What is reputation and why does it play a big part in business? Reputation is the wide-spread belief that someone has a certain characteristic. It is seen and judged by people generally. Given this definition, a person’s character is everything. How you conduct yourself builds your character and establishes reputation.

Why is reputation important in business? Reputation is one of the main characteristics of any business which allows a company to conduct business with other businesses and customers. A business’ reputation is how customers and other businesses perceive the quality and honesty of the company and its products. Business success depends on a good reputation.

Building a good business reputation is part of owning and running a business. The best way to build reputation is by offering quality service or products and conducting business with honesty and integrity. Treat employees well and with respect. A great place to work helps build reputation. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to not only get referrals, but to build a great business reputation.

Good business practices solidify an ever-changing reputation. Make sure you follow through with any promises, deals, coupons, discounts or anything your business presents to the public. Providing excellent customer support is essential. Helping your customers or other businesses builds trust in your products and services.

Greeting your customers with a smile can go a long way in creating a good relationship that can last for years. Customers become repeat customers because they love the product or service with a smile. Repeat customers play a big part in building business reputation.

A good reputation goes beyond making your customers happy. Don’t say anything bad about your competition. Competition exists and is part of owning and running a business. Spreading the bad word can come back to bite you and your business. Often, competitors write bad reviews online or spread a bad word about their competition. If they get caught, their reputation is completely finished. Good business practices maintain a certain level of trust, integrity, and honesty that makes customers and clients alike want to do business with your company.

If your business gets caught up in your competition’s drive to sink your business, don’t retaliate. Keep your head high and continue with your goals to make your business the best in your market. Quality, great service, and integrity build a good reputation and no matter how a competitor tries to destroy your reputation. Actions always speak louder than words.

Reputation management services can help with bad online reviews and attacks from your competition. They work mostly online and are limited when it comes to customer satisfaction. Word of mouth always works best in combatting any tactics your competition might do to ruin your reputation.

When you do everything in your power to offer a great product or service, maintain honesty and integrity in all transactions, keep your customers and employees happy, you are building a great reputation no matter what may be against you and your business.