trust and credibility for real estate professionals. Word of mouth in real estate is so powerful. Real estate transactions involve significant investments and decisions. Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients act as social proof, assuring potential clients that you're trustworthy, reliable, and capable of delivering results.
Positive reviews and testimonials help boost your reputation by showcasing your expertise, professionalism, and exceptional service, which can attract new clients and differentiate you in the marketplace. A lot of prospective clients may rely on reviews to find an agent to help them with their home buying or selling process. Positive feedback, both verbal and digitally, can sway their choice in your favor, increasing the likelihood of securing new clients and closing deals.
Understanding the importance of a good testimonial or review, here are some ways to help you gather them from your clients or a cooperating agent.
Reach out to satisfied clients or agent, and ask if they would be willing to provide a testimonial that highlights their positive experience working with you. After closing a successful transaction, reach out to your clients to express your gratitude and ask for feedback. This should be completed within 24 hours of the close of the transaction, while the excitement of buying or selling their home is still top of mind with your clients. This can be done through a personalized email, a text or a phone call. This can be in the form of a written statement or a short video, and ensure you articulate where you will use the video and ask their their consent to publish it on your various marketing channels. In your communication, let them know how excited you are to have been a part of their journey, congratulating them on the sale or purchase of their home and include a personal note from you about your relationship. This helps to personalize the message, and also can be a reminder later! When closing out your call or email, finish with a call to action that includes a request for a review or referral. Make it easy for them to share their thoughts by providing clear instructions or a link to an online review platform.
For cooperating agents or brokers, send them a note of thanks for working with them on the transaction. Similar to how you reach out to your clients, you can do this via email, text or over the phone. This is a great way to show your appreciation for working together and develop closer ties with others in the industry. Building stronger relationships usually translates to potential referrals in the future.
Encourage clients and agents to leave reviews on popular online platforms such as Google, Yelp, your website, social media or other real estate-specific websites. Provide links or instructions on how to navigate these platforms, making the process seamless and hassle-free for your clients.
Once you have received the review (if not on Google or another public platform), you can use it in a variety of different ways. It can be in your print materials, your CMA, showcased on your website or shared on your various social media channels. For social media, you can share snippets or excerpts from positive reviews and testimonials on your social media platforms that are coupled with visually appealing graphics or videos that highlight the client's feedback. This not only showcases your accomplishments but also encourages engagement and shares from your followers.
Remember, testimonials from your clients help bolster your relationship with them, as well as encourage others to work with you in the future. Clients who read about positive experiences that were had by other clients encourages them to choose to work with you! The same can also be applied to cooperating agents, who would refer you to other potential clients in the future.
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