We all know, especially in the real estate industry, that customer service is so important. How your interactions go could make or break your reputation. Beyond this, when buyers and sellers are looking to find a Real Estate Agent they trust, they are looking for an agent that a friend or family member has used and trusted in the past… so what happens when they don’t have someone already in mind? They will go to the next best thing: reviews and testimonials. Needless to say, reviews and testimonials are without a doubt, a key component in what makes a Real Estate Agent trustworthy. In fact, according to a study conducted by ReputationStacker, ‘84 percent of people trust online reviews as much as they trust personal recommendations from friends.’ In this blog, we will break down the easiest and most effective way to ask your clients for reviews and testimonials as a Real Estate Agent.
Asking Through an Email
One of the simplest and most effective ways to ask for a testimonial is through an email. Timing is crucial here. The best time to send this email is shortly after the closing of a deal. This is when your service is still fresh in your clients’ minds, and they are likely still feeling positive about their experience.
Make sure your email is personal and sincere. Use a friendly tone and mention specific details about their experience or the property they bought or sold. This shows that you remember them and value their business, maybe even mention a specific event during their buyer/seller journey you loved or enjoyed the most. From there, provide clear instructions on how they can leave a review. Include a direct link to your review page or ask them to reply with their feedback if that’s easier for them, or even give them guided instructions via a simple form. This can also be done through a dedicated reminder section in your Monthly Real Estate Newsletter, like an easy monthly reminder for anyone on your subscription list who has had a positive experience with you.
Remember, this process should be simple for them, if they have to jump through hoops or answer too many questions, the likelihood of them providing a review becomes slimmer.
Asking After a Closing with a Little Gift
A closing gift is a wonderful way to leave a lasting impression on your clients. It shows that you value their business and care about their satisfaction. Choose a gift that reflects the client’s personality or something useful for their new home. This could be anything from a personalized item to a practical household tool, or a small decoration like a candle or a new welcome mat for their front doors.
Include a handwritten note with the gift to make this experience more personal. Express your gratitude for their trust and business using simple messaging and mention in the note how much you would appreciate a testimonial. Provide them with the necessary information to leave one, maybe even a QR code for a link to your review page. This approach feels more personal and thoughtful, making it more likely that they will take the time to leave a review.
Reminding Through a Social Media Post
Social media is a powerful tool for staying connected with your clients and reminding them to leave a review. Create engaging content that your clients will enjoy and find interesting. For example, post a photo of you with the clients at the closing or a picture of their new home, with their permission of course.
Express your gratitude publicly for their business and their trust in you. This not only makes them feel appreciated but also shows potential clients that you are a caring and professional Real Estate Agent. Include a gentle reminder in your post, asking your other clients and followers to share their experiences by leaving a review. This can be done in a friendly and casual manner that encourages them to participate without feeling pressured.
The Wrap Up
Asking for testimonials and reviews does not have to be nerve-wracking. By incorporating these practical steps into your routine, you can gather valuable feedback that will help you grow as a Real Estate Agent and attract new clients. Remember, a little effort can go a long way in building a strong, trustworthy reputation. So, start asking today and watch your business flourish!
Whether through a well-timed email, a thoughtful closing gift, or a friendly reminder on social media, there are many ways to request testimonials and reviews. The key is to be sincere, clear, and respectful in your approach. Clients appreciate when their Real Estate Agent values their opinion and makes the process easy for them. By making testimonials a regular part of your business strategy, you can create a steady stream of positive feedback that will enhance your reputation and help you stand out in the competitive real estate market.
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