Businesses have tried to make it easier for customers to review their business on Yelp, by having a laptop set up in their place of business. Problem is with reviews coming from the same IP address (an address related to your internet connection) these are snagged as fake reviews by Yelp and thus, filtered aka “not recommended” and do not factor into your overall star rating. Be aware of what is acceptable, and do not purchase services claiming to remove your negative reviews. Deception and gaming Yelp does not work. Here’s Yelp’s idea of how to garner reviews. Read more.
Ignoring your Yelp reviews sends a poor message to potential clients. Responding gives you control. A disgruntled reviewer opens the discussion to explain your business practices and customer satisfaction goals. When you have tried unsuccessfully to rectify an unhappy client there are so many opportunities to put out a positive message – seize it.
A free listing on Yelp is a good value. If you don’t have the time to manage your online reviews (Yelp and all others) give me a call to discuss my Webmaster Services.
