According to Search Engine Land, Facebook has quietly launched a new feature that could shake up the way you view ratings and reviews. Facebook has adding “Facebook Professional Services” to its repertoire. This particular service seems aimed at giving local search companies like Yelp and Google a run for their money.
More “Likes” gets you more views
The new feature is available only from your desktop and will give you listings of local businesses and services, complete with user reviews. Here’s what makes it unique, in my opinion, the search results are displayed according to Facebook’s knowledge of individual preferences. For example, if a user has previously interacted with a business’s Page, like a Realtor’s page, or perhaps they are connected to someone who “likes” that Realtor’s Page, they are going to be more likely to see that particular Realtor at the top of the recommended services list when they search for a Realtor.
Functions like Google Maps
The system does take Facebook’s five-star rating system into account, but it seems to still rely heavily on its deeper knowledge of users’ preferences.
Once a user searches for a business, or business type, they will be shown the businesses’ contact information, hours, and snippets of reviews with links to see any additional reviews. Users will also see a map of your location, along with any other similar businesses in the area. To me, this already seems to function a bit like Google Maps.
Another way to sell
It is still unclear if Facebook’s Professional Services will be integrated with any of their other offerings (like Places), but it seems likely that Facebook could take this direction. If they do, you’ll want to make sure your information is up to date, your keywords are accurate, and all of your services are listed in the appropriate areas.
This is another platform you will want to check regularly to see how you are performing, as you will definitely benefit from being at the top of the “results” list, at least in my opinion.
After all, we’re living in the age of instant gratification; how many Facebook users are really going to want to scroll through one than one page to find a Realtor?
Take advantage!
Even if you do not currently have a large Facebook following, you will still want to check in on your listing and see if you have any reviews. This will help ensure that only the most accurate ratings and reviews are getting out to your customers. You do not want to risk making a negative impact on a customer before you’ve even had the opportunity to interact with them.
Go check out Facebook’s Professional Services and see what people are saying about your business.
#FacebookRatings
