A sound follower base is a prerequisite for the survival of a brand micro-blog. Thus, determining how to enhance followers' continuance intentions to follow is critical. We integrated the value-based adoption mode and social identity theory to test a conceptual model. The proposed model identified three sets of blog utilities (information, social, and service) affecting followers' continuance intention through perceived value and brand micro-blog identification. Using a Chinese sample drawn from the Sina micro-blog, we sought to clarify why followers continue to follow a brand micro-blog. The concluding section discusses our findings in terms of implications for theory and practice.

Negative online reviews are a ubiquitous problem that affects every online seller at some point. It can lead to prospective consumers’ distrust and decrease future purchase intention. Therefore, formulating a proper response is essential for minimizing these negative effects. Based on the ability–motivation paradigm and stability attribution, we find that apology works better when the alleged cause is relatively unstable (e.g., competence-based negative review) and when the seller has a high ability to change. However, when the alleged cause is relatively stable (e.g., integrity-based negative review) or when the seller has a low ability to change, we show that it is better for the seller to defend its reputation. In addition, we demonstrate that a remedial action plan in the seller's response can reinforce the motivation to change communicated through apology. Thus, coupled with a remedial action plan, apology works better than defending one's reputation, regardless of the negative online review type.

No abstract