Hey. I’m Corey. And I’m pissed.

I think I’ve actually found something that’s worse than getting rejected.

It’s getting rejected, then finding out the company put you on their marketing email list or newsletter without asking.

The Problem with Non-Consensual Email Subscriptions

Let me set the scene. You put in the effort to craft the perfect job application, only to receive the dreaded “Thanks, but no thanks” response. You sigh, pick yourself up, and move on to the next opportunity. But then, something strange happens. Suddenly, you’re bombarded with newsletters and promotional emails from the very same company that rejected you. It’s like they’re rubbing salt in the wound, and I can’t help but feel annoyed.

Now, I understand that companies want to grow their email list and engage potential customers. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Forcing someone onto a mailing list without their permission is an invasion of privacy, plain and simple. In this post, I’ll delve into why this practice is so infuriating and what companies should do instead to respect people’s boundaries.

Consent, Privacy, and Company Values

First of all, let’s talk about consent. We live in an age where data privacy and consent are increasingly important. Businesses should be aware of the potential backlash they could face if they disregard these principles. Adding people to your mailing list without asking is not only unethical but may also be illegal, depending on your country’s data protection laws. So why risk damaging your reputation and potential legal consequences just for the sake of growing your email list?

Secondly, let’s consider the message this sends. If a company is willing to add someone to their mailing list without permission, what does that say about their values? It suggests that they don’t respect their customers’ autonomy and prioritize their marketing goals over people’s privacy. This is not a good look for any business, especially in today’s world where consumer trust is paramount.

Best Practices for Ethical Email Marketing

Now, I’m not saying that companies shouldn’t use email marketing or newsletters to engage with potential customers. In fact, when done right, these tools can be incredibly effective in building relationships and driving sales. The key, however, is to obtain consent and make it easy for people to opt-out if they so choose.

Here are a few best practices for building your email list the right way:

1. Make it clear: When asking for someone’s email address, clearly explain what they’ll receive and how often. Transparency is key in building trust.

2. Double opt-in: Implement a double opt-in process, which requires people to confirm their subscription via a link sent to their email. This helps ensure that they genuinely want to receive your communications.

3. Easy opt-out: Include an easy-to-find unsubscribe link in every email you send. People should always have the option to remove themselves from your list if they no longer wish to receive your content.

4. Privacy policy: Have a clear and accessible privacy policy that outlines how you collect, store, and use personal data. This can help reassure people that their information is safe with you.

Conclusion: The Importance of Consent

In conclusion, unsolicited newsletters are an infuriating and invasive practice that companies should avoid. It’s crucial to respect people’s privacy and obtain their consent before adding them to any mailing list. By following best practices and treating your audience with respect, you’ll not only stay on the right side of the law but also foster trust and loyalty among your customers.

So, companies out there, please take note. If you want to impress us with your newsletters, ask for our permission first. Otherwise, you might just find yourself in the crosshairs of an angry job seeker – like me.