Reviews, testimonials and referrals have always been a significant part of the consumer decision making process. If you are looking to purchase a product and someone gives you a positive review on that particular product, you are much more likely to go ahead with the purchase. This has not changed in this age of all things online. In fact, online reviews have come to play an even bigger role in that decision making process.
Webrepublic has done an examination into the importance of these online reviews and have produced a brilliant infographic (which can be seen below) summarising how consumers respond to online reviews. Here are some of the key takeaways:
Products with positive reviews sold 200% more than those with no reviews at all.
Products that are rated 4.5 stars (out of 5) sell 3 times more than products with 5 stars.
While only 28% of American consumers have written online reviews, 84% of all consumers read them.
88% of online shoppers incorporate reviews into their purchasing process.
Consumers who read reviews on a smartphone are 127% more likely to buy than those who read reviews on a desktop PC.
Reviews from friends and family are trusted more than reviews from experts and celebrity endorsements.
30% of consumers assume online reviews are faked if there are no negative reviews.
These numbers clearly show how important online reviews are in converting a potential client into an actual customer. Be sure to cultivate reviews on your Google MyBusiness Page, Business Facebook Page and anywhere else your target market will be looking for reviews of your products or services.
Infographic: Webrepublic.