Online reputation has become important in the past decade. With the rise in social media and the ability to network online, more people are sharing feedback online. It’s now become a necessity to protect your business’ online presence.
When we think of “online reputation,” more often than not, we think of reviews. There are several ways as a business you can be negatively impacted by reviews.
We’re going to explore 3 major ways your business can be negatively impacted by online reviews.
Social Media
Social media can strongly dictate your online presence— whether it’s positive or negative. It is often overlooked since there are numerous platforms and it can be challenging to monitor all communication.
People can post negative content about your business or write it directly on your page. Since social media is highly influential, it can quickly tank your brand image if negative feedback picks up pace.
Not responding, not responding the ‘correct’ way, or tag you on their post that highlights your business in a negative way. Some businesses have received backlash from employees.
Reviews
Companies are no stranger to online reviews and how they can hinder or help your business. Almost all services and products allow the option for feedback. Reviews allow for customers to voice their opinions — whether good or bad.
Avoiding negative reviews can hurt your business drastically and reflect poorly on your values. Responding to all reviews can improve your business and drive revenue. “Businesses that respond to reviews average 35% more revenue.” (SEJournal).
Don’t leave reviews on the table. Make sure you always respond. Or hire a reputation management team to help protect your online presence.
Employee Feedback
Your online presence isn’t just about reviews and what people say about your products or services. Negative reviews can be how you run your business.
A whopping “69% of applicants would not accept a job with a company that had a bad reputation […] even if they were currently unemployed.” It goes to show how much your online presence can hurt your company.
The likelihood that applicants will research in advance is high. “86% of employees and job seekers research company reviews and ratings to decide on where to apply for a job” (Glassdoor).
If your business has a poor online reputation, you can assume it will be difficult to hire staff when needed.
It’s crucial to engage in employee surveys and exit interviews to see how you can do better and limit the negative online feedback.
You can drastically hurt your company if former employees have negative feedback about you or your business.
Why Use Reputation Management Software?
While managing your online reputation or prescience seems daunting, there are solutions.
Technology can help. Using online reputation software is the easiest way to manage your online reviews. Plus, it frees up extra time to attend to your business and provide excellent customer service.
Online reputation software, like ReviewInc, monitors all online reviews on all platforms. It allows for immediate attention to help reduce negative consequences. Your customers can get their issues resolved while protecting your online presence.
Review software, depending on the version, can be costly. Alternatively, you’d be investing time to hire an employee to manage reviews, or you’d need to take time yourself. Either way, there’s a cost. But one won’t require your time. Using reputation management software offers you peace of mind to run your business effectively.
Whether you choose to manually manage online reviews or utilize online reputation software, to keep your business running, you will have to consider your online presence.
