Search engines show everything. There’s nowhere to hide. Potential and existing customers will Google you to ensure they’re dealing with a reputable, credible company.
The consumer buying process has changed. The first thing they do is check for online reviews. Social proof in the form of public feedback helps consumers short-cut their research and make decisions faster and with greater confidence. If they find something amiss, or a damaging narrative floating on social media related to you and your organisation, they will move on.
You can shrug off gossip and move on in real life. Not so online. Whether it’s from disgruntled clients, ex-employees, dubious competitors or spam content, your business or individual profile could be vulnerable and under constant threat. While this might sound alarmist, ignore this at your own peril.
Online reputation management includes having accurate business listings and relevant advertisements, staying on top of engagement with consumers on your company's marketplace and social media channels, understanding their pain points and responding to reviews and surveys, all while continually making sure your content is professional, transparent, relatable and dynamic.
The benefits of a good online reputation include higher trust, better talent, less risk, and more profit. But the advantages of a good corporate reputation extend beyond that. Companies with good reputations tend to be treated better online – even given a second chance.
In a sense, Google is the new business card online.
