9 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}
9 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}

Copy question: Explain Negative Optimism?

by The Niche Man
6 replies
I've come across a new copy term (for me anyway) called "Negative Optimism. Can anyone explain that to me.
#copy #explain #negative #optimism #question
  • Profile picture of the author Drez
    Not sure exactly what negative optimism means.

    I guess it could mean pointing out the "warts" in something. In fact this is a great way to build credibility in your copy.

    By letting people know what's missing or the limits of your product you become more believable.

    So maybe that's what was meant - showing the negative side of something to "balance" the optimism, hope and positive outcomes.

    But, who knows ... maybe it's just meant to confuse us all.
    Signature

    Mark "Drez" Dresner
    Swipe My Massive Copywriting Swipe Files Collection for FREE
    http://AdvertisingCopySwipes.com

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3785619].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BrianMcLeod
    I know where you came across it... : )

    One thing though: it's Negative OPTISM, not Optimism...

    Negative Optism is David Garfinkel's methodology for leveraging people's
    negative thought patterns and self-talk to create empathy, rapport,
    and trust with a prospect.

    There's a whole module devoted to it inside Copywriting Templates™,
    to be specific it's Module 04 - Negative Optism.

    David's Negative Optism overview video inside Fast Effective Copy
    is a classic.

    He transforms into David Smurfinkel to make his point...

    Signature
    Brian McLeod
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3785947].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BrianMcLeod
    Went ahead and posted the overview video to let David explain it himself...
    Signature
    Brian McLeod
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3790880].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author RickDuris
      I never knew such a term existed, but I have used the strategy.

      For instance, I'm working through a couple of anti-anxiety-related info products.

      If a person is crying for help, and they see your message when they're in pain... when they're upset... there's no need to paint a picture of Nirvana, nor describe what a complete state of bliss feels like.

      In fact, that tactic might be considered hyperbolic and they'll say "BS!".

      They just want relief in the moment, so they can get through the rest of their day. Sometimes, even the impulse buy of your product is relief enough. Because they know they're taking a step in the right direction.

      The copy key I've found that generally works, is to demonstrate with your words "empathy", compassion and even "sympathy"... then guide them to a solution.

      Brian, I am sure you and David have other tactics "up your sleeve" in your product. But that's what been working for me.

      - Rick Duris

      PS: Good luck with your endeavor, Brian.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3791306].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author BrianMcLeod
        Originally Posted by RickDuris View Post

        The copy key I've found that generally works, is to demonstrate with your words "empathy", compassion and even "sympathy"... then guide them to a solution.

        Brian, I am sure you and David have other tactics "up your sleeve" in your product. But that's what been working for me.

        - Rick Duris

        PS: Good luck with your endeavor, Brian.
        Thanks, "Ricky" LOL - naturally, you're right on the money. : )

        We should chat sometime soon, long time no talk.

        Best,

        Brian
        Signature
        Brian McLeod
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3791887].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author RickDuris
          Originally Posted by BrianMcLeod View Post

          Thanks, "Ricky" LOL - naturally, you're right on the money. : )
          Brian, Sheesh. Not you too! Who you been talkin' to? (Just kidding, don't answer that.)

          - Rick Duris
          Signature
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3792896].message }}

Trending Topics