Turn Negative Reviews into Reputation Wins

✍️ By Debbie Balfour | WBN News |August 2, 2025 | Click HERE for your FREE Subscription to WBN News and/or to be a Contributor.

A single online review can sink your reputation if you don’t manage it wisely, but if handled correctly, it can become an opportunity.
Negative reviews are inevitable, but how you respond makes all the difference. With the right legal and strategic approach, you can address concerns without crossing dangerous lines.

🎥 Watch this video first:

Your Step-by-Step Legal Guide:

1. Respond Quickly and Professionally

Acknowledge the complaint empathetically, offer to fix the issue and invite them to continue the conversation privately. Public responses show transparency without admitting liability.

2. Investigate Internally

Check records, speak to involved staff, and seek context before crafting your public response.

3. Know When to Speak Up Legally

If a review contains false claims or defamation—like unverified statements—it may need a stronger response, such as a cease‑and‑desist or demand letter—but only with legal advice.

4. Flag or Request Removal

Platforms typically allow you to flag a review if it violates terms (e.g., hate speech, libel). Use this for genuinely harmful content, not just bad feedback.

5. Train Your Team

Ensure staff understand how to respond consistently and avoid posting fake or incentivized reviews. In Canada, even internal fake reviews may violate competition laws.

6. Build a Reputation Plan

Encourage satisfied customers to leave honest reviews and engage positively to offset the negative ones. Over time, genuine feedback strengthens credibility.

Handled properly, online criticism doesn’t have to harm; it can highlight your customer-care values.

Have questions or are not sure where to start? I’m here to help, reach out anytime.

Debbie Balfour | Real Estate Investing Success Coach + Podcast Host
📍 Website: https://dbalfour.legalshieldassociate.com/en-ca
📧 Email: Debbie@DebbieBalfour.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Debbie Balfour
▶️ YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@DebbieBalfour

TAGS: #Online Reputation #Business Legal Tips #Handle Negative Reviews #Defamation Protection #Canadian Business Law #Entrepreneur Advice #WBN TV #WBN News Global #WBN News Langley #WBN News Abbotsford #WBN News Okanagan #Debbie Balfour