Understanding Online Reviews, Part 2: When Can Online Reviews Be Trusted?
August 12, 2016
More and more people are relying on customer reviews when buying online. Yet the abundance of fake online reviews makes it extremely difficult for consumers to know if they’re actually going to get what they pay for. Fortunately, if you are planning on home window replacement in Lehigh Valley, there are methods to help you determine if an online review is genuine.
- Look for details. There is nothing more disappointing than buying something that has rave reviews and later realizing you were suckered into buying a substandard product. To avoid this, look for specific personal details about the reviewer’s experience. Excessive, over-the-top phrases like “best product ever” or “works like a dream” with no accompanying details are likely not genuine reviews. An honest reviewer will provide specific reasons why they recommend something, like “these windows operate so smoothly and are super easy to clean” or “love that these shingles bring out the color of my house trim.”
- Beware of technical details. Too many details can also be a sign of a fake review. For example, a review that includes the full name of the product and the make and model number of the item is probably phony. Also be on the lookout for words and phrases that seem too techy. Most people don’t talk like this in everyday conversation, and are unlikely to write reviews in this way either.
- Check out the reviewer. Reviewers that have reviewed a variety of services and products tend to be the most reliable. However, if they’ve only written reviews for one specific company, that’s a very good sign that they have something to gain from doing so. Sites that allow consumers to upload pictures of their purchases are particularly helpful, as well as those that indicate which customers are verified purchasers. And keep an eye out for those who post reviews in rapid succession, especially about a new product. This could be a marketing ploy to get the product noticed.
With Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA, you can always expect authentic reviews from customers who have installed our products. We never pay our reviewers and we don’t remove negative reviews. If you’d like an honest assessment of windows or patio doors in Bethlehem, check out the reviews on our website. Give us a call today at (610) 849-2800 to find out how you can get started.
