I believe that reviews are like the blogs we create for class. Though we post our opinions about a particular subject, the information we present has to be backed up. On Yahoo Local the reviews are short and to the point, yet they need to have vivid details, so the readers can feel as if they are experiencing what the user faced, when entering the Establishment. What makes a excellent review is to not only state the negative, put positive points as well,and explaining what needs to be improved. This not only leaves it up for the reader to decide whether or not to check the business out, but gives insight to the owner who wants to polish his/her business.
The names and Avatars of the members seem to be windows into their personalities. The flashiest flower gets the most bees. Here are a few users that stood out to me on Yahoo Local.
TateziF review is crowned credible; she describes her emotions of sadness she experienced when she brought her dying pigeon, than the burst of relief and gratitude when the the owner of Belmont & Seeds, helped restore the bird to health. TateziF's review is full of depth; by sharing her story, she tells the readers why she recommends the shop.
Checker Pleaser states that he didn't like the Old Fashioned Donuts Shop. But instead of giving the readers reasons why the donuts suck, he talks about the neighborhood instead, insinuating that only blacks could fit in with the violent atmosphere. As I read his others reviews, all he had was negative things to say about every restaurant he has ever been to. This makes me the reader think that nothing can satisfy this Check Pleaser, since not all restaurants are crummy, so maybe he is the problem. His name is a give away, showing how difficult he is because he always asks for his check right away.
By just looking at at her avatar, I can tell that Mojopo has a funny side, and is real laid back. The avatar is dressed in a robe, holding a coffee mug, and her PJ's with tissue falling from the pockets. I love Mojopo's review, she paints a picture of the restaurant, by describing the scenery, each special dishes she was served, and stating the prices of the meals.
After viewing the Yahoo Local it seems that some people are attacking the businesses, without giving full critiques and expanding or backing up their opinions. I think that Yahoo Local should have give advice or methods for writing a review. I have noticed that the users are not getting many visitors or comments. I believe this due to the fact that the reviews lack enough information and creativity.
Though I don't recommend Yahoo Local, I believe it has potential. There is room for improvment as long as it stays on the straight path, and monitor the quality of writing that is posted on its site.
Check out this website:
www.ehow.com- How to Write a Restuarant Review
That donut comment was, indeed, quite telling. "Don't suffer a drive-by to satisfy your fried-bread-sweet tooth."
ReplyDeleteAnyway, here's my broken record (out-of-date reference, I know) comment about the organization of your post: headings would have helped, helped.