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  • Jennifer Brown Banks

    Reputation Management For Your Small Business in the Age of Social Media

    2021-06-28

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    Let's face it: if you own a small business, more than likely there is no money in the budget for a personal publicist or dedicated department that provides "damage control" regarding your public perception and online image.

    Still, the need exists. With the popularity of social media these days, online video sharing, and the plethora of review sites, your business always has the potential of being under the microscope. Even if you are not actively promoting your products or services.

    THE NEED FOR REPUTATION MANAGEMENT

    According to Meetsoci.com: " Did you know that 84% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations?
    There is no doubting that information today spreads faster than it ever has before. This directly applies to service or product reviews made by clients and consumers. The growth of social media partnered with the ability to easily access the internet no matter where you are has produced a need for online reputation management or ORM."
    Online reputation management is the process of monitoring and influencing your business’s online presence. A good ORM strategy has the ability to protect your brand, provide insights, and much more.
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    Though there is an adage that states, "There is no such thing as bad publicity," don't believe the hype. Consider the careers and chaos associated with Paula Deen, or Roseanne Barr, or Johnson & Johnson.

    WITH THIS IN MIND, HERE ARE 3 SAVVY WAYS TO PUT YOUR BEST FOOD FORWARD IN TIMES AHEAD
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    1. Realize that Freedom of Speech is not entirely free.
    Watch what you share across your social media outlets. Make sure that your brand messaging is consistent, helpful, and supports positive interaction with the public. Don't needlessly bash your competitors or engage in "hate speech."
    2. Be careful of the company you keep.
    Even your Facebook groups can come under scrutiny by clients, investors or consumers. Accordingly, you probably don't want to be connected publicly with any "hate groups" or organizations with a controversial reputation or questionable dealings. Do so at your own risk.
    3. Watch your words and mind your manners
    We are moving into an era where political correctness is crucial. Even jokes that are posted can be misinterpreted or considered offensive and in poor taste. To be on the safe side, maintain a conservative image. Unless perhaps you have a non-traditional business or product.
    FINAL THOUGHT
    Even with your best efforts, sometimes it's impossible to avoid negative press, or a bad review, or a disgruntled customer or client. It happens to the best of us.
    Still, these timely tips can help to provide damage control (as much as humanly possible), protect your bottom line, and keep complaints and confusion to a minimum in times ahead.

    This is original content from NewsBreak’s Creator Program. Join today to publish and share your own content.

    Comments / 2
    Add a Comment
    Jennifer Brown Banks
    2021-06-28
    So glad you liked it!
    Guest
    2021-06-28
    Love this, "Realize that Freedom of Speech is not entirely free." This is so true, as is your other advice. Wise words, Jennifer!
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