Far from being just a tool to search for information, many businesses now use Google as a way to suss out what others say about them. Some firms believe that Google is so powerful, that comments online could even make or break a business.
Safeguarding Your Reputation
According to Business Reporter, more and more firms have begun to worry about the concept of reputational risk. One of the ways that businesses are keeping a check on their reputation and image is by Googling themselves. In fact, one survey has found that 82% of companies do this.
Why do Businesses Google Themselves?
There are lots of different reasons why firms do a Google search on their company name. Nearly 70% of businesses are keen to see how they look in the eyes of potential clients, whilst 61% of firms Google themselves to check out the competition.
Over half of those businesses surveyed admitted to using Google to see what customers have written in reviews. 26% of businesses trawl Google to find negative comments that have been posted about them. Some 11% of firms are even surprised with the results from a search.
It appears that some firms are keen to make a good impression with their website, with 44% of businesses Googling themselves to find out what their landing page looks like and how visible it is.
Making or Breaking a Business
So powerful is the influence of Google, that 37% of companies actually believe that it can make or break a business. Negative comments online, whether justified or not, can have a detrimental impact on businesses, so it makes sense that many firms are eager to know what is being said about them online. Knowledge and awareness of how a business is perceived online can help firms to counteract and put to right any negative claims, whilst making use of opportunities that showcase their brand in a good light.
The Power of Google
Savvy web owners understand the importance of Google for boosting search rankings, and having a professional, well-designed site, such as from Reading web design business Star Web Innovations, can certainly help steer brands in the right direction.
Yet, businesses are now also using Google in a different way – as a tool to control their image and ascertain what customers have got to say about them.
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