Online reviews are important for eCommerce stores because they provide potential customers with insights into the product quality, customer service and overall experience they can expect from a business. This information can be crucial in helping customers make informed purchasing decisions and can ultimately impact a store's sales and reputation.

Imagine you're about to buy a new pair of shoes, but you're not sure if they're going to fit or if they're actually comfortable. So, you turn to the almighty power of the internet and look at the reviews. And boom, there it is, an open and honest review from someone who says they're the "best shoes for dancing the cha-cha in the rain." Sold!

That's the power of eCommerce reviews. They provide a glimpse into the real-life experiences of other customers, and let's be real, who doesn't love getting extra insights while shopping? Reviews can make or break a sale, so if you're running an eCommerce store, make sure you're encouraging your customers to leave a review, even if it's just to share a funny story. Trust us, a few well-placed reviews go a long way in helping potential customers feel confident in their purchase decision.

Some of the facts!

Studies have shown that online reviews can have a significant impact on sales. In fact, according to a recent survey, nearly 90% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase, and 72% of consumers say positive reviews make them trust a business more.

Therefore, having positive reviews can help websites sell more by increasing customer confidence and building trust in the brand, which can ultimately drive more sales and conversions.

‘Where to start?’

Well, we’ve put together a quick list of how to set up your site for review success:

1. Add a review section: Make it easy for customers to find and leave reviews by adding a dedicated review section on product pages. This can be a simple star rating system or a more detailed form where customers can leave a written review.

2. Encourage customers to leave a review: Consider offering incentives such as discounts or special offers to customers who leave a review. You can also include a review request in your order confirmation email to encourage customers to share their thoughts.

3. Respond to reviews: Both positive and negative reviews provide valuable feedback, so make sure to respond to each one in a timely manner. This shows customers that you value their opinions and care about their experiences.

4. Monitor reviews regularly: Regularly check your reviews to ensure they are up-to-date and that any issues are addressed promptly. This helps maintain a positive reputation and shows customers that you are proactive in providing a great customer experience.

5. Use reviews to improve: Use the insights from reviews to identify areas for improvement and make changes to enhance the customer experience. This can range from improving product quality to revamping your customer service process. By continuously improving, you can increase customer satisfaction and ultimately drive more sales.

So there you have it. Five steps to getting set up for review success! Time to start converting more online sales.