How to handle negative comments

So you’re posting along, playing nice and minding your own business… then WHAM! A negative comment for all to see on your Facebook Page. Your heart sinks. 😧 You’re in no mood for any type of confrontation but you can’t leave this comment unanswered.  

As a person who is manages social media accounts, I’ve had this happen. My range of emotions go from “I hate my job” to “What the heck happened?” to “How can I help this person?”. Not gonna lie… dealing with negative comments or reviews sucks. But when you really think of it, they are all opportunities.

You’re thinking “Maria, have another glass of wine!”, but hear me out first. If someone took the time to write you their honest opinion, they care about the subject. They have a problem that they want resolved and they are giving you the opportunity to correct it. Yes, it’s on social media for everyone to see the negative post but this is where you can turn it around, it’s your chance to show:

1. You’re listening.
2. You want to fix things.
3. You care about the customer and your product.
4. You’re courteous and respectful.

Most followers will come to your defence or quietly make their own opinion about the negative reviewer, something along the lines of “they must be having a bad day”.

Having a negative comment that you allow to go unanswered is like saying, “we don’t have time for you”.

There are many ways to address negative comments and reviews. There is no one perfect recipe. But it’s not the end of the world.

Sociable!

Sociable Media is a digital marketing consultancy that works with businesses in making their online presence more effective. From start-up, coaching and training, digital strategy development to social media account management – we provide support and take away the overwhelm.😧