If you haven’t heard of TripAdvisor, you’ve probably been living under a rock for the past few years – 15 years in fact, as the most trusted travelling review turned 15 this year!
TripAdvisor gives Joe Public the chance to air their views about anywhere they visit, whether that be a hotel in Milan, a restaurant in New York, or the Lawnmower Museum in Southport. In a world where everything is available at the touch of a button, more people than ever are relying on websites and apps to inform their activities.
Clearly then, whether you’re a huge franchise or a little independent place, TripAdvisor is something that could make or break your business. So why not encourage your patrons to leave you a review? A simple poster on the wall suggesting their leave their thoughts on TripAdvisor might be all it takes.
It’s important not to obsess too much over bad reviews, as hard as that may be. People are more likely to complain, we’re just that kind of nation and you can’t please all of the people all of the time, but use it as a learning tool. Mr Jeffries thinks your chips are too salty? Duly noted.
It’s also a good idea to reply to your reviews, but do not feel tempted to send a snarky reply to anything negative. Buzzfeed will pick it up and from one slightly bad review, you’ll get a wealth of really bad publicity! Try to politely offer to rectify the issue, and remain professional throughout – anyone reading the response is likely to appreciate your effort.
Finally, remember to display your success! If you start to get really great reviews, and high ratings, tell the world! Print it on your menus, pin a poster up in your cafe, show the world and his dog that people have enjoyed your establishment so much, they went on to the internet to express it!