How to communicate with companies by legal email marketing ?

Find it difficult to understand the email marketing law? Don't panic! The legal skein is easy to unravel. Follow the guide... using this little legal kit, for risk free communications.

Just remember that when conducting emailing campaigns, several complementary legislations must be observed:

• the rules on the protection of privacy if you are addressing natural persons (see below),
• the rules on advertising by electronic means (see below),
• the "usual" rules concerning public order, good taste, etc.

The legislation is not really complex but one has to be familiar with the mechanisms and be careful depending on the country concerned. Indeed the rules may appear to be similar, since they are based on European directives, but they are not transposed in member states in the same way.

Respect for privacy

Basic rules apply when you create or hire "named" files (peter@..., john@...). The right to privacy and the protection of personal details is protected in all countries and therefore in Belgium and France.
This applies to all natural persons, whether in a private or professional context.
Find out more for France and Belgium.

Approval for receiving publicity by mail

You have files of email addresses? Fine! But you must have the approval of such persons to send them advertising messages, whether by mail, SMS or any other electronic means.
This is governed by a European directive. It has been transposed in member states with sometimes different conditions. What must you remember?

To find out more for:

• France
• Belgium

Transparent advertising

It is up to you to devise and send your messages; just remember of a few health rules of transparency laid down by law:

1. Make your identity clear (don't hide yourself).
2. Be explicit as to the purpose of the message (advertising).
3. Respect the provisions on games and competitions.
4. Allow people to de-subscribe (using a form or an email address at the end of the message).
5. Respect their right to opt-out (be removed from your databases).

What to do with people who de-subscribe?

If a recipient no longer wishes to receive mail, the measures required to comply with the will of this person should be taken within a reasonable period of time. You should also send him confirmation that he has been de-subscribed (by mail or on a specific Web page); above all, don't forget to clean up your databases (create a reject file).

Is all this complicated?

As you can see, communicating legally is not difficult. But note, there may be certain subtleties. Don't hesitate to contact us or refer to the texts mentioned if you have the slightest doubt.
What must you remember concerning the provisions for the addresses of Email-Brokers? They may be used for commercial business-to-business purposes (contact us if you have any doubt as to the legitimacy of your advertising project). We will provide you with specific counts, according to your requirements and wishes.