Google reviews influence the purchase decisions of prospective customers, and some unscrupulous players are utilizing these reviews against their competitors. Here is how to get rid of fake Google reviews hurting your business.
The trust on a brand is built through other users’ experiences and reviews, which the search engines favor and display during web searches. The best way to start your marketing is by getting a lot of Google reviews.
While positive Google reviews improve your business almost instantaneously, it is also possible to make business gains from negative reviews. How? By immediately responding to the review and working to create a positive outcome which the reviewer will acknowledge online.
However, fake reviews can hurt your business badly, and there is no way you can create a positive outcome. What can be done to undo the damage?
Yes, there are ways to deal with this issue. Read on to know how to get rid of fake reviews.
Is It Really a Fake Review?
First, ensure that the review is indeed a fake and not just a negative review.
Before reporting the review, ask yourself, "why do I need the review to be removed?” Even if the review is negative, you can defend yourself by responding immediately and promising corrective action.
If the review is abusive or insulting, then it should be removed quickly. With proof and evidence, if you report it as a fake review, its removal will be easy.
Immediate Response to Fake Reviews
You need not panic if you receive a fake review. All you need to do is stay calm and search for evidence to prove it false.
Meanwhile, let the reviewer know that you are aware of the review’s falsehood immediately. For instance, if you are selling a product, use the customer record to check what they bought from you and check for the time of service. Make sure to collect all the necessary info about the customer’s purchase.
Click the Flag
Ensure that you are not going against Google’s actual review policies. If you are not violating any rules, then click on the little flag that appears next to the reviewer’s name. Fill in the form, leave your Google My Business ID as contact information and submit the request. Google will assess your request and remove the review from your reviews.
Remember to be patient and don’t call the customer care as soon as you flag the review. The reviewing process takes time.
Give Google a Ring
After 24 - 48 hours, look for the review. If it still exists, then you may need to chat with or call Google for results. Here’s how:
Login to your Google My Business account
Click the icon with three lines at the upper left corner
Click Support
Along with the evidence, you’ll need to prove that the review is a fake. Most of the time, this will work. If not, keep following up with Google.
For more information on the removal of fake Google business