Why does online reputation management matter for businesses?

Online reputation management (ORM) is essential for businesses in 2025, as it directly influences customer trust, local search rankings on platforms like Google, and overall revenue growth. By proactively monitoring reviews, responding to feedback, and optimizing online profiles, businesses can enhance credibility, improve visibility in local SEO results such as the Local Pack and Google Maps, and drive more conversions amid increasing reliance on digital signals.

Building Credibility and Customer Trust: A robust ORM strategy fosters trust through positive reviews and responsive engagement, with over 90% of consumers more likely to choose businesses with strong ratings, turning potential customers into loyal advocates while mitigating the impact of negative feedback.
Enhancing Local SEO Visibility and Search Rankings: ORM boosts local search performance by prioritizing positive Google reviews and high ratings, which are key ranking factors; businesses with active review management see improved positions in local queries, increasing discoverability and aligning with Google's emphasis on relevance, proximity, and user signals.
Driving Revenue Growth and Conversions: Positive online reputations correlate with higher sales, as a one-star rating increase can yield 5-9% revenue boosts; effective ORM attracts more qualified leads, encourages repeat business, and leverages trust to convert browsers into buyers in competitive local markets.