Avoid These 5 Deceptive Sales Strategies to Protect Your Wallet
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Chapter 1: Recognizing Deceptive Sales Tactics
Imagine this scenario. You’re browsing online and decide to share your email for a freebie. Just last week, I did this while searching for Lightroom presets.
You receive the presets, which is delightful, but then you're hit with an email promoting the full package. You know it has value, yet it’s not something you want at the moment. I'm not an Instagram influencer; I merely stumbled upon this while procrastinating.
The next day, you see an offer with a countdown timer. After 24 hours, it extends to 12 hours, followed by several "last chance" emails. When you check the first email, the original timer is still ticking. Sound familiar? Below are several dubious tactics to be wary of.
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Section 1.1: Creating False Urgency
The scenario above is a classic example of creating false urgency. I experienced something similar last year with two writing courses; a year later, their countdown timers are still running.
Creating urgency can be effective, but it should be genuine. A colleague of mine successfully launched his mentoring program with a limited timeframe, but it was a true deadline, not a manipulative tactic. Timers that create a sense of fear are misleading.
Section 1.2: Preying on Insecurities
The only ones truly benefiting are those profiting from others’ desires to succeed. I run a course as well, but I’ve never crafted an email suggesting that people will inevitably fail without my guidance.
You can illustrate the need without resorting to fear tactics. This is why people often fall prey to expensive "get rich quick" schemes. You can highlight issues and offer solutions with empathy.
Subsection 1.2.1: Manipulating Emotions
"You're not achieving your goals, and that’s your fault. Enrolling in my course is your first step toward change. Miss this chance, and you’ll continue to miss opportunities."
No thanks. I'm not investing $499 in your course because it doesn’t resonate with me. If it addressed my specific challenges, I might consider it. Not everyone is your target audience, and that's perfectly acceptable.
Using powerful words should uplift, not belittle.
Chapter 2: The Importance of Transparency
The first video, "5 Sneaky Ways Stores Make You Spend More," reveals effective strategies retailers use to influence customer spending behavior.
If you can't deliver on your promises, be upfront about it. If you can, demonstrate your effectiveness.
During my research, I found a $997 course boasting "proven success" for all its participants, yet it lacked any client testimonials. When I launched my course, I offered the first round for free to verify the content's effectiveness. After seeing positive results, I gathered testimonials to showcase on my site.
Don't just claim success; prove it.
Section 2.1: The Role of Language
Inspire others rather than instilling fear.
I strive to ensure no one feels inadequate. During my time as an Instagram influencer, despite appearing to live a perfect life, I often felt inferior when comparing myself to others.
Choosing empathy in your content and business approach is essential. Only those lacking compassion make others feel less than.
Beware of emails filled with negative terms like: irresponsible, poor, and failure. Instead, use empowering language to propose your offer.
Final Thoughts: Compassion over Cruelty
In an age where harsh copywriting tactics are prevalent, choose empathy. Words have the power to inspire and enact genuine change.
Demeaning others may yield quick sales, but it won't earn you respect or loyalty.
So, harness the power of your words for good.
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The second video, "5 Sales Psychology Tricks To Get People To SPEND $$$!" explores psychological strategies that can encourage consumers to part with their money.