By Vilkas.fi, Linnea Orimus, Marketing Manager (Vilkas Group)
E-commerce in Finland is growing rapidly, and competition for customers is fiercer than ever. Consumers have countless options, and purchase decisions are often made quickly. In this environment, product reviews are invaluable: they build trust, enhance credibility, and help customers make more informed purchasing decisions.
RateCompass is a Finnish product review service for online stores. It allows customers to review products quickly, easily, and reliably—using either thumbs or stars. Currently, RateCompass is available to Vilkas merchants and for online stores using the ePages platform in Europe.
Credibility and Trust Are the Cornerstones of a Good Online Store
Today’s consumers value authenticity. They want to ensure that the products they buy meet their expectations and stand the test of time. While high-quality images and comprehensive product information are important, nothing convinces a buyer better than hearing about other customers’ experiences.
Both positive and critical reviews increase the credibility of an online store. Studies show that up to 82% of consumers purposely look for negative reviews to get a realistic picture of a product. Therefore, there’s no need to fear criticism—on the contrary, transparency builds trust. At the same time, honest product reviews can reduce return rates, because buyers gain a clearer idea of whether a product truly meets their needs.
More Thoughtful Purchase Decisions and Fewer Returns
A wide product range is an advantage for online stores, but it can also lead to choice overload and uncertainty. Product reviews help consumers make purchase decisions by providing genuine insights into how a product performs in real life.
Positive reviews reassure customers about product quality, while more critical feedback helps them determine whether the product suits their individual needs. This not only improves the customer experience but also reduces unnecessary returns. When customers already know what type of use a product is most suitable for, there’s less need to “try before you buy.” This is both ecologically and financially more sustainable.
Most People Trust the Experiences of Others—and It Shows in Sales
Product reviews have a direct impact on sales in an online store. When a potential customer sees other people’s positive experiences, their likelihood of making a purchase decision increases significantly.
Reviews act as social proof, removing doubt and encouraging the customer to click “Add to Cart.” Verified reviews, such as those provided by RateCompass, increase product visibility and perceived value, further boosting sales.
Product Reviews Improve Search Engine Visibility
Customer reviews generate a continuous flow of fresh, relevant content on your online store’s pages, which improves your visibility in search engines. Google values user-generated content, and active reviews can help your online store rank higher in search results. When diverse feedback is available for products, it’s easier to attract new customers.
How to Collect Product Reviews
Because product reviews are so valuable, it’s worth gathering them in a planned manner. Here are a few effective methods:
Simplify the Process: Make it as easy as possible to leave a review. RateCompass offers direct links through which customers can provide feedback effortlessly.
Timing Is Key: Ask for a review soon after delivery, while the shopping experience is still fresh in the customer’s mind.
Offer Incentives Wisely: You can provide perks, like discounts or loyalty points, but ensure that reviews remain honest.
Use the Feedback: Thank customers for their reviews and use the insights to improve your online store.
Summary
Product reviews are vital to the success of an online store. They build trust, facilitate purchase decisions, increase sales, and improve search engine visibility—all while reducing returns, which saves costs and helps lower your store’s carbon footprint.
How does your online store make use of product reviews? If you want to streamline the process of collecting and managing reviews, check out what RateCompass has to offer! RateCompass is currently available for Vilkas online stores in Finland and for stores using the ePages platform in Europe.