Introduction
Businesses can communicate their data policies to customers as much as they want, but do customers always listen? No. How often have you clicked agree to the terms and conditions of any business or website? Over 90% of us do it - you wouldn't be alone.
The consequences? You could allow brands to effectively do what they want with your data. Still, they must effectively communicate their policies. Read on to learn how they can do it.
Crafting Understandable Policies
How many times have you attempted to read the terms and conditions and given up because they were too long? You also wouldn't be alone. So, if businesses actually want their customers to read their data policies, they should make them understandable. Instead of pages long, simple bullet points that are easy to digest. The bullet points should still include everything, like what data they'll take, how they'll use it, and pointing out the option to opt-out.
And that means drafting policies in plain language that avoids legal jargon and complex technical terms that can confuse customers. Each policy should be concise yet detailed enough to cover all aspects of data usage.
Brands can also summarize the main points at the beginning of the document to help readers grasp the essentials without going deep into the full text.
Utilizing Multiple Communication Channels
Effective communication about data policies isn't just about the content of the messages. It's about how they're delivered. Brands should use multiple communication channels to ensure their data policies reach as many people as possible.
This approach includes traditional methods like emails and digital strategies like pop-up notifications in apps, dedicated sections on websites, and updates through social media platforms. We're living in an era where consumers demand multiple communication channels, so why not make it the same for communicating data policies to consumers?
The goal is to meet customers where they are, providing them with easy access to information in a way that's most convenient and effective. Right now, that's channels like social media.
It's also beneficial to regularly update these communications to reflect any changes in policies or practices. Brands should always ensure consumers have the latest information.
Engaging Through Interactivity
Interactivity makes static data so much more interesting, but you don't really see this happen. It can turn data policy communications into dynamic engagements, encouraging customer participation and understanding.
Businesses could make interactive FAQs allowing users to click through to the topics they are most interested in. Or, they can use short, engaging videos to explain the main points of their data policies. Studies proved that people retain 95% of information from a video compared to 10% from text. But we also know that it's rare to see a video explaining data policies. Maybe it's the future.
These interactive elements make the learning process more engaging and reinforce the business's commitment to transparency and customer empowerment in data privacy matters.
Clear communication of data policies isn't just a regulatory requirement. It's a fundamental component of building trust with customers. And, as you can see, there are tons of things brands can do to make consumers' lives easier. Or should we say, ensure they read what they should be reading? This approach educates customers about how their information is used and empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their data.