Yelp Account Manager offered to un-hide my reviews — and post fake ones — if I buy ads
I have all of this in writing, from his company email. I’m not going to identify him (or myself) until I decide what to do with this — let me know what you think.
My “account executive” emailed me today to ask if I wanted to buy ads. I have already told him firmly that I’m not interested, specifically because I have a real problem with Yelp’s business practices. They also want an outrageous amount of money.
I have 7 legitimate reviews that are hidden; only one has ever stuck. So I asked him: “If I were to agree, can you get Yelp to stop hiding the rest of my reviews? They are all legitimate. A couple people created accounts just to post one.”
Mind you, I still had no intention of buying ads — I just wanted to see what he’d say.
His reply: “Yes, and I will help you out with reviews to [sic]. My team and I will leave several on your page. “
Not long after, a new glowing review appeared on my page. He sent me an email and left a voicemail confirming it was him. I have not responded.
What would you do? Keep in mind, I don’t care if Yelp retaliates and bans me. I don’t need them. I want to go about this ethically and effectively. I’m not out to get this guy fired, though I have to accept that’s a somewhat likely outcome. From what I know of Yelp, I suspect what he’s doing is condoned and encouraged. I would, however, love to embarrass Yelp. People need to know about this.