November is “Thank a Business” Month. Here’s Why Your Reviews Matter

As November unfolds, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) invites consumers across East Texas and beyond to show appreciation for local businesses marking their place in the community. BBB urges East Texans to submit reviews, refer trusted companies to friends and family, engage with businesses on social media, make purchases at local establishments, and take part in special promotions or events.

Industry data shows that the timing couldn’t be better. According to a Bright Local Consumer Review Survey, online reviews have tremendous power: 82 % of consumers in a recent survey said they check reviews for local businesses, and positive feedback can boost visibility in local search rankings.

So why does it matter so much? When customers take the time to share their experiences, it builds what is known as social proof, a powerful motivator for new customers to engage. Research suggests that the presence of genuine reviews dramatically increases trust and can influence buying decisions.

“A simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way,” said Mechele Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. “Your review or shout-out could be the encouragement a business owner needs to keep going, and it reminds all of us that trust still matters in today’s marketplace.”

Here’s how you can show businesses some love this “Thank a Business” month:

Share Your Story by Leaving a Review. Whether online or in-store, praising a business you trust reinforces its credibility. A review on BBB.org not only affirms a positive experience but signals to other consumers and the business that you value integrity in commerce.

Refer and Engage. Word of mouth remains one of the strongest drivers of small-business growth. When you refer a friend to a business you trust or tag a business in a social post, you’re contributing to a network of trust which fuels local commerce. Reviews and referrals matter for SEO and customer acquisition strategies.

Shop With Purpose. Supporting local businesses isn’t just about spending, it’s about community building. During “Thank a Business” Month, consider making purchases or leaving a tip where service stands out. These actions help build momentum for businesses.

For BBB, the message is clear: consumer voices matter. Your review could help a small business stand out amid an increasingly crowded digital marketplace. With an estimated 4 million reviews submitted to BBB, your contribution counts.

As the holiday season approaches, a simple act of appreciation now could pay forward throughout the year. Supporting trustworthy practices not only benefits individual companies but strengthens the fabric of local commerce and trust.

If you’re ready to make an impact, visit BBB.org/Reviews, and be part of a movement that recognizes businesses committed to doing business right.

Remember, great businesses are out there. Always look for the BBB seal; it’s the Sign of a Better BusinessSM . Start with companies you can trust by going to bbb.org.

About BBB: BBB is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Most BBB services to consumers are free of charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. Visit bbb.org for more information. BBB Serving Central East Texas was founded in 1985 and serves 19 counties.