As major tech companies increase the visibility of small businesses throughout the world, the importance of maintaining a positive online reputation is higher than ever. According to Huffington Post, it is now critically important for brands to engage with online reviews and comments in real time, and be sure that they are monitoring company mentions online.
Because competitors often seek to damage the reputation of a brand or individual, a vigilant process of oversight and interaction is necessary to ensure a top online reputation. It is also necessary to pay attention to what people are saying about your competitors, to ensure you don’t make any of the same mistakes – but can replicate the things they do that go over well with consumers. The article notes that negative feedback has a far greater impact than positive feedback, highlighting the importance of addressing issues as they arrive. Many times, speaking with the customer who left the negative review will encourage them to delete or alter the comment.