If there is one common denominator among the biggest and most successful businesses in the world, that is they all have an exceptional brand reputation. Establishing a positive brand reputation will not happen overnight. It will take some work especially if you have already painted an unpleasant image. Enhance your company’s image through the following:
Up the Customer Service Game
One’s business reputation is often obtained through outstanding customer service. How a business handles customers and deal with their concerns speaks volumes of what the company is about.
Delivering extraordinary customer service should be a piece of cake. It does not even require MBAs and college degrees for it to be done. Oftentimes, it is as simple as saying ‘thank you’ to the customers, being friendly to them, responding promptly, and sometimes you don’t even have to do anything, you just have to listen to them.
For instance, a simple greeting when a customer enters the store, and say ‘thank you’ when they leave can go a long way. Add freebies like candies or stickers when a customer purchases something. For a business that offers car wheel balancing services, take the customer service to the next level by offering a free car wash after the service. It would not hurt to go the extra mile.
Acquire Customer feedback
Encouraging customers to provide feedback will show that the company values not just their business but also their opinion. Reviews and feedback may help in shaping the business and will give customers a sense of attachment to the company.
By listening to what the customers have to say, the business gains trust. It can also establish strong relationships with them. This is a great strategy to gain loyal customers who will help the business spread positive word-of-mouth. And that can make a big impact on the decision-making of other customers.
Take Advantage of Social Media
Social media is where the customers are, so be there. Take the time to listen, ask and respond to their comments. This type of conversation will reinforce engagement that can improve your business’ reputation.
While you can not be present 24/7 in all of your channels, using chatbots can be helpful. But do not overdo it. Reserve chatbots to basic inquiries only so you can keep the virtual conversation going even when you are not online. Social media can be the biggest market for your business. Use it to your advantage and make sure you are using it in a positive manner.
Be Present with the Local Community
The customers, supporters, and investors make up a community. Without a community, a business just can’t flourish. This is why giving back to the community is crucial to maintain a good brand reputation. How can it be done? Get involved by hosting events, sponsoring a sports league, and attending networking events. Show up and represent the business and its brand. Nothing can beat selling your business in front of people, face to face.
Here’s more reason to get involved in the community:
- It builds a family
- It reinforces trust
- It increases business’ visibility
- It expands network
- It generates high-quality leads
- It creates an opportunity like new partnerships, volunteering opportunities, speaking engagements
- It is endless
Be that Brand that Genuinely Cares
With thousands of businesses that offer similar products and services like yours, how can you stand out? Be that business that truly cares; that can separate your company from the rest and will paint your brand in a positive light. Those group of individuals who has a strong sense of social awareness is more likely to support a business that has a strong sense of morality, social responsibility, and compassion for others.
There will always be room for supporting a cause that makes sense to your business and raising awareness of something your company believes in. Here are some ways to show that a business is more than just a money-making machine:
- Think about sustainability and going green
- Be concerned about unethical labor practices
- Donate money to charities
- Support a cause that is relevant to your business
By doing this, everybody wins. The community gets to benefit from the company while the company raises its brand’s profile and reputation.
One of the most respected businessmen in the world, Warren Buffet said that it takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. That makes a lot of sense. So no matter the scale of a business, for it to continuously grow, they may have to build, watch, and protect their brand’s reputation. Otherwise, it will fall apart.
