Always Read the TOS

TOS stands for Terms of Service. Most times they are mile long pages with teeny-weenie type filled with legal mumbo jumbo. Most of us don’t read those, even though we probably should make the effort to ensure there is nothing in there that will hit us in the back of the head sometime in the future.

You need to read the TOS so you can play by the rules. In particular, the TOSes that you should read are those at Search Engines, Directories and Web sites that offer functionality and services for your use. By not playing by the rules you risk being view as not paying attention to details, looking lazy or at best arrogant that your time is too valuable to take the time to read the rules of participation. Not a good way to start building a reputation.

Many business owners use lists or forum participation to soft-sell their business. Submitting to directories should also be part of any business’ marketing plan. Both can be very effective in helping to gain visibility for your enterprise but only when done properly and in line with the site or services TOS.

What do you think is says about you when you want to utilize and take advantage of a site’s services but you won’t take the time to read the rules so that you can do so with courtesy and understanding? What else are these business folks not paying attention to? What else will they be wiling to do to get exposure, that link or to promote their business? Break all the rules?

If you run across a site whose services you would like to use to promote your business, you need to take a few moments and show the site owner the appropriate respect and read their Terms of Service to be sure their service is even one you can or will be authorized to utilize. You need to be sure you understand the rules before you make a single submission or request.