What should agent Bethany do with the friend’s telephone number and email address provided by consumer Gary?

Agent Bethany should observe permission and contact guidelines in handling the friend's telephone number and email address provided by consumer Gary. This is important for several reasons.

First, privacy laws and regulations, such as the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the CAN-SPAM Act, protect individuals' personal information and dictate the way it can be used. Without explicit consent from Gary's friend, contacting them directly could violate their privacy rights and lead to potential legal ramifications for both Bethany and her agency.

Second, using the information responsibly maintains professional ethics and builds trust with consumers. Respecting individuals' choices in how they wish to be contacted and by whom is essential in establishing a positive relationship between agents and consumers.

Additionally, handling personal information according to established guidelines helps ensure that agents adhere to industry best practices, which can enhance the reputation of the agency and the overall customer experience. Acceptable practices typically require obtaining direct permission from a third party before reaching out, rather than acting on assumptions or generalized consent.

Ultimately, prioritizing permission and maintaining ethical standards is crucial for fostering a respectful and compliant sales environment.