Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) 2012

On 15 October 2012, The Personal Data Protection Act sets out the law on data protection in Singapore. Apart from establishing a general data protection regime, the Act also regulates telemarketing practices. Came into force on 2nd January 2013, Singapore Government statutory body Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) was established.

The PDPA applies to the private sector in Singapore but does not apply in public sectors.

What is Personal Data?

• Any data which can identify an individual whether or not it’s an electronic form.

Is there an exception?

Below are the exceptions:

• Business contact information relating to an individual’s name, position, business address, number, email or similar information.
• Individuals who have been dead for over ten years (subject to some exceptions).
• Individual who has been on record for over 100 years.

How are we going to market our product and services to them?

• Organisation are required to obtained the individual’s consent before collecting their personal data for used or disclosed.
• There must be an opt-out option for an individual should they want to stop receiving calls/sms/fax.
• You are still allowed to promote  related products and services to individuals with whom you have an  ongoing relationship.
• You are required to check DNC Registry.

DNC Registry

The DNC became operational  on 2 January 2014. It allows individuals  to opt out of receiving unsolicited marketing messages. This includes  voice calls, text messages and multimedia messaging services but excludes email and post.
Organisations are obliged to check through DNC Registry before sending out marketing messages. The PDPC has issued guidance on  the new rules. You may visit dnc.gov.sg for more information.

Enforcement

Organisations can be fined up to S$100,000 for obstructing the PDPC from carrying out its duties and S$50,000 for certain breaches of the PDPA.

Remember, it is your job and responsibility to treat your generated leads right and with respect once you get their information. Do not spam them.

Cost

A penny saved is a penny earned. Outsourcing your manpower means you do not need to worry of overhead expenses such as adding more people to the team as the work increases, cost of computers, electricity and office space.

Time

Set goals. Stay focused. Your work-load are being reduced for your business adding more time to complete your business core responsibilities in time, efficiently. Your company can focus on your top priorities.

Operations

You don’t build a business. You build people. Sudden influx of employees leaving the organisation would half operations and cause delays in work. You do not need to worry when this happens under HR and manpower outsourcing.

Expertise

Talented employees stay. A background check is important to ensure that the company you are engaging is keen on training its employees. Well-trained employees bring expert solutions in solving problems inside the operation floor.

The representatives are taking incoming calls from advertisements, either online of offline. Customers makes calls when they want to enquire on your advertised products or services.

Outbound Marketing

The representatives are making outgoing calls to your prospect leads. Usually representatives calls your prospects to sell products or just simply set appointments.

Advantages of Telemarketing

Interaction

First advantage of telemarketing is that fact that there is human to human interaction.

Cost

Telemarketing is cost effective compared to personal selling despite offering the same products. It is a cheaper way of communicating with your customers.

Flexibility

Instead of selling products right away, you can understand your customer’s need and from there you can adjust your marketing message.

Customer Service

Improve the value of your company by inspiring loyalty and gain repeat orders through excellent customer service.