Quelling Fears About Social Media Defamation

Social media marketing has been proven successful for nearly every market time and time again. The statistics speak for themselves. Despite this, companies continue to steer clear of social media; not out of a lack of resources or funding, but out of fear of public commentary. The concern here is that creating these social channels will invite individuals to speak freely (and sometimes negatively) about their company.
At first glance, this apprehension seems reasonable. Avoiding bad press and maintaining good standing among the body politic are certainly worthy causes. As you dig deeper, you come to realize that forgoing these powerful marketing methods is not a sustainable choice. I’ve put together a few things here that will hopefully shed some light on this.
It’s Just Going to Happen
If you’re in the game long enough, sooner or later, someone will try to bring your company down a peg. Occasional bad press is inevitable; it’s just the name of the game. But it’s how you react when it does happen that will define you as a business. Attempting to dodge bad press by avoiding specific channels will not keep it at bay.
It’s Going On Right Now
The truth is, people are already talking about you. Conversations about your company are taking place with or without you. Attempts to control it will be feeble at best. Instead, the best thing you can do is to become an active member of the conversation. This will demonstrate a vested interest in public opinion and that you are willing to work toward an amicable future.
Your Followers Will Fight FOR You
Believe it or not, one of the most powerful tools you can have in the arsenal against retaliatory individuals are your loyal followers. Those who truly believe in your company they will stand up and defend you in times when others are challenging your values. They will testify on your behalf and their words carry far more weight than yours ever will.
What to Do When You Are Attacked
- Establish and enforce a company-wide Attack Response Action Plan
- Take the time to properly assess the impact of the attack
- Respond personally to the accusations
- Demonstrate genuine interest toward a resolution
- Detail your response with what you plan to do
What Not To Do
- Do not overreact
- Do not retaliate (fight fire with fire)
- Do not let attacks dissuade you from using social media marketing
- Do not take legal action unless absolutely necessary

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