We all know that your online reputation is in the stars—the higher the number of stars, the better. In addition, other numbers play a key role in your reputation. Below are some tips to keep a stellar online reputation that attracts new patients.
Online Reputation in the Stars is an Average, but Date of Reviews Makes a Difference
Google is the most visible review site, so let’s focus there. Having a good overall average attracts potential patients. When the reader clicks on your reviews, they don’t want to see reviews that are two or three years old. Recent reviews are more relevant.
- Strive for at least one review each quarter for each of your top procedures.
- While it is more challenging for plastic surgeons to obtain reviews that mention the procedure, these are your best reviews because patients can read a testimony about their interest.
- Respond to your reviews by thanking the reviewer or asking negative reviewers to contact the office to discuss the issue.
How Many Reviews Are Enough?
While your online reputation is in the stars, patients look for more than just an overall average. They also want to see a number of opinions. A 2019 Bizrate Insights survey showed that almost 75% of consumers read six or less reviews. So, let’s translate that number into actions to improve your online reputation.
- Google reviews appear in search results, so strive to get between 5 and 10 positive reviews there each quarter.
- Doctors also have medical-specific review sites such as RealSelf and Healthgrades. Try to obtain 3 to 5 new positive reviews on medical review sites each quarter.
- Negative reviews validate that no one pleases everyone. Strive for most positive reviews on a review site to push a negative review down or off the page.
Strength in Numbers
There is tremendous strength in combining your reviews. PUMC’s Global Online Review system can help you highlight your best reputation. We customize how you work with the system to fit seamlessly with your work processes. Best of all, stars reflecting your online reputation average appears on every page of your website.
Patient choices are based on your online reputation in the stars. Thus, it is vital to keep your reputation current and moving forward. If you aren’t where you want to be, contact PUMC to talk about how to create your shining star.