Running a small business can sometimes feel like juggling a hundred different tasks at once. With so many tools and platforms available, figuring out which ones are worth your time can be overwhelming.
However, if you’re looking for a solid way to grow your online presence, attract new customers, and foster loyalty, Yelp should be at the top of your list. I’ve put together a handy guide on how to use Yelp to grow your business effectively and efficiently.
Let’s talk about the most impactful ways you can use Yelp to give your business a leg up.
#1 Optimize Your Yelp Business Page
Your Yelp business page acts as the front door of your shop—before customers ever step foot in your actual location, they’re often checking you out online first.
With that said, the first step is to make your Yelp page as inviting and informative as possible.
Claim Your Business
If you haven’t claimed your Yelp business page yet, that’s step one. Claiming it allows you to control the narrative.
You can update your information, manage reviews, and use Yelp’s advertising tools. It’s like setting up shop with full control over your customer experience.
Complete Every Detail
Make sure your business information is as thorough as possible. Include everything: business hours, phone numbers, services, menus, and website links.
Think about what you’d want to know if you were a customer. Keeping this information accurate and updated gives customers confidence in knowing what to expect from you.
Use High-Quality Photos
People are visual creatures. Businesses that have beautiful, relevant images are much more likely to grab attention.
Add photos that show off your space, your products, or the atmosphere of your business. It gives potential customers a sneak peek of what they’ll experience when they visit.
Craft a Strong Business Description
Your business description is your chance to introduce yourself to potential customers.
Share what makes your business special, talk about your mission, and highlight what makes your business unique. Give them a reason to choose you over the competition.
#2 Get Customer Reviews Rolling In
Reviews are the heartbeat of Yelp. When people are browsing Yelp for a new restaurant, service, or shop, they trust what other customers say more than any marketing campaign.
Ask Happy Customers for Reviews
One simple way to build up positive reviews is to ask! After a great interaction, politely ask your customers to leave a review.
You can do this in person, through follow-up emails, or even on your receipts. Just make sure not to offer incentives, as Yelp frowns upon that.
Display Yelp Stickers
Did you know Yelp has official stickers you can display in your storefront or on your website? It’s a gentle reminder to customers to leave feedback. Plus, it builds trust when potential customers see you’re active on Yelp.
Try Yelp Check-In Offers
The check-in feature allows users to share that they’ve visited your business. You can offer special discounts or deals to those who check in, which can encourage more foot traffic and, in turn, more reviews.
#3 Respond to Reviews with Care
A good Yelp strategy involves interacting with reviews, both good and bad. People want to know that you’re listening.
Show Gratitude for Positive Reviews
When someone leaves a positive review, take a moment to thank them. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—a simple “Thank you! We’re so glad you had a great experience” will do.
Acknowledging customers’ kind words strengthens your relationship with them and encourages more positive reviews.
Handle Negative Reviews Like a Pro
Negative reviews? They happen to everyone. The key is how you respond. Instead of getting defensive, approach it calmly. Apologize if necessary, and offer to make things right.
Future customers will be watching how you handle criticism, and a professional response can actually work in your favor.
#4 Spread the Word About Your Yelp Page
Your Yelp page can be optimized to perfection, but it’s all for nothing if no one knows about it. Promotion is key.
Integrate Yelp Across Your Digital Platforms
Make it easy for people to find your page. Add Yelp links to your website, social media accounts, and even your email signature.
This helps direct traffic to your page, where potential customers can read your reviews and learn more about you.
Consider Yelp Ads
These ads can give your business an extra push by putting you at the top of search results. If you’re looking to target customers in your area or industry, these ads could really spice up things.
It’s worth testing out, especially if you’re in a competitive market.
#5 Use Yelp’s Built-in Analytics
Ever wonder how your Yelp page is performing? Analytics tools give you valuable insights into customer behavior.
Track Customer Engagement
Yelp for Business provides data like how often your page is viewed, how many clicks you’re getting, and even which photos are most popular. This data can help you see what’s working and what could use improvement.
Monitor Your Ad Performance
If you decide to use Yelp ads, their analytics will also show you how your ads are performing. If something’s not working, you can tweak your strategy based on the data provided.
#6 Drive Business with Yelp Deals and Check-In Offers
This platform has tools like Yelp Deals and Check-In Offers that allow you to offer discounts and promotions directly through the platform.
Create a Yelp Deal
These deals are great for drawing in customers. Customers can purchase a voucher on Yelp and redeem it in your store, driving both online and in-person traffic. It’s a win-win.
Encourage Check-Ins for Special Offers
Customers love perks. Offering a small discount or freebie for checking in on Yelp not only incentivizes customers to visit but also encourages them to share their experience with others.
#7 Simplify Customer Visits with Reservations and Waitlist
Yelp has features that make it easier for customers to visit your business, especially in the hospitality industry.
Reservations
Allowing customers to book a table or appointment directly from your Yelp page makes it convenient for them and takes a load off your staff.
It’s a feature that can help reduce wait times and streamline the customer experience.
Waitlist
For busier establishments, the Yelp waitlist feature allows customers to join your waitlist from their phones, so they can spend less time waiting at your door. This keeps things running smoothly during peak hours.
#8 Engage Mobile Users with Yelp App Features
With so many customers using Yelp on their phones, it’s important to tap into Yelp’s mobile features to engage with customers on the go.
Request-a-Quote
If your business is service-oriented, the request-a-quote feature allows customers to ask for pricing or details straight from your Yelp page. This feature is a lead generator that can turn inquiries into paying customers.
Respond to Messages Quickly
Yelp lets customers message businesses directly through the app. Speedy replies build trust and can lead to new business.
Even a quick response like “Thanks for reaching out! We’ll get back to you shortly” shows that you’re attentive and professional.
#9 Work With Elite Users
Yelp Elite members are power users with large followings, and their reviews can carry a lot of weight.
Roll Out the Red Carpet for Yelp Elite
Treating Yelp Elite users to exceptional service can result in a detailed, thoughtful review that could draw in new customers. Their feedback often influences the broader community.
Host Yelp Elite Events
Hosting special events exclusively for Yelp Elites can generate buzz around your business. These influencers are more likely to share their experiences, boosting your visibility and reputation.
#10 Stay Active and Visible
Yelp’s algorithm favors businesses that stay active and engaged on the platform. Make sure you’re regularly updating your page, responding to reviews, and interacting with customers.
The more engaged you are, the better your chances of being featured prominently.
Final Words
At the end of the day, Yelp is a tool designed to help businesses like yours grow.
By optimizing your business page, responding to reviews, promoting your page, and taking advantage of all the features, you can enhance your visibility, attract new customers, and build a loyal community.
Embrace Yelp as a part of your business strategy, and watch it pay off.
Hey there! I’m Isla Craig. I’ve spent years diving into the ins and outs of the modern workplace, helping people get ahead and feel good about their careers. From boosting productivity to nailing leadership skills and personal growth, I’ve got a bit of experience in it all.
On our website, my mission is simple: give you the tools and tips you need to rock your career and enjoy a balanced life. I’m here to be your go-to source for advice and inspiration, no matter where you are in your professional journey.
