The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has finally issued a round of content aimed at clarifying its disclosure policies related to those with online audiences. The new brochure “Disclosures 101 for Social Media Influencers” and its accompanying videos and examples goes deeper than the regulatory body has ever gone and both simplifies and hardens the obligation.
The simplification is in the language and direction: Be obvious and be honest. The hardening is also in that – You can’t hide your disclosure in a sea of hashtags or at the end and you can’t just endorse or recommend something you haven’t used.
In my opinion, this is welcome and good for both influencers and brands, but more importantly also for consumers. The FTC is simply saying transparency is not just required, it’s important. That’s good for consumers.
For some specific changes that we all need to pay attention to — whether you are an influencer or a brand using them — check out my thoughts in your Friday Food-for-Thought episode of the podcast:
Here are some links you’ll find helpful:
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Next week, Eric Miltsch, the founder and director of marketing for Dealer Teamwork will join me. They specialize in digital marketing solution for the automotive industry. They’ve got a lot of expertise to share with us, so we’ll get our learn on! Join us for the live recording on LinkedIn Live at 8 a.m. ET/5 a.m. PT. Follow me there to get the handy, “he’s live” notifications. Or be sure to get the podcast recording on the show’s feed.
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