By Rich Steve Beck
In the highly competitive world of online mixing and mastering studios, negative tactics like trolling and spreading false stories can unfortunately become an all-too-common reality. In this blog, we will discuss effective strategies to handle trolling from competitors, manage mental health issues associated with false stories, and maintain a strong and positive reputation in the industry.
(Photo by Dryhead)
Trolling had a big impact on my mental health a couple of years ago. I didn't really speak to anyone about it after the event but it did lead to me being scared to interact with people from time to time. I'm a stocky 6 foot dude covered in tattoos and my fear got the better of me. Go figure.
My wife supports 100s of women a year through her work, it's critical I support her mental health for her work and her women. I must admit from time to time, I struggled to because I buried my head in the sand and didn't look outward to get help.
Some say "just turn off your computer, it'll all go away". It doesn't. Hopefully this will help other people who have suffered online attacks by fake clients, competitors or just general trolls. Please note on our Facebook community you are surrounded by over 3000 people and if you need to talk please reach out to fellow PMFC community members and it's 100% vital to reach out to your doctor or a mental health expert if you feel things are getting too much and impacting your life and career.
(Photo by Dierk Schaefer)
In the meantime here are some tips I hope will help you like they did for me:
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Recognise and Identify Trolling Being able to recognise and identify trolling is crucial in order to address it effectively. Trolling can take various forms, such as fake negative reviews, defamatory social media posts, or targeted harassment. Stay vigilant and monitor your online presence regularly to identify any unusual or malicious activity.
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Don't Engage with Trolls It's important to remember that trolls are looking for a reaction. By engaging with them, you are inadvertently giving them what they want. Instead, focus on maintaining a professional demeanor and providing value to your clients. Ignore provocations and keep the conversation centered on your business's strengths and the services you provide.
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Report and Document Incidents If you encounter any malicious or damaging content, be sure to report it to the appropriate platform. Additionally, document the incident with screenshots and timestamps to create a record of the trolling. This evidence can be used later if legal action becomes necessary.
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Address False Stories Proactively In the event of false stories or misinformation being spread about your business, it's essential to address them head-on. Be transparent with your audience and provide accurate information to counter the false narrative. Use your social media channels and blog to share your side of the story and showcase your expertise in the industry.
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Develop a Support Network The emotional toll of being trolled can be overwhelming. Establish a support network of friends, family, or colleagues who understand the challenges you face. Surrounding yourself with positive people who genuinely care about your success can help mitigate the negative effects of trolling on your mental health.
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Prioritise Your Mental Health It's essential to prioritise your mental health when dealing with negativity online. Consider seeking professional help if the stress of trolling is affecting your daily life. Develop healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, to help you maintain a balanced state of mind.
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Focus on Delivering Quality Work In the face of adversity, one of the best ways to combat trolls is by continuing to provide exceptional service to your clients. By delivering quality work consistently, you will build a loyal customer base and a solid reputation that speaks for itself.
Trolling and negative tactics on your studio business can be distressing because it feels like you as an individual are being attacked, but by staying focused on your goals, maintaining a professional demeanor, and prioritising your mental health, you can rise above the negativity. Implement these strategies to protect both your business and your well-being, and continue to grow and succeed in the industry.
You've got this and you are NOT alone!
