This is a feature from the ASA (Advertising Standards Authority) that every blogger and PR – and social media agency – should read, spelling out very clearly where the responsibility lies with posts that are paid for but not declared. Interestingly, the brand ends up in more hot water than the blogger does, although the blogger would certainly be named. Hopefully, this gives bloggers a leg to stand on when they’re being asked to accept money but not mention that the post is sponsored. And of course, if there are any bloggers and Tweeters that think it isn’t important to declare and that it won’t matter, it seems clear from the statement that others think differently and pretty much have a hot-line to the ASA reporting bloggers for non-disclosure. Eek. So, if you haven’t done your disclosures, now is very much the time! The feature on their site is HERE.
I’ve been emailed several times about an SMA that is ‘unable to offer a sponsored post, but would like to send £30 as a gift.” This is still a sponsored post! #justsayin
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All products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.
6 comments
Thanks for this, this will definitely come in handy in the future. It’s always good to know what the rules are on specific things especially when it comes to blogging.
Great post and hopefully more people will be made aware. It amazes me how many well known bloggers and youtubers don’t disclose when they’re being sponsored :/ x
It’s a about bloody time the ASA spoke up about this – it’s not fair on the reader, who relies on the word of bloggers when it comes to product reviews.
Thank you. I will book mark this. I a probably being approached once a week now by a brand or agency wanting a sponsored post, but who don’t want me to declare it as such. I decline of course but often get a response like “well no other blogger has mentioned this!” like I’m making it up. Now I can point them directly to this link. Thank you!
Thanks that’s very helpful.
At least 50% of the books I’ve read this year (somewhere between 50 and 60) will have been given to me by either the author or the publisher in exchange for a review. I dont charge, and they dont pay – I get a book to read, they get a review and some social media exposure – but I ALWAYS state that I was given it for free (it also gives the publisher/author some positive exposure).
Glad though that the ASA has put their mind to this though. Think there is something similar in the US too? If you have international readers, might be worth following up on that one as well?