USPS is reminding employees about the rules on unauthorized endorsements.
Because of the nature of the Postal Service’s business, private organizations might seek to further their interests by requesting an endorsement — a favorable comment about a product, service or enterprise provided in writing, on video or in a public forum — from a USPS employee.
Under federal ethics guidelines, employees may not use their postal positions or titles for the commercial gain of private organizations. Employees providing such endorsements in their official capacity could lead to the appearance that the Postal Service itself supports or sanctions the product, service or business.
Only the postmaster general or the full executive leadership team may authorize an endorsement of any outside business on behalf of the Postal Service.
Employees may endorse a private business in their personal capacity. For example, employees may leave positive reviews for products purchased online if they do so under their own names and make no reference to their postal positions.
If an outside entity asks an employee to provide a reference, favorable statement or any other kind of endorsement, he or she should email the USPS Ethics Office or call 202-268-6346.
