How to Shield Your Reputation From Harm

by Jun 13, 2022

Get 60% off the ‘Secrets of a Six Figure Freelancer’ ebook today

A brand’s reputation is its lifeblood. In the highly politicized, constantly digitized and online society of today, it becomes more and more possible that negative opinions can damage a business permanently. It is essential to guard your reputation carefully. Here are some measures you can take to do just that.

Be Proactive

The first thing you can do is proactively create a positive narrative. This will come into being by encouraging pleased customers to leave positive reviews. It can also be spread in subtle ways, like through how you market and represent your brand. For example, the grocery chain Trader Joe’s has created a brand that represents organic, delicious, and diverse food, that supports environmental conservation and so on. You can create similar narratives with your brand’s image, through customer policies, and aesthetic elements (either online or in person) that reflect that narrative.

Avoid Negative Attention

As obvious as this one might seem, it has never been easier to get your company roped into controversy. First of all, following GARM standards can help your brand stay away from controversy. GARM (Global Alliance for Responsible Media) strives to avoid representations or references to problematic and harmful content. You can also avoid posting about or openly supporting causes that could be seen as political, since you could potentially alienate or anger one-half of your potential customers. Be careful to deal with customer reviews or accusations of inappropriate conduct by keeping careful records and training employees. Have protocols in place for such occurrences. Prevention really is the best cure.

Be an Upstanding Business

While it is true that sometimes controversy is unavoidable, the fact is that those occasions are rare. Most controversy is entirely avoidable, and it is best avoided by being responsible and honest. Predict possible problems that could crop up and do your best to provide your customers and employees with the safe environment that they deserve. If or when something does happen that could damage your reputation, honestly assess how much of the event was the fault of the business. Make conscious and public effort to make effective changes in whatever system you need to in order to make things better. Use social media (and any other brand-related interface) to uplift and build rather than tear down.

A reputation should be robust and positive, but it should also be built on good policies and honest dealings. While it may be tempting to take financial or logistical shortcuts to save money or time, you might regret such decisions later on. Make sure to build and maintain a good reputation that will last for years to come!

For more advice on how to build your six-figure business from the ground-up, check out my book here!

Other Posts You Might Like

Three AI tools for freelancers, that’ll help you work smarter

AI is revolutionising the world of business. Industries of all different descriptions are capitalising on the latest advancements that are...
Read More

UI vs UX: Are They The Same Or Different, And What Is Their Impact On A Website? 

The phrases ‘User Interface’ (UI) and ‘User Experience’ (UX) are frequently used in tech-related settings. What does a UX or...
Read More

Get Your Creative Business on the Map

As a creative professional, obviously you want to get your work out there. Often, though, that’s easier said than done....
Read More

How to Write Compelling Email Copy that Converts

In 2022 alone, there were a total of 333.2 billion emails sent out and received globally. Sounds outrageously high? That...
Read More

Running A Business & Having a Life

Running a business brings many challenges, and so does running a household. While the two aren’t mutually exclusive, keeping all...
Read More

Legal Issues Every Freelancer Should Know About

You may not have the resources of a larger company to handle legal matters, but it's important to know the...
Read More

Why You Should Become a Freelance Writer

Writing is a skill that doesn’t come easy to everyone, but if it’s something you do well and enjoy then...
Read More

How to Get Out and Promote Your Brand

As a small business owner, it's important to get out and promote your brand. You can't just sit behind your...
Read More

The Benefits of Working as a Freelancer

Freelance work has become more popular, but for many people, it can still be an unfamiliar idea. While there are...
Read More

Underutilized Tools That Can Grow Your Business

Your business deserves only the very best. You should also be aware of the common pitfalls for new startups. One...
Read More

Hi, I’m Kate

Hey, I’m Kate! I’m a designer, digital nomad and founder of Six Figure Freelancers – I love to help talented tech pros start businesses.

Work with Me

Get The Book

AppSumo badge

Featured Post

Would You Like Help Finding Freelance Clients?

Learn more about the Six Figure Freelancers training programs, and learn how to take your freelance business to the next level.

Pin It on Pinterest