Why Is Reputation Management So Important?

 Posted on May 23, 2019 in Reputation Management

Today, nearly every business has an online presence of some sort. This can range from a Google My Business listing that contains basic information about a company to a digital strategy that includes a website, social media, and pay-per-click advertising. Regardless of the extent of your firm’s digital footprint, you will want to make sure that you make a positive impression on those who find you online. This is why reputation management is crucial.

What Is Reputation Management?

Online searches are the primary way most people find information, whether they are looking for answers on a computer at home or at work or are searching for a local business on their smartphone. When a firm shows up in search results, their listing is often accompanied by reviews and star ratings that people have submitted. These ratings often play a key role in a potential customer’s decision to click through to a company’s website or contact them via phone or email.

In addition to influencing people’s decisions about who they choose to do business with, online reviews can also have a significant impact on SEO. A business with a large number of positive reviews is more likely to be displayed in search results, and negative reviews or low average ratings can result in SEO penalties that will reduce a company’s chances of being found in online searches.

Since online reviews are so important, any company should take steps to improve their overall ratings. Reputation management typically takes two forms:

1. Receiving positive reviews - The more reviews a company has, the better. A firm should encourage its clients to leave positive reviews and five-star ratings in Google Maps or on their Google My Business page. Reviews on other sites, such as Yelp, Facebook, Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, or Nextdoor may also be displayed in search results.

2. Addressing negative reviews - You should be aware of any negative reviews that a person has left and take steps to address them, if possible. In some cases, you may be able to have these reviews removed, or you may respond to these reviews to address a person’s concerns and ask them to remove their review or change their rating.

Contact Our Reputation Management Experts 

At OVC, we can help you improve your firm’s online reviews and search rankings. Our reputation management program provides you with an easy way to request reviews from your clients and monitor the reviews that people leave. We can also assist in having negative reviews taken down or responding to your customers’ comments. With our help, you can ensure that the best possible picture will be presented when someone searches for you online. Contact OVC today at 630-635-8000 to learn more about our reputation management and digital marketing services.