Did the CEO of Yodle Really Just Say That? Re: Local Reviews Advice?

[Linda Buquet]

Thought about adding this to my new post: <a href="http://localsearchforum.catalystemarketing.com/local-search/18199-local-search-myths-half-truths-misconceptions.html">Local Search Myths, Half Truths & Misconceptions</a>
Then decided it was good enough (or bad enough) to be posted on its own.

<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/court-cunningham/demystifying-online-marke_b_5373071.html">Demystifying Online Marketing For Local Business Owners</a>
Court Cunningham, CEO, Yodle

2. Build up your online reviews...

...For example, give your mobile device to a customer immediately after you complete a job so they can quickly and easily review your work.

No, that would be a bad idea...

Lori in comments nailed it:

I would use caution with the example in category two: "For example, give your mobile device to a customer immediately after you complete a job so they can quickly and easily review your work." The bigger review sites are discouraging this (Yelp says outright not to do so https://biz.yelp.com/support/review_solicitation ). The location of the review may be tracked and may not be posted as a result of it being done on site.

 

[Scott Rawlins]

WOW! That's about all I can say.

 

[Michael Fritzsche]

I totally agree in asking for reviews from satisfied customers, and making this process as simple as possible. However the advice Court gave was not only potentially harmful to the business, but also downright old. Just goes to show how the majority of these large digital companies have lost touch with the SMBs they provide services for. Kudos to the commenter on that post.

 

[MikelZaremba]

If you read that article it eludes to the fact that those specific reviews are being posted to the company website. Under that quote it talks about building reviews out on 3rd party sites.

So I'd say that is perfectly fine, and even beneficial for some marketing methods. Much like get five stars and other integrated apps are doing.