In this century where people trust the internet more than their neighbours, online views about your brand matter the most. Having a positive image on the internet is great but it should be across the web, not only on a few websites. Here’s why ORM should be a core part of your digital strategy and how it can benefit your brand.

What is Online Reputation Management?

Online Reputation Management (ORM) involves monitoring, influencing, and improving your brand’s online presence and image. It encompasses activities aimed at managing how your business is perceived by customers, potential clients, and search engines. It involves a 360 approach to reputation management by responding to reviews, managing social media interactions, and optimizing search engine results to ensure a positive representation of your brand.

The Importance of ORM

  1. Builds Trust and Credibility: These days we buy after getting feedback from many others online and a positive online reputation fosters trust among consumers. Think of Amazon reviews of the product before buying, doesn’t it help you to buy? The review of product and company may be different but it helps you to grow faster. A better product will not go unnoticed if you have a great product.
  2. Enhances Brand Visibility: A great reputation also gives a reason to list your website above your competition. Therefore, being listed on the first page of a search engine will give you more deals.
  3. Manages Negative Feedback: No business is immune to criticism and remember people will not write a positive review if they have compelling reasons but they will immediately write a negative review if something is wrong. There is always room for improvement even if you are a highly reputed brand. We believe that by managing and solving the issues, you can convert the negative feedback into a loyal customer.
  4. Boosts Customer Loyalty: Promptly engaging with your audience and addressing their concerns shows that you value their feedback. This builds stronger relationships with your customers.
  5. Protects Against Competitor Attacks: In competitive industries, rivals might engage in smear campaigns. ORM helps you monitor and mitigate such threats, ensuring that your brand maintains a positive image despite potential attacks.

Key ORM Strategies

  1. Monitor Your Online Presence: Use tools to track mentions of your brand across social media, forums, and review sites. There are websites for review management and rewarding employees for better review which can help you better and constructive feedback.
  2. Engage with Your Audience: Actively participate in conversations about your brand. Respond to reviews, address complaints, and thank customers for their positive feedback. This proactive approach shows that you care about your audience’s opinions.
  3. Promote Positive Content: Create and share high-quality content that highlights your brand’s strengths and achievements. Blog posts, press releases, and social media updates can all contribute to a positive online presence.
  4. Optimize for Search Engines: Ensure that positive content about your brand ranks higher than negative content. Use SEO techniques to boost the visibility of favourable reviews and news articles.
  5. Develop a Crisis Management Plan: Prepare for potential reputation crises by having a plan in place. This includes strategies for addressing negative reviews, managing social media backlash, and responding to media inquiries.

Taking ORM seriously can be better than paid advertising. It can create loyal customers and bring new customers faster. It can become your tool for business growth with little advertising budget. Online Reputation Management is not just about damage control; it’s about proactively shaping and enhancing your brand’s digital presence.

By integrating ORM into your digital marketing strategy, you can build trust, improve visibility, and foster customer loyalty. In a world where your online reputation is constantly evolving, staying ahead of potential issues and promoting positive content is key to long-term success.

Read the previous blog on – Why do we need digital marketing for our startups and businesses?

Online Reputation Management ORM