How To Use Time Tracking App Ratings And Reviews To Boost Software Sales
Asking for time tracking app ratings and reviews shouldn’t be a source of marketing stress, not if you avoid common mistakes and keep your promotional strategy above board. For example, don’t bribe customers into leaving a positive review for time recording apps, even if they think there’s room for improvement. People should feel comfortable sharing their honest thoughts about your software. If there is constructive feedback, use it to improve your business model or time tracking tool. First and foremost, using time tracking software reviews for social proof should help you boost conversions without going over budget. The key is to choose the best time tracking software directory that already has a foothold in the industry. Namely, a platform with a loyal following and thousands of visitors (AKA qualified buyers). This guide covers all the essentials, from setting up your first listing to standing out in tool comparisons.
Here's A Sneak Preview Of This Ultimate Guide...
- The Importance Of Using Time Tracking App Ratings And Reviews For Social Proof
- 7 Mistakes To Avoid When Asking For Time Tracking Software Ratings And Reviews
- Essential Steps To Create Time Tracking Software Listings For Ratings Accumulation
- 7 Tips To Make Your Listing Stand Out In A Time Tracking Software Comparison
- 7 Creative Marketing Strategies To Increase Time Tracking App Ratings And Reviews
- Can Time Tracking Software Ratings And Reviews Benefit SEO?
1. The Importance Of Using Time Tracking App Ratings And Reviews For Social Proof
There are many ways to enhance your brand image without going over budget. However, using time tracking software reviews for social proof is one of the most cost-effective ways. Customers need to know that your product is reliable and that your brand provides top-notch service. Reviews and ratings allow them to gauge everything from usability to CX before sealing the deal. Let’s face it, nobody wants to be a trailblazer when it comes to test driving new software. Here are a few notable reasons why you should establish social proof with time tracking app ratings.
1. Give Customers A Feedback Platform
Customers are more likely to invest in new software if the vendor maintains total transparency. For example, you welcome their input and make all your feedback public. They know that they have a place to share their thoughts and concerns for the whole world to see. Well, at least, potential buyers who are considering your time tracking software app. They can also sing your praises if you deliver amazing service and your tool checks all the boxes. Finally, you’re able to refer them to your review page to alleviate any doubts. For instance, they’re apprehensive about trying new software and need to verify social proof.
2. Prevent Sponsored And Biased Reviews
Some companies use underhanded marketing techniques to "steal" business from their competitors. For instance, they might pay people to leave negative reviews and ratings even if that person has never used the software before. Another tactic is to leave unfavorable reviews themselves to tarnish your reputation. An exclusive online directory should have fraud prevention measures to keep these biased reviews in check. Users may have to create an account, or the site manually checks submissions before posting them to the platform.
3. Minimize Negative Review Fallout
Even the best hour tracking app vendors have to deal with naysayers from time to time. A handful of negative time tracking app ratings won’t necessarily damage your reputation, but it greatly depends on your reaction. For example, someone leaves negative feedback about your tool’s usability. You have the opportunity to follow up to see if there’s anything you can do to remedy the issue, as well as take that feedback into consideration when it is time to reevaluate your UI. Constructive criticism is a chance for you to flex your customer service muscles and minimize the backlash.
4. Increase Your Customer Satisfaction Rating
Reviews are another way that your customers can engage with your brand and share their experience. In some cases, you can even reply to the reviewer or reach out directly to take CX to the next level. They know that their voices are heard and that your brand values customer care, which has a positive impact on satisfaction scores. In fact, you can encourage consumers to leave reviews in exchange for exclusive content or even gamify your marketing strategy to get them actively involved.
5. Show That Your Tool Is Tried And Tested
Nobody wants to be the first to try a new product or service especially if there’s financial risk involved. Not to mention, ineffective software can negatively impact their business objectives. For instance, the tool is so difficult to use that they have to delay the launch and invest even more into payroll. Time tracking app reviews show them that your platform is tried and tested. That other customers have already put it through the paces in real-world trials. Thus, prospective buyers are more likely to sign up for a free trial or even purchase the software right away based on high ratings.
6. Share Your Performance Overview On Social Media
If you list in an exclusive online directory, your review page includes a performance overview. This shows up at the top so that visitors can quickly evaluate your ratings and star scores for usability, usefulness, and CX. Share these stats on your social media page and website to create buzz and establish social proof. For example, your current overall satisfaction score is 100% and you scored 5 stars for usability. Then, buyers can visit the directory for more info and read all the ratings on your landing page, as well as leave reviews once they’ve had a chance to explore all the features and functionality.
7. Mitigate Buying Risks For New Customers
Many customers use time tracking app ratings to make a well-informed buying decision. They also appreciate the fact that they can leave their own review or star score post-purchase. It shows that your company has nothing to hide and that you encourage customer feedback. Ultimately, organizations are looking for time tracking app companies that prioritize customer engagement. They’re not only purchasing your product, but all the service, support, and training that comes with it. Reviews indicate that you're open to their suggestions and want to continually improve your strategy instead of simply trying to pitch the product and then leave them in the lurch. Download the exclusive time tracking app rating guide for more insider tips to expand your customer base.
2. 7 Mistakes To Avoid When Asking For Time Tracking Software Ratings And Reviews
Let’s be honest, asking for time tracking app ratings can be difficult. You want customers to share their honest opinions but you might be apprehensive about negative feedback. Even encouraging people to leave a review is uncomfortable because you don’t want to seem too pushy. After all, customers should WANT to leave a positive rating for your product because they’re blown away by the usability or CX. If you’re looking for authentic software reviews, steer clear of these common pitfalls.
1. Resorting To Bribery
Desperation is never a good look. By all means, encourage customers to leave honest reviews for your time tracking software but never resort to bribery and other sneaky tactics. For example, offering them a gift card or giveaway entry if they leave you a glowing review. If you offer exclusive reviews, there shouldn’t be strings attached, such as specifying that they need to give it a 5-star rating in order to qualify. This not only makes you look bad in terms of customer perception but diminishes brand credibility.
2. Mishandling Negative Feedback
We’ve all stumbled on vendor responses that made us cringe, maybe they lashed out at a customer who criticized their service or business approach. Mishandling negative feedback makes prospective buyers second guess your software, as it tells them that you don’t really value customer care and feel defensive about constructive criticism. Why would you take the time to leave a nasty reply when you could simply acknowledge the problem and try to fix it? If someone does leave a less-than-favorable review, try to identify the root cause instead of snapping back. Also, keep in mind that many customers use reviews for time tracking software comparison. So, seeing a spiteful interaction between you and another user might be a deal-breaker.
3. Not Using Social Media
Social media is a great way to interact with software buyers and ask them for reviews. But you can also use the platform to clarify their feedback. For instance, someone leaves a negative review and you need to find out if it’s a widespread issue. Conduct polls to get follower input or ask targeted questions to identify patterns. Only one person mentioned it in their written review. However, you may discover that 55% of your poll participants experience similar usability or CX issues.
4. Putting Words Into Customers’ Mouths
You invite software users to leave a review in your directory listing but only if they exclude the downsides, or maybe you try to "help" them formulate a review. For example, you ask them to include certain buzzwords or give them examples of what they should post. First and foremost, reviews need to be authentic and in their own words. They should be able to sum up what they liked best and least about the software without your company trying to sway their opinion. That said, you can always encourage them to reach out before leaving a negative review, just in case you can remedy the issue beforehand and raise those scores.
5. Making The Review Process Complicated
Software users should know exactly how and where to leave their review. The process, itself, should also be quick and convenient, instead of making them go through a ten-step ordeal just to share their opinions. The trick is to find a review platform that strikes a balance between fraud prevention and ease of use. For instance, reviewers need to set up an account before they can leave a rating, but the signup process only takes a couple of minutes and doesn’t require too many personal details. You should also include a step-by-step walkthrough of how to create their account, submit reviews, and provide background info.
6. Getting Cutthroat With The Competition
Most software companies wouldn’t even consider this tactic. However, it’s worth mentioning. Asking users to leave negative reviews for other companies is never a wise choice, as it usually comes back to haunt you. Of course, you need to stay competitive but that should not come at the cost of your business integrity. On the off chance that a customer reaches out to you directly to complain about another company, maintain professionalism. For example, highlight all your key selling points and what sets your software apart rather than replying with snide remarks about the other vendor. Also, if you notice that another vendor is playing dirty, contact them to clear things up. Another option is to reach out to the review site directly and ask for them to verify the user and their comments.
7. Not Following Up
Reviews are there to provide social proof, but they also give your software company valuable feedback to improve your business strategy. So, follow up when someone leaves a review, whether it’s good or bad. As an example, thank them for taking the time to post a review and ask them to elaborate on the topic, such as why they thought the platform was challenging to navigate or how your customer service wasn’t up to their standards.
3. Essential Steps To Create Time Tracking Software Listings For Ratings Accumulation
Accumulating reviews can be a daunting task for software companies because you don’t want to impose on your users. Fortunately, you can create time tracking software listings to maximize your exposure and make the review process quick and painless. That way, customers are more likely to share their honest opinions and help others make the best buying decision. Even negative feedback can help you improve your strategy and focus on product pain points. Plus, the more reviews the better your social proof and online reputation.
1. Identify Your USPs
First things first, determine what makes your product stand apart from the rest. This is also a good opportunity to fine-tune your sales pitch and compile a list of your top features, as well as support services and customer training options, which makes it easier to create a listing since most of the sections involve checklists. You simply click the selling points that pertain to your software. Finally, iron out all the marketing details. Who is your target audience? What’s the primary use case for your platform? Which training resources do you offer paying customers? This also comes in handy when it’s time to write the product overview. Which is a quick paragraph that outlines your platform and its practical perks.
2. Set Up An Account
Before you can create a listing, you need to set up an account. This ensures that reputable companies make it into the directory and upholds the integrity of the listings. Another fraud prevention measure is that all submissions are manually reviewed. It only takes a couple of minutes to create a free account and you’re automatically assigned a username and password. When customers leave time tracking software reviews, they must also set up an account and provide basic personal details. Thus, deterring biased ratings that might lower your score or tarnish your image.
3. Create A Product Overview
The product overview features two distinct sections. The first is the written software overview, which involves a brief explanation of the platform and its standout benefits. The next is the 6-category overview. This includes customer type, platforms, training, deployment, browsers, and support. For example, you may only cater to large organizations with more than 10,000 users and you support both Mac and Windows. Make sure to click on all the items that apply to maximize your reach, as users often filter directory search results based on these evaluation criteria.
4. Highlight Your Software Features
This is another convenient directory listing perk, as all the top features are already laid out. You just have to pick the ones that your software provides to include it in your product landing page. In fact, this one is broken into categories, ranging from customization and integrations to reporting and scheduling. Once again, it’s essential to mention all your features since it’s a built-in search filter. For instance, buyers are only looking for platforms with employee profiling or email integration.
5. Outline Pricing Options
There are four items in the pricing overview: pricing model, licensing type, starting price, and free trial. There’s also a small section for you to include some basic details. For example, mention that you offer bulk pricing or special promos. The starting price should be the bare minimum that organizations have to pay to get started, whether it’s for the one-time license or per user. Also, don’t forget to highlight your free trials or demos to improve click-through rates. Customers are more likely to visit your landing page if there’s a risk-free test drive involved. They can also submit RFPs or request personalized quotes for more info.
6. Promote Your Listing On Social Media
After you submit your listing and it gets approved, promote it on all your social media pages. This gives prospective buyers the opportunity to read user reviews and evaluate your selling points, which also enhances your brand image. Since your product is featured on an industry thought leader’s site, you can even take it a step further and mention your listing in the e-newsletter or host a live event to kick things off. For instance, schedule a webinar to discuss product perks and unveil your listing.
7. Encourage User Reviews
One of the main reasons why time tracking software companies list in an exclusive directory is to build social proof. Reviews give your brand more credibility because prospective buyers know it’s tried and tested. They can also determine if your software is best for their use case and budget. So, how do you get customers to leave honest reviews? Why not give them an added incentive. For example, everyone who posts a review (negative or positive) gets exclusive access to your VIP support library, or they receive a downloadable eBook to help them maximize tool functionality, sort of like an "insider secrets" guide that’s only available for reviewers. Just don’t offer things that might be construed as bribes. For instance, anyone who gives you a 100% satisfaction rating gets a special discount.
4. 7 Tips To Make Your Listing Stand Out In A Time Tracking Software Comparison
Buyers often use time tracking software comparison to compile a quick shortlist. It allows them to evaluate selling points and pricing options side-by-side, as well as determine which platforms cater to their business objectives and use case, which means that your listing has to stick out and grab their attention. How do you highlight all your key selling points and convince them to click-through to your landing page? Below are 7 cost-effective tips to make your listing pop off the screen with the best time tracker app comparison.
1. Include ALL Your Key Features
Buyers typically compile a list of must-have features they’re looking for. In fact, they can even filter search results by features to narrow the options. For this reason, it’s essential to include all your selling points to maximize your exposure. The comparison tool also has a section dedicated to software features so that visitors can evaluate them side by side. For example, which tool offers customization and reports? Fortunately, creating a listing couldn’t be easier thanks to the pre-made checklists.
2. Encourage Users To Leave Rave Reviews
Leads are more likely to purchase your software if it has a proven track record. In other words, you have favorable ratings and reviews that cover crucial evaluation criteria, such as usability and customer experience. So, encourage your satisfied customers to leave honest reviews to build social proof. The ratings also show up in the side-by-side comparison, which means that buyers can stack your scores against the competition’s.
3. Clarify Pricing Info
Organizations look for the best time tracker app within their budget. Features are important, but buyers need to know that you fall into their price range. The exclusive online directory has a pricing overview that covers everything from starting cost to licensing type. You also have the opportunity to highlight free trials or demos, as well as additional pricing details that give you a competitive edge. For example, you offer bulk pricing if they purchase multiple licenses or have more than 1,000 users.
4. Identify Your Customer Type
Are you trying to attract more large organizations? Do you prefer to work with SMBs? Companies focus on software vendors that cater to their business model. For example, they need a provider that can handle thousands of users and offers flexible pricing. Of course, you should check all the boxes that apply. If you do want to expand your customer base and cover the entire spectrum, then indicate this in your directory listing. Some other categories to consider are freelancers, academics, and non-profits. Just bear in mind that your pricing plans, deployment options, and user caps should appeal to your target audience.
5. Mention Support Services
Software buyers prioritize support because it maximizes functionality and value for money. They need vendors that stand behind their product and help them troubleshoot issues. For instance, you provide email, phone, and live chat support. If these advanced options come at a premium, be fully transparent about the added costs. You should also include a detailed list of support services in your proposals if organizations submit RFPs. That way, they know exactly what’s included in the plan and can fine-tune their budgets. If you have unconventional support services, mention them in the product overview.
6. Highlight Your Customer Training Resources
Support isn’t the only way to enhance value for money and customer satisfaction scores. Many vendors have training resources so that users can resolve minor problems on their own, as well as reduce the learning curve. Do you have an online knowledge base? What about video demos and tutorials? List all your customer training tools in the online directory to expand your reach. This info is included in the product overview section at the top of the directory page, which makes it easy for visitors to see which companies meet their expectations. For instance, they’re looking for software that comes with in-person or live online training. It’s a deal-breaker, so your platform may be out of the running if you forget to include ALL your training assets.
7. List Your Deployment Options
Many organizations opt for mobile-friendly time tracking apps these days because they have telecommuting teams. Highlight all your deployment options so that buyers choose the best platform for their remote workforce. For example, you have a desktop app, mobile app, and it’s self-hosted on the cloud. You should also mention which platforms you support, such as Mac and Windows, as well as the browsers employees can use to access the software. Your customers don’t want to invest in the platform only to discover that it’s incompatible with their current toolbox, or that their staffers can’t track work hours on their mobile phone. In fact, that's a sure-fire way to accumulate negative reviews for your time tracking app and lower your customer satisfaction stats.
5. 7 Creative Marketing Strategies To Increase Time Tracking App Ratings And Reviews
So, you need to increase time tracking app ratings to get a foothold in the industry and expand your market reach. But how do you accumulate solid ratings on a tight budget? Luckily, there are some creative ways to increase your honest reviews without breaking the bank. In fact, these marketing strategies pull double duty. Not only do they help you establish social proof but enhance your brand image. Prospective buyers and loyal customers, alike, appreciate a little promotional ingenuity.
1. Social Media Polls
Conduct social media polls to get customer feedback and let them know that you’re open to their suggestions. At the bottom of the poll, include a link to your review page so that they can share their opinions. This is a great way to break the ice and improve customer satisfaction since it opens up a two-way dialogue. You’re not just a software company that takes their money and thinks that their business strategy is beyond reproach. Instead, you’re a brand that wants to engage with its customers and continually improve your product.
2. Customer Webinars
Host webinars that have nothing to do with review accumulation. I know this might seem counterproductive. However, it’s a great way to give back to loyal customers and show them that you’re open to change. For example, the event is all about the reporting features and customization options. Teach them the ins and outs of these features. Then, at the end of the session, invite them to leave a review in the exclusive directory. You can even send them the link in the follow-up email or mention it a few times during the webinar to keep it fresh in their minds. That said, don’t be too pushy. For instance, attendees shouldn’t feel like it’s a marketing webinar and customer training is a "ploy" to get them there.
3. Email Newsletters
People who subscribe to your email newsletters are already interested in your software, either they own your platform or are qualified leads looking for the best hour tracking app. So, include a review invitation in every edition. You can even come up with creative ways to promote your directory listing and build word of mouth advertising. For instance, ask them to share their favorite features or support services and why these selling points improve value for money.
4. Review Points
Award points for certain customer engagement activities, like leaving a review on your directory page. Users who earn enough points get special rewards, like upgrades or VIP training content. You can even launch a leaderboard to spark some friendly competition and recognize your loyal customers. The caveat is that gamified marketing should never feel like you’re buying their positive reviews. For example, make it clear that you want honest reviews and ratings, and that there aren’t any conditions. Everyone who posts a review gets the same amount of points, even if they shared some constructive criticism. Yet another game mechanic to consider is badges that customers can share on social media.
5. Blog Posts
This is another marketing technique that needs to walk the line between self-promotion and value-added content. Blog posts should help software users maximize functionality and overcome common obstacles. But you can also encourage them to leave reviews and ratings at the end of each post or even include links throughout so that they can quickly access the directory listing. Just be sure to add a CTA that compels them to click through and share their honest opinions. Finally, avoid sales-driven language that makes them feel uncomfortable or suspect that you have an ulterior motive. The main goal is to improve CX and marketing should come second.
6. Exclusive Training Resources
Before I dive into the next marketing secret, I need to mention that EVERY customer should have access to support resources, such as tutorials and demos that minimize the learning curve. That said, you can also have an exclusive library for customers who leave reviews and frequently engage with your brand. For instance, this special repository features eBooks, tip sheets, and other tools for more advanced topics. It goes beyond setting up the platform and adjusting settings. In fact, it may even address add-ons and integrations that organizations can use to boost ROI.
7. VIP Events
Once again, these VIP events take customer support to the next level. While your usual marketing webinars should cover the essentials, these events are more about niche topics. You might even devote an entire hour to answering their questions and walking them through certain processes. The key is to make these events more intimate. For instance, you only invite 10 customers to each session so that everyone has a chance to speak up and address their issues. You can also record the event and upload it to your exclusive customer training library. Another option is to host a social media Q&A in a closed group, whereby only VIP customers have access.
6. Can Time Tracking Software Ratings And Reviews Benefit SEO?
Many organizations launch a full-fledged content marketing strategy to improve their rankings. However, most overlook the fact that time tracking app ratings and reviews benefit SEO as well. A carefully crafted directory listing can help you build social proof AND outshine your competition in the SERPs. But that’s only the beginning of the optimization perks for software vendors. Let’s look at a few convincing reasons to launch a time tracking app directory listing with built-in reviews for SEO purposes.
1. Attract Your Niche Audience
Software buyers who search for specific keywords related to your time tracking app are already a couple of steps into the customer journey. They’ve done at least a little homework and needs analysis at this point. In other words, they’re your target audience. Time tracking reviews show up in the search results. As such, they can immediately verify your social proof and evaluate your selling points to make the best buying decision. The fact that you use targeted keywords boosts conversions since site visitors are already in the market for a time tracking tool for their use case or industry. For example, you can drum up more business by using the "healthcare time tracking app" keyword, which appeals to medical professionals, hospitals, and insurance providers.
2. Benefit From Directory Rankings
The directory has already established itself online. Thus, you gain more exposure simply because you’ve listed on the site. In fact, the eLI's exclusive directory has been around for years, helping software vendors and content providers improve SEO. It’s linked to relevant keywords to drive more traffic to each directory. For instance, people looking for outsourcing partners or authoring tools for their niche are more likely to click on the eLI site as it typically shows up on the first page of the SERPs.
3. Boost Conversion Rates
As I mentioned earlier, people who visit the exclusive directory are already interested in time keeping software. They just need help deciding so that they get top value for money. Therefore, time tracking app reviews in the directory boost conversion rates. The SEO brings them to your landing page, but the amazing reviews prompt them to click through to your site since they know that your tool is tried and tested. The fact that you have a high rating tells them that there’s minimal financial risk involved, as opposed to purchasing another platform with lower scores or a limited online presence.
4. Enhances Brand Credibility
A time tracking software directory that’s been around for a while usually has a loyal following. Visitors know they can trust the site for the latest (accurate) information. On top of this, you have reviews and ratings to show that your time tracking software is proven. That’s a winning combination for marketing success. These two factors can help you enhance brand credibility and get more people to sign up for your software. Or, at least, take a test drive to experience all the perks for themselves.
5. Tap Into Every Stage Of The Buying Cycle
Potential buyers use time tracking app ratings to find the best tool for their budget while loyal customers leave reviews to share their experience and help others make the best buying decision. Even software users who aren’t happy with their current platform can read reviews to find a suitable replacement (AKA your app). In short, it allows you to tap into every stage of the buying journey. For example, organizations that are just starting to research the time tracking app perks typically conduct an online search. Keywords and directory listings will help you rank higher in the results.
6. Maximizes The Perks Of Other Marketing Techniques
The best hour tracking app reviews also enhance all other aspects of your marketing strategy. For instance, someone finds your landing page online but wants to learn more about your product so they conduct a search and come across your review page. They can quickly see how your tool performs and evaluate the usability before they even contact you directly. Another benefit is that they typically find your review page first, thanks to the fact that it’s associated with the directory. Then they can click through to analyze your full list of features or submit an RFP. Keep in mind that a directory listing is free so you can maximize the impact of your marketing plan AND cut costs.
Insider Tip: Choose The Right SEO Marketing Platform
All these benefits hinge on the platform you choose. You don’t want your time tracking software linked to sites with negative reps so you need to do your homework to find the best directory for your business. How long have they been around? Do they also provide helpful resources, such as buying guides? Do they have a solid reputation in the software industry? Also, where do they appear in the search results? Think like a software buyer. For example, if you look for software directories or tool reviews, can you quickly find their site? Or do they show up on the fifth page?
Conclusion
Managing your reputation is usually a balancing act. You need to keep track of online time tracking app ratings and reviews so that you can respond in a timely manner without letting it become a professional obsession that prevents you from tackling other business tasks. This is why it’s so essential to list in an exclusive time tracking software directory. All reviews are manually checked before they go live. As such, sponsored or inauthentic reviews are less likely to slip through the cracks and damage your online rep. Fortunately, our niche directory checks all those boxes and gives you an opportunity to promote your software without breaking the bank.
Which common mistakes should you avoid when asking for reviews? Are there any creative marketing strategies you can use to boost your brand rep? Our new eBook can help you promote your platform without going over budget. Time Tracking App Ratings: Tips To Stand Out From The Online Competition is available for download right now.
