Naperville Business Lawyer Discusses Common Public Relations Mistakes That Hurt Small Businesses

If you are a small business owner, you know how important public relations and marketing is. Even if you offer the best products or services around, a major PR mistake can absolutely ruin your business’s reputation.

In my experience as a business law attorney, I have seen companies make creative PR decisions that increased their brand awareness, brought in more customers, and significantly increased their profits. However, I have also seen businesses make hasty choices which seriously damaged the relationship between their company and the public. If you are a business owner or hope to soon become one, presenting your company in a positive light should be one of your top priorities. Make sure to avoid these common PR pitfalls.

Responding Unprofessionally to Negative Online Reviews

Although customers have long had the ability to write reviews for the businesses they patronize, smartphones have made it easier than ever to leave business reviews. In the click of a button, customers can leave a review about your business on Google, Yelp, Angie’s List, Foursquare, and other websites.

While some customers will take the time to write a flattering review after having a positive experience with your company, a great deal of customers will only leave a review if they have a complaint. It is critical that small businesses handle reviews professionally. If the complaint or negative review is justified, apologize for the mistake and try to offer a solution. Never retaliate against a negative review or write a response which insults the customer.

Not Effectively Utilizing Social Media

If you have not already started using social media to market your company, you are in the minority. A recent survey shows that nearly three-fourths of businesses currently utilize social media to market their brands. However, it is not enough to simply have a Facebook or Twitter page. Potential customers are bombarded with advertisements and information about local business on social media. You must do something eye-catching to gain customers’ attention online.

Many businesses find that offering discounts, running contests, and posting customer testimonials on social media can help increase customer engagement. Responding promptly to online inquires on social media is also imperative. If a potential customer sees that you quickly and professionally respond to customer’s comments and questions on social media, they can reasonably assume that your employees will treat them with the same level of efficiency and respect when they patronize your business.

Contact a Naperville Business Lawyer

For help with a wide range of business law concerns, contact a knowledgeable DuPage County business law attorney at the Gierach Law Firm. Call 630-228-9413 for a confidential consultation today.

Sources:

Entrepreneur

Small Business Trends