In most cases, not without permission.

There are some situations where you are permitted to share information about your clients with other members of the public.

In others, it can get you in legal trouble.

Regardless, willy-nilly naming your clients isn’t good practice.

Respect your clients’ privacy or you could ruin your reputation and your working relationships.

We recommend that you always obtain their explicit permission – in WRITING – before disclosing any personal or confidential information.

When can I disclose who my clients are?

There are a few instances when you can legally disclose that you are working with certain clients.

They may be:

• if you are required to do so by law or contract
• if the information is already publicly available
• if your client has explicitly given their permission for you to share the information.

In any other case we recommend that you err on the side of caution and follow this advice:

1. Never disclose client names without permission

Always refrain from revealing their identities to anyone outside your creative agency unless they’ve given you explicit permission to do so.

That means they have said IN WRITING, “You may share this information.”

Assumptions can get you in trouble and earn you a bad reputation.

Honestly and respect will keep your client relationships strong.

This principle applies not only during client engagements but also after the completion of projects.

2. Confidentiality agreements

Many clients may require you to sign confidentiality agreements before commencing work.

Always pay close attention to any such agreements you sign.

By signing a confidentiality agreement, you are legally bound to keep the information secure and not share it with anyone outside of those working on the project.

3. Prioritize trust and professionalism

Demonstrating respect for client privacy fosters trust.

Trust strengthens your professional reputation.

Clients appreciate working with professionals who prioritize their interests and maintain confidentiality.

Can I mention my client’s names in interviews?

Permission is the green light to driving down the road of specifics.

Do not say names without permission.

It’s easy to just let it slide, mentioning client names in interviews or public platforms.

But it is always safest to obtain explicit permission from the clients themselves before doing so.

If you can’t get their permission, then refer to them in a generalized manner.

Describe without identifying. It’s the principle of anonymity.

Remember, respecting client privacy should always be a top priority.

Can we mention client names in a resume or portfolio?

Not without permission. (See a trend?)

Listing high-profile clients on your resume or showcasing them in your portfolio may seem like a way to strengthen your credentials and attract potential clients.

Let’s think long-term reputation and not short term gain here.

It is best to seek permission from each client individually before including their names.

What else should I not mention in an interview?

Balance in key during interviews and in making your portfolio.

Here are a few points to consider:

• Avoid divulging sensitive business details or trade secrets that may breach client trust.
• Do not disclose any negative experiences or confidential disagreements with clients. Focus on the positive outcomes and successful collaborations instead.
• Be cautious when discussing ongoing projects or upcoming campaigns to maintain client confidentiality.

If you want to build long-term trust and establish a good reputation with your clients in the marketing and design industry, you have to EARN IT.

Don’t disclose without permission.