Service providers' websites are the most commonly used resource for buyer evaluations, according to a recent report from Hinge.

Asked how they "check out" potential professional services providers (such as an accounting, marketing, legal, consulting, or tech firm), 81% of buyers say they head to the seller's website.

The next most common strategy is online search, with 63% of buyers saying they google the service provider.

Recommendations and opinions also play an important role: 62% of buyers ask friends or colleagues whether they've heard of the person/firm, and 56% talk to references provided by the seller.

These various channels are complementary rather than mutually exclusive; buyers use 3.2 methods on average to research a service provider.