Legal Tips for Testimonials, by Troy Dooly
I love to read great product testimonials and see how independent reps in all companies are helping to change the world with healthy lifestyles.
However, something I am also realizing is that many of these testimonials have not been run through compliance in any way shape or form!!! I would suggest that at the very least, if you are someone who loves to put up before/after pictures, testimonials on health changes of your customers and team, or share other’s testimonials or before/after pictures… And/or income or lifestyle stories that you send to your compliance teams first, or make sure it’s been approved by them already. For income and lifestyle pictures and testimonials use something like the following and link back to your company Income Disclosure Statement.
Also double check and make sure you are not violating any P&P on income and lifestyle claims your company issues. “The lifestyles and income potential seen here are not the achievements of typical representatives. They have been shared to reflect the potential that comes with building your business, and there is no guarantee that you will achieve any specific cash flow level. Most representatives will not achieve the levels illustrated.”
For health related testimonials and before/after pictures you can use something like this. And always link back to your company disclaimer. Always check your company P&P to make sure you are well inside compliance and not violating any policy. “It is important that you understand no claims are made about the products you order form our company. And we cannot suggest the use of any product that will effect a cure or affect a symptom/ailment. Before starting a dietary supplement, it’s always wise to check with a medical doctor. It is especially important for people who are: pregnant or breast feeding, chronically ill, elderly, under 18, taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Certain supplements can boost blood levels of certain drugs to dangerous levels. None of the products or information available to the public is intended to be a treatment protocol for any disease state, but rather is offered to provide information and choices regarding nutritional support for various health concerns. None of the information is intended to be an enticement to purchase and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction. All pictures and testimonials are individual experiences and your results could and probably will vary based on your individual lifestyle, dedication to the end result and most of all your individual DNA.”
Troy’s Disclaimer: I’m not a Legal Eagle”, I just hang out with a boatload of them, and have a driving passion to help entrepreneurs succeed and change the world!