Yeah, like there needs to be one more thing to be concerned about. Now granted, I do not think this will be a huge issue, but nonetheless, one of which you should be aware of. The FTC is increasing its oversight of online reviews. Sigh.
Online reviews are a double-edged sword. Good ones can now reach thousands of people. And so can bad ones! And as we know, word-of-mouth reviews has always been (and always will be) the most powerful review of all. So, it is imperative that you respond to all of the reviews; and perhaps even more important to respond to the negative ones with a positive solution to the issue.
And here is where the FTC comes into play. As technology advances, it becomes easier to suppress bad reviews and pad your profile with good ones. It can even be accomplished without technology and the FTC is calling for transparency in online reviews.
How to stay in the good graces of the Feds?
- Never misrepresent your reviews
- Never ask friends, family, contractors, or employees to write reviews
- Develop a process to verify legitimate reviews and treat them all equally
- When in doubt, check with your attorney or the FTC
Currently, the FTC is actively searching for deceptive and unfair reviews, and they are warning companies of future penalties for disregarding their guidelines.
Check out the guidelines here!
