What Google did to help the local high street

Using client reviews as a marketing strategy can be risky but can reap big rewards for businesses.

We have always championed the value of client testimonials and the importance of an unbiased and objective experience, whether through our own website or through independent review sites such as Google.

At Gregory Abrams Davidson solicitors, along with our legal expertise and experience, we always aim to provide personal and individual care to our clients, striving for complete satisfaction and the hope that they will return again and again and share their thoughts to others. Indeed, we are proud to say that a large percentage of our new business comes from returning clients and recommendations.

Over the Covid-19 pandemic and the restrictions we have all faced, online reviews have never been more valuable to high street businesses. It is through independent review sites that customers/clients have added confidence to trust a product or service. A recent YouGov survey on behalf of Google suggested that 51% of local businesses believe online reviews can boost business.

It is fair to say that the pandemic has changed our shopping habits, and the survey supports this fact as it revealed 88% of Britons feel a more positive connection to their local area since lockdown.

Although we have been promoting Google reviews amongst our clients for some time, we were so pleased when we saw Google’s recent campaign, which was inspired by this survey, as it gives every small business a helping hand in encouraging customers to support and re-build their relationship with their high street.

We have 3 offices in Merseyside and 1 in London, and in fact, our Northwest London address is the focus of Anthony Joshua’s ‘Dear local’ Google advert promoting his local high street in the heart of Golders Green. The genuine warmth and connection Joshua has for his high street is evident as he pops into his local restaurant, laundrette and garage during the advert. On many occasions, we have actually spotted Anthony having a chat and a coffee in our favourite café!!

We understand how he feels! Our office on Finchley Road is seen by many as one of the landmarks of Temple Fortune having been there since 1985. Our solicitors are well known throughout the community by the eclectic mix of businesses and their owners, many of whom have become clients as well as friends.  

We feel this campaign is a really positive step forward for small businesses at this time and we hope that Google’s campaign will encourage the public to back their local businesses and give them the support they need to stay open into 2021 and beyond.

To watch Anthony Joshua’s ‘Dear local’ ad click here.