10 Best Reputation Management Companies Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
With so many different reputation management companies available, figuring out which is right for you is tough. You know you want to monitor and protect your brand reputation online—but need to figure out which service is best. I've got you! In this post I'll help make your choice easy, sharing my personal experiences working with dozens of different reputation management solutions, with my picks of the best reputation management companies overall.
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The Best Reputation Management Companies Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Snoball | From $499/month | Website |
| Birdeye | From $299/month | Website |
| Otter PR | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Better Business Bureau | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Reputation Defender | No price details | Website |
| PissedConsumer | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Percepto | No price details | Website |
| WebiMax | No price details | Website |
| ORANKS INFOTECH | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Rhino Reviews | No price details | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose a Reputation Management Company
With so many different reputation management companies available, it can be challenging to make decisions on what reputation management company is going to be the best fit for your needs.
As you're shortlisting, interviewing, and selecting reputation management companies, consider the following:
- What problem are you trying to solve - Start by identifying the reputation management feature gap you're trying to fill to clarify the features and functionality the reputation management company needs to provide.
- Who will need to use it - To evaluate cost and requirements, consider who'll be using the software and how many licenses you'll need. You'll need to evaluate if it'll just be the marketing team, or the whole organization that will require access. When that's clear, it's worth considering if you're prioritizing ease of use for all, or speed for your marketing software power users.
- What other tools it needs to work with - Clarify what tools you're replacing, what tools are staying, and the tools you'll need to integrate with, such as accounting, CRM or HR software. You'll need to decide if the tools will need to integrate together, or alternatively, if you can replace multiple tools with one consolidated reputation management solution.
- What outcomes are important - Consider the result that the software needs to deliver to be considered a success. Consider what capability you want to gain, or what you want to improve, and how you will be measuring success. For example, an outcome could be the ability to get greater visibility into performance. You could compare reputation management companies features until you’re blue in the face but if you aren’t thinking about the outcomes you want to drive, you could be wasting a lot of valuable time.
- How it would work within your organization - Consider the software selection alongside your workflows and delivery methodology. Evaluate what's working well, and the areas that are causing issues that need to be addressed. Remember every business is different — don’t assume that because a tool is popular that it'll work in your organization.
Best Reputation Management Company Reviews
Here are my picks for the top reputation management companies.
Snoball seeks to redefine word-of-mouth marketing through its tech platform designed to manage referrals, reputation marketing, and reviews.
Why I Picked Snoball: This platform stands out by automating the referral process, seamlessly connecting with CRM systems, and requiring minimal effort from sales teams or representatives. Snoball engages customers across various touchpoints and converts their positive experiences into powerful marketing assets, so you can build your brand with this social proof.
Key Services: Snoball offers tools and automation for referrals, reputation marketing, reviews, video testimonials, and SEO to help boost your visibility in search engines.
Customer Support: While Snoball primarily focuses on the automation of reputation management, the company has a dedicated team for tasks like connecting with customers to capture video testimonials.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request
Hourly Rate: From $499/month
# Of Employees: No limits
Location: Anywhere
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Creates marketing assets automatically
- Detailed reporting
- Automate your referral program
Cons:
- Learning curve for businesses unfamiliar with automation
- May be expensive for small businesses
Birdeye is a comprehensive platform designed to assist local businesses in managing their online reputation and customer engagement. It distinguishes itself as a leading solution for online reputation management by offering a suite of tools that enable businesses to monitor, respond to customer reviews, and leverage AI-powered insights to maintain a favorable online presence across multiple digital platforms.
Why I Picked Birdeye: I picked Birdeye due to its comprehensive suite of services and robust customer support. Birdeye stands out for its AI-powered software that automates the collection of customer reviews across various platforms, facilitating an increase in positive online presence and potentially boosting revenue. Its ability to manage reviews for multiple locations from a single dashboard and integrate reviews on social media and websites simplifies reputation management for businesses with numerous branches.
Key Services: Birdeye offers automated review requests, centralized review management for all locations, and the consolidation of reviews from multiple online platforms. It also enables businesses to share positive reviews on social media and their websites to amplify their reputation.
Customer Support: Birdeye provides 24x7 customer support, ensuring that businesses have access to assistance whenever needed.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 501-1000.
Location: USA, Palo Alto.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Highly awarded and rated
- 24x7 customer support
Cons:
- Relatively complex integration process
- Costly for businesses on a tight budget
Otter PR focuses on public relations, helping businesses get their story out to the world. They cater to various industries and offer services that revolve around getting positive media coverage and managing brand reputation.
Why I Picked Otter PR: I selected Otter PR because of their wide-ranging approach to PR that covers multiple facets of a business's public image. Their method of tailoring PR campaigns to different industries caught my attention. This tailored approach is why I believe they're best for businesses looking for comprehensive PR strategies.
Key Services: Otter PR provides services that range from securing media features in top outlets to managing online reviews. They handle press release writing and distribution and also offer crisis management for companies facing public relations challenges.
Customer Support: Otter PR gives direct access to their team of PR professionals, ensuring timely response and assistance.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 50-100.
Location: USA, Florida.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Experienced team of professionals.
- Industry-specific PR campaigns.
- Wide range of PR services.
Cons:
- They specialize in PR, so other reputation needs might be secondary.
- Not all services might be useful for every business.
- Might be costly for small businesses.
The Better Business Bureau, often referred to as BBB, has been a trusted source for businesses and consumers for over a century. They offer a platform where companies can gain accreditation, signaling trustworthiness and reliability to potential customers.
Why I Picked Better Business Bureau: I chose the Better Business Bureau because of its long-standing history in the reputation management space. This organization has consistently demonstrated its commitment to transparency and trustworthiness, making it an evident choice for the list. Its focus on credibility makes it best for established companies seeking recognition for trust.
Key Services: Better Business Bureau offers a platform where businesses can earn accreditation, signaling trustworthiness to consumers. They provide businesses with a rating based on various factors, including customer feedback. Additionally, they mediate complaints between consumers and businesses, offering a neutral ground for resolving disputes.
Customer Support: The BBB offers support through its local branches, enabling businesses and consumers to get assistance tailored to their region.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 500-1000.
Location: USA, Arlington.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Mediation services for disputes.
- Comprehensive rating system for businesses.
- Established and recognized name in the industry.
Cons:
- The rating system can be misunderstood by consumers.
- May not address all types of business concerns.
- Accreditation requires a fee.
Reputation Defender specializes in helping individuals take control of their online images. From removing negative content to promoting positive results, they aid people in creating a favorable digital presence.
Why I Picked Reputation Defender: I chose Reputation Defender after determining their emphasis on individual reputation management. Their track record of successfully assisting individuals in managing their online footprints makes them stand out. Their strength lies in addressing personal online concerns, which aligns with the need for personal online image control.
Key Services: Reputation Defender offers online reputation management, removal of negative search results, and the promotion of positive content. They also provide personal privacy solutions, ensuring individuals’ sensitive data stays out of the public eye.
Customer Support: Reputation Defender ensures that every client receives one-on-one support, guiding them through the process of reputation management.
Minimum Project Budget: From $3,000.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 100-200.
Location: USA, Redwood City.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers privacy solutions alongside reputation services.
- Proven success in removing negative online content.
- Focuses on individual reputation management.
Cons:
- Depending on the case, results might take time.
- Not ideal for businesses seeking corporate reputation management.
- Might be cost-prohibitive for some individuals.
PissedConsumer is a platform where consumers can voice their concerns and complaints about various companies. It aims to provide a space for open dialogue between consumers and businesses to address issues and find resolutions.
Why I Picked PissedConsumer: I chose PissedConsumer because it effectively bridges the communication gap between unsatisfied customers and companies. Its platform stands out by offering both parties a space to converse openly, making it a vital tool for businesses keen on resolving complaints and enhancing their public image.
Key Services: PissedConsumer offers a platform for consumers to post reviews and complaints. Companies can also join the platform to respond to these reviews, engage with customers, and seek resolutions to issues.
Customer Support: PissedConsumer offers support for both consumers and businesses, guiding them through the process of posting, responding, and resolving complaints.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 10-50.
Location: USA, New York.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enhances brand trust by showing responsiveness.
- Allows companies to respond and engage with customers directly.
- Provides a transparent platform for consumer complaints.
Cons:
- The public nature can amplify negative perceptions if not addressed promptly.
- Some businesses might find it challenging to handle the volume of feedback.
- Being an open platform, it can attract a mix of genuine and not-so-genuine complaints.
Percepto utilizes artificial intelligence to provide businesses with deep insights into their online reputation. Their platform harnesses the power of AI to analyze vast amounts of online data and generate actionable recommendations.
Why I Picked Percepto: I picked Percepto for this list because of their strong emphasis on leveraging cutting-edge AI technology in reputation management. Their unique approach in using AI to sift through data gives a more nuanced and accurate understanding of a brand's online presence. It's this AI-centric focus that makes them an excellent choice for those wanting deeper, data-backed insights.
Key Services: Percepto's platform offers AI-driven sentiment analysis, brand monitoring, competitive benchmarking, and crisis alerts. They ensure that brands stay ahead by providing real-time insights derived from AI analyses.
Customer Support: Percepto provides continuous support to its users, ensuring that they get the most out of the platform and its AI capabilities.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 50-200.
Location: USA, San Francisco.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Focuses on real-time monitoring.
- Comprehensive platform with multiple features.
- Uses AI for more accurate and deeper insights.
Cons:
- Smaller businesses may not fully utilize all features.
- Could be on the pricier side given the advanced tech.
- Might be more technical for those unfamiliar with AI.
WebiMax operates as a digital agency that focuses on bolstering and managing a brand's online presence. Their services span from search engine optimization to public relations, catering to businesses aiming for a comprehensive online strategy.
Why I Picked WebiMax: I selected WebiMax after comparing various digital agencies. In my judgment, their broad spectrum of services and emphasis on tailored strategies set them apart. Their comprehensive approach to online brand management, considering every aspect of a brand's digital footprint, is why I found them to be the best fit for holistic online brand management.
Key Services: WebiMax offers services including SEO, paid search, social media management, and online reputation management. Their team also crafts custom web design and assists businesses in public relations efforts, ensuring that brands shine online.
Customer Support: WebiMax provides dedicated project managers for clients, ensuring direct communication and effective support.
Minimum Project Budget: From $5,000.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 50-100.
Location: USA, Camden.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Experienced team with a history of results.
- A wide array of services under one roof.
- Tailored strategies for each client.
Cons:
- Not suitable for small businesses with limited budgets.
- Potential for longer turnaround times on large projects.
- Some services may be costlier than specialized agencies.
ORANKS INFOTECH is in the business of elevating brands by refining their presence on search engines. Their primary goal is to uplift businesses in search rankings, making them more visible and accessible online.
Why I Picked ORANKS INFOTECH: I selected ORANKS INFOTECH after comparing their methods and results in improving search result standings. Their adeptness in SEO techniques and commitment to consistent results makes them different. Their prowess in enhancing search result positioning is the very reason they lead in this niche.
Key Services: ORANKS INFOTECH provides robust SEO services, including on-page and off-page optimization, keyword research, and backlinking. They blend these strategies to ensure businesses rank higher and are seen by a larger audience.
Customer Support: Clients can count on ORANKS INFOTECH's support team to assist promptly and address any SEO-related queries.
Minimum Project Budget: Pricing upon request.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 20-100.
Location: India, Delhi.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive approach to boosting online visibility.
- Track record of achieving higher search result positions.
- Expertise in both on-page and off-page SEO techniques.
Cons:
- Businesses outside India might face time zone differences.
- Pricing details are not transparent.
- Not a one-stop-shop for broader digital marketing services.
Rhino Reviews assists businesses in collecting and managing reviews. Their system helps companies improve their online reputation by emphasizing authentic positive feedback from customers.
Why I Picked Rhino Reviews: I selected Rhino Reviews after judging their unique approach to capturing genuine reviews. Their platform stands out because it makes the process of collecting positive feedback more efficient. They address the challenge businesses face in garnering positive reviews, making them the go-to for this specific need.
Key Services: Rhino Reviews provides tools for businesses to solicit reviews through multiple channels, including SMS and email. Their platform also filters and showcases the best reviews, ensuring potential customers see the most favorable feedback.
Customer Support: Rhino Reviews offers responsive customer support to aid businesses in maximizing the platform's benefits.
Minimum Project Budget: From $2,500.
Hourly Rate: Pricing upon request.
# Of Employees: 10-50.
Location: USA, Denver.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Showcases the best feedback for potential customers.
- Offers multichannel review collection methods.
- Effective in capturing authentic customer reviews.
Cons:
- Some industries may need customization for best results.
- Does not focus on removing negative online content.
- Might not cater to all business sizes.
Other Reputation Management Companies
Below is a list of additional reputation management companies that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- NewReputation
Best for monitoring and response services.
- Gadook Reputation Management
Best for integrated reputation services.
- Brightfire
Best for tailored digital solutions.
- 33Seconds
Good for digital PR and social expertise
- Adaptify
Good for adaptive digital marketing solutions
- WebPunch
Good for multi-platform review management
- Review Express
Good for streamlined review acquisition
- Review Management
Good for managing negative reviews
- Staello
Good for personalized review strategies
- Reputation X
Good for online reputation repair
Related Marketing Tool Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these tools closely related to digital marketing strategy that we've tested and evaluated.
- Marketing Software
- Marketing Management Software
- Account Based Marketing Software
- Social Media Management Software
- Email Marketing Software
Selection Criteria for Reputation Management Companies
Selecting the right reputation management company involves a careful evaluation of what they offer. Through extensive personal interviews and research, I've developed criteria to guide software buyers towards making an informed decision.
Core Reputation Management Company Functionality: - 25% of total weighting score
The five most important use cases include:
- Continuous online monitoring of brand mentions across various platforms.
- Managing and responding to online reviews and feedback.
- Implementing search engine optimization strategies to promote positive content.
- Crisis management capabilities for quick response to negative publicity.
- Reporting and analytics to track reputation progress and threats.
Additional Standout Features: - 25% of total weighting score
Unique features and functionality that set a company apart from the competition are crucial. These include:
- Advanced AI-driven analysis for predictive insights on potential reputation threats.
- Integration capabilities with social media, CRM, and analytics tools for a holistic approach to reputation management.
- Innovative use of machine learning for identifying patterns in data that could indicate emerging threats.
Usability: - 10% of total weighting score
When evaluating usability, I look for:
- An intuitive interface that simplifies monitoring and managing online reputation tasks.
- Clear, actionable insights presented in a user-friendly dashboard.
Onboarding: - 10% of total weighting score
Effective onboarding is key to realizing value quickly:
- Comprehensive training resources such as videos, webinars, and interactive tours.
- A streamlined setup process that gets businesses up and running with minimal downtime.
Customer Support: - 10% of total weighting score
Exceptional customer support is evaluated based on:
- Availability of 24/7 support through various channels like chat, email, and phone.
- Access to a dedicated account manager for personalized assistance.
Value For Money: - 10% of total weighting score
Assessing value involves comparing:
- Pricing transparency and the range of features offered at different price points.
- Flexibility in pricing plans to accommodate the varying needs of different-sized businesses.
Customer Reviews: - 10% of total weighting score
Customer reviews offer insights into user satisfaction:
- Overall satisfaction ratings and feedback on specific features.
- Testimonials regarding the impact on reputation management and business outcomes.
Choosing a reputation management company requires a balanced assessment of these criteria to find a solution that not only meets the immediate needs but also aligns with long-term strategic goals for brand protection and enhancement.
Trends in Reputation Management Technology for 2024
Here are some trends I’ve noticed for reputation management technology, plus what they might mean for the future of the marketing industry. I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs to tease out the most important insights
- Integration with AI and Machine Learning: There's a clear trend towards the use of AI and machine learning technologies to monitor, analyze, and respond to online mentions more efficiently. These technologies can identify patterns and predict potential issues before they escalate, allowing companies to proactively manage their online reputation.
- Enhanced Social Media Monitoring: Given the pivotal role of social media in shaping brand images, reputation management tools are rapidly evolving to offer more comprehensive monitoring across a wider range of platforms, including emerging social media sites.
- Automated Content Removal and Takedown Requests: Tools are becoming more adept at not only identifying potentially harmful content but also facilitating its removal through automated takedown requests to platforms and web hosts.
- Predictive Reputation Management: Some of the most innovative tools now offer predictive insights, using historical data to forecast potential reputation issues based on current trends.
- Crisis Management Planning: Features that assist in crisis preparation and response, including scenario planning and response templates, are highly valued as businesses seek to minimize potential damage swiftly.
Each trend and feature development points towards a broader need within the industry: to equip businesses with the tools necessary to proactively and effectively manage their online presence in a rapidly changing digital environment.
What are Reputation Management Companies?
Reputation management companies specialize in creating, maintaining, and restoring the online image of individuals, businesses, and organizations. They employ a comprehensive suite of services that include monitoring online mentions, addressing negative reviews and feedback, enhancing positive online content, and implementing strategic measures to improve or maintain the online reputation of their clients.
Utilizing a combination of techniques such as search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, social media management, and strategic public relations, these companies work to ensure that the digital footprint of their clients positively influences public perception, supports their brand values, and mitigates the impact of negative online content.
Function of Reputation Management Companies
The key functions of a reputation management company encompass a broad range of activities aimed at crafting and maintaining a positive public image for individuals, businesses, and organizations online. These functions include:
- Online Monitoring: Continuously scanning the web, social media, and online news outlets to track mentions of the client's brand, enabling quick responses to any negative or false information.
- Content Creation and Promotion: Developing and disseminating positive content across various platforms to enhance the client's online presence and counteract negative narratives.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Applying SEO strategies to improve the visibility of positive content in search engine results, thereby helping to suppress negative content lower in search rankings.
- Social Media Management: Overseeing social media profiles to ensure they reflect the client's desired image, including engaging with the audience and managing any negative interactions.
- Review Management: Monitoring and responding to reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google, and industry-specific sites to maintain a positive public perception.
- Crisis Management: Providing strategic advice and action plans in response to public relations crises or negative publicity to mitigate damage and protect the client's reputation.
- Feedback and Reporting: Offering detailed analytics and reports on the client's online reputation, including changes in public perception and the effectiveness of reputation management strategies.
By performing any or all of these functions, reputation management companies play a critical role in protecting and enhancing the digital footprint of their clients.
Benefits of Reputation Management Company
Reputation management companies offer invaluable services designed to shape, maintain, and recover the online presence and image of brands and businesses. Here are five primary benefits of using reputation management companies:
- Enhanced Online Presence: Boosts visibility and positive representation on the internet. Utilizing reputation management software helps businesses promote positive content and suppress negative mentions, ensuring their best foot is always forward in the digital space.
- Increased Trust and Credibility: Builds consumer confidence in your brand. By managing and improving your online reputation, these services help establish a trustworthy and credible image that attracts and retains customers.
- Crisis Management: Provides tools and strategies to effectively respond to negative publicity. Reputation management companies are equipped to quickly address and mitigate the impact of adverse events, protecting the brand's long-term image and value.
- Improved Customer Insights: Offers valuable feedback through monitoring and analysis of online mentions. This functionality enables businesses to understand customer perceptions, preferences, and pain points, allowing for more targeted and effective marketing strategies.
- Competitive Advantage: Positions your brand ahead of competitors in the digital realm. By maintaining a positive online reputation, businesses can differentiate themselves, attracting more customers and opportunities compared to competitors with less managed online presences.
Choosing the right reputation management company can significantly impact your brand's online perception, directly influencing customer trust, loyalty, and ultimately, your bottom line.
Cost & Pricing for Reputation Management Companies
Reputation management companies typically offer a range of services tailored to meet different needs, from basic monitoring to comprehensive management and crisis response strategies. Below is an overview of the common plan options, including an estimated pricing range and the features each plan typically includes.
Plan Comparison Table for Reputation Management Companies
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $200 - $800/month | - Basic online monitoring - Limited alerts - Monthly reports |
| Standard | $800 - $2,000/month | - Comprehensive monitoring - Email and SMS alerts - Enhanced reporting - Basic crisis management support |
| Premium | $2,000 - $10,000/month | - All Standard features - Dedicated account manager - Customized crisis management plans - Proactive reputation building strategies |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | - All Premium features - Bespoke solutions tailored to specific business needs - Advanced analytics and reporting - 24/7 support |
| Free Option | $0 | - Basic online presence monitoring - Manual alerts - Access to community forums for support |
When selecting a plan, consider the scale of your online presence, the level of support and customization you require, and your budget. It's crucial to balance the cost against the potential value and impact effective reputation management can have on your brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few questions people commonly ask, all of which I wanted to cover here for your convenience.
What are the typical pricing models for these services?
There are several common pricing models:
- Monthly Retainers: Fixed monthly fees for ongoing services.
- Project-Based: One-time fee for a specific project or campaign.
- Hourly Rates: Charges based on the hours of work required.
What's the typical price range for reputation management services?
Prices can range anywhere from $500 for basic services to over $20,000 for comprehensive, enterprise-level solutions. The cost often depends on the company’s reputation size, industry, and the challenges involved.
Which are the most expensive reputation management services?
Enterprise-level solutions or services that involve legal interventions, complex SEO strategies, or global brand management typically come at a higher cost.
Are there any cheaper options?
Yes, some companies offer basic monitoring or alert services at a lower cost, suitable for small businesses or individuals. There are also software platforms that provide DIY tools for reputation management.
Are there any free reputation management tools or services?
While there aren’t many entirely free tools, some platforms offer freemium versions or trials. These can help with basic monitoring but might lack advanced features or comprehensive strategies.
Why is there such a significant variation in pricing among different companies?
The price variation is due to the difference in services offered, company expertise, tools used, and the depth of strategies implemented. It’s essential to align the cost with your specific needs and expected outcomes.
Additional Service Reviews
Here are some other agencies, services, and companies that I have already reviewed and compared in the marketing technology space. Check them out!
Conclusion
Choosing the right reputation management company can significantly influence your brand's online image. By understanding the benefits of such services, from enhanced brand image to increased revenue, you can appreciate the value they bring. Pricing plays a pivotal role in decision-making, and understanding the various models—whether monthly retainers, project-based, or hourly rates—helps in making an informed choice.
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