Whether you run a business or are planning on starting one, your social media presence is the lifeline that leads to success. Word of mouth just isn’t good enough anymore with everyone focusing on their phones nonstop! However, what do you do if you have trouble with online bullies? The phrase “have a backbone” comes to mind, but don’t forget that there are people out there eager to take advantage of every situation; sadly, the customer is not always right!
Today, let’s explore why giving in to the demands of social media bullies can actually harm your business. Also, check this video out.
Mind Games
Imagine doing a job for a customer based on agreed-upon conditions – everyone knew exactly what was going to be delivered. Sounds normal, right? Well, now imagine if they came back afterwards and stated that you didn’t do what they wanted, instead requesting a completely different kind of service. Rather than cooperate towards a resolution, however, they leave a scathing review on social media that called out specific employees and was a complete fabrication of what really happened.
Oh, and then they agree to take down the review if you do the extra, unpaid service that they want. Let’s say you have less experience with social media backlash and, out of concern for your company, decide to do what they ask. Except for the review never gets taken down.
This is what happened to us many years ago. Rest assured, we’ve never made that mistake again!
After-Effects You can Avoid
Let’s now say that you fall for such a scheme (it can happen to anyone). What does that mean for your business? Well first, you lose the income you could have gained from the service given away to keep the bully quiet. Second, your team morale takes a nosedive and employees may begin to worry whether the company can easily be taken advantage of. Third, if the general public catches wind of your attempts to diffuse the situation and “pay off” the reviewer, it may cast the company in a negative light.
We have a saying: If you appeal to bullies instead of regular folks, you’re only going to serve bullies. That’s a lesson we learned the hard way and, today, we’ve recovered and are proud to help some wonderful local residents and businesses get the very most out of their landscaping! Every moment is a lesson, so take our advice and stand up for your principles; don’t be afraid not to give in if you’re actually not in the wrong!