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Last Updated on Jan 24, 2025
In the Google Business Profiles forums, I'm seeing a lot of comments regarding missing reviews. Many people claim that the quantity of reviews has decreased from one figure to another.
Over the past day or so, I've noticed hundreds of complaints in the forums. Therefore, you are not alone if you have discovered that you have lost a number of reviews.
It's unclear whether Google is purposefully deleting reviews or if this is a technical problem.
More information: I mentioned the problem on the Search Engine Roundtable on Friday, but I wasn't sure if it was a feature or a flaw. In the Google Business Profiles boards, I saw hundreds of complaint threads from local SEOs and small businesses that were worried.
Update - Google comment: Victoria Kroll from Google posted a statement in the forums saying:
"We're aware of an issue affecting some Google Business Profiles, causing some profiles to show lower-than-actual review counts due to a display issue. The reviews themselves have not actually been removed. We're working hard to resolve this and restore accurate review counts as quickly as possible. We appreciate your patience and will share updates on this thread as they become available."
Before reporting missing reviews, please note that there are several reasons why reviews may be removed from maps. Usually, missing reviews are removed for policy violations like spam or inappropriate content. Read more about our Review policy guidelines before proceeding.
Violations of the policy: The most frequent causes include employing improper language, overtly endorsing a company, or revealing private information in the review.
Spam detection: Reviews that seem to have been created fraudulently or in large quantities may be flagged by Google's algorithms.
Reviewer deletion: The reviewer may occasionally remove their own work.
Internal reviews: Google may delete ratings if a company encourages its staff to write favorable ones.
Keep an eye on your Google Business Profile: Check your reviews dashboard frequently to see if any reviews have been removed or flagged.
Recognize Google's policies: Learn about Google's review guidelines to make sure users submit compliant reviews.
React to reviews: Show your dedication to client satisfaction by professionally replying to both positive and negative evaluations.
Promote sincere reviews: Request frank assessments from clients, emphasizing the value of sharing their experiences.
Appeal flagged reviews: You can ask Google to reconsider the removal of a review if you think it was done unfairly.
Declining numbers: New research indicates the number of reviews on Google is trending down across industries.
Quality compared to quantity: While fewer reviews are presented, there is evidence that existing reviews are becoming more detailed and nuanced.
Platform competitiveness: Other platforms like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and social media are gaining traction in review communications.
Evolution of trust dynamics: Consumers are becoming more demanding with online reviews, often looking for authenticity over pure volume.
Preference for video and visual content: There's a remarkable movement towards video testimonials and influencer content.
Skepticism and disinformation: With an increase in false reviews, consumers are now more skeptical and seek more reliable sources.
Consumer trust declines: Fewer reviews may lead to increased skepticism about business credibility.
Loss of visibility: Google algorithms rank businesses based on review quantity and quality - fewer reviews can mean lower rankings.
Word of mouth shift: Negative criticism can drive potential customers toward traditional word-of-mouth referrals.
Algorithmic relevance: Fewer reviews generally result in lower search rankings.
Keyword ranking: Reviews contribute to keyword optimization through user-generated content.
Backlinking potential: High review counts can lead to organic backlinks from reputable sources.
Facilitate reviews: Provide direct links to your Google Review page on receipts, emails, and your website.
Timing matters: Ask for reviews right after a purchase or service when the experience is fresh.
Encourage feedback: Consider implementing a reward system for customers who leave reviews (while encouraging honest feedback).
Showcase reviews: Highlight positive customer reviews on your website and social media.
Configure Google alerts: Set alerts for your business name to stay informed about new reviews.
Use review management software: Platforms like Birdeye, Podium, and Reputation.com provide comprehensive tracking.
Develop response protocols: Create standardized responses for different types of reviews.
Stay responsive: Quick responses show you value customer opinions.
Personal touch: Engage with customers at a personal level to create lasting impressions.
Provide excellent service: Outstanding customer service naturally generates positive reviews.
Community engagement: Participate in local events to build relationships with potential customers.
Post-service follow-ups: Simple check-ins can encourage customers to share their experiences.
Upstrapp Inc, using these tactics, local businesses can counteract Google's review decline.
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