Long story short, dad never digitalized his company, so I'm trying to get his company to catch up in the digital world. Because of this, we have no reviews on Google even though we complete jobs and clients are happy 99% of the time. About four months ago, I sent a mass email to all of our clients (those whose emails I have on file) to leave a kind review on Google and refer us. Not one review was left. Four months later, now looking into hiring an SEO manager and web developer to enhance our online presence, I feel like I should at least get reviews first.
My idea was for every client who leaves a kind review, I'll mail them a $10 gift card. I wouldn't be sending hundreds of them- I've calculated I'd send about 20 gift cards which won't break the bank. Is this a good way to attain reviews? If you were the client, would you feel uncomfortable or appreciative that you are getting a gift card to leave a review? Furthermore, should I ask them to leave only a 5 star review, or let them be brutally honest (~3 star review) while still giving them a gift card.
My idea was for every client who leaves a kind review, I'll mail them a $10 gift card. I wouldn't be sending hundreds of them- I've calculated I'd send about 20 gift cards which won't break the bank. Is this a good way to attain reviews? If you were the client, would you feel uncomfortable or appreciative that you are getting a gift card to leave a review? Furthermore, should I ask them to leave only a 5 star review, or let them be brutally honest (~3 star review) while still giving them a gift card.
