Leave a review and become a local business ambassador

While we’re sat at home pining for our favourite local London Bridge pub, Sunday brunch from the café on the corner, or the hotel we’d love to go back to, why not take five minutes to write an online review for them instead?

The impact of COVID19 on local businesses is considerable and showing our support and appreciation online is a powerful tool to help them bounce back when they finally open up again.

A survey by brightlocal in 2020 reported that 93% of consumers used the internet to find a local business and 87% read online reviews, with 73% saying that they only take notice of reviews written in the past month. So, let’s make sure our London Bridge businesses get the credit they deserve.

What makes a useful review?

Reviews that state if a business is COVID secure and make you feel safe are particularly powerful right now. So, if you visited somewhere pre-lockdown and had a good experience, why not share online and help other customers find their way there when we all open up for businesses again.

Reviews are particularly influential for restaurants and hotels, with Google My Business and TripAdvisor popular with London Bridge businesses.

A recent 5-star Google review for Texas Joe’s on Snowsfields:

Texas Joe's is one of my favourite restaurants in London. Their brisket tastes amazing, perfect balance of smoky soft meant, sweetness from the BBQ sauce, and zing from coleslaw side salad. The fries they do go really well with it, and they are extra crispy due to their special L shape.

And another on Tripadvisor for the Shangri-La at The Shard:

The Best Hotel in London. The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard is a must stay for anyone thinking of booking a trip to London. Alongside the stunning rooms with the incredible views, the hospitality and the venues on site such as GONG Bar and TING are absolutely amazing. I recommend combining a stay with afternoon tea at Ting and cocktails at GONG, especially before sunset. It is a memorable experience!

Trustpilot suggests 8 tips for writing reviews:

1.           Provide useful, constructive feedback.

2.           Talk about a range of elements, including customer service.

3.           Be detailed, specific, and honest.

4.           Leave out links and personal information.

5.           Keep it civil and friendly.

6.           Feel free to update your review if needed.

7.           Check you've got the right domain name or company.

8.           Proofread before publishing!

So, become an ambassador for local businesses, leave your review and make sure your favourite places get lots of happy new customers when they open their doors again.