Why You Should Never Purchase or Incentivize Google Reviews

As on of the top restoration marketing firms working with contractors on a daily basis, we are asked frequently about where to buy fake reviews and how to get real reviews, that we thought it was important to address in an article.

As a contractor, you know that your online reputation plays a big role in your success. Potential clients rely heavily on online reviews to make decisions about who to hire for their home renovation projects. But what if you could boost your online reputation by purchasing fake Google (or any other platform's) reviews? It may seem like a quick fix, but the truth is that purchasing fake reviews can lead to severe legal and ethical consequences for your business. In this article, we will explore the various types of fake reviews and why you should avoid them at all costs, as well as provide you with five tips to generate genuine and positive reviews for your business.

There are various types of fake reviews you can purchase or create to boost your online reputation. These include asking family members, friends, or employees to write a review, paying for reviews, or providing incentives for customers to leave a review. However, it’s crucial to understand that these tactics are not only unethical but also illegal.

Under the Federal Trade Commission Act, it is illegal to provide incentives for customers to leave a review without disclosing the incentive. The law also requires individuals or businesses to disclose their relationship to the reviewed product or service. So, if you're asking your employees to write fake reviews, they must disclose their relationship to the business in the review. The fines for violating these laws can be significant and even lead to imprisonment.

So, why is it so important to avoid fake reviews? Fake reviews can not only lead to legal trouble, but it can damage your online reputation. Many potential clients can detect fake reviews and may even trust your business less because of them. Instead of risking it all, focus on creating genuine and legitimate reviews.

But how do you get genuine and positive reviews for your business? Here are five tips to help:

1. Email campaigns: Send a friendly email requesting feedback after the completion of a project.

2. Use a QR code for job sites: Print a QR code that customers can scan at the end of a project that leads them to your Google review page.

3. Encourage honest feedback: Let your clients know that you welcome all types of feedback, and you’re eager to improve your service based on their comments.

4. Follow up with satisfied clients: Follow up with satisfied clients and ask them to leave a review if they haven’t already done so.

5. Make reviewing easy: Provide clear instructions on how to leave a review and thank your customers for taking the time to do so.

In conclusion, purchasing fake reviews for your business may seem like a quick and easy way to boost your online reputation. However, it’s important to understand that this tactic is both unethical and illegal. Instead, utilize the tips provided to generate positive and genuine feedback from satisfied customers. Remember, good reviews are earned, not bought. By following these tips, you can improve your online reputation, attract more customers, and grow your business for years to come. For additional questions or marketing help, reach out to our team today at (530)296-6900.