How to Get Reviews on Amazon Without Violating Policies

Untold Tips to Get Reviews on Amazon Legally

Hey there, it's Vova Even and I'm excited to share with you some valuable tips on getting reviews on Amazon without getting stuck in the process.

During a recent conversation with Waseem Sikander from AMZ PPC Solutions, we received multiple questions from Facebook about how to get reviews on Amazon in a secure way.

So, let's dive in and explore some of the tips that Waseem and I discussed.

But before that, if you don’t know who I am, here’s a little bit about me.

Hope it motivates you and encourages you to achieve greater things in life.

From Lifeguard to an Amazon Seller: My Entrepreneurship Journey

My name is Vova Even, and I started my journey back in 2016 when I was working as a lifeguard at swimming pools and beaches.

During that time, I started developing my online business by trying out various things online, including starting a travel blog in early 2015.

It was during my backpacking travels through Asia (2014-2015) that I became inspired to do something more meaningful with my life.

After returning home, I started travel blogging, but it never really took off.

I also tried selling my photography online, but that only brought in two dollars in a year.

It was around this time that I stumbled upon drop shipping through Google, and shared the idea with my friend who is now my business partner.

We took a course from Sales Hub (a Ukrainian company that used to teach Amazon FBA selling) and launched our first product on Amazon FBA in early 2017.

Since then, we have been selling on Amazon US and Canada, and have sold over a million dollars worth of goods on these two markets.

While we may not be huge sellers, we are profiting around 20 percent.

I quit my job as a lifeguard in late 2017, after being in the business for a year. In our first year, we made $147,000 in sales, with around 17 percent margin.

This allowed me to believe in myself and move to Thailand, where I spent a few years developing the business further.

I also started my YouTube channel to share my experiences and inspire others.

Currently, in addition to running this blog, I also manage a Udemy channel and maintain a strong presence on Pinterest.

Talking with Waseem Sikander from AMZ PPC Solutions

During my conversation with Waseem, we received multiple questions from Facebook.

We answered them along the way and discussed various aspects of Amazon selling.

To watch the full webinar, look no further than down below. 😉

How to Get Safe and Legal Reviews for a New Product

This was the first question we received.

But before I delve into how you can get reviews, let's first understand why reviews are important.

Reviews are essential for building trust with potential customers, increasing sales, and improving your product's search ranking.

As a seller, you need to ensure that your products have high-quality reviews from real customers to help you stand out from your competitors.

However, it's essential to get reviews in a legal and ethical way to avoid getting penalized by Amazon or other online marketplaces.

In addition, fake or manipulated reviews can harm your brand's reputation and may even result in legal action.

One option for getting safe and legal reviews is to leverage the Amazon Vine program which allows Amazon's top reviewers to provide honest and unbiased reviews for new and pre-release products.

However, this program charges a fee, so what to do?

See, launching a new product can be a daunting task, especially if you're a new seller on Amazon.

It’s one of the biggest challenges for your product to get reviews in a safe and legal way.

There are a few strategies to do so.

For example, if you're looking to get reviews for your product without going against Amazon's terms of service, the most common way to start is through pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.

This approach involves running ads for your product on Amazon, and you only pay when someone clicks on your ad.

This method is white hat and doesn't involve any rebates or other questionable tactics.

Amazon has also made some changes to its terms of service, specifically regarding ranking techniques like “Search Find Buy” and “two-step URLs.”

While it's still not entirely clear, it seems that Amazon is cracking down on these tactics, which many sellers have used to improve their product ranking.

Let me just explain the idea behind the Search Find Buy technique.

It involves guiding people through a series of steps to find your product on Amazon.

The idea is to create an impression of your product and eventually get people to buy it.

The process typically involves searching for a keyword, clicking on your product, adding it to cart, and then making a purchase.

Besides this, some sellers used to offer rebates or gift cards to buyers in exchange for a review. 

However, this practice is now against Amazon's terms of service and could result in your account being suspended or even terminated.

So, it's crucial to avoid offering any form of compensation for reviews.

Basic Legal Ways to Get Reviews

In my opinion, the best way to do this is to run ads on Amazon itself.

Although this method may cost you money, it's a surefire way to get people to buy your product with zero reviews.

However, it's essential to ensure that your product stands out from the competition and that you've improved something that sets it apart.

If you've done your homework and improved the problems within your niche, then you have a good chance of getting sales even without reviews.

Another 100% white hat way to get reviews is through PPC sales.

By running a successful sales campaign, people will buy your product again and again, providing you with the opportunity to get reviews.

Next, if you're looking for other ways to get reviews that may be considered a bit more gray hat, then there are a few options.

One of these is the Amazon Vine program, where you can pay Amazon to get reviews.

However, be warned that Vine reviewers can be quite tough and may not always leave the glowing reviews you're hoping for.

Another way to get reviews is by using the "request review" button provided by Amazon.

You can manually click this button for each order, or you can automate the process using various tools.

There is a free tool by Helium 10 for sending review requests. You can also automate this process with the paid version of Helium 10.

Another crucial thing you can do to get reviews is to follow up with your customers.

You can automate this process by setting up an email sequence to remind them to leave a review.

However, be sure not to be too pushy, or you may risk getting negative reviews.

Now let's take a closer look at each of them, unpacking their potential to drive your eCommerce business forward.

PPC-Only Launches

Waseem pointed out that launching a product through PPC (pay-per-click) is a great way to gain more sales velocity, especially in the beginning when the product is not yet ranked on any keyword.

However, while this approach can generate sales velocity in the short term, it can also be costly.

So, it's crucial to remember not to do follow-ups excessively to avoid high costs.

PPC ads require a budget, and the more clicks you get, the more expensive the ads become.

Additionally, relying solely on PPC ads means you're not generating organic traffic to your product listing.

Waseem suggested that while PPC-only launches can be effective, it's essential to have a plan in place to generate organic traffic once the PPC ads are turned off.

Building an email list before launching your product can be an effective way to generate traffic and sales once the PPC ads are no longer running.

Building a Pre-Launch Email List

Building an email list before launching a product can help generate early interest in the product and create a loyal customer base.

Waseem recommended sending out offers, such as coupons or discounts, to your email list to encourage early sales.

It's also important to ensure that the product is of high quality to avoid negative reviews that could harm your brand's reputation.

Amazon's Vine Program

As we know, this paid program allows sellers to receive reviews from verified buyers.

It is only available to products that meet specific criteria, such as high-quality standards.

The reviews received through the Vine program cannot be removed and are valuable for building a strong product reputation.

During the webinar, Waseem shared his experience with using the Vine program, emphasizing the importance of having a high-quality product to be eligible.

He also highlighted that while the program can generate reviews, it's not a guaranteed way to get positive reviews, as the reviewers are free to share their honest opinions.

So that's what Waseem shared with us.

I found his insights to be quite interesting, and I took the liberty of adding a few points to the discussion that I think are worth exploring further.

Would you love to give them a read? Perfect!

Gathering a List Before Launch

Before launching your product, you can run some ads on Facebook, for example, for a product like a kitchen knife.

You can run ads on Facebook saying that you are launching this product, and in the future, you will give special offers to those who opt into your list.

To build your list, you can either create a landing page or use ManyChat to gather emails.

Once you gather a list of people who want your product, you can blast an email to them once you launch.

In the email, you can offer them a discount and include a link to purchase the product on Amazon.

Sending a Normal Link to Your Product

As mentioned earlier, Amazon has recently discouraged the use of two-step URLs and Search Find Buys because they are considered sketchy.

However, you can still get sales and reviews by sending people a normal link to your product.

You can use a Google URL canonical URL or a normal Amazon.com DP/your_asin link to send people to your product. You can also use Amazon attribution links.

This way, you can get initial sales and ask for reviews.

It is recommended to offer a discount or other incentives to encourage customers to leave a review.

Following Up for Reviews

Once customers receive your product, you can follow up with them to ask for a review.

It is important to note that Amazon does not control your email, so you can follow up via email.

However, it is not recommended to offer any shady incentives for reviews.

Instead, you can give customers a free product, and if they like it, they may be more inclined to leave a review.

Amazon Vine

Amazon Vine – as we touched earlier – is a program where Amazon invites trusted reviewers to post opinions about new and pre-release items.

While this program can help get reviews, I don’t recommend it for new sellers.

Negative reviews from Vine reviewers can be hard to remove, and the process of following up with buyers can be lengthy and hectic.

Psst… I have a tutorials playlist on YouTube that helps you with getting reviews on Amazon. Enjoy!

How to Improve the Chance of Getting Reviews

Once you start making sales, you need to focus on getting reviews from your customers.

But how do you increase the chances of getting a review from people who have already bought from you?

Emotions play a key role here.

During every touchpoint with your product, you should aim to make people feel certain emotions.

It could be excitement, satisfaction, or even joy, depending on the niche and the product.

Connecting with People to Evoke Emotions

So, how can you make people feel these emotions?

The answer lies in the design of the product, packaging, and even how you ask for reviews.

For instance, if you're selling kitchen knives, they should cut well, and if you're selling a grill brush, it should clean the grill well.

But what if we can go beyond the basic functionality and design a product that connects with people emotionally?

This could be through an aesthetically pleasing design, a unique packaging, or even a personalized note that shows our appreciation for their purchase.

Understanding CPR Method and Brand Analytics for Amazon Reviews

Another question we received was from Suleiman, who wanted to know if it's possible to ask for reviews from customers using data in server central and accessing them from other platforms.

Here’s what I had to say: CPR, or Cerebro Product Ranking, is a method used to determine how many sales a product needs to reach the top of page one for a specific keyword on Amazon.

This can vary depending on the keyword and can be calculated using tools like Helium 10 Cerebro.

However, there are also other interesting ways to understand how many sales you need, such as through brand analytics.

For those who are brand registered, Brand Analytics can provide data on search frequency and other factors to help determine how many sales are needed to achieve a certain rank.

Emphasizing the Importance of Reviews

Of course, no matter how many sales you generate, it's crucial to get reviews from satisfied customers.

As I explained earlier, one way to increase the likelihood of getting a review is to focus on emotions.

By creating a positive emotional connection with your product and packaging, you can make customers more likely to leave a review based on their positive experience.

As for how to actually ask for a review, I believe that there are many effective strategies, including using email follow-ups, offering incentives, and simply asking politely.

The key is to make sure the request is timely, relevant, and respectful.

Overall, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to generating sales and reviews on Amazon.

However, by using tools like CPR and Brand Analytics and focusing on emotional connections and effective communication, you can improve your chances of success.

Getting Customer Data from Amazon

Sulaiman also asked about whether we can ask for customer reviews and access their data in Seller Central.

Let me start by saying that getting customer data through Seller Central, such as addresses and personal information, is technically not allowed according to US regulations.

However, if a customer has purchased from you through the Amazon platform, you can request a review using the button provided by Amazon.

Just keep in mind that you won't have access to their personal information.

Stacking Reviews from Different Markets

Now, let's talk about a cool hack to get more reviews for your products.

Suppose you have a product that you're selling on Amazon US and Canada, and you want to get more reviews.

In that case, you can send some inventory to both markets and launch your product there.

The idea behind this is that reviews stack from different markets, and customers can see reviews from other countries.

For example, if you get more reviews on the Canadian market, those reviews will appear on the US listing as well, and vice versa.

This way, you can speed up the review process and get more feedback from customers.

Of course, launching your product on multiple markets will require a bit more investment from you, so it's important to consider your budget before doing this.

Additionally, it's worth noting that it may take some time for the reviews to appear on the listings, but it's still a great way to get more customer feedback.

Gray Hat Tactic of Friends and Family Reviews

Another thing that we discussed was the fact that Amazon doesn't allow you to incentivize reviews in any way, including giving gift cards, discounts, or anything else.

However, asking your friends and family to buy your product and leave a review is technically against Amazon's policies.

So, what's the best way to approach this strategy (which actually should be avoided)?

Asking Your Friends for Help

You can simply ask them if they would be willing to help you out, as you have just launched a new project and you are excited about it.

You could say, "Hey, can you please buy my product from Amazon?"

Technically, you're not giving them any gift cards or any other incentives for purchasing your product.

You're just asking for their support.

If you're excited about your new business venture, you can tell them that you've just launched your business and ask if they would support you by buying your product.

You can explain that you're not asking for anything in return, just their help and support. 

Explaining the Product

Once they agree to buy your product, you can send them a link to your product on Amazon or explain how they can find your product on the website.

Is It Manipulation?

One of the questions that came up from our Facebook community was whether or not this tactic could be considered manipulation.

If you're worried about Amazon interpreting this as "manipulation," you can explain that you're not forcing them to buy your product or leave a review.

Neither you're giving any money back to the person who purchased the product.

You're simply asking for their support, and there's nothing wrong with that.

Asking for a Review

After they purchase your product, you can follow up and ask them how they liked it. If they enjoyed the product, you can ask them to leave a review on Amazon (again, Amazon might consider it as manipulation, even with the basic approach).

There's no need to offer them any incentives, as that's against Amazon's policy.

If they're happy with the product, they'll likely leave a review without any prompting.

The Benefits of This Approach

While this approach might seem a little unconventional, there are several benefits to it.

For starters, getting more reviews can help improve your search rankings on Amazon, making your product more visible to potential customers.

It can also help build trust and credibility with potential customers, as they'll see that others have enjoyed your product.

Moreover, it can be a great way to get your business off the ground.

When you're just starting, getting those first few sales can be challenging.

By asking your friends and family to buy your product, you can get those initial sales and reviews that can help you build momentum.

Also, it’s worth mentioning that some people may argue that this is a gray hat tactic.

But remember that as long as you're not offering any kind of compensation for their purchase, it's fair game.

Why Asking Friends & Family for Reviews Directly isn't a Good Idea

Before moving on to another topic, we talked about the importance of not asking friends and family for reviews in a direct manner.

While it might be tempting to say "Hey, can you buy my product and leave a review?", this goes against Amazon's terms of service.

Instead, we suggest that you can still ask for reviews but reframe it in a different way, like "Hey, I launched this new product and I'm curious if you could help me out by buying it and giving me your honest opinion." And still, it's dangerous somewhat.

Merging Listings to Get Reviews

A viewer brought up the idea of merging listings, and I must say, it's an interesting tactic.

You can merge a listing that has accumulated some reviews with another listing where you have relaunched the same product.

This way, the reviews will transfer to the new listing, and you won't lose the reviews that you have earned.

However, if you try to merge different products, it won't work, and Amazon support can help you with the process if you know how to play with flat files.

Let me give you a little tip about Amazon support.

They can be pretty cool people, but sometimes they're not, and you'll need to fight for what's right.

For example, I had a product in Canada that was categorized correctly for a long time.

Then Amazon changed the category, and I lost rankings.

It took me one and a half months to get in touch with the right person to change it back.

So, keep fighting, and you'll get the solution.

National Group of Reviews

Another strategy that has proven effective for many eCommerce businesses is leveraging national groups to reach new customers.

National groups are online communities made up of people who share a common nationality or culture.

For instance, there are many groups of Pakistani people living in the United States, and these groups can be a goldmine for eCommerce sellers who want to reach Pakistani customers.

By joining these groups and engaging with their members, you can build relationships, gain trust, and ultimately expand your customer base.

The Benefits of National Groups

There are several benefits of leveraging national groups for your eCommerce business.

Firstly, it allows you to reach a highly targeted audience.

If you sell a product that is popular among Pakistani people, for example, joining a Pakistani group in the United States can give you access to a large audience that is likely to be interested in your product.

This means that you're not wasting time and resources marketing to people who are unlikely to buy from you.

Secondly, national groups give you the opportunity to build relationships and gain trust with potential customers.

By engaging with the group members, you can establish yourself as an expert in your field and someone who genuinely cares about the needs of the community.

This can lead to increased brand awareness, customer loyalty, and ultimately, higher sales.

Using National Groups to Get Reviews

One of the key benefits of national groups is the opportunity to get more reviews for your products.

Reviews are crucial for building trust and credibility with potential customers, and they can greatly influence purchasing decisions.

By leveraging national groups, you can encourage members to leave reviews for your products, which can boost your rankings and increase your sales.

To get started, you can create a post in the group introducing yourself and your product.

You can share a picture of your product and ask members if they're interested in purchasing it.

You can also offer a special promotion, such as a discount code or free shipping, to incentivize members to buy your product and leave a review.

By the way, speaking of Pakistanis, I have something interesting to share…

As an entrepreneur in the eCommerce industry, I've always believed that collaboration is key.

That's why I want to take a moment to give a shoutout to my Pakistani friends who have helped me along the way.

First up is Shefa Idrees. Shefa helped me translate one of my free courses on YouTube for Listing Optimization on Amazon with Helium 10.

Helium 10 Listing Optimization FREE FULL Course

This collaboration was purely about knowledge sharing and not sales. It's always a great feeling to work with someone who is just as passionate about helping others succeed as I am.

Another talented friend of mine from Pakistan is Nimra, who is a professional in Pinterest marketing.

She's been helping us with our Pinterest strategy for both Amazon and my personal brand.

It's amazing to see how talented and smart she is when it comes to Pinterest.

We've already started to see positive results from her contributions.

Navigating the “Honeymoon Period” on Amazon

Another question we received was about the "Honeymoon Period" on Amazon. Ali Hassan asked, "What is the honeymoon period on Amazon, and how can I take advantage of it?"

Well, it was somewhat irrelevant but here’s what I said:

What is the Honeymoon Period?

To put it simply, the Honeymoon Period is the early period of your product's life cycle on Amazon.

It's a time when your product doesn't have any sales history or customer reviews, and you get a clean sheet of data.

It's a crucial period for any new seller on Amazon, and if you play your cards right, you can use it to your advantage.

How to Make the Most Out of the Honeymoon Period?

During the Honeymoon Period, your product's sales history is clean, and you have the chance to write your own sales history.

Therefore, it's essential to hit on all the right parameters to get your product ranking higher.

First and foremost, make sure you have a great product, a good main picture, and hopefully some reviews over time.

You also need to have a good conversion rate and target relevant keywords in your listing.

In addition to this, you should be able to get relevant clicks from your PPC ads, which should hopefully result in conversions and sales.

If you're not confident with PPC, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you out.

Building a Good Sales History

During the Honeymoon Period, you need to focus on building a good sales history.

With the right approach, your BSR can start from a high number and gradually decrease over time, which is a good sign.

For example, if you're selling in the Home and Kitchen category, your BSR might start at around 200,000 and then decrease over time until you're in a better position.

However, if you have a bad product launch and your sales are inconsistent, you might find it challenging to rank your product higher.

Therefore, it's essential to take advantage of the Honeymoon Period, write a good sales history, and build a solid foundation for your product.

Overall, the Honeymoon Period is an essential period for any new seller on Amazon.

It's a time when you get a clean sheet of data and the chance to write your own sales history.

With the right approach, you can use this period to your advantage, build a good sales history, and rank your product higher on Amazon.

Remember, it's all about having a great product, a good main picture, relevant keywords, and a good conversion rate.

So, if you're launching a new product on Amazon, make sure you make the most out of the Honeymoon Period.

Emotions for Getting Reviews

Let's talk more about emotions and how they play a crucial role in getting more reviews.

When a customer is happy with a product, they are more likely to leave a positive review.

So, how do we evoke emotions in our customers?

One effective way is to surprise and delight them.

If you over-deliver on your product, you can exceed their expectations and make them feel good.

Another way is to use clever marketing techniques that evoke certain emotions.

For example, you can use clever copywriting to create a sense of urgency or exclusivity that makes the customer feel like they are getting something special.

Good Packaging and Branding for Getting More Reviews

Packaging and branding are also essential when it comes to getting more reviews.

Good packaging can make your product stand out and create a positive first impression. Talk to Eco Brothers if you need great packaging.

If your packaging is high quality and feels nice to the touch, it can make the customer feel like they are getting a premium product.

In addition to the physical packaging, you can also include clever messaging on the box or insert cards to evoke positive emotions in the customer.

For example, if you sell barbecue products, you can include a message on the box wishing the customer great barbecues and a happy life.

These little touches can make a big difference in the overall customer experience and increase the likelihood of them leaving a positive review.

Insert Cards and How They Can Help You Get More Reviews

Another way to get more reviews is by using insert cards.

An insert card is a small card that is included in the product packaging. It can contain instructions, promotions, or other information that the customer might find useful.

To make the most out of your insert cards, you can use them to collect customer data and encourage them to leave a review.

For example, you can include a QR code that directs them to your product review page or offer a discount code in exchange for a review.

However, it's important to note that Amazon has strict guidelines on what can and cannot be included on an insert card.

So make sure you read and understand their terms of service before using this strategy.

Additionally, you can also use the insert card to communicate with the customer and create a positive brand experience.

Including a personalized message or a quote that aligns with your brand values can leave a lasting impression on the customer and make them more likely to leave a positive review.

However, it's important to strike a balance with your insert card strategy.

You don't want to overwhelm the customer with too much information or requests for reviews, as this can come across as pushy or spammy.

Make sure your insert card is clear, concise, and provides value to the customer.

How to Create a Pre-Launch List and Encourage Reviews

Another interesting topic we discussed was creating a pre-launch list.

As an Amazon seller, you want to create excitement and buzz around your product before you launch it.

One way to do this is by creating a pre-launch list of potential customers who are interested in your product.

We suggest that you can take this one step further by inviting these potential customers to become part of a development group.

This group would consist of testers who are interested in being a part of something special, with the power to change the product and the process.

This is a great way to engage your potential customers and make them feel like they're part of the development process.

You can encourage reviews to build trust and credibility with potential customers.

However, it's important to follow Amazon's guidelines when it comes to reviews.

Sellers commit mistakes unknowingly and then regret.

As during this chat, a person asked from Facebook if they could offer a discount or a free product in exchange for a review.

This is against Amazon's terms of service and it's not recommended.

You should better focus on providing value to your customers and making sure they have a great experience with your product.

Make Your Brand Memorable

Every interaction you have with your customers should be memorable and provide value.

This includes your Facebook ads, your packaging, your listing pictures, and your customer service messages.

It's highly important to make your customers feel like they're part of something with a good cause.

When people feel like they're part of a group or a movement, they're more likely to remember your brand and recommend it to others.

Insert Cards as a Hidden Gem (Cont.)

We already know about insert cards.

These cards can serve various purposes, from providing instructions on how to use the product to offering exclusive deals and promotions.

Getting Reviews and Customer Data from Insert Cards

One of the main concerns regarding insert cards is how to get reviews and customer data from them.

Some people might say that it is not allowed to collect customer data from insert cards and there is no clear answer to this issue.

Still, I suggest that one way to get reviews is by offering a warranty for the product.

By naming the warranty creatively, it becomes more memorable and interesting for the customer.

Adding Gifts in Insert Cards

Another strategy that eCommerce sellers can use is to add a gift in their insert cards.

The gift can be anything that is relevant to the product, and it should be something valuable to the customer.

By doing so, customers will feel that they are getting more than what they paid for, leading to a higher chance of positive reviews.

Using Reciprocity to Get Reviews

One psychological concept that sellers can use to increase the chances of getting reviews is reciprocity.

When you over-deliver something to the customer, they will feel the need to reciprocate the favor.

For example, if you include a free gift in the product, the customer will feel obligated to leave a positive review as a way of showing their appreciation.

Psychology of Influence: The Power of Scarcity and Unexpected Gifts

One of the most influential books on the psychology of influence is "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert Cialdini.

In this book, Cialdini talks about various triggers that influence human behavior, such as scarcity, reciprocity, and social proof.

People are more likely to act when they feel like something is in limited supply.

Amazon already uses this technique with their "Order within the next X hours to receive by tomorrow" messages.

As sellers, we can use a similar approach by creating a sense of urgency around reviews.

For example, we can include a message on our insert cards that says, "Get your free warranty now!

Scan here to redeem, valid for only 7 days after purchase."

By leveraging these triggers, we can influence your customers to take certain actions that will benefit your eCommerce business.

Another way to incentivize customers to leave reviews is by offering them unexpected gifts.

Let me share a story to illustrate the power of influence.

When I was in Pushkar, India, a local baba put a bracelet on my arm and then asked for a donation.

Although I didn't want to donate, I felt compelled to do so because I had accepted the bracelet as a gift.

This is an example of the reciprocity trigger in action.

Now, let's apply this trigger to eCommerce.

You can offer a small gift, such as a free warranty or a free gift, to your customers.

By doing so, you trigger the reciprocity trigger, and your customers will feel more inclined to take the desired action, such as leaving a review or making a repeat purchase.

This approach can be particularly effective when combined with other psychological triggers, such as social proof, where you can highlight the number of customers who have already taken advantage of the offer.

To implement this strategy, you can include a QR code or link to a landing page or chatbot where customers can claim their free gift or warranty.

You can also use email marketing or social media to promote the offer and encourage customers to leave reviews or make repeat purchases.

How to Check if a Product has a Patent

At this time, we received a question from one of our Facebook viewers regarding how to check if a product has a patent.

I answered this question and shared some insights on the matter. 

Firstly, it's important to understand that patents are granted to inventors to protect their inventions from being copied or used without their permission.

Patents can be granted for a wide range of inventions including products, designs, and processes.

So, if you are looking to launch a product or use a particular design, it's crucial to ensure that it does not infringe on any existing patents.

Where to Look for Patents

One way to check if a product has a patent is to conduct a search on the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website.

You can search for patents based on the brand name or the product name.

You can also search for designs that are similar to the product you are planning to launch.

However, it's important to note that searching for patents can be a complex process.

There might be similar designs or products that are patented, and you might not be aware of these patents.

Therefore, it's advisable to seek the help of a patent professional who can guide you through the process.

Why Do You Need a Patent Professional

A patent professional can help you in various ways.

They can conduct a thorough search and help you identify any existing patents that might affect your product launch.

They can also provide you with expert advice on how to avoid infringing on any existing patents.

Moreover, a patent professional can help you obtain a patent for your own invention.

They can help you prepare and file a patent application and guide you through the process of obtaining a patent.

Always remember that it's better to be safe than sorry, and seeking professional advice can save you from legal complications in the future.

Insert Cards as an Innovative Way to Drive Sales and Customer Loyalty (Cont.)

At this time, I shared more insights and ideas about how to leverage insert cards to improve your Amazon business.

Offering a Free Warranty or Product

One way to use insert cards is to offer a free warranty or product.

When customers scan the code on the insert card, they will be directed to a landing page where they can leave their email and/or name to claim their free item.

Once they do that, you can follow up with them using an automated email campaign.

For instance, you can send them an email with the subject line "Hey John, here's your warranty.

Please read." In the email, you can thank them for their purchase and provide details about the free warranty or product.

This will not only make them feel valued, but also increase the chances of them leaving a positive review.

Joining a Group for a Cause

Another way to use insert cards is to promote a cause and invite your customers to join a group that aligns with their values.

This not only strengthens the relationship between the business and the customers but also fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals.

For instance, you can invite them to join a group of people who are committed to stopping climate change or animal slaughter.

By joining the group, they will get access to benefits such as discounts and exclusive content.

When designing an insert card for this purpose, it's important to clearly communicate the cause and the benefits of joining the group.

For example, if the cause is climate change, the insert card could highlight the negative effects of global warming and the importance of taking action to reduce our carbon footprint.

The benefits of joining the group could include access to exclusive content such as tips for sustainable living, discounts on eco-friendly products, and invitations to local environmental events.

To encourage customers to join the group, the insert card could direct them to a landing page where they can leave their email and/or name to sign up.

The landing page should be visually appealing and user-friendly, with a clear call-to-action button that prompts customers to join the group.

After customers sign up, an automated email campaign can be set up to follow up with them and provide more information about the group.

This email should welcome them to the group and provide more details about its purpose and benefits.

It can also include links to relevant resources and encourage customers to engage with the group by sharing their own ideas and experiences.

Overall, using insert cards to invite customers to join a group related to a cause can be an effective way to build customer loyalty and promote positive change.

By highlighting the benefits of joining the group and providing valuable resources and information, businesses can inspire their customers to take action and make a difference in the world.

Asking for a Review

Asking for a review is a common practice on Amazon, but you can also do it through insert cards.

However, it's essential to be careful about how you ask for a review. You don't want to come across as pushy or spammy.

One way to ask for a review is to do it after the customer has used the product.

For instance, you can send them an email after three days or a week, asking for their feedback on the product.

To increase the chances of them leaving a review, you can offer them something of value such as an ebook or a guide related to the product.

You can also ask for a review when offering a free warranty or product.

However, it's crucial to ensure that the customer has used the product before asking for a review.

Otherwise, they may feel that you're pressuring them to leave a review without having used the product.

Using Virtual Assistants to Streamline the Process

Finally, you can use virtual assistants to streamline the process of offering free warranties or products and asking for reviews.

A virtual assistant can check the order ID to ensure that the customer is legitimate before sending them the email or the free item.

Additionally, a virtual assistant can help you manage the automated email campaign, ensuring that the right message is sent to the right customer at the right time.

Insert cards can really help you boost sales and build customer loyalty.

By offering free warranties or products, inviting customers to join a group for a cause, and asking for a review, you can create a better customer experience and increase the chances of getting positive feedback.

Just make sure to use virtual assistants to streamline the process and avoid coming across as pushy or spammy.

How to Handle and Remove Negative Reviews

Here, we had a question from Sarah, who wanted to know how to handle a bad review.

Well, let me tell you that handling negative reviews is an essential part of managing your Amazon business.

So, let's dive into it!

Amazon's White Hat Way

Amazon has recently introduced a feature for brand-registered sellers to contact buyers who have left negative reviews.

This can be done by going to the "negative reviews" section and using a template that Amazon provides to reach out to the customer.

From my experience, this approach can work sometimes, but not always.

If the customer has opted out of communication, then you won't be able to contact them unless you use black hat tactics, which is not a good way to handle things.

Refund or Ask Them What's Wrong

The two options that Amazon provides to sellers are to offer a full refund or ask the customer what went wrong.

If you offer a refund, then Amazon will automatically refund the customer, but you won't be able to talk to them.

The other option is to ask the customer what went wrong and how you can make it right.

This is where you can start the technique of getting the review removed.

If the customer responds to your message, then you have a chance to serve them and fix the problem.

How to Remove Negative Reviews?

So, how do you remove negative reviews on Amazon?

Well, there are a few steps to follow, and I’ve put them all below.

Talk to Them Personally

When you receive a negative review, the first thing you should do is reach out to the customer personally.

Let them know that you are sorry that they had a bad experience with your product.

For example, if they left a negative review for a kitchen knife and said that the handle broke after two months of use, you could message them back on Amazon and say something like:

"Thank you for letting us know about the issue with your kitchen knife. We're sorry that it broke after only two months of use. We would like to offer you a replacement or a refund. Please let us know how we can make it right for you."

By doing this, you're acknowledging the customer's problem and showing them that you care about their satisfaction.

If the customer accepts your offer, then you can follow up with them and ask if they would be willing to remove the negative review.

You may also start by introducing yourself and thanking them for taking the time to reach out.

Restate their complaint in your own words to show that you understand their issue.

Then, offer a solution that addresses their problem.

Be Casual and Personable

One of the biggest mistakes businesses make when responding to negative reviews is being too formal or robotic.

You want to show that there are real people behind your business who care about their customers.

Try to inject some personality and humor, if appropriate.

It can help to build a connection with the customer and make them more willing to work with you to resolve the issue.

Offer a Solution

In your response to the negative review, offer a solution that addresses their problem.

Ask them if they would prefer a refund or a replacement, and if they choose a replacement, ask for their address to send it to them.

By offering a solution, you show that you're taking their complaint seriously and that you're willing to go above and beyond to make things right.

It can also help to prevent the customer from leaving a negative review in the future.

Follow Up

Finally, it's essential to follow up with the customer after you've offered a solution.

Sometimes, customers may not respond, or they may forget to send you their address.

In these cases, a gentle reminder can go a long way.

Follow up with the customer after a few days to see if they've received their replacement or refund.

It shows that you care about their satisfaction and are committed to making things right.

At this time, Amazon will provide you with the customer's address, allowing you to reach out to them and see if there's anything you can do to rectify the situation.

Sending a Replacement Product

One way to potentially salvage the situation is to offer to send the customer a replacement product.

Ideally, you should have the same product in stock so that you can send it out immediately.

If not, you can come up with an alternative solution, such as offering a different product or a partial refund.

Fast Shipping and Apologizing

When sending a replacement product, it's important to prioritize fast shipping and to apologize for the inconvenience caused.

You can send a message to the customer through Amazon's Seller Central, letting them know that the product is on its way and that you're sorry for the mistake.

It may cost more to ship the product quickly, but it's worth it to ensure customer satisfaction.

Encouraging Review Updates

After the customer receives the replacement product, you can encourage them to update their review.

BUT, please be very careful with this, Amazon might flag you for the language and block you, so be very careful.

While you can't directly ask for a review change, you can use different patterns of language to suggest it.

For example, you could say, "We would really appreciate it if you could check your feedback."

You can also provide a link to the review page and ask the customer to share their thoughts there. Again, I'd suggest being extra cateful here.

Checking in on the Customer

Be sure to check in with the customer a few days after they've received the replacement product to ensure that everything is working as expected.

This shows that you care about their satisfaction and are committed to providing a positive customer experience.

The Magic of Review Updates

Encouraging review updates can lead to magic.

I've seen one or two-star reviews turn into five-star reviews with updated comments praising the seller for their excellent customer service.

This not only improves your overall rating, but it can also bring your product to the top of the search results.

Where to Form Your LLC – Explore State Options

Here, we received a question about where a business should form its LLC and I had a few insights to share.

Sam Mollaei can help you with LLC creation.

First things first, let's clarify what an LLC is. LLC stands for Limited Liability Company, and it's a type of business structure that combines the liability protection of a corporation with the tax benefits of a partnership.

Essentially, forming an LLC can help protect your personal assets if your business were to face legal issues or debt.

Now, onto the question of which state to form your LLC in.

There are several factors to consider when making this decision, including the state's laws and regulations, tax structure, and business climate.

Let's take a closer look at some potential options.

Texas: Business-Friendly and No State Income Tax

Texas is a popular choice for many entrepreneurs looking to form an LLC because of its business-friendly climate.

The state offers a low cost of living and no state income tax, which can be a significant advantage for businesses looking to keep expenses down.

Additionally, Texas has a streamlined process for forming an LLC, making it a relatively quick and easy process.

Florida: No State Income Tax and Pro-Business Laws

Another state to consider is Florida. Like Texas, Florida also has no state income tax, which can help businesses save money.

Additionally, Florida has pro-business laws that make it an attractive option for many entrepreneurs.

The state also has a large and diverse economy, with opportunities in industries like tourism, healthcare, and technology.

Wyoming: Strong Asset Protection Laws

Wyoming may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about forming an LLC, but it's actually a popular option for many business owners.

One of the state's most significant advantages is its strong asset protection laws, which can help shield your personal assets from business-related liabilities.

Additionally, Wyoming has a low tax burden and a business-friendly regulatory environment.

Consulting with an Accountant

As I mentioned earlier, forming an LLC is a significant decision that can have financial and legal implications for your business.

I highly recommend consulting with an accountant or legal professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

Another Way to Get More Reviews and QR Code Scans: The Hanger Method

At this time, we received a question regarding getting more reviews and QR code scans.

Well, there is a way called “The Hanger Method” that we've been doing for a while, and it's been working well for us.

The Hanger Method Explained

So, let's say you have a knife. Inside the box, you can include an insert card that promotes a free warranty or some other offer with a QR code.

But sometimes, people might miss this insert card, and that's where the hanger comes in.

A hanger is basically a little string with an attached piece of paper that hangs off the handle of the knife.

You can include your offer or message on this paper, along with a QR code for easy scanning.

Make it Eye-Catching

To make sure people notice the hanger, you'll want to make it eye-catching.

Use big, bold text in a special design, and include something that will make people smile or catch their attention.

Maybe you could use big red words that say "FREE" or something else that will grab their attention.

Make it Memorable

The hanger provides another touch point for your customers to engage with your brand.

Even if they don't act on your offer or scan the QR code, they'll remember the hanger and the message you included on it.

Track Your Success

You can track the success of this strategy by using a unique QR code on each hanger.

This will let you know how many people are scanning the code and taking advantage of your offer.

Be Playful

Don't be afraid to get creative and have some fun with your hangers.

You can include a quote, your logo, or anything else that fits with your brand and makes you stand out.

Overall, the hanger method is a great way to get more reviews and QR code scans.

It's a simple and effective way to engage with your customers and make your brand more memorable.

Give it a try and see how it works for you!

How to Build Customer Loyalty and Keep Them Coming Back: A Cool Hack

At this time, we discussed a cool hack that businesses can use to reward their customers and encourage repeat business.

The Idea of Collecting Points

During our conversation, I suggested that businesses can create a system of collecting points that customers can redeem for samples or products in the future.

By filing their order ID on the business's website, customers can earn points and exchange them for rewards.

This approach also allows the business to gather information about their customers and offer them targeted products in the future.

The Loyalty Program in Action

To illustrate this concept, I shared a story about a hamburger place in Phuket that I used to frequent.

The owner gave me a card that had ten points on it, and every time I visited, he would stamp the card.

When I visited three times, I got free chips, and after visiting five times, I received a free hamburger.

This loyalty program kept me coming back to the restaurant and even brought in new customers through word of mouth.

Building Customer Loyalty

This approach can work for any brand, and it's not just limited to the food industry.

The key is to create a loyalty program that rewards customers for their repeat business, making them feel appreciated and valued.

This can lead to a loyal customer base that not only continues to purchase from your business but also recommends it to others.

How to Source Products from within the USA

First and foremost, it is essential to understand that sourcing products from within the USA is a great option if you want to reduce lead times and improve product quality.

However, it can also be more expensive than sourcing products from overseas.

Finding Suppliers in the Local Market

One question that was asked at this time was how to source products from the local market when you do not have much experience.

From my experience, emailing people to source locally can be ineffective as you may get ignored.

However, there are ways to find local suppliers.

For example, you can try Googling the product name and asking the manufacturer.

You can also check out ThomasNet, a platform for sourcing products and services in the USA.

However, it is important to note that the local market may have limited stock and may not be ideal for sourcing products for your own brand business.

Therefore, sourcing from China may be a more viable option, especially if you want to sell your own brand products.

Product Development and Planning

Another important point to consider when sourcing products is product development and planning.

It is essential to have a proper plan in place when sourcing products, which includes identifying the product you want to source, understanding the target market, and developing a marketing strategy.

Product development is equally important, as it ensures that the product you are sourcing meets your specific requirements and standards.

Therefore, it is important to work closely with your suppliers to develop the product and ensure that it meets your quality standards.

The Benefits of Sourcing from China

While sourcing products from within the USA can be a great option, I have found that sourcing from China has its benefits. Sourcing from China can be more cost-effective, and suppliers in China can often provide a wider range of products.

Additionally, suppliers in China have a higher level of experience when it comes to manufacturing, which can result in better quality products.

However, it is important to note that sourcing from China can come with its own set of challenges, such as communication barriers and longer lead times.

Therefore, it is essential to work with a reliable and experienced supplier in China to ensure that the sourcing process goes smoothly.

In conclusion, sourcing products from within the USA can be a great option, but it may not always be the best option for your business.

It is important to consider factors such as cost, quality, and lead times when sourcing products.

Additionally, it is essential to have a proper plan in place and work closely with your suppliers to ensure that the products meet your specific requirements and standards.

The Wrap Up…

Sooooo, here comes this behemoth post to an end.

If you liked it, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel, check my popular Udemy courses, and connect with me on LinkedIn.

Have a great day and a wonderful life. Until next time,

Yours,

Vova :)