Business Review

If your business has an online store, you likely have a privacy policy in place informing customers of the sensitive data you’re collecting. But the only thing more important than having a privacy policy is keeping it updated. So how can you be sure to make necessary changes and avoid opening yourself up to a liability?

Below, five experienced chief legal officers and law firm partners from Forbes Legal Council discuss the most important things to keep in mind when updating your company’s privacy policy.

1. Keep It Simple 

Remember, in most cases, your customers are likely scanning your legal and/or privacy policies. Your policies should be clearly written and unambiguous. Don’t attempt to “hide” clauses that could injure your relationship with your customer. If you need to make a major change to your policy, do so, but clearly inform your customers and be prepared to answer any questions they have. – Jeff Coppaken, The Coppaken Law Firm 

2. Remember Your Employees 

Sometimes, businesses will conduct a big campaign to keep customers informed but forget to update their employees. To avoid an embarrassing situation or customer service problem, make sure everyone is on the same page in-house before sending out external announcements. Employees shouldn’t be informed about new policies from customers. – Linda R. Evers, Stevens & Lee

3. Keep The Customer In Mind 

Customers want clear and concise information. Don’t get bogged down in excessive legalese and pages of dense disclaimers and caveats. Use policy updates to reach out and connect with your customers — let them know that they matter. Draft updates with your target customers in mind and explain why you are making certain changes. Make your policy updates a win-win for both you and your customers. – Tracy Gray, Holland & Hart LLP