Marketing campaigns should not just be all about creativity. One of the most important things that you should not ignore is compliance. There should be a balance between creativity and compliance, especially in regulated industries. This will protect consumers, making sure that they are not lied to. It is also an important component of the ethical framework of the business. Read on and we’ll talk about some of the best ways to ensure marketing compliance.
- Start with Training
One of the most important is proper training, especially for marketing professionals. Equip your workforce with the right knowledge on how to comply with existing laws and regulations that affect marketing strategies. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse to commit compliance mistakes, so make sure that your workforce is properly trained. If you need help executing an effective online compliance training program, make sure to check out True Office Learning.
- Provide a Clear Way to Opt-Out
This is one of the most important compliance requirements in email marketing. The marketing email should contain an opt-out link. When customers click the link, this will take them to a webpage where they can submit an opt-out request. Often, they will also be asked for the reason why they are opting out. In some cases, there are also options to set preferences on the type of emails they want and the frequency.
- Monitor What Others Are Doing
Especially if your business is based in the United States, the CAN-SPAM Act requires businesses to closely monitor what third-party companies are doing on their behalf. You cannot escape from your legal responsibility even if your marketing is being handled by another company. This makes it important to work only with reputable marketing partners.
- Stay Up to Date
Compliance requirements are ever-changing. The business is responsible for being updated on the latest marketing compliance requirements. You should know the changes and implement them as soon as possible to avoid being legally liable.
- Ask for Permission
Before sending any marketing material, seek permission from the other party. For instance, collect their email address and phone numbers while stating that they can be used for marketing purposes. This way, the customers are giving their consent.
- Think Like a Consumer
At the end of the day, this is perhaps the best thing that you can do. Compliance in marketing exists to protect customers. So, it will be best to look at your marketing strategy from the perspective of the consumer. Is it too obtrusive? Is it unethical? Is it making false claims? The answers to these questions will help you prevent compliance problems.
From providing compliance training with the help of companies like True Office Learning to adopting the mindset of a consumer, the things mentioned above can help ensure marketing compliance. Doing these things will lessen the chances that you will be breaking any law as you try to promote your business.
