User Generated Content For Better or For Worse

User generated content (UGC) is great for businesses to build rapport with customers. One social media platform that comes to mind is Yelp, which is great for reviewing UGC for restaurants. Consumers can share thoughts, experiences, and pictures with other consumers, to give a better depiction of the restaurant. While a name is everything, a business no longer has to be judged by their name or storefront.

The downside of UGC is that businesses have no control over it. Businesses must always be on point for fear of a bad review, not that they shouldn't be to begin with. However, sometimes UGC goes beyond experience or food quality. When dealing with people it's important to remember everyone has emotions, personal preferences, and expectations. Sometimes, people let those three things interfere with really giving an honest review, and this is where the negative side of UGC comes into play for businesses.

Has UGC affected your business positively or negatively? Feel free to sound off in the comment box below!