I received an e-mail from another marketer today about Google Alerts. It was John Ritskowitz talking about how this tool alerted him to the fact that some one was making fun of a person with a similar name. It was all a joke and something to laugh about, no big deal.

It did get me to thinking though. I use Google Alerts to show me when my name comes up, pretty much any where on the internet. For a marketer this is a must have tool, for several reasons.

First and foremost you need to know when folks are talking down your product or service, for what ever reason. Many times you can rescue your good name and spin the bad away. If done right you could come out the hero and gather yourself some new fans, buying fans.

For most of us, when some one doesn’t speak up for themselves, it often looks like guilt by omission. Then again, if you do not know about a “situation”, it’s tough to fan the flames.

I don’t mean to say it’s all negative news. Some one might be recommending you or your service or product. You could thank them or show up in person and possibly make some sales or positive contacts.

The nets a big place, you sure can’t be everywhere all the time. Let Alerts do the work for you. Granted you’ll probably get alerts for some one else with your same name, I get them at least every other day, but it’s a start. Beware, some one might call you a loser :)

Maybe John will see this?



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