Networking News
by Karen Frank
Volume 50
January 21, 2010
Greetings!


I intend to keep this brief - to 2 quick notes - one of which is VERY important to your marketing and Headshotnetworking.

What you don't know will hurt you as far as the new FTC guidelines are concerned - specifically affecting how you use testimonials in your marketing.

I still believe a good testimonial is marketing gold, but you need to be aware of this change (outlined as briefly as possible in the article below).

There's news about the 7 Deadly Sins of Networking as well, so if you are in the middle of that course, OR if you would like to see it again, in an easy to read short pdf document, see the sidebar for more information or click here to download it in its new format.

Until February, here's to your success!

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In This Issue
Use of Testimonials and Affiliate Links 3 Things You Need to Know
Karen Recommends - Resources You Can Use
7 Sins is Still Complimentary - New Format
The FTC and Use of Testimonials and Affiliate Links - 3 Things You Need to Know
networkingnicheoverby Karen Frank, Networking Expert



As of December 1, 2009 the world of marketing got a wake-up call.  The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) made it clear that "good intentions" and "not knowing the rules" is most definitely NOT going to fly and they are out to find you.  Here's a brief overview of what you need to be aware of:


Note: I am NOT an attorney and this is NOT intended to be legal advice. I am working on getting an attorney to write something for you. Meanwhile here we go:


1 Use of Testimonials - "My result's aren't typical, but for me they're fantastic."


You may have seen this recently on TV. The bottom line is that saying "results not typical" is no longer enough.  If you are using results based testimonials you must describe what the average results are.  This doesn't mean you have to ditch your testimonials - even the ones where the results are extraordinary. You do need to edit them to omit the results OR prominently display what the average results are.


2. Testimonials must be current.


You must use current testimonials and - here's the kicker - you must check in with the person giving the testimonial periodically to make sure they feel the same way they did when they gave the testimonial!  Yup. you read that right. So if someone used your products or services and loved them and took the time to write an amazing testimonial - and then changed their mind later - you need to take down the testimonial.


3. Affiliate relationships must be clearly indicated and your affiliate (as well as those who are your affiliates) must comply by the guidelines. If they don't YOU can get in trouble whether you know they have violated them or not.


Yikes.  So if you're offering affiliate commissions you must have a system in place to make sure your affiliates are complying with the rules. If you are getting an affiliate commission, you have to make sure a "reasonable person" would understand you are getting paid for the endorsement.


So what do you do?


1. Check your testimonials.  Whether they are online or in print, make sure yours comply with items 1 and 2 above.


2. Make sure it's really easy to tell that you have a financial relationship if you are promoting something and getting paid to do so.


Bottom line - These guidelines and their enforcement are really new. Until they play out in reality (read the courts) it's best to be safe rather than sorry.


Oh, and what's the penalty if you don't comply? $16,000 per incident.


- ouch!..


Until I can get an actual attorney to write an article - be careful out there!


Karen


Note: Please do not use this article in your newsletter without contacting me first. You can email me or call me at 925-279-1004

Thanks.
Karen Recommends 
Resources You Can Use

Here's a resource that's a resource! Diane Fleck of The Learning Cafe is working on lots of new products and programs for entrepreneurs just like you. Click here to learn more.


Nobody wants to think about it, but we all need a good attorney.  Meet Dava Casoni, the Entrepreneur's Attorney.  I've had the pleasure of working with her myself and to quote what I said to her - "I usually don't like attorneys.  You I like!!  She's UBER experienced and won't give you sticker shock to learn more click here:


Ever wonder about your life's purpose? What if you could meet someone who could help you figure that out, just by looking at your hands? Click Here (paid affiliate link) to learn how what is in your hands can affect your success in business!


Your mind is a terrible thing - until You've Experienced the Reality of David Neagle,

Click the Image Below (paid affiliate link) to Access his 4 part Home Study Course, The Art of Success at not cost!

 

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7 Sins is Still Complimentary - New Format

sevensinsThe Seven Deadly Sins of Networking is no longer being delivered to in-boxes everywhere. It is now available as a convenient pdf document.

If you are in the middle of the course OR you would just like to see it again in it's new format, please click here to access your download.

You will also have access to the audio recording and workbook "Effective Networking Made Easy" which is offered as a bonus when you register to receive the 7 Deadly Sins of Networking.

Enjoy!