What happens when you search for your company's name on Google? If you were used to having to worry only on what is being said about you in the real world, you now need to take a look on what's happening in the virtual one!

A few weeks ago a client faced this exact issue. A blog was writing about his company in a not very cuddly manner (to say the least). His initial response was "We're doomed!". This was partially true. Visitors of the blog had read the story and already commenting on it. In a couple of days after the next Googlebot pass the bog entry could show in search results for the  company's name. And you cant change the page or have it removed. After all, it's content was somewhat valid.

The only choice was to respond. A mail was written and sent to the blogger explaining the other side. But more importantly, an official response was posted on the blog. Without even going into the content of the post, this move showed to visitors that the company cared about it's customers and valued every possible feedback. The blogger didnt make any comment about the official reply. Other visitors did though (and in a positive manner) and more importantly, the official reply is now there for anyone that stumbles on the page. The effect of the article has been greatly reduced.

Of course this is a continuing process. Do a Google on your company every couple of weeks. Check your stats for any referrers that you wouldnt expect. Be on alert and ready to respond!

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