Be Kind Online! What Is a Responsible Online Business?
LYNNIE VERSION
Would you like to read this article in more grown-up words, still easy to understand? Jump here.
Hi! I’m Lynnie! Today I’m telling you about a responsible online business.
Your posts can be seen by ANYBODY, not just customers. And some people might be more fragile. A responsible business remembers that.
Start by feeling lucky
Here’s a nice thought. You’re lucky! You’re learning about exciting technology that lots of people still find hard to use or understand.
So be kind and respectful to everybody who might see your posts.
Who might be more fragile?
- Young people who find your posts by accident. Like me!
- People with money problems, looking for a quick way out.
- People who are worried about their health.
- Anybody who might take your words super seriously and make big decisions because of them.
You can’t know everybody who sees your stuff. That’s exactly why it helps to imagine them when you write!
What a responsible business does every day
Honest claims. Describe your stuff the way it really is. No promises of guaranteed money, health results or quick magic fixes. If results depend on lots of things, say so!
Clear labels. Mark sponsored posts as “Ad” or “Partnership.” Tell people when a link gives you thank-you money. Then people can decide with all the info.
Checked facts. Before posting info people might act on, check it with good sources. And say it’s your view, not the one and only truth.
A kind tone. No making fun, no shaming, no pushing. Marketing that makes people feel “not good enough” can hurt people who are already having a hard time.
Careful with information. Only collect what you need, keep it safe, and respect people’s choices about cookies and newsletters.
Responsible is stronger!
Being responsible protects others. And it protects your business too!
Honest offers mean fewer complaints and returns. Clear labels keep you out of trouble. And a kind tone builds trust. Trust is what turns a first-time visitor into a customer who comes back.
Customers remember how a business made them feel. And they tell their friends!
Little choices add up
Each one is just a small decision. But over years, small decisions shape how people see your business.
Quick check before you post
- Is everything I say true, and can I show why?
- Is it clear what’s an ad and what isn’t?
- Could someone fragile get hurt if they misunderstood it?
- Would I be happy if a friend or family member read it?
- Will I be proud of it in a few years?
Listen to feedback
Responsible also means listening. If a customer finds a mistake, say thank you and fix it. If a post upset someone, try to understand why.
Keep a little note of what customers tell you, and look at it every few months.
Cheap and private
Being responsible costs nothing extra! Free tools, honest descriptions and careful marketing you learn yourself are enough. You need very little money to start. And a private business can be just as honest and kind as a famous one.
The end of Lesson T4!
You did it! You now know the basics of contracts, privacy, data protection, cookies, intellectual property and staying safe online.
Next is the stage you’ll practice as long as your business exists: traffic and content. The whole lesson is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help you build a kind business from the start? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
What is a responsible online business?
One that respects everybody who might see its posts, not just customers.
Who might be more fragile online?
Young people, people with money or health worries, and anybody who takes your words very seriously.
Does being responsible make marketing weaker?
Usually the opposite! Trust brings customers back.
Are there step-by-step lessons for starting each of the ten ways cheaply?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
How can I start for free or almost free?
Lynnaider shows you how to start each of the ten ways for free, or for very, very little money. You’d be surprised! And a free robot helper called Lynnaider Compass helps you step by step!
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax, or business advice. Pursuing an online business does not guarantee income; results depend on many factors including the business environment, individual effort, skills, and consistency. Some links on this site may allow Lynnaider to earn a commission at no additional cost to the reader.
