Does Insulting And Bullying People Increase YOUR Sales?

66 replies
Genuine question.

I signed up for a trial of a membership a while back that I didn't continue.

For the last couple of weeks they've been trying desperately to get back old members promising the moon for a second trial of only $2 (massive discount).

Today, they got nasty. This is the subject line

What you have in common with a T-rex

and the body

XXXX here and I have a story for you. I have a buddy that always beats around the bush when it comes to paying his debts. If we are at a restaurant, he does whatever it takes to be away from the table when the bill comes. When he owes you money, he has some sort of excuse as to why we can't pay you back.

He is cheap!


What does this have to do with a t-rex?

Well, that is what his nickname is. Here is where this name stems from...
Like a t-rex (the dinosaur), his arms are so short...so short he can't reach his wallet out of his back pocket.

OK, I am definitely not calling you cheap here. I just wanted to share this story with you and let you know that [site name] is only $2.


$2 bleepin' dollars.


Yeah, $2 measily little one dollar bills. Maybe even a bunch of dimes and some nickels!

Full access to $1,000's in resources, training, tools, services and of course our one on one support. Are you saying that my time isn't worth $2 for a whole month? That is some cheap labor by any standards.

So, moral of today's story. Don't be a t-rex like my friend. Reach into that back pocket, in between your couch cushions, or in your car ash tray for $2 because that is all you are going to need to get world class training at the top Internet Marketing School online, [site name].

ONE MONTH, NO OBLIGATIONS, FULL ACCESS...do we have a deal?
JOIN NOW!
Has anybody really increased sales (and improved customer relationships) using this kind of nasty "spontaneous rant" bullying?


Martin
#bullying #increase #insulting #people #sales
  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333771].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author trytolearnmore
    I, personally, wouldn't join this website, but i would understand why that would work) A kick in the behind can really work wonders.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333772].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Robert Michael
    Originally Posted by Martin Luxton View Post

    Genuine question.

    I signed up for a trial of a membership a while back that I didn't continue.

    For the last couple of weeks they've been trying desperately to get back old members promising the moon for a second trial of only $2 (massive discount).

    Today, they got nasty. This is the subject line

    What you have in common with a T-rex

    and the body



    Has anybody really increased sales (and improved customer relationships) using this kind of nasty "spontaneous rant" bullying?


    Martin
    eh, probably not.. but it can make you feel better! LOL
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333781].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Bill Farnham
      I had a hunch who you might be talking about so I just checked my spam folder and sure enough I received that same lame email.

      I had joined that site back in 2007 or 2008, stayed for 2 months, just long enough to realize it was a waste of money, and now I'm being bombarded with junk emails.

      Just proves my first impression was correct. And ironically, one of the reasons I joined the site was shot down when I asked about one of the services offered there and the response from other members there said I'd be better off not using it.

      They must be getting desparate.

      ~Bill
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333841].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author GregSilva
    I guess this would work for some people, but after getting a message like that I would probably unsubscribe!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333789].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Martin Luxton
      Originally Posted by GregSilva View Post

      I guess this would work for some people, but after getting a message like that I would probably unsubscribe!
      Greg,

      There's no unsubscribe link


      Martin
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333823].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Targeted Traffic
        Originally Posted by Martin Luxton View Post

        Greg,

        There's no unsubscribe link


        Martin
        Talk about desperate...the humor (if the merchant is trying to be funny) isn't even humorous at all. This may work for "some"...yeah "some" that means I don't think this would help increase the sales.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337816].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author ExRat
          Hi Martin,

          My approach is to examine things for integrity and honesty. In my experience, those who can teach me the most tend to demonstrate these traits within their sales pitches and those who can't, don't. If a few paragraphs of sales pitch appear to contain multiple occurences of dishonesty, why would I believe their claims - EG -

          world class training at the top Internet Marketing School online
          I wouldn't normally expect someone making those claims to appear to be so desperate. Normally I find that those who posess the things that others really need, things of real value, are quietly confident and have no need to make outrageous claims, let alone borderline insults.

          Here's my analysis (in italics) of the content and the actual messages it provides for me when I read it with a cynical/cautious mindset and take it at face-value -

          I have a buddy that always beats around the bush when it comes to paying his debts. If we are at a restaurant, he does whatever it takes to be away from the table when the bill comes. When he owes you money, he has some sort of excuse as to why we can't pay you back.

          He is cheap!
          This person has really tight/deceptive/skint friends.

          OK, I am definitely not calling you cheap here.
          Followed by -

          So, moral of today's story. Don't be a t-rex like my friend.
          The first sentence is virtually an outright lie. The second sentence is an implication/warning, but appears to contradict the first, when considered in the context of the overall message.

          I just wanted to share this story with you and let you know that [site name] is only $2.

          Due to the subsequent pitch, this looks like a lie too. They don't just want to share a story, they want you to buy.


          Are you saying that my time isn't worth $2 for a whole month?
          I doubt that the reader is 'saying' that, even if they don't buy. But the seller seems to be doing a great job of lowering their perceived value themself. Anyone with any understanding of the internet is aware that the $2 is not paying for the seller's personal time for a month, therefore the suggestion is erroneous, illogical and disingenuous as well as being worded in a manner that is typically used as a threat.

          So, moral of today's story. Don't be a t-rex like my friend.
          They haven't actually given a logical explanation of this 'moral of today's story.' They present no reason to suggest that 'being a t-rex' is a bad thing, except that one might be labelled a t-rex if observed avoiding paying for a meal or paying debts late. It's either disingeuous or illogical to compare the two scenarios and conclude/imply that they are in any way similar or connected. Also, this person is presenting themself as a professional teacher - the best in the business. It's not wise to make the above errors as a good teacher is unlikely to do so. Not only are they presenting themself as a poor salesman, but also a poor teacher - double fail.

          When he owes you money, he has some sort of excuse as to why we can't pay you back.
          (Bold) Is that a typo?

          for $2 because that is all you are going to need to get world class training at the top Internet Marketing School online
          The implication here is that the $2 will get you 'world class training.' That implies that it will only take a month. This is doubtful. What is the recurring cost? Does this 'trial' continue at $2 per month? In my experience, this is unlikely. Therefore I would feel misled again, because crucial information has been omitted.

          Conclusion - when I take the cynical/cautious approach - there is nothing in this message that endears me to the sender or encourages me to trust them. So why would I believe their claims of offering value and of being 'the top internet marketing school' that offers 'world class training?'

          It's poorly constructed and written, smacking of desperation. There are examples of weasel-wording, important omissions and borderline threats/insults.

          In my opinion, it's a very good example of a very bad piece of salesmanship.
          Signature


          Roger Davis

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337998].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Alexa Smith
    Banned
    Originally Posted by Martin Luxton View Post

    Has anybody really increased sales (and improved customer relationships) using this kind of nasty "spontaneous rant" bullying?
    I completely understand where you're coming from, Martin ... but I didn't actually find it "nasty", myself. I found it mildly amusing, in a tongue-in-cheek sort of way. I think "insulting" and "bullying" are strong words, here, taking it more seriously and literally than it perhaps intends to be taken?

    I admit I'd be slightly surprised if it worked really well, but who knows? (Or, as Steve would say, "WHO KNOWS?!").

    It's always possible, when you receive something a bit unusual, like this, that it's just part of a split-test and you have the one that will have been abandoned by this time next week ...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333826].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Martin Luxton
      Originally Posted by Alexa Smith View Post

      I completely understand where you're coming from, Martin ... but I didn't actually find it "nasty", myself. I found it mildly amusing, in a tongue-in-cheek sort of way. I think "insulting" and "bullying" are strong words, here, taking it more seriously and literally than it perhaps intends to be taken?

      I admit I'd be slightly surprised if it worked really well, but who knows? (Or, as Steve would say, "WHO KNOWS?!").

      It's always possible, when you receive something a bit unusual, like this, that it's just part of a split-test and you have the one that will have been abandoned by this time next week ...
      Alexa,

      It's nasty. There are certain elements there that are designed to attack a person's sense of self-worth.

      Martin
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333875].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Frank Donovan
        Looking at the story, I think it's a poor analogy. The emailer is equating someone who doesn't pay his debts with someone who has decided, for whatever reason, not to buy into a marketing service. No comparison.

        I agree with Bill; the pitch smacks of desperation. And anyway - everyone knows that a T.Rex always carries his credit cards in his top pocket. :rolleyes:


        Frank
        Signature


        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333943].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author tpw
      Originally Posted by Alexa Smith View Post

      I completely understand where you're coming from, Martin ... but I didn't actually find it "nasty", myself. I found it mildly amusing, in a tongue-in-cheek sort of way. I think "insulting" and "bullying" are strong words, here, taking it more seriously and literally than it perhaps intends to be taken?

      I agree with Alexa on this one. It did not rise to the level of "insulting" and "bullying" in my book either. "Amusing" surely, but not mean.

      However, with that having been said, I imagine the email was quite ineffective, because he never said why you would want the membership.

      In the absence of a compelling reason to join, the "cheap" argument fell on deaf ears... You have got to give me more incentive to buy something, beyond "it is only $2."

      Starbucks coffee is only $2 more than the convenience store coffer, but that is not incentive enough for me to overpay for coffee. :rolleyes:



      There are times when a forum post I make will be seen by some as "insulting" and "bullying", and those threads often do make me money. Colin Theriot and Brian McLeod turned me onto the concept of "polarizing your audience" in sales copy, one night when we were talking in chat about ugly negative responses on wso's. Basically, the technique is to write your response in a way that is sure to DIVIDE your audience in such a way as you will either have raving fans or angry opponents.

      I have been less shy about using the technique since that one night we were talking about it in chat.

      Basically in taking a stand contrary to one person, you can win the affection of people who also disagreed with the other person. And in doing so, you gain an audience more open to your marketing messages.

      So yes, there are times when "insulting" and "bullying" can increase your sales.

      I see it most often when I take a strong stand on something I believe to be right. People notice me taking a stand, and follow the links in my signature file. Whenever I jump on hot threads and take a stand on my point of view, especially when my view is going against the tide of other posters, my sales increase on those products shown in my sig file.

      The technique / writing style can be very effective in writing sales copy.

      However, the guy in your example used what is ordinarily a good selling technique very badly.
      Signature
      Bill Platt, Oklahoma USA, PlattPublishing.com
      Publish Coloring Books for Profit (WSOTD 7-30-2015)
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335359].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author EricMN
    Instead of promoting the idea or product they're vilifying the possible consumer. Passive aggressive stabs don't do much in the way of explaining why I should invest my money. You sell a product by convincing the buyer that they can't live without it, not that they're a douchebag for not giving you money.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333827].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Britt Malka
    I don't know if insulting and bullying people increases my sales, because I've never tried ;-)

    Funny thing, though. I joined the membership site, you mention. Or rather, rejoint. But I had been a member twice with different email addresses, so I also got the T-rex story. I didn't feel bullyed, though, but you might have a point.

    I loved the place the first time, I was there, especially for the forum. But it didn't give me enough value to earn back the monthly fee (30 or 40 back then), so I quit after two months. Rejoined later with a new address ($1 trial) to get Bum Travis's bonus. Left after a month, because again, I saw nothing that would make it possible for me to make the money back.

    This time, I started on their article marketing course, but I saw so many things I didn't agree with, so I'm probably out, when my $2 month is gone. And bullying would make me change my mind ;-)
    Signature
    *** Idea Factory ***
    9 Simple & Fun Ways to Come Up With Ideas for Non-Fiction Books

    >>> Click here to get immediate access <<<

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333835].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Martin Luxton
      Originally Posted by Britt Malka View Post

      I didn't feel bullyed, though, but you might have a point.
      Britt,

      I, personally, didn't feel bullied, but if I had got that kind of email a few years back when I was more vulnerable and less street savvy . . .


      Martin
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333906].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BIG Mike
    Banned
    [DELETED]
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333917].message }}
    • I always love these excursions into recursion.

      1. A marketer sends out a missive with a subject line intended to pique.

      2. Another marketer reads it and is appalled. (Note that he READ it.) That same marketer posts here with a hyperbolic subject line intended to grab eyeballs.

      3. A larger set of marketers rush to weigh in.

      4. Their slightly cynical cohorts (I won't be the only one) comment dryly.

      Okay, that's four levels already. How much farther will it go? Honestly, sometimes I feel we're all marooned in Antarctica selling ice cubes to each other.

      fLufF
      --
      Signature
      Fiverr is looking for freelance writers for its blog. Details here.
      Love microjobs? Work when you want and get paid in cash the same day!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333950].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Lou Diamond
    Hello,
    I was in car sales for many years, every once in awhile we would kick an unreasonable customer out even insulting them and they were always the ones that would beg to buy a car later on.
    Signature

    Something new soon.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4333957].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Martin Luxton
      Originally Posted by fluffythewondercat View Post

      I always love these excursions into recursion.

      1. A marketer sends out a missive with a subject line intended to pique.

      2. Another marketer reads it and is appalled. (Note that he READ it.) That same marketer posts here with a hyperbolic subject line intended to grab eyeballs.

      3. A larger set of marketers rush to weigh in.

      4. Their slightly cynical cohorts (I won't be the only one) comment dryly.

      Okay, that's four levels already. How much farther will it go? Honestly, sometimes I feel we're all marooned in Antarctica selling ice cubes to each other.

      fLufF
      --
      Fluff,

      I think you missed the point. The question is not whether I read the email, the question is whether that kind of message is productive/profitable.

      Originally Posted by Lou Diamond View Post

      Hello,
      I was in car sales for many years, every once in awhile we would kick an unreasonable customer out even insulting them and they were always the ones that would beg to buy a car later on.
      Lou,

      I'm not an unreasonable customer - I'm an ex-customer who keeps getting emails with no unsubscribe link.


      Martin
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334005].message }}
      • Actually I was making a point of my own. Marketers sitting around talking about how marketers market to marketers (and the marketers who love them) is just hilarious.

        fLufF
        --
        Signature
        Fiverr is looking for freelance writers for its blog. Details here.
        Love microjobs? Work when you want and get paid in cash the same day!
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334050].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Bill Farnham
          Originally Posted by fluffythewondercat View Post

          Marketers sitting around talking about how marketers market to marketers (and the marketers who love them) is just hilarious.
          It can also be quite constructive.

          There have been more than one or two threads on this forum regarding how marketers market to marketers where the marketer in question has joined the thread and thanked the participants or at least acknowledged their suggestions as being helpful.

          Although that is the exception more than the rule, these threads don't exist in a vacuum. Sometimes the tune "I Heard It Through The Gripevine" is heard by the marketer and has helped them with their testing.

          And with their understanding of how the market perceives them to some degree, as well.

          ~Bill
          Signature
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334187].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author Tom B
            Banned
            It is strange how he tries to call you cheap for not spending 2 dollars but never really talks about what you will get for 2 dollars. No value built but tries to make you feel cheap for even considering not spending money. I would call this insulting.

            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334342].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Andyhenry
          Originally Posted by fluffythewondercat View Post

          Actually I was making a point of my own. Marketers sitting around talking about how marketers market to marketers (and the marketers who love them) is just hilarious.

          fLufF
          --

          What's funny is that you're continuing it while making fun of it. You are the extra layer of the funny puzzle.
          Signature

          nothing to see here.

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335046].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Tom B
          Banned
          Originally Posted by fluffythewondercat View Post

          Actually I was making a point of my own. Marketers sitting around talking about how marketers market to marketers (and the marketers who love them) is just hilarious.

          fLufF
          --
          Yeah, crazy how that happens on a marketing forum.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335091].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
          Originally Posted by fluffythewondercat View Post

          Marketers sitting around talking about how marketers market to marketers (and the marketers who love them) is just hilarious.
          You know what else is hilarious?

          Programmers sitting around talking about how programmers program for programmers.

          And managers sitting around talking about how managers manage other managers.

          And business owners sitting around talking about how businesses do business with other businesses.

          Oh, wait, did I say hilarious? I meant that other word, you know, the one that means you actually give a crap about your industry and how it works. What was that word again?

          Oh, yeah: RESPONSIBLE.
          Signature
          "The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337884].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Michael Mayo
        Martin, I've never tried that approach with my lists.
        I'm sure(with my list)it wouldn't produce any good results.
        Originally Posted by Martin Luxton View Post

        I'm not an unreasonable customer - I'm an ex-customer who keeps getting emails with no unsubscribe link.


        Martin
        Isn't an unsubscribe link required in all emials after the person first subscribes?

        I would report that as spam for not allowing you a way to get off their list.

        Just my .02
        Have a Great Day!
        Michael
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334118].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
          That email was tame compared to some of the stuff I've read, such as some
          of the Rich Jerk's old emails. Now THEY were insulting. LOL.

          Does it work? Worked like gangbusters for him, and not just his emails. Ever
          see his original site and sales letter?

          Brilliant.

          How brilliant?

          I bought his first ebook.

          Bottom line: Don't like the message? Unsubscribe. Can't unsubscribe? Report
          to the ISP.

          Not worth your time either way? Delete it and go on with your day.

          The above approach for getting rid of unwanted email works great for me.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334157].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JamesGw
    I feel that the email is in somewhat bad taste, although I don't think it's necessarily bullying. I wouldn't buy from someone that sent me a message like that. Then again, I ignore pretty much all hard sales no matter what.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334058].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author LB
    It is designed to generate a reaction, and obviously, it did.

    I personally did not find it nasty, I've seen much much much worse.

    I have often said "hatemail=profit". Any time I make a blog post or do a mailing that generates a strong negative reaction, it's usually the most profitable as well.

    People are tired of everyone trying to be nice and just ending up lukewarm and unmemorable. Love or hate that mail, you won't forget it and obviously opened it.
    Signature
    Tired of Article Marketing, Backlink Spamming and Other Crusty Old Traffic Methods?

    Click Here.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334394].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author barache
    Does point out how two people can perceive something very differently. I thought the story was funny, and would never unsubscribe becuase of that.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334765].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author myob
      I actually thought taking such an approach was clever, certainly not insulting or bullying. And, it probably may have worked if there was something mentioned about improvements made over the previous "trial" period. You obviously have never had a real salesman working you over to buy a used car or a gym membership. LOL!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334901].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author James Sides
        Personally, I think everyone who reads this email might take something different away from it.

        I read through it and at no point did I feel insulted or bullied. I actually got a chuckle out of it because I have friends just like that!

        Would I buy because of it? I dunno, maybe. I guess it would depend if I had a genuine interest in the course. If I didn't no email in the world would convince me to buy but if I was on the fence..yep I think this would have done the job.

        And btw, it's illegal not to have a unsubscribe link in the email so if I were you I'd contact that site's support and advise them to immediately remove you from their list before you file a complaint.

        Best of luck and thanks for sharing a "controversial" marketing technique that led to some nice honest open discussion.

        Cheers,

        James Sides
        Signature

        "People will remain the same until the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change."

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334981].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
      Originally Posted by barache View Post

      Does point out how two people can perceive something very differently. I thought the story was funny, and would never unsubscribe becuase of that.
      You can't unsubscribe even if you did want to, he's said there's no unsubscribe link there.

      I'm not going to even comment on whether it works or not, it will for some and not for others but as soon as I can't get off someones list, they become no good spammers.

      The thought that someone is sending me emails and knows I can't get off his/her list, is very much insulting.
      Signature

      Wibble, bark, my old man's a mushroom etc...

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335240].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author SteveJohnson
        Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

        You can't unsubscribe even if you did want to, he's said there's no unsubscribe link there.

        I'm not going to even comment on whether it works or not, it will for some and not for others but as soon as I can't get off someones list, they become no good spammers.

        The thought that someone is sending me emails and knows I can't get off his/her list, is very much insulting.
        You're making some awfully strong comments based on one person's statement. EVERY email I've ever gotten from them (yes, I know who it is we're talking about here) has had an unsubscribe link - including the quoted one.
        Signature

        The 2nd Amendment, 1789 - The Original Homeland Security.

        Gun control means never having to say, "I missed you."

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335844].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Britt Malka
          Originally Posted by SteveJohnson View Post

          You're making some awfully strong comments based on one person's statement. EVERY email I've ever gotten from them (yes, I know who it is we're talking about here) has had an unsubscribe link - including the quoted one.
          I got that quoted one, too, and mine didn't contain an unsubscribe link. Maybe they did a split test, I don't know. I had an earlier mail, so I unsubscribed, since I was already subscribed with a second address.
          Signature
          *** Idea Factory ***
          9 Simple & Fun Ways to Come Up With Ideas for Non-Fiction Books

          >>> Click here to get immediate access <<<

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4336041].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author SteveJohnson
            Originally Posted by Britt Malka View Post

            I got that quoted one, too, and mine didn't contain an unsubscribe link. Maybe they did a split test, I don't know. I had an earlier mail, so I unsubscribed, since I was already subscribed with a second address.
            That's very interesting, I suppose that could be the case, although that seems like playing with fire - I thought that emails MUST have the unsubscribe link to comply with CAN-SPAM.
            Signature

            The 2nd Amendment, 1789 - The Original Homeland Security.

            Gun control means never having to say, "I missed you."

            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4336055].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
          Originally Posted by SteveJohnson View Post

          You're making some awfully strong comments based on one person's statement. EVERY email I've ever gotten from them (yes, I know who it is we're talking about here) has had an unsubscribe link - including the quoted one.
          So Martin didn't get an unsubscribe link and Britt didn't either. You think me calling someone out for not having an unsubscibe link is a strong comment?

          My apologies Steve for making such awfully strong comments about someone flagrantly ignoring the law when clearly they should be setting a far better example.

          I'll make sure I bear that in mind next time.
          Signature

          Wibble, bark, my old man's a mushroom etc...

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338076].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author WritingSource
    I didn't find it to be harsh. I agree with myob. It sounded more clever and interesting. The story was actually quite interesting too. It's nice to get these type of e-mails. $2 isn't a whole lot I probably would I paid for it after that e-mail.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334955].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Ken Strong
    Originally Posted by Martin Luxton View Post


    Has anybody really increased sales (and improved customer relationships) using this kind of nasty "spontaneous rant" bullying?
    Why don't you write to them and ask them directly, as one marketer to another? Because everyone in this thread so far appears to be just guessing based on their personal reactions and inclinations... be interesting to know if it worked for him/her, anyway.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334963].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Bill Farnham
      Originally Posted by Ken Strong View Post

      Why don't you write to them and ask them directly, as one marketer to another? Because everyone in this thread so far appears to be just guessing based on their personal reactions and inclinations... be interesting to know if it worked for him/her, anyway.
      And the odds of landing in "the no spin zone" in a marketing orgnization are what, again?

      Ken, there's also a deliniation of folks who are familiar with the organization and those who have no idea what lies behind the curtain. The emails I have gotten, well my spam folder actually, are the come back and spend more money with us type.

      It's ironic that a company who caters to newbies digs back 3 or 4 years in their email data base to find 'prospects'. I guess the thought of being ditched is associated with an exit from IM.

      ~Bill
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335062].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author LaSCuBana
    No matter what you should treat people with equal respect as they are treating you. Being honest and having integrity is key to long, term and profitable relationships that can lean back on trust.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4334990].message }}
  • I actually felt he was insulting, and borderline mean, so that would be the fastest way to get me to unsubscribe (if I actually read his e-mail in the first place, and cared enough to unsubscribe).

    No, that would not get me to purchase it. I would probably ignore it & any future products/etc he had.
    Signature
    Pick a product. Pick ANY product! -> 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335079].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Isaiah Jackson
    Wow if it was me I wouldn't join that site and I would also unsubscribe from that guys list
    Signature
    Send Emails, Get Paid - My business summarized in four words. For the how-to go here
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335096].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JoshuaZamora
    I think it depends who the email is coming from. People like Frank Kern are known to be blatant and curse in videos and emails so if I got an email from his like that I would laugh it off.

    But if its someone who doesn't usually talk or write like that I would definitely unsub. It just seem WAY desperate
    Signature
    Learn How To Get Your First Wordpress Blog Online
    >>Get Instant Access Here<<

    FREE Video Marketing Report..Reveals How I Make Passive Income With YouTube
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4335212].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Gail Ogden
      Originally Posted by JoshuaZamora View Post

      I think it depends who the email is coming from. People like Frank Kern are known to be blatant and curse in videos and emails so if I got an email from his like that I would laugh it off.

      But if its someone who doesn't usually talk or write like that I would definitely unsub. It just seem WAY desperate
      Frank Kern may swear in his marketing, but he never fails to tell you exactly what you are getting if you (as he puts it) buy his ****.
      Signature

      Daring to make money on line.

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4336271].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Vlad Romanov
    i personally find it disgusting, but so are the commercial in between the shows i watch... Something has got to pay the bills i guess. Im sure it does increase sales/subscriptions
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4336002].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Britt Malka
    I think they should have an unsubscribe link, yes, but I checked the other mails, and it seems like it's a manually added link.

    You cannot avoid an unsubscribe link if you use for instance AWeber, but they don't. They seem to be using "CodeIgniter" (never heard of them before), if I've interpreteted the mail headers correctly:

    Fra: XXX <XXX@YYY.com>
    Emne: What you have in common with a T-rex
    Dato: 24. jul. 2011 13.18.10 GMT+03.00
    Til: ZZZ@malka.biz
    Svar til: XXX@YYY.com
    Return-Path: <XXX@YYY.com>
    Envelope-To: ZZZ@malka.biz
    Delivery-Date: Sun, 24 Jul 2011 05:18:11 -0500
    Received: from 28.94.78ae.static.theplanet.com ([174.120.148.40]:41937 helo=nichemarketinginc08.theplanet.host) by gator1294.hostgator.com with esmtps (TLSv1:AES256-SHA:256) (Exim 4.69) (envelope-from <XXX@YYY.com>) id 1QkvlC-0004LI-Vm for ZZZ@malka.biz; Sun, 24 Jul 2011 05:18:11 -0500
    Received: from nichemarketinginc08.theplanet.host (nichemarketinginc08.theplanet.host [127.0.0.1]) by nichemarketinginc08.theplanet.host (8.13.8/8.13.8) with ESMTP id p6OAIAWc031657 for <ZZZ@malka.biz>; Sun, 24 Jul 2011 05:18:10 -0500
    Received: (from kcook@localhost) by nichemarketinginc08.theplanet.host (8.13.8/8.13.8/Submit) id p6OAIALp031656; Sun, 24 Jul 2011 05:18:10 -0500
    X-Authentication-Warning: nichemarketinginc08.theplanet.host: kcook set sender to XXX@YYY.com using -f
    User-Agent: CodeIgniter
    X-Sender: XXX@YYY.com
    X-Mailer: CodeIgniter
    X-Priority: 3 (Normal)
    Message-Id: <4e2bf1622e87d@YYY.com>
    Mime-Version: 1.0
    Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary="B_ALT_4e2bf1622f04b"
    X-Spam-Status: No, score=0.0
    X-Spam-Score: 0
    X-Spam-Bar: /
    X-Ham-Report: Spam detection software, running on the system "gator1294.hostgator.com", has identified this incoming email as possible spam. The original message has been attached to this so you can view it (if it isn't spam) or label similar future email. If you have any questions, see the administrator of that system for details. Content preview: Hey Britt, XXX here and I have a story for you. I have a buddy that always beats around the bush when it comes to paying his debts. If we are at a restaurant, he does whatever it takes to be away from the table when the bill comes. When he owes you money, he has some sort of excuse as to why we can't pay you back. He is cheap! [...] Content analysis details: (0.0 points, 5.0 required) pts rule name description ---- ---------------------- -------------------------------------------------- 0.0 HTML_MESSAGE BODY: HTML included in message -0.0 AWL AWL: From: address is in the auto white-list
    X-Spam-Flag: NO
    Signature
    *** Idea Factory ***
    9 Simple & Fun Ways to Come Up With Ideas for Non-Fiction Books

    >>> Click here to get immediate access <<<

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4336103].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author SiteSmarty
    There's only one thing that people want when they buy.

    Benefits.

    Features, insults, BS and the rest don't matter.

    It's about benefits to the buyer.

    If you tell a story, tell a story about benefits.

    Benefits come first.

    Did I mention it's all about benefits?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4336117].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author tmjoe
    Not all the email receivers will be in a very cheerful mode or love to be compared to a T-Rex. It is a very foolish thinking. There are a lot more better way to create enthusiasm than nailing people for not paying $2 dollars. Personally I am not a fan of those who make hurling insults or speaking vulgarity to their clients as a trademark to their attitude - you don't have to be made inferior by anyone.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337288].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author n1985
    In my experience marketers treated consumers as though we some sort of commodity. As a customer I have dealt with a few companies they would entice you with their promise one you payment is received some of those promises disappeared into thin air. Thats not good business to me.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337649].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Tsnyder
    I didn't really feel offended or bullied.

    What offended me most was that it was so poorly
    written. I don't know who the sender is but I hope
    they aren't taking people's money to teach them
    copy writing... lol

    Tsnyder
    Signature
    If you knew what I know you'd be doing what I do...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337690].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JustFelix
    Lol, I don't think it would help I'd be mad at the sale person and not buy anything from them.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4337899].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Viramara
    ROFL!!! I'd click it!! I've signed up to a marketer who frequently saying nasty words in his emails like sh_ or F_ words but it makes him stands out the crowd. It proves him that he's human, not just-another-autoresponder-message.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338044].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author ExRat
      Hi Viramara,

      Originally Posted by Viramara View Post

      ROFL!!! I'd click it!! I've signed up to a marketer who frequently saying nasty words in his emails like sh_ or F_ words but it makes him stands out the crowd. It proves him that he's human, not just-another-autoresponder-message.
      Interesting insight.

      How exactly do the swear-words differentiate between 'human' and 'just-another-autoresponder-message?'

      Is it impossible to pre-load autoresponder messages with 'human sounding' swear-words?
      Signature


      Roger Davis

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338059].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author tpw
        Originally Posted by ExRat View Post

        Hi Viramara,

        Originally Posted by Viramara View Post

        ROFL!!! I'd click it!! I've signed up to a marketer who frequently saying nasty words in his emails like sh_ or F_ words but it makes him stands out the crowd. It proves him that he's human, not just-another-autoresponder-message.

        Interesting insight.

        How exactly do the swear-words differentiate between 'human' and 'just-another-autoresponder-message?'

        Is it impossible to pre-load autoresponder messages with 'human sounding' swear-words?

        Pedantic moment: Do the "swear-words" sound human, or does the human saying the swear-words sound human?


        Viramara: May I suggest that the swear-words don't make the emails sound any more human than any other message in your email box. Instead, I suspect that the swear-words only make you feel more comfortable with the writer, because you use swear-words in your daily life.

        The brain is saying, "this writer is just like me." And because the writer is more like you are, you feel more comfortable with him or her.

        In real life, I speak two languages: English and Sailor.

        But when I am writing, I only occasionally use swear-words, and most often, only in forums. When I am sending email messages, you will struggle to find swear-words in my copy, unless the effect of using them helps highlight a point I am trying to make.

        Cursing for the sake of cursing in an email or blog post is Jeremy's thing, not mine. LOL

        I seldom see swear-words in copy as something that makes me appear "more human" to my audience.

        When I think of swear-words, the thoughts that always come to mind are: time, place, message and audience.
        Signature
        Bill Platt, Oklahoma USA, PlattPublishing.com
        Publish Coloring Books for Profit (WSOTD 7-30-2015)
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338281].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dagaul101
    For some people talking down to their readers seems to work, but really there is no need to belittle your potential consumers, they are your employers so courtesy at all times is the only way to treat them
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338223].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author onegoodman
    I would say whoever send that email is not a smart enough to stay long in the game. Insulting is not a way for anyone to get me back, in fact once someone try insulting me, I am not only not going to buy from him but I will get on him back.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338277].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dennis Gaskill
    Are you saying that my time isn't worth $2 for a whole month?
    Classic mistake ... with that line the writer has made the email about him. He doesn't get that nobody cares about his time or what it's worth, they care about what's in it for them, and he hasn't given any new reasons why the site is better now than it was when those who used to belong left.
    Signature

    Just when you think you've got it all figured out, someone changes the rules.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338341].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Justin W
    Originally Posted by Martin Luxton View Post

    Today, they got nasty. This is the subject line
    What you have in common with a T-rex

    lol... It's 4AM and I burst out laughing when I read that. It's sure a good subject line that gets your attention!

    As far as if it was mean or not, this thread has shown that it's clearly up for interpretation.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338406].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author tazmart
    Well, it worked for the Rich Jerk for a while :-)

    It's just another marketing tactic, it's not personal, and you only have to delete the email if you don't like it.

    You should see some of the support tickets I get at various sites I own or admin, now THEY are personal, rude, insulting and bullying, and usually over nothing at all. Puts stuff like this into perspective!

    Martin
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338471].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author crystalDMP
    I find it insulting and funny. I think if i received something like this, my first reaction would be: where can I report this so they get punished! lol
    I don't know, it might work for someone but not for me that's for sure
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338485].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author celente
    I think this is an interesting equation in marketing.

    Are you telling a story and playing with emotions..... to draw upon their frustration.

    Or are you flat out insulting them...

    there is no thin line between the two, but both can be used to ones advantage and to make more sales.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338492].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Chris Worner
    I am going to Kick both of those two individuals if I ever see them, Kyle and Carson that is. Word of warning to all of you, if you want to be sent a bunch of annoying emails with no way to unsubscribe even though you no longer use the service or haven't done so for an extended period of time, avoid Wealthy affiliate University at all costs, besides it's not even worth the subscription and you can find better information here on WF for free.

    Chris
    Signature

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338556].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author magnates
    I don't care whether it worked or not .You never had to come down so low as to insult people to get them to spend money with you .That is just plain wrong !!

    It is ok to show disapproval and to scold but to plain insult people and compare them to a T-rex is a bit too far

    I ma not interested in making money from people down . i think that is what the rich jerk used to do along time ago and i quickly unsubscribed

    I hate disrespect
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338671].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author grandstar
    The first ever sale I made on clickbank was the richjerk. Now he was rude... I wonder what he's up to know.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4338693].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JCorp
    Yea, sure that will work. I know a few marketers that have/do this and they make a ton of $$$. However, I won't succumb to it. I like to motivate my subscribers,customers, make them feel good about themselves and feel good about taking the necessary actions that I want them to take. This has helped to increase sales...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4339125].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author azmanar
    Hi,

    I found some offers on the net, where the video presenters were vulgar, insult viewers as well as bashed gurus upside down, left and right.

    All the offers turned out to be very scammy.

    I'm not saying that scammers won't use nice and civil sales copies in their activities.

    What I'm saying is, every time the sales copies are vulgar, insulting and bash gurus, their products are of very poor quality, half-baked and even scammy.

    At least from my experience as a buyer.

    Learnt my lesson. So I stay away from them.
    Signature
    === >>> Tomorrow Should Be Better Than Today

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4339207].message }}

Trending Topics