For most company owners in the year 2021, much has happened. The previous year brought with it quite a few unprecedented changes, as well as a clear sign of things to come for the business sector. As the pandemic has forced many people to undergo lifestyle changes such as staying indoors and purchasing what they need online, so too has the world of business changed.
Nowadays, most people are content to purchase all they need from online sources, which is why online reputation management (ORM) is more crucial than ever before — especially for new businesses looking to take advantage of the current market. 2020’s holiday season had record numbers for online stores, and it is a trend that will not end anytime soon. Here are just a few ways to help companies prioritise online reputation management in 2021.
How to handle a negative review
When it comes to dealing with a company’s online reputation, there are few things more nerve-wracking than a negative review. It can be especially damning in 2021, where most online users will search for reviews and testimonials before purchasing products.
The best thing about a negative review is that the company has an opportunity to turn things around. All you have to do is answer the negative review and attempt to provide solutions as soon as possible. Even if the customer no longer replies, it at least shows that the company tried to make things right. Such things add up in the long run, and ends up helping the reputation rather than tarnishing it.
Consider the use of search engine optimisation (SEO)
There are very few companies looking for digital marketing strategies that have not yet heard of search engine optimisation. It is basically a set of best-practice methods that seek to rank a company’s website on Google’s search engine. The convenient part about SEO is that companies naturally gravitate toward SEO solutions without knowing. From content marketing and link building through a link agency such as Ocere to the use of social media outreach strategies, the right type of SEO matters.
Ensure the primary website is prepared for 2021
If a company wants to make good use of ORM methods, one of the things to consider right off the bat would be the state of the primary website. Is it ready for a mobile platform? Is it easy to navigate? Is the website designed for convenience and simplicity? All are legitimate questions to ask and answer for most companies.
A good rule of thumb would be to put yourself in the shoes of an online visitor. What would make you stay and convert you into a customer? Typically, a website that gets straight to the point and is easy to navigate can get the job done. It would also be a good idea to keep loading times low!
Aside from the best-practice methods above, another good tactic would be to make use of social media channels as much as possible. Staying active on various social media platforms can help keep the company exposed to its target audience.
