How Fake News Can Affect Your Brand

It may seem like the term “fake news” was invented recently but in fact, it has been around for as long as news has been around. And, it’s not just for politics and celebrities. Fake news can affect your brand no matter what type of business you have.

Unfortunately, you don’t have to do anything wrong for your company to be the target of fake news. The original piece of news may not be fake, but it may have been taken out of context, blown out of proportion, and transformed.

Customers are wary, so building and maintaining your company’s brand credibility can make all the difference. A strong brand can represent a promise to your customers that inspires confidence and loyalty.

While it’s probably not realistic to think you can protect your company’s brand completely from fake news, there are steps you can take to minimize the effect of fake news:

• Regularly search your company’s brand name and your industry on the web and on social media platforms. Set up alerts for online mentions, and report malicious websites to help distance your brand from harmful content.
• Stay away from sensitive topics that can spur a reaction from the public.
• Do your homework. Don’t be tricked by what you think may be a legitimate story. Check in detail the information you receive and share on social media platforms. Consumers will stop purchasing products or services if they think a brand shared fake news with them.
• Be authentic and build a relationship with your followers.
• Don’t try to advertise to everyone. Pick and choose niches that make sense for your company’s brand.

Fake news is a fact of online life. How you prepare for it can keep your brand safe. Do everything in your power to avoid it. Being believable will help you to combat a fake news incident before it even occurs.

Remember, honesty will go a long way in convincing your customers that you’re not what the fake news makes you out to be. If you use this approach, you’ll generate brand loyalty that will protect you from fake news.