When phrasing check box statements it is important to use positive and actionable wording, in order to make it clear to users exactly what will happen when they check the box. A check box normally employs the 'tick' symbol to indicate it's selected. This convention means that users perceive that checking the box will enable an action, rather than disable one.
□ I would like to receive email updates
rather than:
□ I would not like to receive email updates
If the check box instructions contain a negative statement, users are required to carefully think about their action, as they would need to check the box in order for something not to happen.
While we're on email updates and check boxes, remember users like to be given the freedom to receive, or not receive, marketing information so be careful of pre-selecting check boxes on a user's behalf.
We often see opt-out check boxes attached to the bottom of a form which is not specifically related to communication (e.g. payment pages, registration forms) just prior to selecting Submit or Continue. Some users will find this annoying as they are forced to opt out. Others may not realise the consequences of leaving this box checked (or may not even see it as they are focused on an unrelated task) and will be surprised when they receive the newsletter at a later date. As this can have a negative effect on trust in your organisation we generally recommend this box is unchecked as the default.
