Good Will Towards All: Hating Stuff Without Being a Jerk

Today’s consumers are armed with online reviews as they make purchasing decisions. Increasingly, when we make a purchase we submit our own two cents, sharing what we’ve learned with other potential buyers. But if the product or service failed us, do we blast the company? In these cases we need to remember the spirit of the holiday season and use a little good will when we write a negative review.

Here are five ways to land a punch with manners:

1. Keep your review relevant.

No matter the situation or experience, first and foremost always remember who you’re writing for: other buyers. Keep your review relevant. If your soul needs healing and writing it is the only answer, then invest in a journal. But for product and business reviews, stick to the facts. Give the who-what-when-where and how along with your experience.

2. Create a drama safe-zone.


“The chef is a pretentious jerk” doesn’t explain how the oxtail pasta actually tasted. Think about the specifics and address the root of the issue. Throwing out too many exclamation points (more than one) and all caps is a red flag for emotion overload. Readers will keep scrolling.

3. Consider the Impact.

Yes, there are times when there’s no excuse for bad service. An air-conditioning technician says you need a whole new system when only one small part was required. You should be upset. But before lighting up a review site for the small mom-and-pop business, call them first and ask some questions. Do they have an explanation? Everyone has bad days, and some places have bad employees. Do a little homework before torching a place.

4. Offer second chances.

Consider going back for another look, particularly for newly opened restaurants. It takes time for some places to find their legs. Most restaurant critics never visit a new place until it’s been open at least a month, and they always go back for two or three visits.

5. Never name names.


Lastly, remember everyone has a mom. Maybe even a kid. No matter the situation, stick to ambiguous titles. If this is so personal that you’re beyond that, then you may need to write your lawyer, not a review.

Negative reviews have their place, just as much as the good ones do. But, make mom proud and practice good manners – even after the holidays.

via Business 2 Community http://www.business2community.com/online-marketing/good-will-towards-hating-stuff-without-jerk-0728046?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=good-will-towards-hating-stuff-without-jerk