Let’s face it. People generally want to “social proof” before they believe anything they see, hear or watch online. With a growing industry such as solar, these social proofs—which generally come in the form of reviews—become even more necessary. However, the problem is this: how do you ask for solar reviews without coming off as desperate?
Here are three tips that will help you generate more solar reviews and, consequently, more leads and sales:
Tip 1: Ask at the Right Time
Customers most likely create solar reviews when they have had just enough time to use your product and are starting to experience the great benefits it offers. When they are at theirhappiest is when you ought to ask if they can spare some time to share their experiences with your solar company. You can ask for a review within a month of installing the solar panels; as this will guarantee the review will be clear and vivid.
It’s of utmost importance that they find your sales process, product, and customer service before and after the purchase to be simple and excellent. Aim to give your all, and then some, for each and every customer you get.
Tip 2: Make It Easy
Writing and submitting solar reviews should take only a couple of minutes at most. People are busy and on the go these days; if something takes too long, they will end up focusing on other things and declining whatever it is requested from them.
There are two ways to make the review creation and submission process a piece of cake:
- Website Review Form—create a simple review form and add it to your website. You can include a rating system and post common questions (e.g., how satisfied they are with your solar company and how likely they are to recommend you to their friends and family). Include a separate box where they can talk more about their positive experience with your company and offer suggestions for improvement.
- Social Media Review—many social networks today, such as Facebook, include a review app where customers can rate a brand or business and add comments. Use this to your advantage and casually ask your fans and followers to check out your review page and leave comments if they have time. Share what others have said about your solar brand, and encourage them to do the same, making it a point to emphasize that it’s a favor you’d greatly appreciate.
Tip 3: Consider Giving Incentives
This is a tricky thing when it comes to getting reviews, since many people think it corrupts the system, rendering the reviews invalid. However, this is actually a good way to show your appreciation for the customers who took some time out of their busy schedules to make a review. Offering incentives is especially a good thing if you’re aiming to get reviews to add to your case study and testimonial videos. The incentive doesn’t have to be grand; you can offer discounts for their next solar maintenance or a coupon for local electric and water companies.
Some people discourage businesses from getting reviews, saying they will naturally come if they love your brand enough. But why would you avoid such a great opportunity to improve your brand awareness and increase customer retention? Your solar customers might just be hesitant; if you don’t give them a little nudge, reviewing your company may not be at the forefront of their mind. So, stop idling and start asking for solar reviews following the simple tips we shared with you today.
If you want to create a stronger solar brand that will help you get more reviews, leads, and sales, then you ought to download our Brand Development eBook below.
