Previously I'd written about iOptOut, a free service, set up by Canadian Law Professor Michael Geist.
Well today citizens of Canada are now able to register on another Do Not Call list, this one run by the government. Marketers should realize that telemarketing is so 20th century.
But, even with this double-double assault on telemarketers, this new solution isn't perfect.
The problem is, Canadian law allows many exemptions to the Do Not Call regulations, including political parties, survey companies, newspapers and registered charities.
As well, if you have a previous business relationship with an organization, yep, they can market to you over the phone.
Now, here's where iOptOut differs from the federal opt-out service.
Under the law, exempted organizations are permitted to make unsolicited telephone calls despite the inclusion of the number in the do-not-call registry. However, organizations must remove numbers from their lists if specifically requested to do so.
iOptOut is a service that 'specifically requests' that your number be removed from telemarketing lists. It fills the holes in the legislation by maintaining a list of organizations (some of which you have dealt with in the past, banks, airlines, etc) and once you set up your profile, contacts them on your behalf and asks for your number to be removed. Simple and effective. And, when coupled with the federal list, maybe even doubly so.
Related posts:
- Are Canadian telemarketers quaking in their boots? Maybe.
- Jott now offering local Canadian phone numbers
- Linklist — July 26, 2007
- Social media and the power of influence
- Call Mom for free on Mother’s Day
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
telemarketing2.0 needs to be ushered in asap — it’s possible to use the technological tools at hand –utilising social networks such as linkedin, facebook etc outreaching to potential customers via youtube, blogs & iphone apps. The World has changed — telemarketers need to change with it!
@Ethical Telemarketing is Possible! — How is it possible. You mention tools but not how to use them. It’s like saying ‘People can make millions using Twitter’, but not supporting your claim.
Oh, and if you’re linking back to a service in your URL, please disclose your relationship to it in the post or it just looks like comment spam (and the link will be removed).