SEPTEMBER 5 • 2024 | 23
When a reviewer is dishonest
or exaggerates the truth, they
violate Jewish ethical principles.
Misrepresenting an experience can
cause undue harm to a business
and its employees. It’s essential to
be truthful and fair in your reviews,
recognizing that your words have
power.
A BALANCED APPROACH
This doesn’t mean that all negative
reviews are unethical. Constructive
criticism can be valuable for busi-
nesses seeking to improve their
services. However, the way in which
this criticism is delivered matters.
Before posting a negative review,
ask yourself whether you’ve given
the business a chance to rectify the
situation. Could the issue have been
a one-time occurrence? Did you
communicate your concerns to the
business before going public with
your dissatisfaction?
By approaching reviews with
empathy and fairness, we can
uphold the Jewish ethical princi-
ples that guide our lives. Behind
every business are people striving
to do their best. Your review should
reflect the whole experience, not
just one aspect that might have fall-
en short.
In the age of digital communi-
cation, the Jewish values of truth-
fulness, fairness and compassion
are more important than ever. As
we navigate the world of online
reviews, let us strive to be mindful
of the impact our words can have
on others. Whether reviewing a
restaurant, a hotel, or a doctor’s
office, let’s commit to being honest,
fair, and giving the benefit of the
doubt whenever possible.
If you feel compelled to leave a
negative review, consider writing
two positive 5-star reviews of other
businesses you frequent.
Also, consider that too often,
online reviews are seen in black and
white. Annoyed customers might
rush to write a 1-star Google review
when they really experienced 3-star
service. Many experiences fall
somewhere between a 1-star rating
and a 5-star rating. Perhaps the
waitress messed up your order, but
overall, you enjoyed a good dining
experience. If you still feel the need
to leave a review, maybe you could
grant them a 4-star review with an
explanation of why it wasn’t a full
5-star experience on that particular
occasion.
Businesses spend money on review
maintenance software and agencies
to handle their online reputation
management. These services help
business owners improve how they
request reviews and respond to nega-
tive ratings. However, the costs spent
on these services are passed along to
the consumer with higher prices.
It’s important to consider the
Jewish ethics of lashon hara and
dan l’kaf z’chut when publishing a
negative review. By doing so, we not
only support ethical business prac-
tices, but also contribute to a more
just and compassionate world —
both online and off.
Rabbi Jason Miller writes the Jews in the
Digital Age column for the Detroit Jewish
News. He is also the president of Access
Technology in West Bloomfield.
Meer Independent Living boasts an expert, on-site dietitian:
Elizabeth Freyre, RD. Join us as she unveils the incredible
health benefits hidden within your food.
Our talented chef will then bring these vibrant colors to life
with a mouth watering dish that you can enjoy. Don’t miss
this opportunity to nourish your body, tantalize your taste
buds, and experience the Jewish Senior Life difference!
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Jewish Senior Life | Meer Apartments
6760 W. Maple Road | West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Seating is limited, call Beth now to reserve your space!
(248) 592-5026 TTY# 711 or info@jslmi.org
Discover The Power of Healthy Food During
Color Me Healthy at Meer Apartments
People of all faiths and beliefs are welcome.
“IT’S ESSENTIAL TO BE TRUTHFUL AND
FAIR IN YOUR REVIEWS, RECOGNIZING
THAT YOUR WORDS HAVE POWER.”
— RABBI JASON MILLER