Why join your BBB in Central California?
Here are some key benefits:
Company Reports Online or by BBB Specialized Staff
This is an integral part of BBB services to the community. Prospective customers provided with the company's grade, whether they are a BBB Accredited Business, and how long they have been a member as well as basic company information.
Accredited Business Hotline
This unlisted number is available to BBB Accredited Businesses only. The Accredited Business Hotline is always handled as a priority call.
Accredited Business Referral Program
A computerized listing of Accredited Businesses by classification, address, and telephone number is updated monthly and sent to hundreds of consumers seeking responsible firms with which to do business.
BBB OnLine
BBB assurance on the Internet. When a potential customer visits your web site, that customer is able to distinguish your company as reputable and trustworthy, with just a glance. Your BBB Reliability seal is the solution to setting your company apart. For more information you may email Connie@cencal.bbb.org.
Accredited Business Certificate and Decal
Consumers trust the BBB Torch. Our distinctive certificate and decal proudly advertise your company as maintaining the high BBB standards of business ethics.
Accredited Business Guide
A current listing, both by business classification and alphabetically, of all BBB member companies, including telephone numbers and addresses. The book also includes valuable consumer and business information.
Accredited Business Guide on the Internet
A complete listing by type of business is updated weekly on the Internet.
Start With Trust Newsletter
An exclusive newsletter providing accredited Businesses with vital business/consumer information. Published four times per year in print, and monthly via email, the Start With Trust Newsletter reports on Bureau activity, consumer issues, legal developments, fraudulent activities aimed at businesses and much more.
Fax Alerts and E Alerts
Be forewarned of current scams and solicitations, and receive valuable information from your BBB. It is the most up to date information possible from our exclusive Fax Alert and E Alert Programs.
Tax Deduction
The U. S. Government recognizes support of your BBB as a reasonable and necessary business expense and allows accredited business dues as a tax deduction.
Nationwide Information
More than 130 BBBs throughout our network enable our accredited business to access dependable, factual information on local and national businesses throughout the U.S., Canada, and abroad.
Governing Board
Your BBB is governed by a board of directors from the business community which is elected by the accredited businesses.
Employee Benefits
Employees of BBB accredited business firms receive special consideration. Accredited Businesses are given bulletin board posters, news bulletins and signs that recognize the employer as a BBB Accredited Business supporter who is providing additional employee benefits. The BBB can assist employees in purchasing problems, which will reduce distractions on the job.
Charitable Solicitations Review
An annual guide is published and provided to BBB accredited business companies outlining the solicitation practices of national charities. Updated charity lists, including reports on finances, performances and administration of organizations, are included in the monthly newsletter.
Self-Regulation of Business
Your BBB is designed for self-regulation of business by exposing fraudulent companies and unethical business practices, and to ensure the vitality of the free enterprise system.
Media Exposure
Your BBB works closely with the news media to inform consumers of scams and to advise the public of protective measures in purchasing. Your BBB produces and forwards news releases to the media as soon as information is brought to the attention of the BBB or when an investigation is completed.
Advertising Guidelines and Advertising Review
The guidelines help accredited businesses avoid violating federal, state, and local laws. Your BBB encourages accuracy and truth in advertising, which builds consumer confidence. Local advertisements are reviewed by your BBB for truth and accuracy to help your company stay on an even playing field with competitors.
Customer Service
Telephone Complaint Handling - BBB tries to resolve complaint cases over the phone.
Binding Dispute Resolution - Mediation/Arbitration is offered when the dispute cannot be resolved informally over the phone. Parties sign a binding agreement and place disputed funds in an escrow account. Informal proceedings are held before the mediator/arbitrator. Both parties work to reach an agreement. If the parties cannot agree the mediator/arbitrator will make the final decision. The program can save accredited business court costs, time and money in settling consumer complaints.
Consumer/Business Pamphlets
Valuable buying information for all consumers is provided on nearly 100 topics. These brochures are also available for distribution either as counter-top handouts or direct mail pieces.
Customer Policy Posters
These posters explain Customer Service Policies. They help build goodwill and ensure that consumers understand their responsibilities as well as their rights, resulting in reduced complaints.
Integrity and Public Trust
BBB accreditation is by invitation only. Many firms are not eligible to join because they do not meet Better Business Bureau Standards for business performance. The BBB builds the public's confidence in business by demonstrating that legitimate business firms do care about good public relations.