Every internet reputation expert knows that transparency is a big part of combating online libel. However, it isn’t everything–unfortunately people can still libel you online, regardless of how open and transparent a business is.

And if the big boys working with big budgets and expensive consultants aren’t prepared for organised social attacks, how on earth can SMEs cope? All it takes is a disgruntled ex-employee, a dissatisfied client or a supplier that hasn’t been paid and your reputation – online and off – is in tatters.

The real lesson is that you cannot ignore social media or online criticism. People will find an outlet for their anger and post their negative comments all over Internet. Online reputation, though it is often ignored, is an extremely important thing to developing and established businesses alike.

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