Why Reviews Matter (and Why You Should Really Care)
A review is someone telling your next customer what to expect
Remember when you’d just ask your mate Dave for a recommendation? Pub chat, school run gossip, a quick “know anyone decent?” - job done.
Now? We’re all glued to our phones, scrolling through reviews like it’s a full-time pastime. And it’s not just about takeaways or trips out. It’s almost
everything.
The Brutal Truth About How We Buy Now
Need new windows? You’re on Google.
Need a new garage door? Check the reviews.
Osteopath needed? Yep, reviews again.
It’s become second nature. We trust complete strangers on the internet more than flashy ads or polished websites.
Your Website's Lovely - But Nowadays, It's Not Enough
Don’t get me wrong - having glowing reviews on your own site is great. Looks professional. Gives a good impression.
But here’s the kicker: People are
still heading on over to Google or Facebook to see what the
real story is and what real people are saying about your business.
They want all the unfiltered stuff. The good, the bad, and the “they turned up late but made up for it” type reviews.
Google Stars: Tiny Things, Big Impact
Think about it - someone searches “physiotherapists near me.”
What do they see? Business name… and those little yellow stars.
If you don’t have any? Or even worse, just one dodgy review and tumbleweed? You’re getting scrolled past faster than you can say “please call me.”
It might not be fair, but it’s how it works.
Why Facebook Recommendations Pack a Punch
Facebook’s a different beast. It’s more personal. Real people with real faces, with real names.
When Sharon from two streets away says you were brilliant, that carries weight.
Her friends trust her.
Suddenly, you’re not just “some business” - you’re recommended.
And that? That’s powerful.
Bad Reviews Aren’t Always Bad
Here’s the bit no one tells you: a bad review won’t sink you.
It’s how you handle it that matters.
A polite, honest reply can go a long way. It shows you care. That you’re listening. That you’re human.
Sometimes, a well-handled bad review is better than a dozen perfect ones.
It's Not Just About Stars - It's About Stories
A review isn’t just a rating - it’s someone telling your next customer what to expect. How you made them feel. Whether you showed up, sorted the job, left the place tidy, smiled, explained stuff.
That’s what people care about.
Use Reviews To Get Better (and Busier)
Stop seeing them as a pat on the back. Start using them as feedback you didn’t have to pay for. What are people loving? What’s frustrating them? It’s all there if you actually read it.
The Bottom Line
Reviews are your business’s digital reputation. They’re doing the talking when you’re not in the room. They’re either getting people to pick up the phone—or move on.
It's as simple as that.
I hope the above article was of interest and you found it useful.
If you need our help, then please arrange a call with me.
Author: Andrew Hurrell
