There is one variable in reputation management that never fails to be mentioned, regardless of what issue, campaign, or company is being discussed. Timing. How quickly can they get it done? How quickly does the client need their damaged reputation repaired? Etc.

Now – you cannot delay in responding to comments or issues that concern your business. Timeliness is critical. This is true for both publicly posted and private comments (which can easily become public-Wikileaks, anyone?). If the comments are negative, you have an opportunity to immediately address and resolve the issue.

Reputation management is, now more than ever, expected to be more responsive. Clients expect that their reputations can be repaired much more quickly than “a few months”.