thanks!

Guy Kawasaki test drove a few high-end automobiles this year and offered raving reviews, causing the public to question whether he was compensated for his endorsements. I saw accusations flying that he was given cars as payment for his reviews, but from what I remember, he denied the accusations.

I know some well respected bloggers in the social media marketing sphere always note whether a review is paid or not. They feel compelled to do so because their reputations are on the line and it’s always easier to keep a reputation good than to repair it.

The need for transparency increases exponentially with popularity and influence in the blogosphere. It’s a well-known and used tactic to blast popular bloggers with accusations, insults, or vehement disagreements in order to build some popularity for one’s own blog. That being the case, there is a need for transparency so one doesn’t become the unnecessary target of an ambitious newbie.

Guy Kawasaki test drove a few high-end automobiles this year and offered raving reviews, causing the public to question whether he was compensated for his endorsements. I saw accusations flying that he was given cars as payment for his reviews, but from what I remember, he denied the accusations.

I know some well respected bloggers in the social media marketing sphere always note whether a review is paid or not. They feel compelled to do so because their reputations are on the line and it’s always easier to keep a reputation good than to repair it.

The need for transparency increases exponentially with popularity and influence in the blogosphere. It’s a well-known and used tactic to blast popular bloggers with accusations, insults, or vehement disagreements in order to build some popularity for one’s own blog. That being the case, there is a need for transparency so one doesn’t become the unnecessary target of an ambitious newbie.

And though I lumped in “rewards”, I think we’ve all be trained to see rewards more as membership privileges. If you’re a member, rewards are probably discounts for one thing or another. They’re either earned by repetitive good behavior or they’re just perks for being a member. A prize is more often associated with an actual gift: a product, a free service, a vacation, etc.

Ultimately, the authenticity of reviews shouldn’t be tainted if the company states in clear language that incentives will be awarded regardless of the quality, opinion, or content of each review.

And though I lumped in “rewards”, I think we’ve all be trained to see rewards more as membership privileges. If you’re a member, rewards are probably discounts for one thing or another. They’re either earned by repetitive good behavior or they’re just perks for being a member. A prize is more often associated with an actual gift: a product, a free service, a vacation, etc.

Ultimately, the authenticity of reviews shouldn’t be tainted if the company states in clear language that incentives will be awarded regardless of the quality, opinion, or content of each review.

thanks!