While there was a time when an employer’s reputation wasn’t so accessible to the general public, the increasing popularity of online reviews has changed that availability. Access to these reviews isn’t limited to your customers. Indeed, many jobseekers are now using a company’s online reputation when pursuing new career opportunities.

Given the increasing reliance on Internet-based reviews, by customers as well as possible recruits, it’s important that you maintain an attractive and reputable presence online. There are a number of steps you can take in order to do so, some of which may prove to be more effective than others.

1. Monitor Popular Social Media

Firstly, monitor all of the popular social media channels including user-driven websites, review sites and job boards. Online portals are built around the quick exchange of information and are frequently used to place specific reviews. These sites provide a wealth of information regarding a company’s background and reputation in the industry.

2. Encourage Honest Reviews

Because online reviews have become more popular, some employers are going out of their way to promote and encourage their customers to place online reviews. Apart from raising awareness of the online review niche, this also shows a great deal of dedication to customer service on your behalf. If you are specifically soliciting reviews from the general public, be ready to act and respond to them.

3. Respond in a Professional and Timely Manner

In some cases a website allows you to respond directly to a user-generated comment, critique or review. Not only does this give you the opportunity to address any negative reviews, but it can also be used as a means of thanking and acknowledging those who leave positive comments. Regardless of the circumstance, make sure to respond in an appropriate and professional manner. (Never involve yourself in an online argument.  Those discussions need to be held in a private setting.) Your own comments can have just as big of an impact, if not more so, than a poor review left by a customer.

Furthermore, companies who respond to user-generated reviews are likely to receive even more reviews in the future. Individuals who know their voice is being heard are far more likely to leave a review, whether good or bad, than those who see your company as another faceless entity. Some companies rely on a designated social media expert or third-party company, to bolster the online brand.

4. Emphasize Customer Service

Since most of the individuals who leave reviews are direct customers of your business, it’s important you maintain a strong emphasis on customer service. If necessary, don’t hesitate to implement a scorecard, which can be completed by customers following an interaction with your service staff. This will allow you to monitor your team’s response and overall customer satisfaction, while highlighting areas that need improvement.

Work With Long Island Temps Today

Serving the employment needs of Long Island for more than 20 years, Long Island Temps has an exceptional track record in client service and retention. Contact our team of experienced recruiters who take the time to understand your specific needs and provide superior standards of staffing solutions.