In the digital age, online reviews have become a crucial aspect of the consumer’s decision-making process. Two main types of reviews exist: Verified and Unverified reviews. But what is the difference between these two, and why do platforms like Amazon insist on verified reviews, while others like Goodreads and Draft2Digital rely on unverified reviews?
Verified Reviews
A Verified review is one where the reviewer has actually purchased the product or service directly from the platform where the review is being posted. Amazon, for example, strongly advocates for this type of review. The reason behind this is fairly straightforward: it lends credibility to the review. Amazon can confirm that the reviewer has purchased the book and had an actual experience with the product they are reviewing, therefore making the feedback more reliable for potential buyers. They can also take photos of the book to the book cover and show its quality.
Unverified Reviews
On the other hand, Unverified reviews are those in which the reviewer’s purchase cannot be confirmed. It is possible that they bought the product elsewhere or received it as a gift. Websites like Goodreads and platforms from Draft2Digital, a self-publishing service, use unverified book reviews. The rationale here is that they want to foster an open community where everyone can share their thoughts and experiences with a broader scope, including those who might have obtained the ebook product or paperback through other channels.
In conclusion, both verified and unverified reviews have their own place in the online world. Verified reviews offer a layer of trust and authenticity, critical in e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Unverified reviews, while less confirmable, provide a more inclusive space for discussion, enabling platforms like Goodreads and Draft2Digital to cultivate a rich and diverse community of users. Both types offer valuable insights, shaping the way consumers shop and businesses improve their offerings.
We have had some changes introduced on BookMuffin recently to prevent unverified review swaps on Amazon, where two authors review each other’s books by mistake and the reviews are then removed. We now suggest that authors choose Kindle Unlimited or a Verified Purchase for their reviews. If you enrol in Kindle Unlimited then this is an easy way to get reviews. If you choose Verified Purchase then please reduce the price of your book for a month to get reviews submitted.
If you are using Draft2Digital for your eBooks then just use the Standard unverified review option and remember to provide the link to the Apple, Kobo or other platform, where the reviews will be seen. You can also list the same book for a verified review on Amazon and link to the Amazon listing for your book.
I recommend that you add your books on BookMuffin using the GoodReads link for a “standard unverified review” and include the PDF. The Goodreads.com website will show the reviews and direct buyers to all the places where your book is available online (including Draft2Digital and Ingram Spark websites). This is a great way to increase your book orders.
In conclusion, both verified and unverified reviews have their own place in the online world. Verified reviews offer a layer of trust and authenticity, critical in e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Unverified reviews, while less confirmable, provide a more inclusive space for discussion, enabling platforms like Goodreads and Draft2Digital to cultivate a rich and diverse community of users. Both types offer valuable insights, shaping the way consumers shop and businesses improve their offerings.