Creating a terms and conditions page—is this a simple way to get important information out to page visitors and customers, or is it one of the most complex parts of the website you will create? Actually, it is a bit of both. Depending on how you write them, terms and conditions can be legally binding and an important way to protect your company from lawsuits.
Because of this, if you have complex terms of specific needs, it may be best to work with online content providers who have experience in law, or a lawyer who can write a terms page. However, if you just have a few simple terms that you need to share with your readers, these tips can help.
- Terms and conditions should be written in a simple and straightforward manner. Don’t feel like you need to fill it full of legal jargon just to make it sound professional. Keep the terms simple so you and your visitors understand what is being said.
- Read some sample pages. While your terms may be vastly different from those on another page, you can get some great ideas by seeing what others felt was important.
- Explain your intentions. Instead of simply listing term, term, term, explain why you have these in place. Your visitors will have more understanding and be able to follow why you have certain policies in place.
- Don’t just list terms in no particular order. Do what you can to categorize the page! For instance, you may have a section of shipping terms, payment terms, etc. This makes it easier for people to scan through the page and find the terms that are important to them.
- Review and revise regularly. Technology advances and your business changes. Regularly go over your terms and conditions page and make sure everything is still on the up and up. It may not hurt to have a lawyer look them over from time to time, too—just to make certain you don’t get yourself in hot water.
These tips are just the beginning when it comes to establishing a terms and conditions page. Remember, this is one of the most important pages you will write as far as protecting your company. It is always best to work with a professional if you have any concerns. That way, you spare yourself the risk of a small mistake leading to big problems for your company.
Tracy S is a freelance writer available on WriterAccess, a marketplace where clients and expert writers connect for assignments.
