Local businesses can either serve as pillars of the community or go largely ignored. The internet provides many tools for managing your local reputation, and they are important to use if you want people to organically filter into your business after searching for relevant places online. If you want your name to be known in your town, here are five tips for managing your local reputation.
Charity
People love to support businesses that give back to the community. Whether you’re hosting a spirit night for a local sorority or buying uniforms for a youth soccer league, philanthropy gets people familiar with your name. Use social media tastefully to document your actions.
Social Media
Social media is an excellent tool for developing your brand. Restaurants are beginning to design their spaces and lighting to look best in social media photos, because great pictures posted by your fans might be some of the best (and least expensive) advertising. Use social media to show the beauty and/or uniqueness of your business.
Accessible Website
There’s nothing more off putting than a badly designer or confusing website. Make your website, clear, minimalist, and easy to navigate and understand.
Respond to Reviews
Nowadays, a few reviews online can make or break a business. If you do get any bad reviews, be sure to respond immediately and politely. Your online reputation with Yelp and other local sites can draw business to you or keep people wary of trying your store out.
Show Your Personality
People choose a small business over chains because of the relationships they form with the owners and workers. Highlight the personality of your business and your staff to stand out from the competition.
Do contact us if you need help managing your business reputation, online or offline.