Only a tiny percentage of all advice and planning firms collect reviews on both Google and VouchedFor.

Even fewer proactively do these five things when they get a new review to maximise the benefits. Instead, they sit back and passively wait for people to stumble upon their reviews.

That’s a shame because it means firms aren’t maximising the potential of their positive reviews, and every one of the things they should be doing is free. They’ll just cost a few minutes for every new review.

So, without further ado, here are the five ways you should be sharing your new Google and VouchedFor reviews.

#1. Send it to the existing client who made the referral

If the review comes from a new client who was previously referred by an existing client, take a screenshot of the review and send it to the person who made the referral, with a short note.

For example, you could say something like this:

“Dear <insert name>

Thank you again for introducing me to <insert new client’s name>.

I thought you’d like to know that they have been delighted with the work we’ve done together and have recently left this review on Google/VouchedFor.

<insert screenshot of review>

We value your introductions to us, meaning people you care about will have a better financial future.

Thank you once again.

<insert usual sign off>”

Doing this shows the existing client that someone they care enough about to have recommended to you had a good outcome, which validates their decision to make the introduction.

#2. Do the same for professional connections

The lawyers, accountants and other professionals who recommend clients to you will be equally keen to hear about the outcome. So, do the same as we’ve recommended for existing client referrals and share your reviews with the person who made the introduction.

#3. Share your reviews on social media

The thought of sharing your reviews on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and so on, probably leaves you feeling a little uneasy.

We get that, and no one likes a big head. However, if you don’t share them, no one else will. Plus, overcoming your concerns means more people will see your reviews and learn about the benefits of financial planning.

When you think about it like that, even if you don’t feel entirely happy, hopefully you understand why you should leave your comfort zone and share your reviews on social media.

#4. Share with your team

I’ve been on holiday for a couple of weeks, and while I’ve been away, I’ve been reading Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. A few lines stood out, including this one:

“…every person on the team should be hearing more about what they did well than what they could do better, or they’re going to feel deflated and unmotivated.”

Sharing your Google and VouchedFor reviews gives you the perfect opportunity to praise your team and show them what they’re doing well.

#5. Add them to your website

Only 1.5% of advice/planning firms include both Google and VouchedFor reviews on their website.

Yes, you read that correctly, 1.5%!

So, don’t just leave your reviews sitting on Google or VouchedFor. Pull them onto your website too, scattering them across the most popular pages such as the homepage, and your team, about, fees, and contact pages.

Don’t be passive with your reviews

In our experience, advisers and planners are increasingly proactive when it comes to collecting reviews, but remarkably passive about sharing them.

Following a “collect and share” strategy will put you in the 1% of advisers and planners who are truly committed to making reviews work harder for their business.

We can help you get more Google and VouchedFor reviews

Yardstick clients have 178% more VouchedFor and 286% more Google reviews than other firms. That’s because we know the best way to collect reviews, get firms into good habits, and help them stay accountable.

If you’re struggling with reviews, perhaps unsure of which platforms to use, how to collect reviews or something else, we’re here to help.

Email abi@theyardstickagency.co.uk or call 0115 8965 300, and we’ll set up a Zoom meeting to discuss your challenges and the options for solving them.