We live in a world where communication is almost instant, word travels amazingly fast, and if you’re not watchful your online reputation can be trashed in nanoseconds. Many aren’t aware of just how vital it is to protect your online reputation. Cone Communications reports that some 89 percent of consumers regard online channels are trustworthy sources, and that another 80 percent have gone so far as to change their mind about a purchase after looking at a negative comment or review. Further, your social media is where they’re talking about you. The Society for Communications Research reports that 72 percent said they research companies through social channels before making purchases, and that 59% use social sites to air their frustrations about your customer service.
5 Tips to help guard your online reputation
- Monitor your online reputation – Keep track of what people are saying about you and your company name by Googling them at the least once a month. Use Google alerts and become alerted when there are any postings about you or the brand.
- Claim your online property – Someone that is set on doing you or your business harm can do a lot with your name. Ensure that you buy your company’s domain name, and also your personal one, and avoid at least having them show up in Google by virtue of an exact match name.
- Be active on your social networks – Beyond claiming your presence on the major social sites, also work to use them regularly. Being present can help you see and minimize potential problems easily.
- Deal with unfavorable content ASAP – Deal with negative postings and particularly complaints right away. Do your very best to get hold of the person directly, preferably offline. Attempt to handle their issues, and whatever you do, don’t enter into a shouting match online.
- Be careful what you put online – Those lovely pictures of you and the staff partying hard are not exactly what you want to show up in a business context.
We’re all part of a fast paced information-driven world. Make certain you’re in position to use this to successfully manage your online reputation!