When it comes to managing your online review profile, chances are you're hyper-focused on Google Business Profile (GBP)—and for good reason. Google reviews are crucial for local SEO, but if you're ignoring platforms like Apple Maps, Bing Places, Yelp, and Nextdoor, you're leaving a lot of opportunity on the table. These "secondary" review platforms are like untapped gold mines—they won’t just improve your traffic and conversions, but also your search ranking. Let’s dive into the other platforms that can supercharge your local business.
Apple Reviews: The iOS Secret Weapon
While Apple Maps may not have the same clout as Google Maps, it’s the default navigation app for all iPhone and iPad users. That means millions of people are using it to find businesses like yours.
The place cards on Apple Maps are packed with helpful info like your opening hours, contact details, and—you guessed it—reviews. Apple pulls reviews from platforms like Yelp and shows users an average star rating directly within the Maps app. Customers can also upload photos, give you a thumbs up or down, and report issues.
With iPhones in nearly every pocket, Apple Reviews are low-hanging fruit. Even though Google Maps might get more buzz, Apple Maps is a heavy hitter worth your attention.
Bing Places for Business: Don’t Sleep on Microsoft
Sure, Bing might seem like the underdog compared to Google, but it’s got its perks. Bing Places for Business pulls reviews from big names like Yelp, Tripadvisor, and Angi. Even better, Bing results are also used by Alexa—so if you want your business showing up in voice searches, you need to get serious about Bing.
Claim your Bing Places profile, update your contact info, and start managing reviews from across the web. It’s especially crucial if you're targeting an older demographic or users who love Microsoft products. Bing might not be sexy, but it’s reliable.
Yelp: The OG Review Site
Love it or hate it, Yelp is still a giant in the review game. Over 90 million people use Yelp monthly, and 97% of them spend money with a business they found there within a week. Plus, Yelp reviews are pulled into other platforms like Apple Maps, so your Yelp presence stretches beyond its own app.
You can claim your business listing for free, manage reviews, and even respond to them directly. But beware: Yelp doesn’t like businesses asking for reviews. In fact, if they think you’re soliciting reviews, their algorithm might penalize your rating. So play it cool.
Facebook: Recommendations Are a Big Deal
Unlike Yelp, Facebook is cool with you asking for reviews—or "Recommendations" as they call them. And with Facebook’s massive user base, it’s a platform you can’t afford to ignore. Once you enable Recommendations on your Page, users can leave public feedback, upload images, and decide whether to recommend you or not.
Plus, responding to reviews on Facebook doesn’t just build trust—it also boosts your post engagement thanks to Facebook’s algorithm. More engagement = better visibility. It's a win-win.
Nextdoor: The Neighborhood Connector
If your business thrives on local foot traffic, Nextdoor is a game-changer. It’s used by almost one in three U.S. households and hosts over 55 million business recommendations. Nextdoor is hyper-local, which means the people leaving reviews are your immediate neighbors.
By claiming your business on Nextdoor, you can post updates, share offers, and grow a loyal, local following. Plus, recommendations from neighbors are gold—people are way more likely to trust the opinions of someone who lives nearby.
Better Business Bureau: The Trust Builder
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an old-school name that still carries weight. Over 140 million people visit BBB every year, and it’s known for setting the standard for trustworthy businesses. A BBB profile isn’t just for collecting reviews; it’s about building credibility.
Customers can leave reviews and even file complaints publicly. That means you’ve got to stay on top of it—quickly resolving any complaints can boost your reputation and make a real difference in how new customers view your business.
Yellow Pages: The Classic Still Works
Yellow Pages has been around forever, and while it’s not exactly trendy, it’s still a trusted resource for many. Business profiles can include contact details, images, reviews, and more. Yellow Pages also displays reviews from other platforms like CitySearch, making it another solid platform to keep an eye on.
Industry-Specific Platforms: Tap Into Your Niche
For those in specific industries, Tripadvisor and Angi (formerly Angie’s List) are essential. If you’re in hospitality, Tripadvisor is a powerhouse that can funnel travelers right to your business. Angi is ideal for service professionals—think roofers, plumbers, and electricians. These platforms allow for more detailed reviews, giving potential customers in-depth info on what to expect.
For businesses that thrive on trust and detailed feedback, these niche review platforms can make all the difference.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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