Further thoughts on protecting your reputation, online and on the jobsite

A lot of contractors have shared their thoughts with us on this site since my original May 7 post about negative online reviews. Now, the print edition of the current Canadian Contractor features a cover story called “Are You Being Targeted Online”? You can read it in the digital edition of the magazine – simply click here.

I cannot say this enough, as an entrepreneur you need to keep a close eye on all the chatter about your business online. Not only do you need to monitor what kind of reviews you are getting on HomeStars, EIEI Homes and HandyCanadian, etc., you need to be keeping an eye out for your company name on Twitter, FaceBook and other social media channels.

This sounds like a ton of work, but it doesn’t need to be. And it’s so important. To build your company’s reputation online, you need to be on your game, and only hire people or trades you can trust not only to excel in their day-to-day jobs but to be the public face of your business, as well.

Everyone makes mistakes. If you or someone in your company, or one of your trades, makes a mistake, it is important to own up fast and correct it quickly.

Building a business is not rocket science, it’s about having an idea and seeing it through with integrity. This basic formula means that as an entrepreneur or business owner  you can’t compromise on your principles when dealing with your customers, workers, sub trades, suppliers, or anyone else connected with your business. If you do this, your online reputation will probably be excellent. But you need to go online to make sure you aren’t being maligned. And if you are, find a way to deal with it.

If you treat people fairly and well, they will reward you with loyalty and dedication. If you fail to do this, repercussions will follow—and eventually harm your bottom line.

CARAHS is a not for profit organization for self employed contractors and builders

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