Story Based Question
You’ve built a thriving online store selling handmade candles. Your products are unique, and customers often rave about them via email or social media. Yet, when you look at your website, the review section feels lonely—only a handful of customers have left feedback.
Meanwhile, your competitor has dozens of glowing reviews on every product page, making their store seem more credible and attractive. You start wondering: How can I encourage my customers to leave reviews without sounding pushy or desperate?
Exact Answer
To encourage customers to leave reviews, make the process simple and accessible. Send follow-up emails after a purchase, thanking customers and gently asking for feedback. Offer small incentives, like discounts or loyalty points, for leaving a review. Highlight the importance of reviews in improving your service and showcase existing reviews to inspire others. Finally, provide clear instructions or links for writing reviews on your website or third-party platforms.
Explanation
Getting reviews doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth. It’s about creating a seamless experience for your customers and showing them their opinions matter. Here’s how to encourage reviews effectively:
- Send Follow-Up Emails:
Timing is key. Send an email a few days after delivery, when customers have had time to use the product. Personalize the message, thank them for their purchase, and include a direct link to the review page. - Make It Easy:
A complicated review process will discourage even the most enthusiastic customers. Use clickable stars, pre-filled forms, or one-step links that take them directly to the review section. - Incentivize Reviews:
People love a good deal. Offer a small incentive, such as a discount on their next purchase or entry into a giveaway, in exchange for a review. Be transparent about wanting honest feedback. - Showcase Existing Reviews:
Nothing inspires action like social proof. Feature positive reviews prominently on your product pages, home page, or social media. Seeing others leave feedback encourages new customers to do the same. - Explain Why It Matters:
Customers are more likely to leave a review if they know how it helps. Mention in emails or on your site that reviews improve your products and help other shoppers make informed decisions. - Use In-Store or Post-Purchase Prompts:
If you have a physical store, include a note with the packaging or print a QR code on receipts that leads to the review page. For online stores, add a review request at the end of the checkout process.
Example
Back to your candle store—here’s how you apply these strategies.
After a customer buys your best-selling “Lavender Bliss Soy Candle,” you send them this follow-up email:
Subject Line: We’d Love Your Feedback on Lavender Bliss!
Body:
Hi there,
Thank you for purchasing our Lavender Bliss Soy Candle! We hope it’s bringing a little relaxation and joy to your day.
We’d be so grateful if you could share your thoughts by leaving a quick review. Your feedback helps us improve and lets others discover the calming magic of Lavender Bliss.
[Click Here to Leave a Review]
As a thank-you, you’ll receive a 10% discount code for your next order.
Thanks for being part of our candle family!
The [Your Store Name] Team
Within weeks, reviews pour in. One customer writes:
“This candle smells amazing! The lavender scent is soothing, and I love that it’s made with soy wax. Definitely buying more!”
You feature this review on your product page, inspiring others to purchase and leave feedback. Additionally, you create a “Customer Favorites” section on your site to showcase top-rated products, reinforcing the importance of reviews.