Why Google Is No Longer Just A Search Engine—It Is A Reputation Management System

I have been saying for years that Google is no longer simply a search engine, it is a reputation management system.

Don’t believe it?

Just try “Googling” American Airlines and then add the word “sucks.”

If you are really courageous, google your business name or brand and the word sucks.

And if you really feel brave, google your own name and the word sucks.

I just did it. And the results do not shock me. Over the years, I have  been very intentional about the online management of my reputation.

Surprised? Don’t be.

There is a conversation going on about you online this very second.

Who is leading the conversation?

Here are a few important facts to know about your online reputation and Google.

Fact: Google controls the lions share of online search. Most people agree they control over 65%, some say considerably more.

Fact: You can’t get rid of negative results, so, it behooves you to overwhelm it with good stuff.

Fact: Google loves links, and bloggers are promiscuous linkers, therefore Google loves blogs. The days of a static website are over—at least for any savvy citizen of the world.

Fact: Incoming links to your site are power. With enough incoming links, you can rule the world—well, at least YOUR world.

Fact: Good SEO (Search Engine Optimization) practices are more important than millions spent in advertising.

Fact: One negative post from a seemingly inconsequential blogger can ruin a fifty year sterling reputation. Don’t believe me? Just “Google” J L Kirk Associates.

Question: How do you feel about the conversation going on about you online?

8 responses to “Why Google Is No Longer Just A Search Engine—It Is A Reputation Management System”

  1. Phyllis Nichols Avatar

    Randy,
    So many business owners just don’t get this part.

    Fact: Google loves links, and bloggers are promiscuous linkers, therefore Google loves blogs. The days of a static website are over—at least for any savvy citizen of the world.

    This is a great way to demonstrate the power of interacting (two way communication) vs. broadcasting.
    I think it’s time for an “online listening” skills couse for biz owners!

  2. Jeff Avatar
    Jeff

    An examination of the J. L. Kirk story should lead one to believe that one’s response to criticism holds far more weight than the criticism alone.

    1. randyelrod Avatar

      Thanks, Jeff. Yes, it certainly does. It reminds me of the RIAA and the public during the downloading debacle.

  3. Vince Avatar

    Eric Schmidt from Google said that more content is created in 48 hours currently than what was created for the entire history of many up until 2003.

    People are talking about you…are you in the conversation?

    1. Vince Avatar

      err…’history of man’

    2. randyelrod Avatar

      That is mind-googling, er, I mean, boogling!!!!! thanks, Vince for joining the conversation!

  4. David Santistevan Avatar

    I think everyone will have their critics, otherwise you may not be saying something worth listening to. I just hope the positive always far outweighs the negative. Raving online fans are so great, aren’t they? Thanks Randy.

    1. randyelrod Avatar

      Yes, they are, indeed! Thanks, David for joining the conversation!