In today’s web-based world, it is essential that communities establish an online presence and manage their reputation online. Though it is difficult to completely control what can be said about your property online, it is important that you are active in the online space. If a community fails to protect or establish an online reputation, they could be at much more of a competitive disadvantage than a neighboring property. It is important for a property to stay updated with community-related chatter on major social media sites.
Initially, when potential renters are searching for a place to live, they will most likely use an online source to gather some information. Every property manager should make sure that their community is set up on most major social media – including Facebook and Twitter – to ensure that your community is easily accessible to potential renters online. Once you get started with your own social media accounts, it’s time to start listening! Try setting up Google Alerts for your property name, as well as other relevant keywords, to find out what people are saying online. Monitoring and managing your online reputation can be time consuming but it is also a major way to make sure you stay ahead of the competition.
Your online reputation is also an important tool for self-evaluation. It can be a great way to communicate directly with renters and provide them with great customer service if they are asking questions or in need of information. Additionally, being involved with your online community allows you to address any possible problems or complaints that may be occurring on social media or in online reviews. If there are negative comments about your community posted on the web, for example, it could really turn off prospective renters from visiting the property. However, if you are able to respond to the negative review with an answer or a solution to their problem, prospective renters will see that too and know that you are responsive to resident issues.
If you have impressed your current or potential renters, you’re also more likely to generate positive word-of-mouth. Word-of-mouth can be amplified even more online. To help promote positive word-of-mouth, ask your renters to share their feedback through community reviews!
How do you manage your online reputation?
This is a guest post from Gabrielle Castaneda, who is currently enrolled at the University of South Florida pursuing a bachelor’s degree with a major in marketing, a minor in international business and a minor in management. In her spare time she enjoys doing outdoors activities.
