The better your marina’s online reputation is, the more likely it is that boaters will make the decision to give your marina a try.
The better your marina’s online reputation is, the more likely it is that boaters will make the decision to give your marina a try.
According to the Better Business Bureau, 97 percent of consumers read online reviews when evaluating a product or service. Reviews give your business credibility and show that your marina takes feedback and customer satisfaction seriously.
You have an experienced customer base of boaters, so a good review from those with experience at your marina will be meaningful to others. Conversely, a less-than-stellar review can be a heads up that a change in your business might be in order.
Let marina reviews be the wind in the sails of your marina marketing strategy.
So, how do you go about getting marina reviews?
A quick line after your guests have departed not only shows that you value their business, but also that you genuinely hope they enjoyed their experience.
Up to 80 percent of reviews originate from follow-up emails urging shoppers to review their purchases. (Source: Spiegel) A follow-up email opens the door for feedback, and is a super-easy way to slip in a note soliciting a review.
Places like your fuel dock, ships store, and heads are prime locations for signage. Post a simple sign requesting a review in these heavily trafficked locations. The more people that see the sign, the better—68 percent of consumers have left a review for a local business after being asked to do so. (Source: BrightLocal)
Something as simple as a small discount on fuel, or a free bag of ice at the dock house, can be a great way to incentivize people to leave your marina a review.
A sticker, hat, or can coozie with your logo is a double marketing win. About 75 percent of customers are willing to answer anywhere from one to five survey questions. (Source: GatherUp) So don’t be afraid to ask!
Any review can be beneficial to your business, but why not ask for them from people that have extensive experience with you? Personal details and specifics go a long way in building trust in a review—and, in turn, give your business credibility.
A response to a customer’s review from the marina not only validates the review, but it also shows that you take feedback seriously and strive to improve.
In the case of a good review, it furthers that relationship with the customer. In the case of a negative review, it gives you a voice to assure the public that you take concerns seriously and are working to resolve the problem. Seven out of 10 consumers changed their opinion about a brand after the company replied to a review (Source: Marketing Charts).
Looking for more ways to drive boater demand? Circle back to our marina marketing resource hub.
