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How to respond to a negative review

A calm, four-step reply structure that protects your reputation and often wins the customer back.

Reply quickly and publicly

Future customers read your reply more carefully than the complaint. A prompt, professional response signals how you handle problems.

Four parts to a good reply

Thank them for the feedback. Acknowledge the specific issue without arguing. Explain briefly what you're doing about it. Invite them to contact you directly to put it right.

Keep it short, never share private details, and don't repeat the accusation in your own words.

Balance is the real fix

One critical review among many recent positive ones reads as normal. The most effective long-term answer to a bad review is a steady flow of honest new ones.

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