Assuming you own or manage a business, it’s important to maintain a positive online reputation and do an online reputation repair if needed. Unfortunately, even if you run a tight ship, there’s always the potential for negative reviews and mentions. Fortunately, there are things you can do to proactively push down that negative content so it’s not the first thing people see when they look up your business. Here are 5 ways to do just that:
1. Claim and complete your business profiles on major online directories
When you complete your business profiles on websites like Google My Business, Yelp, and Bing Places for Business, you’re telling the search engines that your business is legitimate and up to date. This helps to push down any negative information that may be ranking higher in the search results.
2. Use social media to build a positive online reputation
Social media is a great way to build a positive online reputation for your business. By sharing interesting and engaging content, you can make sure that the majority of what people see when they Google your business is positive information.
3. Respond to negative reviews politely and professionally
Naturally we would want to find ways to remove negative reviews online. However, if you do receive a negative review, always respond politely and professionally. Thank the customer for their feedback, and try to address their concerns. This will show other potential customers that you’re willing to listen to feedback and that you care about your customers’ experience.
4. Use online PR tactics to get good news about your business in the press
Online PR can be a great way to get good news about your business in the press. By pitching story ideas to reporters, you can get articles written about your company that will push down any negative content.
5. Employ a search engine optimization (SEO) specialist
A good SEO agency can help you improve your website’s ranking in the search engines, which will help to push down any negative information that may be ranking higher.
Conclusion
In the internet age, your online reputation can make or break your business. A single negative review can spiral into a PR nightmare, costing you customers and damaging your bottom line. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to push down negative search results and protect your good name, and online reputation repair services are now available to make it easier for business owners. By following these tips, you can proactively push down negative information about your business and maintain a positive online reputation.
