FTC Guidelines for Social Media Influencers
Hi babes,
Welcome back to the blog! Today’s topic isn’t super glamourous, but it’s important if you’re in the social media space and are getting paid by brands.
Today’s topic: FTC GUIDELINES
I feel like we’ve all heard about them, but have you actually taken the time to read them? I recently had a brand question me on how I was disclosing the ad so I wanted to research for myself to make sure I was doing everything right. I think it’s important not to rely on others to tell you what to do, but research for yourself and know that you understand and are disclosing everything properly.
Read the article HERE
DISCLOSURES 101 FOR SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS
What is the FTC?
Federal Trade Commission
Work to stop deceptive ads & stay on the right side of the law
Ftc.gov - Disclosure 101 for social media influencers
What do they say?
When you endorse products on social media, you need to make it obvious when you have a relationship with the brand
“Material connection - to the brand includes a personal, family, or employment relationship or a financial relationship – such as the brand paying you or giving you free or discounted products or services.”
Why they are important?
Keeps your recommendations honest and truthful
People can weigh the value of the endorsement
This is why AUTHENTICITY is so important
Don’t assume people know about your brand relationships
HOW TO PROPERLY DISCLOSE
You have to place it where it’s hard to miss
Can’t mix it in with your hashtag sets
Video - give people enough time to see it (usually 5 sec)
Using simple + clear language - ad, sponsored, partner, (brand)ambassador
“It’s fine (but not necessary) to include a hashtag with the disclosure, such as #ad or #sponsored”
It’s ok to use: .ad, (ad), or other variations not including the hashtag
Do not use: sp, spon, collab, thanks, ambassador
What happens if you don’t follow them?
It is YOUR job to make these disclosures
Brands will put it in their contracts, but it’s usually up to you to have to put the # ad or [ad] on your own because you would be the one getting in trouble for it
Hopefully this helps clear up any confusion and helps you feel more confident when disclosing your paid partnerships and what’s required of you in the eyes of the law. I know when I was questioned, I wasn’t sure, but after my research I know EXACTLY what I need to be doing to stay compliant.
Have an amazing week and, as always, leave any questions in the comments below or dm me on Instagram!
Xx, Allysa
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*source is https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/disclosures-101-social-media-influencers
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