Google's Clamp Down on Fake Reviews
As you may have heard Google has rolled out…. Yes another algorithm update.
However is this one really that bad? All algorithms, new or updates are in place for one reason, to help the customer find exactly what they are looking for. As we all know Googles’ end goal is to achieve customer satisfaction and what customer would be
satisfied finding out the review they read was a fraudulent?
Googlers Dasher stated that “because of online reviews being in the news Google has put a system in place to protect both business and customers from spammy and fake reviews”. Please see link below for Googles latest guidelines.
Clamp Down
Clamping down on reviews that are biased, fake, spammy and purposely damaging is one thing Google has got 100% right. With all the other algorithm updates it has only the end user in mind. This one has everyone as everyone can be affected by bad and fake review.
As an SEO Consultant I know how tempting it is to bombard my clients Google Places and other review websites with glowing reviews and 5* testimonials but then again who is it really going to benefit?
The Business Owner- Yes, short term having positive review after review being posted can help click through rates and enquiries. However long term it can cause unrealistic expectations and unsatisfied customers then leaving ‘real negative reviews’.
The Customer – Never, being ‘tricked’ into thinking a product or business is better than it actually is will create an unsatisfied customer, who will not recommend your services.
The SEO Consultant – Google is already cranking down on fake reviews it
is only a matter of time before the review you have posted will be deleted. Spend your time researching effective ways to increase online exposure rather than the quick and easy win.
Always try to follow the above and have not only your client and the business in mind but also the potential customers.
