I'm always trying to stay up-to-date on laws that may have an impact in my line of business, whether it's banking, marketing or my website.

For the past several months I've been contemplating the pro's and con's of adding testimonials.

Because internet laws are in their infancy, the FTC has kept a watchful eye on internet business (consumer protection), testimonials on your website fall under the FTC.

How are FTC laws going to affect your business/website?

I've decided that I won't include testimonials on my website. There are pro's and con's with this type of advertising/marketing.

My major reasoning, I don't need the FTC contacting clients who have given me permission to add a testimonial to my website. I firmly believe in confidentiality in all my client/business relationships. The only way the FTC can determine that you're not engaging in 'deceptive trade practice' is by contacting the very person who gave you permission to place the testimonial on your website in the first place.

If for some reason the client cannot be contacted to confirm the legitimacy of the testimonial, are you prepared to face the consequences?

How you provide testimonials on your website should be reviewed carefully.

I would like to share the following links with my fellow VAF colleagues and possibly get your input.

I believe with all of the other important information out there concerning Business Planning, this information should be considered when it comes to business websites.

FTC: Testimonials, Federal Trade Commission and your website.

FTC

At the bottom you may enjoy reading the 'special report'.

For the actual FTC guide FTC GUIDES CONCERNING USE OF ENDORSEMENTS AND TESTIMONIALS IN ADVERTISING

I will definitely be reading this. I don't have any testimonials on my site at this time as I haven't completed it yet. But I will be sure to consideration this information when making my decision.

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Cathryn Branch, MPA 'We will either find a way, or make one.' Hannibal

Interesting point, and one I had not really ever considered. I'll definitely be reading this to ensure I'm in compliance. Thank you so much for taking the time to share this important info with us!

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I have a dedicated page just for my testimonials...so I will be reading this for sure!!! Thanks Tammy!

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Kathy
www.theofficevirtuoso.com

I have testimonials that I request from clients and also ask their permission to post with company and website. I read the new rules documents and I am okay.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant

I'm pleased that I can give back to such a wonderful community of colleagues (VAF)!

Thanks Tammy,

I don't have testimonials on my site but have done so for clients. I need to read this twice, first time confused me a bit but I believe I or rather my clients are compliant.

Cheers!!

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Bernice
Energy Virtual Assistant