So why the sudden increase?

Google is, without a doubt, the most visible review platform online. So many consumers are using Google to find, locate, and get more information about local businesses. According to Bright Local, 54% of people search for a local business online at least once per month. So it makes sense that they turn to Google as their trusted source of online reviews. Now that’s not to say that business owners should *only* focus on Google reviews and not Facebook, and other sites. It’s always wise to diversify, but you should be aware of the platforms that have the most eyes at all times.

Here is a graph that shows the growth of Google reviews submitted to businesses. The sheer difference from Q1 2016 to Q2 2017 is tremendous.

Since 2012, it is absolutely staggering the increase in online local reviews, especially Google reviews.

The new age of digital consumers have learned to trust search engines like Google, and if your company is resting at the top of a list of Google's search, what better validation is there than that?

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Are all reviews created equal?

Google reviews have much more impact in search rankings than Yelp or other local search sites. Quality and quantity of reviews are the most important factors that affect the Google ranking. This comes from a lengthy study done by Digital Marketing Works. It has also been shown that lengthy reviews have a greater impact on Google ranking than short reviews. That’s why its advantageous to make it as easy as possible for someone to leave that review!

Google reviews, and platforms such as Facebook is not something to ignore. Instead of spending crazy amounts of money on traditional advertising, let your customers do the advertising for you. Let them tell others about what a great experience they had at your business.

Hopefully these findings will inspire you to focus on your review generation, and re-enforce this in your own business!