Search Engine Management vs. Reputation Management

While Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and online reputation management may sound similar, they are two distinct areas. Continue reading to learn more about their differences.

How your brand appears online can make or break your business. The vast majority of people believe that web reviews are legitimate, and will use them when making a purchasing decision. With many popular review forums available to the general public, your company may have already acquired quite the reputation (whether good or bad).

The anonymity with which users can post reviews, however, should concern you. With trolls, scammers, and disgruntled customers, nearly anyone can post anything online for readers to view. While Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can help drive negative results to the bottom of listed results, an online reputation manager will ensure that your company’s overall internet standing is never compromised to begin with.

The Difference Between SEO and Reputation Management

SEO and Reverse SEO is the process of driving search engine results to the top or bottom of listed pages, respectively. So, while these tactics can help guide your customers to the best online information, it does nothing to address the overall reputation of your company.

Reputation managers, however, focus on your brand as a whole. They will constantly monitor numerous online sources to ensure your company’s good standing. They will oversee:

  • Search engine results;
  • Review sites;
  • Media coverage;
  • Social media; and
  • More!

The goal of a reputation manager is to guarantee your company’s good reputation. They ensure that positive information remains at the top of search engine results and that negative information is suppressed or even removed. SEO, however, is only employed after negative results have been established. The techniques of a good reputation manager go beyond SEO to help your company succeed.

The Other Roles of a Reputation Manager

Not only can a reputation manager help with your search engine results, they can also perform a variety of other tasks to ensure that your brand is seen in a positive light. Reputation managers will also:

  • Maintain your social media pages;
  • Utilize fresh content;
  • Employ meaningful keywords;
  • Monitor your reputation continually;
  • Deal with and respond to feedback quickly;
  • Encourage positive reviews; and
  • Much more!

To see how else your brand can benefit from an online reputation management company, please feel free to contact us today.

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