As a business owner, what shows up in your search results affects your bottom line, and this is a fact. According to a recent survey, 48% of consumers have searched for a company online before doing business with them. Although you cannot entirely control your digital footprint, you can certainly take steps to positively impact your online presence.
As a first step, Google your company name and analyze the results that show up online. Immediately tackle and secure areas of vulnerability. You have to act speedily as information spreads like wildfire online.
The longer something unflattering appears online, the greater the damage it causes. You must be concerned with negative publicity or dull photos. But be equally concerned if nothing shows up in your search results. If you have no digital footprint, it means none recognizes you or that you have no meaningful customers.
Build a personal website. Buy your name domain and make an online resume website that highlights your career accomplishments. Google’s search algorithm values fresh and relevant content and will naturally support you when anyone searches your name online.
It is important that you get social as the primary social media networks usually show up on the first page of Google. Additionally social media networks make it easier to connect with your target audience and establish robust positive relationships.
When selecting a social media channel, think of your business goals. You should also ascertain on which platforms your target audience proliferates. For most professionals, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, and Facebook are the compulsory platforms.
Include professional photos. Hire a competent professional photographer to shoot headshots for your personal website and social media profiles. Dress in your business attire and sport a friendly smile. People judge you within the first couple of seconds of seeing your photo online.
Needless to say, content is the life-breath for any successful online brand management campaign. Create compelling and informative content consistently so that become an authority in your industrial segment. Plus you’ll also boost your organic search rankings.
Become a thought-leader by guest-blogging on websites in your niche. Guest blogging increases the credibility and enhances the exposure of your brand. Not only will you robustly build your online portfolio, you’ll also strengthen your presence by communicating directly to your potential customers.
Ensure you have no negative press on the first page of Google – part of your strategy must include flooding the internet with positive reviews.