Google is a symbol of trust and transparency. When it comes to online shopping, Google ensures that you’re getting the right product. Today, we are going to talk about one of Google’s major services.
Google Trusted Stores which is now known as Google Customer Review, you must be familiar with this program. It was specifically designed by Google to help retailers build trust with customers online.
Here Google works as a badge and reflects that the service or product you’re choosing is high-quality. It will also eventually allow these businesses to stand out and attract more shoppers.
In 2017 Google discontinued the program and rebranded it as Google Customer Review.
According to Google, “We’ve made this change to help us better focus our support on getting you quality reviews and seller ratings, the two major keys to driving more traffic to your site.”
In this blog, we are going to take you through every single detail you need to know about Google Trusted Store, what are its benefits and how to achieve and maintain the badge status. So, without waiting any further let us get right into it.
What is Google Trusted Stores?
Google Trusted store which is now known as Google Customer is a symbol that signifies that a store on the internet is trusted and reliable for you to shop from. It’s a certification from Google for businesses that consistently provide good service to customers. If you have a client who wants to get this, there are certain requirements to get the badge of Google Trusted Stores hold tight as we’re going to discuss further in our blog.
The badge is used to signify trust and transparency about a website and the total rating displayed. Social proof gives a vote of confidence to customers which eventually enhances the trust and customers are more likely to buy from the website.
Google Trusted Stores or Google Customer Review?
If you’re still confused about whether it’s trusted Stores or customer reviews let us simplify it. After discontinuation of Google Trusted Stores in 2017 they rebranded it as Google Customer Reviews.
The goal behind rebranding was to swap the customer protection feature with direct customer feedback so people can leave feedback on their experience and it will give customers the clarity that they are in good hands.
As of 2024 Google does not offer customer purchase protection or give a badge in the search results but they have just allowed customer reviews left by customers on the store.
Google allows users to submit reviews on Google business listings but they are different from customer reviews.
The Google Customer Reviews are available for e-commerce stores only. Each review is verified by Google so customers can be assured that the testimonial left is accurate and can be trusted. Another important element you need to understand is Ratings and reviews are different.
What are the Key Features of Google Trusted Stores?
Google Trusted Stores is a program that helps online stores establish credibility and trust with customers. Here are its key features:
- Purchase Protection: Customers can opt-in for purchase protection of up to $1,000, providing an added layer of security.
- Seller Ratings: Merchants can collect customer reviews, which are then used to determine their seller rating on Google AdWords and Google Shopping.
- Trusted Store Badge: Qualified merchants can display the Trusted Store badge on their website, showcasing their commitment to excellent customer service and reliable shipping.
- Highlighting on Google AdWords: Google Trusted Stores can highlight their status using review extensions, improving click-through rates and attracting more customers.
- Requirements for Certification: To qualify, merchants must meet specific requirements, such as having a secure website (HTTPS), transparent shipping and return policies, and a responsive customer service team.
By becoming a Google Trusted Store, merchants can demonstrate their dedication to providing a seamless and secure shopping experience, ultimately boosting customer confidence and driving business growth.
How Google trusted stores are beneficial for Online Retailers
Google Trusted Stores is beneficial for online retailers in several ways:
1. Increased Customer Trust:
The Trusted Store badge on a retailer’s website signals to customers that the store meets Google’s standards for reliability and customer service.
Customers would trust your client’s store more and it’ll be easy for your client to get more customers from your online stores.
With the changing dimension of online stores, having social proof helps your client stand out from the crowd.
2. Enhanced Credibility:
Google’s endorsement boosts a retailer’s reputation, helping to establish credibility with potential customers.
The credibility the store gets eventually enhances its position in that particular field. With enhanced credibility, your client gets more customers.
3. Improved Conversion Rates:
The Trusted Store badge can increase conversions by alleviating concerns about online shopping.
One of the major issues many online sellers face is the ability to convert the leads. But with Google trusted store badges your clients get more conversions and not just visitors to the site.
People have this fear of buying commodities from spammy websites and that makes them hesitant to buy but with Google trusted stores badges you improve your conversion rates.
4. Better Seller Ratings:
Google collects customer reviews, providing valuable feedback and helping retailers identify areas for improvement.
The seller ratings are a crucial parameter people look at and with valuable feedback. A good rating can enhance the business.
5. Increased Visibility:
Trusted Stores are highlighted in Google AdWords and Google Shopping, increasing visibility and driving more traffic.
The trust badge not only gives credibility but also enhances the position on the SERPs. The website gets more visibility and more customers for the business with a little help from Google.
6. Purchase Protection:
Customers can opt-in for purchase protection, providing an added layer of security and reassurance. With purchase protection, you give more assurance to people that your client is a trusted and reliable online store.
How To Become A Google Trusted Store 2024
As of 2024, Google Trusted Stores has been replaced by Google Customer Reviews, a program that collects reviews from customers after they purchase and receives their orders.
To participate, you must meet specific requirements. First, verify the business with Google Merchant Center, ensuring authenticity and credibility.
Next, ensure the website is secure with HTTPS, protecting customer data. Provide clear shipping and return policies, and maintain responsive customer service to build trust.
- The setup process is straightforward.
- Sign in to Google Merchant Center
- navigate to “Growth” > “Customer Reviews,” and click “Get started.”
- Accept terms and provide essential information: business details, return and refund policies and contact information. Google will automatically collect reviews from customers.
Optimizing performance is crucial. Ensure accurate product information and pricing to avoid confusion. Maintain high customer satisfaction through timely shipping and responsive support.
Respond promptly to customer inquiries and monitor shipping times. Keep policies and procedures up-to-date to adapt to changing customer needs.
Participating in Google Customer Reviews offers numerous benefits. Increase customer trust with transparent reviews. Improve conversion rates by showcasing customer feedback.
Gain valuable insights from customer reviews to enhance your business. Enhance seller ratings and display the Google Customer Reviews badge on your website, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Google Customer Reviews provides key metrics: average rating (1-5 stars), review count, and response rate. Monitor these metrics to refine your strategy.
For support, utilize:
- Google Merchant Center Help Center for setup and technical issues
- Google Customer Reviews Support for review-related inquiries
- Google Shopping Community Forum for best practices and community insights
- Ensure compliance with Google’s policies to avoid penalties
- Regularly monitor performance metrics to identify areas for improvement
- Address customer concerns promptly to maintain high satisfaction
By participating in Google Customer Reviews, you demonstrate commitment to customer satisfaction, and building trust with potential customers.
Conclusion
By reading this now you would have got an idea about Google trusted stores and how your client can be one. If you are an agency that is finding it difficult to gain better trust for your clients, we are here to help you out. Feel free to call us.
