Sadly, in the time of COVID, sketchy practices that have long been business as usual have become even more prevalent just as so many more people turned online for help.
What am I talking about?
Here are two blog posts by Maggie Patterson that will give you some idea: Are online businesses like cults? and Bro marketing is problematic.
Marketing and mental health
As a social worker psychotherapist, mental health is always my lens, and I apply a systemic view to my work with clients. This is no less the case when it comes to my marketing and business practices.
Sales tactics such as charm pricing, countdowns, false scarcity, and bait and switch exploit weaknesses in human psychology and impact mental health. They also perpetuate a system of business practices that cause harm.
While my capacity to practice as a social worker psychotherapist, the code of professional ethics to which I am bound to adhere to ethical standards around sales and marketing practices so that my clients or prospective clients are protected.
I have a concern, beyond my professional code of ethics, for social justice and, while I engage in commerce, I want my business practices to challenge the exploitative and extractive nature of the consumerist and capitalist overculture in which we live.
My ethical move
Therefore, I have pledged to the ethical move in service of marketing based on transparency, responsibility, and honesty.
My ethical marketing pledge
I put the person before the sale.
I respect you and your privacy. I will help you make the best choice for your needs, not mine.
I communicate inclusively, truthfully, and clearly.
I will not confuse you or hide information from you. I will do what is within my capacity to help all audiences feel welcome.
I take responsibility for my part in changing the marketplace.
I recognize the need to break the cycle of consumerism. I will continuously review my sales and marketing to ensure they benefit the common good.
Please connect with me if you see me not honouring my pledge.
