There’s been a mix-up over the concept of online reputation management and how it works. In order to achieve sustainable success, entrepreneurs should be clear about the role that online reputation management plays in today’s business and digital landscape. In past, there was no communication channel where individuals and organizations could express their voice in a powerful way. Thanks to the internet which has changed things radically and bridge the communication gap.
Online reputation management is a method to develop strategies that influence the public perception of an individual, business, or any other entity on the internet. As a business owner, you should start thinking rather seriously about how you are going to manage your online presence and drive public opinion about your business. Irrespective of the size of your company, your customers and prospects have the unprecedented freedom to say whatever they think about your products and services, for example, posting something on Facebook about their customer experience.
It is probably a wrong approach if you think you can make it without considering your customers and prospects’ voice, opinions, or reviews. Your online reputation will determine your reputation. There must be a reputation management plan in place in order to make the most out of your web presence. Following are some tips that will help you build and monitor a credible online presence for your company.
Build a spot-on website
Your website acts as a central hub of information about your business. It is probably the first thing that your customers see when they look you up online. There is no better way to build and control your online identity and highlight what’s most valuable and important. So make sure your site has what it takes to effectively build repute, establish authority, and generate revenue.
Be polite and quick
People do not hesitate to share their bad customer experiences. In case of a customer complaint via Facebook, Twitter, or any other online channel, your response should be quick, precise, and polite. Acknowledge complaints and tell your customers that you are aware of the problem and doing your best to resolve it as soon as possible.
Related: Understanding and responding to criticism on social media
Keep track of what people are saying
Undoubtedly, people consult reviews on social media before buying products or services. 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business. Another study suggests that 84% of people trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation. What people say or inquire about your business, therefore, should be properly addressed. By monitoring and addressing queries posted by your audience, you can bring in new business and generate revenue.
Earn respect and trust
It is true that a single lie discovered is enough to create doubt in every truth expressed. One of the major objectives of building the authority of your online presence is to make people respect and trust your work. 84% of marketers believe that building trust will be the primary focus for marketing efforts in the future. You have to invest your time in order to be well-respected.
Address criticism
People will say bad things about your business, no matter how great your products or services are. Be well-prepared to handle criticism. Instead of making a nasty retort or hitting the delete button, treat your audience with respect by politely responding to their concerns no matter how irrational or unjust they are. You can also take criticism as an opportunity to understand the behavior of your digital customers.
Hire experts to build and manage your business online
It is understandable that, being an entrepreneur, it is hard for you to spare time and build the website or deal with your social media presence. A practical solution is to hire a credible online marketing agency capable of creating and managing your online marketing endeavors and making them profitable.
Reach First is a dependable digital marketing agency in Canada where we develop and apply best marketing practices in order to help our clients achieve their business goals. Feel free to schedule a free initial consultation and see how we can build and improve your existing online assets.