Are your marketing and business social media activities compliant with current legislation? This was the question Elizabeth York, of Porter Dodson, Solicitors and Advisors, posed in an informative and interesting presentation to the Wellington Business Association. In a previous job Elizabeth was responsible for data held on millions of Tesco Club Card members.
The talk covered a range of topics of interest to members and the wider business community. For example:
- Business websites. Does your website contain a clear statement of terms of use and a privacy policy? Are your e-commerce terms and conditions of supply easily available?
- Data protection rules. If your business handles personal data associated with employees and customers, you need to be registered with the Information Commissioner.
- Social media. How are you managing this activity to avoid misuse? Any misuse carries a high risk of negatively affecting one’s brand reputation, as well as potential litigation.
- Email marketing. Have all the people in your database opted in to receive communications? Is there a clear facility for recipients to easily ‘unsubscribe’ from the mailings?
We are all now looking at our own marketing activities to ensure we are legal and honest!
The meeting also involved discussion on a range of topics affecting businesses in the town, including the “Free after Three” parking trial in August and September; the potential for a regular street market; and preliminary planning for a future “Make it your Business” event.
The next meeting is in September, when members will visit the K S Coles vegetable packaging and supply business at Chelston. In October we have our AGM, at this meeting a speaker from Taunton Deane Borough Council will offer information and answer questions on Business Rates. Further details will be available on the WBA website or telephone 01823 673245.