Do online reviews really matter for my business?

Yes—online reviews matter more than most business owners realize. They directly influence how customers see your brand and how search engines rank your business. Ignoring reviews can cost you sales, while managing them well can give you a major competitive advantage.

1. Reviews build trust and credibility

Nearly 9 out of 10 people read reviews before making a purchase decision. Positive reviews act like word-of-mouth recommendations, while negative ones—if left unaddressed—can drive potential customers away.

2. Reviews impact local SEO

Google considers reviews as a ranking factor for local search results. Businesses with more frequent, high-quality reviews tend to show up higher in Google Maps and the local pack. Even your average star rating plays a role in visibility.

3. Reviews influence click-through rates

When people see a business with dozens of recent reviews and a strong star rating, they’re more likely to click. A competitor with fewer or outdated reviews looks less trustworthy, even if they’re just as good.

4. Handling bad reviews the right way matters

Every business gets negative feedback at some point. What matters is how you respond. A thoughtful, professional response can actually improve your reputation, showing potential customers that you care and are willing to fix problems.

5. Reviews can drive repeat business

Asking for reviews after a sale not only helps future customers—it reminds past customers of their experience. That reminder can bring them back to buy again or refer you to someone else.

Bottom Line

Online reviews are not optional anymore. They influence trust, search rankings, and even whether people click on your business in the first place. A proactive review strategy—gathering, showcasing, and responding to reviews—pays off in both credibility and revenue.

If you want help setting up a system to manage reviews and turn feedback into growth, I can show you the steps.