We all have that “healthy friend” whose fridge is filled with all things green and their pantry wiped clean of anything containing more than 100 calories. Well, picture this: you’re at their house and forgot to eat dinner before heading over. Rookie move! You desperately need to order some pizza, but just any pizza won’t suffice. You need some life-changing pizza. How do you find such pizza? You go straight to your trusty and reliable right-hand man, the web. Here are your search results:

reputation management reputation

 

 

 

 

While Angelina’s may have a higher average rating, they only have 6 reviews in comparison to Tommy’s 30. So which would you choose?

Consumers search the internet to find information that will make them feel confident that they are making the best possible purchasing decision. That confidence (or lack of) is often formed from the online reviews reflecting others’ experiences.

People are more likely to purchase a product or service recommended by others, therefore, online reviews increase sales by giving potential consumers faith in your brand. But the benefits don’t stop there; consumer feedback can help you identify and improve glitches in your business practices and can also provide a new perspective on ways your products or services can be bettered.

Businesses must realize that the benefits of online reputation management are endless (and extremely profitable). Even negative reviews are not necessarily a bad thing. This feedback gives you the opportunity to engage with the consumer, and acts as a second chance to make things right. Ignoring negative reviews/comments will not make them disappear. Instead, take advantage of the opportunity to right your wrong and work with the disappointed consumer to improve their experience with your brand.

Insight into what your target audience is looking for is invaluable and will help ensure your business is adapting to the ever-changing consumer. When developing and protecting your online reputation, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Quantity: Consistency is key. Consumers have greater faith in a business with a 4-star average rating and 30 reviews rather than a 5-star rating and 2 reviews. Consumers want to see that a respectable amount of people have had a positive experience with your business, not just a few.
  • Quality: This goes without saying, the more favorable your reviews, the better. Although, consumers can be weary of businesses with nothing but 5-star ratings.
  • Relevancy: If your most recent review is two years old, chances are it holds little validity in the eyes of the consumer. Creating a steady stream of reviews will help keep them powerful and influential. Recent reviews are weighed more heavily by search engines, and who doesn’t want to rank higher? The view looks great from the top!
  • Range: You have 15 reviews on Yelp, but only 1 on Google+ – positive reviews on solely one site will no longer cut it. We advocate utilizing a wide range of review platforms to reinforce a positive online reputation

Consumers trust other consumers more than businesses, meaning they will take your customer’s word over yours. Online reviews provide them with the security they need to proceed with their purchase.

You’ve worked hard to grow your business, so don’t let one bad slice of pizza put a damper on your success. Develop, build, and protect your online reputation with an effective management process and watch your business grow!