How To Enhance Your Online Rep And Get Top Time Tracking Software Reviews
How to get authentic time tracking software reviews? The best way to enhance your online presence and engage with your target audience is to launch a directory listing. This also allows you to gather all your reviews in one place to build social proof. Some organizations avoid time tracking app reviews because they worry about damage control. There’s no guarantee that biased reviews won’t slip through the cracks and hurt their online reputation. However, listing with a reputable time tracking software directory can help you minimize the risks. In this guide, we walk you through the entire process, including do's and don'ts to help you get more reviews and avoid common pitfalls. So, read on to create your first listing and stretch your marketing budget.
Here's everything you'll find in this comprehensive guide...
- 5 Ways To Not Ask For Time Tracking Tool Reviews
- 7 Amazing Time Tracking Tool Directory Listing Perks
- Fraud Prevention Measures To Ensure Honest Reviews For Time Tracking Apps
- How To Handle Negative Software Reviews
- 6 Tips To Manage Your Reputation With Time Tracking System Ratings And Reviews
- 8 Steps To Becoming A Top Rated Time Tracking Software Via A Niche-Directory
1. 5 Ways To Not Ask For Time Tracking Tool Reviews
You need authentic reviews to show that your software is worth the investment, as buyers always look for verifiable proof before taking the leap. In other words, people don't want to be coerced into leaving a positive review. Not only will this cost you loyal customers, but prospects won't be able to trust the validity of your ratings. So, here are 5 ways to NOT solicit reviews for your product.
Bribes/Gifts
You should never stoop to monetary incentives. The key is to ask customers for legit time tracking software reviews, even if that means some constructive feedback. Plus, there are plenty of other ways to encourage them to leave ratings and reviews, such as offering exclusive content or hosting VIP events for customers who share their experience using your tool. That said, these rewards shouldn’t have any strings attached. For instance, they only get an invite if they leave a positive review.
Demands
Nobody wants to be forced into leaving a review. For instance, you demand that all your social media followers check out the directory listing and post a rating. In fact, asking customers for a review should be subtle. Let them know that you want to know more about their experiences and value their input. Then include a link and a brief explanation for how to leave a review.
Sneaky Webinars
Software owners are excited about your live event, which promises to improve tool functionality and deliver maximum ROI. Maybe you’re promoting a webinar to help them customize the app or to maximize the reporting feature. Then, they suddenly realize five minutes in that it’s all about reviews. You mention the directory listing at least 20 times in the first half-hour and attendees feel duped. It’s perfectly acceptable to host marketing webinars; however, you need to be upfront about the agenda. The best approach is to include a brief invitation at the end so that they know where to find your review platform.
Competitor Bashing
You can’t build up your brand with deceitful marketing tactics, like spreading untruths about your competitors or inviting your valued customers to leave negative reviews on their page. Most software companies wouldn’t even think about bashing their competitors, however, it’s worth mentioning since it does have the power to tarnish your image and diminish sales.
Public Shaming
This comes in the form of mentioning people who haven’t left a review by name on social media or reaching out to them personally to ask why they haven’t shared their feedback. You can’t make customers post a review by publicly shaming them. In fact, that’s the fastest way to lose valuable business. On the other hand, you can add the element of competition to make things interesting. For instance, give points to customers who leave an honest review and participate in other marketing/training activities. These points can be used to move up the leaderboard or unlock certain perks, like eBooks or events that help them get even more value for money.
2. 7 Amazing Time Tracking Tool Directory Listing Perks
Some organizations assume that a time tracking software directory listing is a waste of time. How much exposure can you get from a free product page after all? In reality, adding your software to an exclusive directory can help you skyrocket sales and build a stronger online presence. It’s proof that free doesn’t always translate into marketing disappointment. The secret is choosing a reliable site with fraud prevention measures to keep biased time tracking software reviews at bay. Not to mention, piggyback off the credibility of the platform so that you can expand your market reach.
1. Enhance Your Brand Image
A reliable online directory vets every time tracking product that’s published on their site, meaning that they ask companies to set up an account first and then manually review listings before they go live. As such, your software is featured among other top-notch platforms. Not to mention, you gain credibility from the site itself, especially if they’ve been around for some time and are known in the industry. For instance, they also publish articles and buying guides to help customers make the best decision.
2. Build Social Proof
The best time tracking software has established social proof. They have a proven track record, which means that users are more likely to choose them over the competition, particularly if that competition doesn’t have as many favorable ratings and reviews. An online directory allows you to build a solid reputation for your time tracking software. Customers can share their experiences so that others know what’s in store. For instance, they rave about your amazing customer service and tool usability.
3. Reduce Marketing Costs
Marketing can be costly, given the steep online competition these days. You must invest in multiple different platforms to reach your niche audience. For example, PPC ads, social media, and video promos to spread the word about your time tracking tool. Fortunately, an exclusive software directory gives you the opportunity to tap into your target market without spending a tidy sum. You should also consider other marketing channels, such as PPC ads to maximize your exposure. However, the directory listing gives you a promotion springboard. As an example, you can refer customers to the directory to evaluate your selling points or pricing options.
4. Reach Qualified Buyers
People who visit the online directory are already interested in time tracking software. That’s why they’re taking the time to check out listings and vet vendors. As such, the directory allows you to reach qualified leads. In fact, they come to you. The built-in filters make it easy for them to compile a shortlist and choose the best tool for their organization. This is why it’s so crucial to perfect your listing and include all the features and support options.
5. Improve SEO
Your directory listing should feature SEO to improve your ranking and drive even more traffic to your landing page. The directory site, itself, already brings in buyers who are looking for specific keywords. However, including them in your list can be a game-changer. For example, your directory page shows up on the first page of the SERPs, which helps you expand your customer base. You can also link to your website and boost conversions. Just make sure to play by the rules and avoid keyword oversaturation or non-organic content.
6. Increase Customer Engagement
An exclusive time tracking software directory listing improves customer interactions in a variety of ways. Firstly, you can ask them to review the platform and share their user experience. They know that there’s a place where they can highlight all the pros and cons, which tells them that your brand isn’t afraid to be held accountable. Secondly, you can refer qualified leads to your listing page to learn more about your company and compare the top tools. That way, they know they’re getting the best value for money. Finally, you have the opportunity to leave a reply when someone posts a review. For instance, invite them to contact you privately to address certain performance issues, or thank customers who leave glowing time tracking software reviews to keep them loyal. Even posting a link to your directory page on social media can spark a discussion with your customer base.
7. Highlight Key Selling Points
Your website or product landing page probably already has the main selling points. However, a niche directory gives you the opportunity to centralize all your USPs and standout features. In fact, you simply click features from a checklist to add them to your company profile. You can also specify customer type, deployment options, platforms, browsers, and customer training in your directory listing. Then customers can weigh all the options side-by-side and pick the platform that meets all their needs. For this reason, it’s essential to evaluate your product beforehand and fine-tune your marketing approach. As an example, you’re focusing on these target markets and use cases.
3. Fraud Prevention Measures To Ensure Honest Reviews For Time Tracking Apps
How do you ensure honest reviews for time tracking software and enhance your online presence? The simple truth is that biased ratings can damage your online reputation, whether it’s competitors that pay to damage your business rep to make themselves look better or a site visitor who hasn’t even used your platform but wants to "bash" your brand because they’re having a bad day. Fraud prevention measures prevent all these disingenuous reviews from slipping through the cracks so that you can spend more time building up your image and less time worrying about sponsored reviews. Download our exclusive time tracking reviews guide for more insider tips.
1. Users Must Create An Account
Every software user who wants to leave a rating or review needs to create an account. It’s quick and easy, but it deters site visitors who aren’t sure of their opinions or haven’t even used the tool in the first place. For example, a customer runs into a minor issue with the platform that can be easily resolved, or it might simply be a matter of user error. Setting up an account gives them time to reflect on the situation instead of rushing into a review, especially if they may feel differently about the software tomorrow once they realize the mistake. Then there’s the issue of site visitors who have been sponsored or "trolls" that post reviews out of spite.
2. Directories Manually Review Submissions
Directories should check all reviews before they go live on the site. This helps prevent biased or over-the-top time tracking software reviews that may be sponsored, as well as those that contain exaggerated claims or expletives. Another reason why this is so crucial is that it ensures that all reviews have background details. If something feels off about the pros or cons that they mention, the site can ask for more clarification. For instance, it might be an issue with the organization’s team dynamic or implementation process versus tool usability. And vendors shouldn’t be faulted for things that are out of their control.
3. Customers Need To Provide Background Info
Users must mention the size of their organization, industry, and years of experience with the tool. Genuine reviewers are more likely to provide this information than those who have been sponsored. The best time tracking app shouldn’t be docked points simply because the competition has paid for false ratings. Background information is also crucial for buyers. It gives them the opportunity to focus on reviews that pertain to their use case. For example, the user has a similar staff size and they’re in the same niche.
4. Site Uses Clear Evaluation Criteria
We’ve all stumbled across sites that seem to pull their reviews or ratings out of nowhere. There’s no basis for the scores, which makes it difficult for organizations with specific buying requirements to compare tracking systems. The ELI exclusive directory covers everything from usability to customer service. All the scores are tallied at the top of the page (the performance overview) and reviewers have the opportunity to elaborate on their rating.
5. All Time Tracking Companies Are Verified
Not just anyone can create an account and launch an exclusive directory listing. In fact, the site should qualify companies that want to post. For example, verify that their website link is valid and that they’ve included all the essential information. Of course, every buyer should follow the rule of due diligence. If you’re interested in the platform, check out their landing page and ensure that they have all the necessary features and support options. This also gives you the opportunity to contact them directly for personalized quotes or to evaluate their customer training library.
6. Rewards For Reviews Should Be Unconditional
This one falls on the software vendors instead of the review platform. You need to be careful about your review marketing techniques. It’s perfectly acceptable to offer incentives to people who leave reviews. For instance, they can unlock exclusive content or get an invite to your next live webinar. You can even gamify it by offering points and badges for reviewers. The catch is that the rewards should not be contingent upon their ratings. You can’t disqualify them simply because they had constructive criticism or award extra points for customers who left a glowing review. People might start to think that you are buying reviews instead of earning them honestly.
Bonus Tip: Frequently Check Review Platforms
It’s a good idea to do regular damage control to make sure your online time tracking software reviews are genuine. Conduct a weekly search to look for any posts associated with your brand or software. If you find a recent review, does it seem authentic? If not, contact the site to request a manual verification. Of course, they probably won’t take down every review that’s negative simply because the software company asks them to. However, blatantly biased or sponsored reviews are a different story. Another option is to leave a response to ask if there’s anything you can do for the user. That way, you’re taking the initiative and showing that you care about the customer experience.
4. How To Handle Negative Software Reviews
They say that there’s no such thing as bad press. Well, tell that to companies who’ve received their first negative time tracking software reviews. Getting a less-than-favorable rating can be devastating for SMBs. You know that your tool is top-notch so how could a customer think otherwise, let alone publicly share what they liked least about your platform? The key is to shift your perspective. Negative reviews are really opportunities to improve your product and business practices. They give you the inside scoop on the software user experience so that you can grow your company and expand your market reach.
1. Stay Cool, Calm, And Collected
Nothing can be gained by snapping back at reviewers and telling them that they’re wrong. The truth is that their reviews should be honest opinions. So, there’s no right or wrong. It’s simply how they feel about your software and their personal experience. As such, you need to stay professional and maintain your composure. Try to avoid foul language, if possible, and be polite. That said, if you notice that the same person is leaving you reviews on multiple platforms and they have extremely harsh opinions, follow up is in order. For example, you might contact the site if the customer’s name (or organization) isn’t in your database. Are they leaving a horrible review before they’ve even used your software?
2. Reflect Before Your Respond
Take a few moments to let the review sink in before you craft your response, whether it’s leaving a reply comment or reaching out to the reviewer directly. This gives you the chance to really think about their issues and if they’re valid, as well as come up with a resolution. This waiting period is also crucial because you can meet with your team to get their input. For example, your staffers may have some ideas on how to improve customer service or enhance the support options.
3. Consider The Source
There are two aspects to consider here. The first is that you need to consider where the review is posted. Then, determine who is reviewing or rating your software. As an example, it’s not featured in a time recording apps directory but a generic social media page. This is why it’s so crucial to create a time tracking software listing as you have a place to display all your time tracking software reviews and there are already fraud prevention measures. In fact, you can evaluate the user's industry, company size, and other crucial details to ensure it’s credible.
4. Offer Follow-Up Support
Some problems may be easy to address. Even if it’s a more complex issue, you should still give customers ongoing support. This acknowledges that you actually read their review and that you care about their experience. For instance, send them an email or respond to their review and invite them to visit your customer training library. In some cases, you might provide one-on-one support to help them remedy the situation. Many honest reviewers don’t leave negative ratings out of spite. It’s because they’re frustrated or disappointed by the platform. So, show them that you’re willing to go that extra mile to improve functionality.
5. Don’t Take It Personally
This has more to do with the emotional impact of negative reviews. It can be devastating to see that first piece of constructive criticism, especially if you’re an SMB owner or start-up company that is trying to build up your brand presence. The key is to not take it personally. Instead, try to see it from the user’s point of view. Why did they find it challenging to customize the platform or why did they dislike the UI? Is there a specific incident that forced them to give your CX only 2 stars?
6. Use Feedback To Improve
Reviews help you build brand credibility, but they also give you the opportunity to improve your strategy. Things that customers dislike about the platform are areas you should focus on first, particularly when you notice a pattern. For instance, there are 10 reviews and 6 of them mention the lack of brand integration or limited support services. These are areas for improvement you should concentrate on to bring in more business. Not to mention, keep current software owners happy. Another reason to take feedback into consideration is that it shows your level of customer care, instead of ignoring their input, you’re using it to make meaningful change.
7. Timing Is Everything
It doesn’t do much good to act on a review a year after it has been posted. Thus, timing is everything. You need to act quickly to improve service scores and create an improvement plan. Users took the time to leave a review or rating. It might have been negative, but it’s still valued feedback. They don’t expect an immediate phone call from your company to make amends. But, they might appreciate the ideas you have to fix the problem. For instance, they post a review on your social media page, let them know you’re aware of the issue and are going to address it in the software patch this month.
5. 6 Tips To Manage Your Reputation With Time Tracking System Ratings And Reviews
Buyers often rely on time tracking software ratings to choose the right tool. After all, most people won’t even go out to eat without checking the online reviews or asking for personal recommendations. So, it only stands to reason that social proof plays a crucial role in the vendor vetting process since there’s a larger investment involved, and they want to avoid stressful trial and error. The question is: How can you manage your reputation and build brand credibility with a time tracking software directory?
1. Only List With Reputable Sites
As the saying goes, you’re known by the company you keep. In the case of online marketing, you need to associate your brand with reputable sites, like an exclusive directory that specializes in time tracking software and has valid evaluation criteria. They should also have measures in place to prevent biased reviews and verify vendors. For instance, users need to set up an account to leave their ratings or post a listing (for software providers). Do your research to see how long the site has been active and if it’s well-known in the industry.
2. Welcome Authentic Reviews
Some organizations go to the lengths of paying for reviews just to boost their rating. However, buyers can usually see through these disingenuous time tracking software reviews because they stand out…for all the wrong reasons. You should make it your mission to encourage honest reviews from customers, even if that includes constructive feedback. Let them know that you want to hear their thoughts about the platform and its areas for improvement. Of course, you can also encourage them to reach out privately before posting a negative review, as it might be something you can quickly address one-on-one. For instance, they have a problem setting up the tool, but it’s only because they haven’t checked out your customer training library or used the support services.
3. Explain Evaluation Criteria
Some customers may want to leave a rating but aren’t sure how the process works or what they should include. You can help them create authentic time tracking software reviews by outlining all the evaluation criteria. For example, they need to provide a star rating for usability, usefulness, and customer experience. Don’t put words into their mouth. Instead, give them some prompts for inspiration. To illustrate, what did they like best about the UI? Do they feel like your customer service team is knowledgeable?
4. Promote Your Listing On Social Media
It’s true that the directory listing, on its own, can help you improve SEO. However, you should still drive more traffic to your page to maximize visibility. Not to mention, accumulate more authentic reviews from customers who already follow you on social media. These people are more likely to leave positive time tracking software reviews because they’re loyal to your brand or else they wouldn’t read your posts and follow/like your social media profiles. You can also launch a closed group for customers to share insider tips and training resources. Then pin the directory listing to the top of the page so it’s easy for them to leave a comment. On the other hand, you should also let them know that they need to set up an account to post a review. That way, there aren’t any surprises when they click through and try to rate your platform.
5. Act On Customer Feedback
Most software users don’t leave reviews out of spite. They aren’t trying to bash your brand or make you lose business. In fact, they typically do it for altruistic reasons. Maybe they want to warn other buyers so that they don’t make the same mistakes or to rave about their amazing experience to let others reap the same rewards. First and foremost, customers want to be heard. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by acting on their feedback. Take everything into consideration then improve your product or business strategy. For example, a reviewer mentions your lack of support services. You currently offer email support during business hours. But you might think about live chats or expanding your customer training library so they can resolve issues autonomously. It’s also wise to follow up with the customer and thank them for their input, if possible.
6. Do A Weekly Online Search
It’s a great idea to do a weekly search to look for new reviews and ratings, as well as mentions on social media. In fact, many software companies sign up for automatic alerts. Whenever someone posts about your brand online, you receive an email with the link. This allows you to run damage control as quickly possible and nip sponsored reviews in the bud. For instance, you notice that the same person leaves a scathing review on multiple platforms all in the same day. They aren’t in your customer database and their claims are completely false. So, you can contact the sites to ask for manual review and provide evidence.
6. 8 Steps To Becoming A Top Rated Time Tracking Software Via A Niche-Directory
A niche directory is one of the most rapid and cost-effective ways to become a top-rated time tracking software. You reach your target audience, build brand credibility, and give customers a feedback forum. But what are the steps involved? How do you create a listing and welcome users to leave their ratings and reviews to build social proof? Launching your new marketing strategy doesn’t have to be stressful, not when you have this detailed walk-through to help you make the most of time tracking software reviews.
1. Choose The Right Platform
Not all directories are created equal. In fact, some can have a negative impact on your reputation. Thus, it’s crucial to find the right marketing platform for your time tracking software. How long have they been in the industry? Do they have positive reviews, themselves? Are they frequently recommended in blogs or social media groups? There should also be fraud prevention measures to help you avoid unwarranted negative reviews.
2. Re-Evaluate Your Marketing Strategy
What, exactly, do you want to achieve with your marketing plan? What are your key objectives and goals? Which SEO techniques do you currently employ? It’s essential to take a closer look at your strategy to see how niche directory listings can help you expand your reach. Not to mention, fill existing gaps. For example, you need to work on tapping into a new customer base or building up your brand presence because you’re an HR software start-up company.
3. Scope Out The Competition
See what other time tracking software companies are doing, or any other software vendors, for that matter. Even project management or authoring tool companies can help you fine-tune your marketing strategy and get honest reviews. How do they ask for ratings and reviews from their customers? Which promotional outlets do they use? How often are they reaching out to their social media followers? This also gives you the chance to learn from their mistakes. For instance, one of their review accumulation strategies stirred up controversy instead of building brand reputation.
4. Create An Account
After you’ve done the homework, it’s time to create an account. Only the best time tracking app companies with a verifiable online presence make it into the directory. As such, every organization needs to provide some basic info to get a username and password. That way, you can log in to modify your listing at any point, as well as access other marketing solutions, such as PPC campaigns. The process only takes a few minutes, but it upholds the integrity of the niche directory.
5. Write A Compelling Product Overview
After you log in with your username, you’re ready to create a free listing. It starts with a detailed product overview, part of this involves checklists. For example, which customer types do you support and what support services do you offer? However, you should also include a brief blurb about your software and its real-world benefits. Don’t forget to include SEO keywords (naturally) to improve your search engine ranking. After the overview, you get to check all the features that apply to your software and highlight the pricing options.
6. Submit Your Listing For Review
After filling out all the information, submit your listing for manual review. This is another fraud prevention practice that ensures that only genuine software companies make the cut. You might also receive feedback on how to improve your listing. For example, should you include more keywords or clarify your customer training resources? Did you include a valid link to your landing page? Bear in mind that directory visitors can use built-in filters to simplify the search. As such, you should mention all of your features, support options, deployment types, etc., to show up in the results.
7. Encourage Online Reviews
It won’t take long to get your listing approved if you included all the necessary details. Then you can start encouraging customers to leave reviews. In fact, you may want to get a head start. For example, let your VIP users know that you’ve created a listing and that you welcome their feedback. Walk them through the process of posting a review so that they know what to expect, such as how to create an account and which evaluation criteria they should focus on. When your listing goes live, send them the link. Just make sure you welcome ALL reviews, even if it’s constructive criticism.
8. Promote Your Directory Landing Page
The directory page can draw in traffic on its own because the ELI site already has a loyal following. However, you should also promote your directory page to boost exposure. Post the link on social media and invite users to check it out or mention it in your content marketing articles. Promoting your directory page shows that you encourage customer feedback. It also doesn’t hurt that you’re listed among other popular time tracking apps. So, it helps improve your brand reputation and industry standing.
Conclusion
Creating a directory list and giving customers a feedback platform is a great way to boost brand loyalty. But this eBook isn’t the only resource that can help you launch a successful directory listing and acquire more reviews. We have a variety of articles and tip sheets to improve your marketing strategy and reduce costs. Not to mention, an exclusive online directory that features all the top time tracking software vendors. There’s just one missing…yours!
Download our new eBook today to launch a successful directory listing and accumulate honest reviews. Time Tracking Software Reviews: How to Build Social Proof With Online Directory Listings covers all the basics and beyond, from fraud prevention tips to secrets that can help you handle negative reviews and still maintain your professionalism.
