62 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}
62 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}

Is This a New kind of Marketing Strategey?.

by hunty
52 replies
Hi all
A couple of months ago i bought a video promising the world from a well known Internet Marketer, I actually thought it was pretty basic and was a little dissapointed. i suppose i should have asked for a refund of $47 But i did not bother.
However, I am now getting phone calls every week from this persons Office..(or so the callers say) trying to sell me courses that are going to change my life forever.
Is this some kind of new strategy or affiliate marketing?.As the IM Guru in question is a Multi millionaire and surely would not need to revert to this kind of approach.
After telling the last caller (which took nearly 10 minutes)that i was not interested In signing up for this course... He said he could not understand why i did not want to earn money...I then lost my temper and hung up.
But i am sure i will get more calls from this office
So I just wanted to know if Anyone else has suffered this type of Marketing?.
#kind #marketing #strategey
  • Profile picture of the author Ron Douglas
    Originally Posted by hunty View Post

    Hi all
    A couple of months ago i bought a video promising the world from a well known Internet Marketer, I actually thought it was pretty basic and was a little dissapointed. i suppose i should have asked for a refund of $47 But i did not bother.
    However, I am now getting phone calls every week from this persons Office..(or so the callers say) trying to sell me courses that are going to change my life forever.
    Is this some kind of new strategy or affiliate marketing?.As the IM Guru in question is a Multi millionaire and surely would not need to revert to this kind of approach.
    After telling the last caller (which took nearly 10 minutes)that i was not interested In signing up for this course... He said he could not understand why i did not want to earn money...I then lost my temper and hung up.
    But i am sure i will get more calls from mr caseys office.
    So I just wanted to know if Anyone else has suffered this type of Marketing?.
    Rule #1 - you can't name names - http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...ead-first.html
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019791].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author ProfessorMetal
      Question, Dude. Where did hunty name names? I didn't see it. Not meaning to climb your case by any means, I just don't see where anyone was specifically named.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019865].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Ron Douglas
        Originally Posted by ProfessorMetal View Post

        Question, Dude. Where did hunty name names? I didn't see it. Not meaning to climb your case by any means, I just don't see where anyone was specifically named.
        second to last line of his post
        Signature
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019896].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author yesacpow
          Hey To The OP,

          I don't think it is necessary to name the person.

          However, sine you are going to do it I would suggest that you use the person's full name so as not to cause any confusion.

          Note My name is Casey and I am pretty sure I am not the person you are talking about!!
          Signature
          FREE Step-By-Step Blueprint To Make $1000/Month With YouTube - Even Without Being On Camera!
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019905].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author linkbeasts
          While you did do business with these people thus establishing an EBR ( established business arrangement ) you can tell them you are ceasing your EBR with them and no longer want these phone calls. Place your phone number on the NDC ( national do not call registry ). Tell them you no longer wish any more phone calls from them. They are allowed by law one more call to you. After calling you more then one time after asking not to be called ( and after you have been on the DNC for 30 days ) you can take them to small claims court. Document every call , the time , try to ask who is speaking to you, make sure you have the right company name calling you. Let 3 or so of these spam calls come in then file a small claims case against them.

          costs less then 50 bucks in most jurisdictions in the USA. Bring your documented phone calls from these people. try to get a phone record from your cell company if you can or take a picture of your caller ID.

          You can get:

          $ 500.00 for the calling you while you are on the National Do
          Not Call list.

          Ask if hey have a do not call request list, if they do not you can get:
          $500.00 for " not keeping a do not call request list "

          $500.00 for calling you after you asked them to stop calling you

          laws:
          16 CFR Part 310: Telemarketing Sales Rule
          § 310.4 Abusive telemarketing acts or practices.

          Law:
          TITLE 47--TELECOMMUNICATION
          CHAPTER I--FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
          PART 64_MISCELLANEOUS RULES RELATING TO COMMON
          CARRIERS--Table of Contents
          Subpart L_ Restrictions on Telemarketing and Telephone Solicitation
          Sec. 64.1200 Delivery restrictions.
          (6) Maintenance of do-not-call lists. A person or entity making calls for
          telemarketing purposes must maintain a record of a caller's request not to
          receive further telemarketing calls. A do-not-call request must be honored for 5 years from the time the request is made.

          there are more laws you can google them. This is not legal advice but just advice on how you can potentialy deal with unwanted phone calls. As with anything legal do your own due diliegnce and/or consult an attorney. There are plenty of lawyers you can google who will sue telemarketers on your behalf.
          .
          Signature

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019932].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author ProfessorMetal
          Originally Posted by Ron Douglas View Post

          second to last line of his post
          I must be blind. This is all I see there "But i am sure i will get more calls from this office". Oh,well.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1026895].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author ProfessorMetal
          Never mind. I caught it now. I was looking at his original post. The name was apparently removed from it. I finally saw it in the quote in your reply to him. I'll be alright.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1026903].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Joel Gray
    Not really all that new, it's just a method that is only used by a few marketers. They seem to be top tier earners mostly, but you gotta wonder how long they will stay there by using this technique. Kinda like the continuity thing that is happening, you know where you buy my $10 software package and get the complimentary issue of my internet marketing ezine/report for the first month...then after that I am going to jack your butt for $29.95 per month.

    Sometimes you just gotta wonder WTF?

    Oh yea,this marketer can afford for you not to purchase their stuff, and I would suggest if possible you just block the numbers.

    Joel
    Signature

    "Punish The Deed, Not The Breed"

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019795].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ProfessorMetal
    Originally Posted by hunty View Post

    Hi all
    A couple of months ago i bought a video promising the world from a well known Internet Marketer, I actually thought it was pretty basic and was a little dissapointed. i suppose i should have asked for a refund of $47 But i did not bother.
    However, I am now getting phone calls every week from this persons Office..(or so the callers say) trying to sell me courses that are going to change my life forever.
    Is this some kind of new strategy or affiliate marketing?.As the IM Guru in question is a Multi millionaire and surely would not need to revert to this kind of approach.
    After telling the last caller (which took nearly 10 minutes)that i was not interested In signing up for this course... He said he could not understand why i did not want to earn money...I then lost my temper and hung up.
    But i am sure i will get more calls from mr caseys office.
    So I just wanted to know if Anyone else has suffered this type of Marketing?.
    I'm with Joel on this. It's not a new strategy at all. It's been around for a long time. IMO, it's a very unsavory technique. The "guru" is making his money by milking people. There's nothing wrong with an upsell but this kind of approach should tell you that the "guru" is the only one that's going to be making any money and that's by sucking your bank account dry. It's the internet version of the unethical used car dealer.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019885].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Ron Douglas
      Originally Posted by ProfessorMetal View Post

      I'm with Joel on this. It's not a new strategy at all. It's been around for a long time. IMO, it's a very unsavory technique. The "guru" is making his money by milking people. There's nothing wrong with an upsell but this kind of approach should tell you that the "guru" is the only one that's going to be making any money and that's by sucking your bank account dry. It's the internet version of the unethical used car dealer.
      Whether it's ethical or not depends on the way it's executed. I agree that calling someone without their permission and harassing them is not cool.

      However, if you've gotten the customer's permission to call them and if you're respectfully presenting a higher priced offer that can actually help them, following up a sale with a phone call can be the missing piece that propels your business to the next level.

      The truth is - people want to speak to someone after they have made a purchase. And customers also have a right to know about any additional services that you offer. Again, it's all in how you do it.

      If you're dismissing this strategy without giving it further thought, you're simply being closed minded.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019926].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author ProfessorMetal
        Originally Posted by Ron Douglas View Post

        Whether it's ethical or not depends on the way it's executed. I agree that calling someone without their permission and harassing them is not cool.

        However, if you've gotten the customer's permission to call them and if you're respectfully presenting a higher priced offer that can actually help them, following up a sale with a phone call can be the missing piece that propels your business to the next level.

        The truth is - people want to speak to someone after they have made a purchase. And customers also have a right to know about any additional services that you offer. Again, it's all in how you do it.

        If you're dismissing this strategy without giving it further thought, you're simply being closed minded.
        It's not the strategy that I'm necessarily opposed to. It's simply the high pressure "nastiness" exhibited. I should have been more clear. I'm also opposed to the tactic wherein you're pulled in thinking that your initial investment is all you're going to need to make(other than any money you may needto spend on marketing, hosting, etc.) and then get hit with a barrage of "If you really want to make money you need to spend $1,000, etc. to get into the next level. To me that borders on the slightly unethical. Such things should be spelled out up front so that you know the scoop going into it.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1026915].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author joelraitt
    Stop buying crappy products and use your brain. Then you can make money rather then spend it.
    Signature

    Work smart, work hard, never give up. Learn with me here: http://www.joelraitt.com

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019938].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dunno
    remember that if you record them, you must tell them or else its illegal
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019939].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Ron Douglas
      Originally Posted by dunno View Post

      remember that if you record them, you must tell them or else its illegal
      Geez, is this the Internet Marketing Make Money forum or the Consumer Protection Snitch on a Fellow Marketer forum? Be careful what bridges you burn - IM is a small world.

      I don't know why I'm wasting my time in this thread. It's quite fitting that strategy was even spelled wrong in the OP title.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019969].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mike Hill
      Originally Posted by dunno View Post

      remember that if you record them, you must tell them or else its illegal
      Actually no you don't need to tell them you are recording the conversation because only one party who is directly involved in the conversation needs to know it's being recorded. Now if there was a third party involved that the other two parties did not know about and they were recording the conversation then it would be illegal.

      Did you follow that....

      Although it's a good idea to inform the other party that you are recording this conversation because it works in your favor. They will do everything possible to please you within reason because they know it's being recorded.

      The first thing I would do is ask who you are speaking with and then inform them you are recording the conversation...

      Mike Hill

      PS. BTW I'm recording this conversation and now that you read this I know what you're thinking...
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020044].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author sevenish
        Originally Posted by Kyle Tully View Post

        Did you stop to think perhaps this kind of approach is why he is a multi-millionaire
        Which might make one not wish to continue with the course, since it would appear that the marketer is making more money by selling courses than from the methods being taught.

        Look, if the first product was so bloody great and life-changing, why the need to breathlessly and desperately promote more stuff that will make it so bloody great and life-changing. Get my drift?

        Originally Posted by TMG Enterprises View Post

        Hunty, you mention that you told him you didn't want the course. I am assuming that this was how you handled the previous calls. Why didn't you just say please remove me from your list as I don't want any calls? If you didn't do that and listened to the spiel, the person calling didn't do anything wrong.
        I know that marketer and was previously sucked into the sales funnel when I first started IM 5 years ago. It doesn't do much good to tell them you don't want to be contacted. The only thing that works is finally convincing them that you won't spend more money with them.

        I purchased the first product, so that's my mistake falling for the hype. They won't fool me twice though.

        Look, you know these people who are endlessly offering WSOs and other make money tactics? One person comes to mind who has consistently offered a new MMO tactic via WSO on a weekly basis for over 9 months. Do you really think he's as fond of the tactics vis-a-vis the selling of the tactics, given the energy and persistence put into selling the tactics?

        All that said, the marketer in question makes money from those who buy money-making courses, NOT by using the tactics within the courses ... unless the tactic is to promote money-making courses.
        Signature

        100% atrocity-free! No annihilations, assasinations, explosions, killers, crushers, massacres, bombs, skyrockets or nukes.

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020124].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Mike Hill
          Originally Posted by sevenish View Post

          Which might make one not wish to continue with the course, since it would appear that the marketer is making more money by selling courses than from the methods being taught.

          Look, if the first product was so bloody great and life-changing, why the need to breathlessly and desperately promote more stuff that will make it so bloody great and life-changing. Get my drift?



          I know that marketer and was previously sucked into the sales funnel when I first started IM 5 years ago. It doesn't do much good to tell them you don't want to be contacted. The only thing that works is finally convincing them that you won't spend more money with them.

          I purchased the first product, so that's my mistake falling for the hype. They won't fool me twice though.

          Look, you know these people who are endlessly offering WSOs and other make money tactics? One person comes to mind who has consistently offered a new MMO tactic via WSO on a weekly basis for over 9 months. Do you really think he's as fond of the tactics vis-a-vis the selling of the tactics, given the energy and persistence put into selling the tactics?

          All that said, the marketer in question makes money from those who buy money-making courses, NOT by using the tactics within the courses ... unless the tactic is to promote money-making courses.


          Are you kidding me...? The reason these guys keep selling is because, well they are marketers. I don't see you coming so unraveled when Bill Gates tries to sell more software. According to your answer he shouldn't do that anymore because he is so well off already.

          These guys are marketers and that's the business they are in and that's the business you are trying to get involved in. If you have a problem with marketers marketing to increase the value and profitability of their business then you have no business being in this business... Catch MY drift!

          Sheesh... How dare marketers try to increase their businesses profits!

          And how are you so sure these marketers do not use these tactics they are teaching. They don't have to announce it to you. There is a cycle in being a marketer in this business...

          Learn it --> Do it --> Teach it!

          Mike Hill
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020135].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author sevenish
            Originally Posted by Mike Hill View Post

            Are you kidding me...? The reason these guys keep selling is because, well they are marketers. I don't see you coming so unraveled when Bill Gates tries to sell more software. According to your answer he shouldn't do that anymore because he is so well off already.

            These guys are marketers and that's the business they are in and that's the business you are trying to get involved in. If you have a problem with marketers marketing to increase the value and profitability of their business then you have no business being in this business... Catch MY drift!
            Mike,

            Thanks for your response. Perhaps I didn't make myself clear, and for that I apologize. Hey, and maybe I'm a dumbass too.

            The tactic to which I object is when a marketer makes the impression that he/she has thoroughly tested and vetted a strategy ... AND remains so committed to that strategy that he/she not only practices it, but is willing to sell the strategy itself.

            My issue is that the delivery most often falls far short of the sales copy. In other words, if the product is a life-changing be-all-end-all, why are additional products or services required to make it really life-changing and be-all-end-all?

            I have no objection to being contacted by vendors of great products that I already have purchased and given a chance to buy another great product. I do, however, object to misleading sales copy and products that are no more than a swift dump into the sales toilet flush.

            I hope that clears the issue somewhat. I've no objection to marketing. I have objections to misleading and dishonest marketing, as well as to selling dreams that the marketer has not yet realized, no matter how hard he/she tries to claim otherwise.

            Best wishes.

            Edit:
            I don't see you coming so unraveled when Bill Gates tries to sell more software. According to your answer he shouldn't do that anymore because he is so well off already.
            No, but the value of the software is communicated by way of describing value to the user. Plus, he's not selling "life-changing" get rich crap.

            Take Excel for example, I don't need a make-money pitch to understand the value, nor does MS claim that my life will change by using it. MS doesn't claim that it's easy; they do claim that it does what it says on the tin. And it does.

            Edit 2: Last one, I promise
            While YES, the tactic worked and the advertiser made money, I -- the customer -- received less value than was promised/touted in the sales letter. So yes, the marketing worked ... for the vendor and the vendor only. The customers, meanwhile, were made to feel that more and more purchases were required in order for the first purchase to ever reach its potential.
            Signature

            100% atrocity-free! No annihilations, assasinations, explosions, killers, crushers, massacres, bombs, skyrockets or nukes.

            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020186].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author Kyle Tully
              Originally Posted by sevenish View Post

              My issue is that the delivery most often falls far short of the sales copy. In other words, if the product is a life-changing be-all-end-all, why are additional products or services required to make it really life-changing and be-all-end-all?
              Well we're talking about telemarketing as a marketing strategy here, not misleading sales copy.

              But to answer your question...

              Even if the product was completely hyped up and sold as the ultimate opportunity, what's wrong with selling other products and services that make THAT opportunity easier/faster/more profitable?

              Sure, if they're selling OTHER opportunities that don't compliment the first one you've got to question things... but if they're complimentary what's the problem?

              Personally I WANT to know how I can do things better.

              If I buy a car and there is a leather seat option you better damn well tell me about it. And I sure as hell ain't gonna cry that you told me the car was awesome even before the leather seats.
              Signature
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020216].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author Mike Hill
              No, but the value of the software is communicated by way of describing value to the user. Plus, he's not selling "life-changing" get rich crap.

              Take Excel for example, I don't need a make-money pitch to understand the value, nor does MS claim that my life will change by using it. MS doesn't claim that it's easy; they do claim that it does what it says on the tin. And it does.
              But do these guys advertise that the software crashes a lot, it's got bugs in it, updates are almost daily and next year we are going to add some funky little buttons that you probably won't use but we are going to sell it to you as a professional upgrade for twice what you piad for the previous 6 versions...


              Originally Posted by sevenish View Post

              Mike,

              Thanks for your response. Perhaps I didn't make myself clear, and for that I apologize. Hey, and maybe I'm a dumbass too.

              The tactic to which I object is when a marketer makes the impression that he/she has thoroughly tested and vetted a strategy ... AND remains so committed to that strategy that he/she not only practices it, but is willing to sell the strategy itself.

              My issue is that the delivery most often falls far short of the sales copy. In other words, if the product is a life-changing be-all-end-all, why are additional products or services required to make it really life-changing and be-all-end-all?
              Because you cannot satisfy everyone with just one product... But, create different versions with different names and use a different angle.


              I have no objection to being contacted by vendors of great products that I already have purchased and given a chance to buy another great product. I do, however, object to misleading sales copy and products that are no more than a swift dump into the sales toilet flush.

              I hope that clears the issue somewhat. I've no objection to marketing. I have objections to misleading and dishonest marketing, as well as to selling dreams that the marketer has not yet realized, no matter how hard he/she tries to claim otherwise.
              But this is all relative to how YOU perceive this marketers marketing style. I'm sure there are plenty of other customers who are thrilled and happy for what they received. That is why marketers offer money-back guarantees.

              Mike Hill
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020219].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author sevenish
                Originally Posted by Mike Hill View Post

                But this is all relative to how YOU perceive this marketers marketing style. I'm sure there are plenty of other customers who are thrilled and happy for what they received. That is why marketers offer money-back guarantees.

                Mike Hill
                I perceive "this marketers marketing style" (sic) as what is stated in the sales copy.
                Signature

                100% atrocity-free! No annihilations, assasinations, explosions, killers, crushers, massacres, bombs, skyrockets or nukes.

                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020471].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author dunno
        Originally Posted by Mike Hill View Post

        Actually no you don't need to tell them you are recording the conversation because only one party who is directly involved in the conversation needs to know it's being recorded. Now if there was a third party involved that the other two parties did not know about and they were recording the conversation then it would be illegal.

        Did you follow that....
        yeah i follow that...
        But in California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Washington consent from BOTH parties is needed.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020184].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author linkbeasts
        Originally Posted by Mike Hill View Post

        Actually no you don't need to tell them you are recording the conversation because only one party who is directly involved in the conversation needs to know it's being recorded. Now if there was a third party involved that the other two parties did not know about and they were recording the conversation then it would be illegal.

        Did you follow that....

        Although it's a good idea to inform the other party that you are recording this conversation because it works in your favor. They will do everything possible to please you within reason because they know it's being recorded.

        The first thing I would do is ask who you are speaking with and then inform them you are recording the conversation...

        Mike Hill

        PS. BTW I'm recording this conversation and now that you read this I know what you're thinking...
        what i ment by record is to write a record of date and time of call , who from , what company ect ..... NOT an actual phone recording lol.
        Signature

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020271].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bretski
    yeah...I got a call from one of the big gurus about a year ago...a guy that I would have thought better of if he had stuck to what he had been doing instead of branching out. Yeah...won't name names but he jacked me for about $50 a month for a year...I know better now...gawd I was pathetic back then, but I'm sure a year from now I'll think I was pathetic today
    Signature
    ***Affordable Quality Content Written For You!***
    Experience Content Writer - PM Bretski!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1019999].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MichaelHiles
    I recently got a call from one. I politely explained that I bought the stuff to see what it was all about, and that was the extent of it. End of discussion.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020016].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Kyle Tully
    Originally Posted by hunty View Post

    As the IM Guru in question is a Multi millionaire and surely would not need to revert to this kind of approach.
    Did you stop to think perhaps this kind of approach is why he is a multi-millionaire
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020030].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sellingonline
    (1) Telemarketing is actually very effective

    BUT (and that's the big BUT in your case):

    (2) Calling again and again (especially if not wanted) doesn't do the trick, it only repels

    So before some of you call following up by phone a "devils tool", think again how you can do it without annoying. (I do it and it works - people are actually impressed, BUT again a BUT: ONLY if you DELIVER GOOD PRODUCTS/SERVICES - I guess that's the point your "big marketer" is missing here - chasing the unsatisfied with upsales is not "exactly" what they should do...... anyway, you are just a numbe for them, unfortunately)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020031].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rupps
    Ron and Kyle are right.

    However if you want them or any telemarketer to stop calling you tell them "please take me off of your calling list". They will quickly wrap up the call and you will be removed, but it may take up to a month.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020192].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author linkbeasts
      Originally Posted by Rupps View Post

      Ron and Kyle are right.

      However if you want them or any telemarketer to stop calling you tell them "please take me off of your calling list". They will quickly wrap up the call and you will be removed, but it may take up to a month.
      sadly not always I got like 20 calls from a company about dental care and told them each time to stop. The calls did not stop until they got served papers for the lawsuit I pressed on them. Id ask to be taken off the list and they would just hang up and call again or worse yet call me names then hang up lol and they used a different number every 2 or 3 calls as well.
      Signature

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1020280].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Rupps
        Originally Posted by linkbeasts View Post

        sadly not always I got like 20 calls from a company about dental care and told them each time to stop. The calls did not stop until they got served papers for the lawsuit I pressed on them. Id ask to be taken off the list and they would just hang up and call again or worse yet call me names then hang up lol and they used a different number every 2 or 3 calls as well.
        That would certainly end it, lol.

        I used to get telemarketer calls daily. Now I rarely ever get one unless it is from the local police, fire department, etc.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1021482].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Dean Martin
      Originally Posted by Rupps View Post

      Ron and Kyle are right.

      However if you want them or any telemarketer to stop calling you tell them "please take me off of your calling list". They will quickly wrap up the call and you will be removed, but it may take up to a month.
      Sorry, it doesn't work for this particular marketer - the calls stop for 5 or 6 months, then a new round of marketing begins as if somehow I would forget that I didn't want anything to do w/them.

      What annoyed me most were the personal questions and Dr. Phil style psychobabble. "Are you married Mr. Martin"... uh yes ... "any children" ... I don't think that's any of your business ... "What would it mean to your wife and family to have Mr. 'guru' personally mentor you in your online business" ... uh, that depends - how about, since the first CD you sent me was total crap we start this one off w/a free round of your best training and I'll give you 50% of everything we make?

      Unfortunately, the initial call is just a 'pre-screening' to see if I qualify for the next step... LOL I told them I was doing my own pre-screening and they didn't pass the test.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1126892].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author jamiedot
        Originally Posted by dlmartin View Post


        What annoyed me most were the personal questions and Dr. Phil style psychobabble. "Are you married Mr. Martin"... uh yes ... "any children" ... I don't think that's any of your business ... "What would it mean to your wife and family to have Mr. 'guru' personally mentor you in your online business" ... uh, that depends - how about, since the first CD you sent me was total crap we start this one off w/a free round of your best training and I'll give you 50% of everything we make?

        Unfortunately, the initial call is just a 'pre-screening' to see if I qualify for the next step... LOL I told them I was doing my own pre-screening and they didn't pass the test.

        ------

        "how about, since the first CD you sent me was total crap we start this one off w/a free round of your best training and I'll give you 50% of everything we make?"

        hahaha. excellent!





        in response to th original poster and some of the replies he's elicited, id like to add that order forms from certain internet marketing gurus will NOT allow you to go further with your order unless you include a telephone number which by definition means that if you want their product, they get your number. not impressive.

        anyway, we all learn. bit by bit we all learn. maybe even the gurus learn that theyre just pi55ing people off whilst spoiling their own reputations at the same time & maybe they'll realise that they shouldnt put upselling telemarketers of complementary products onto their existing customers.

        we live in hope anyway :p
        Signature
        750 keyword rich backlinks to your website over the next month all FREE OF CHARGE - watch this video
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1898974].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author hunty
    Thanks for all your positive comments guys, it has been a real eye opener, I just wanted to know if this was a new approach, as i have never experienced this type of marketing with any other product that i have purchased.
    I can fully understand someone trying to give good customer service or support when required, A follow up e-mail would normally suffice,but constant phone calls I disagree with.Could this be the new type of Spam...lol
    I think some people may have misinterpreted what i was trying to say.
    But thanks for all your comments once again.

    Oh..and i do apologise for the typo in the OP title,obviously some people are more perfect than others.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1021232].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author slashman
    Hey,

    This is definitely not a new kind of marketing strategy. Maybe it is new for internet marketing products since that is a niche of it's own with its own community, leaders, mavens, and the like.

    It's a pushy strategy that turned you off on their products for life I'm sure... they must be worries about short term profits...then again, if some people buy, I'm sure they will feel the purchase was necessary in some way. You can't really tell. I know I wouldn't like this kind of treatment and I would have to play a funny joke like this one:

    youtube.com/watch?v=un_PjRXV5l8

    It's a little bit... inappropriate for posting directly int he forum. Let me know ifi t has to be removed. I thought people would enjoy it.

    Thank You,

    George
    Signature

    I'm a cool guy.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1021256].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TLTheLiberator
    If you're disappointed with the product, why not ask for a refund??????

    TL
    Signature

    "It's easier to fool people than to convince them that they have been fooled. -- Mark Twain

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1021306].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bobsedge
    I'm with Mike on this one. Marketing is about getting as many people as possible in your target audience to see or hear your message. I think that you will find that the most successful people do not leave any opportunity unexplored. The bottom line is if you provide a phone number expect to be called.

    Frankly, I miss the good old days when telemarketing wasn't a four letter word. We've become such "weenies" about receiving phone calls. It's become paramount to someone breaking into our homes.

    That being said, telemarketers should be respectful and back off when told someone is not interested. Disregard for this common courtesy is what killed telemarketing in the first place. But I think part of the problem is that people don't know how to say no. They beat around the bush but never actually say "go away".
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1021562].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Amber Jalink
    Just a note to the OP (and anyone else who isn't aware of this):

    *** read their privacy policy or terms if they don't have an official privacy policy. the person you mentioned (which I agree probably shouldn't have been named) - I know for a fact that their privacy policy shows that they WILL call you or they WILL share your private information with ANYONE they wish to for the purposes of email OR phone soliciting.

    I had the same experience as you (mind you it was several years ago) - I just played like I didn't have the $ for what they wanted to sell me at first - (call it marketing interest to see what they were doing LOL) - the guy had the nerve to tell me they could split it into like 3 different credit cards. Yeah, right. I then promptly told them to remove me and not call me again, and unsubbed from all of his lists.

    But you know, I know they still sell it because the email address I used there still gets spam. (Thank goodness for spam assassin )

    Always always *always* read privacy policies.

    What's really bad, is when others think they're doing the right thing by putting up a privacy policy, but they blatantly knock off these guy's privacy policies. I've read a few that had this person's name at a lower down paragraph (they missed a spot changing it LOL).

    I read every privacy policy now - if I'm not happy with it, I won't join no matter how much I am interested in the product, OR, I'll send them an immediate email after purchase notifying them that I DO NOT authorize them to sell my information (by law they have to abide by it).

    Ran into one site that I really liked but couldn't find their privacy policy... I joined (it was a free tool) - then their privacy policy was linked inside, which said they have the right to sell your info (meaning, they likely will). I sent a message to the support desk with the complaint that they need to put their privacy policy publicly available, not just after joining, but also that I wanted my account cancelled if they were going to sell it.

    They replied with an apology and that they didn't sell private info - they'd copied someone else's privacy policy.

    Makes me wonder how many people they lost because of it.

    Anyway - as mentioned above, you can ask the marketer promptly to have you removed from ALL solicitation lists - don't let them go through all the speel - catch them at the start.

    And read every privacy policy. If you're unsure - contact them directly with the instructions that you are to be put on a "Do not sell" list in order for you to be a customer. By law (US and Canada) they have to abide by it. They don't always - but they're supposed to.

    Amber
    Signature

    Amber Jalink, Founder http://www.dime-co.com
    WSO - Create Native Apps - Prelaunch Announcement

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1021640].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author lakeville
    I have never received a call but then again, i never leave my phone number .
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1126840].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Flyingpig7
    Absolutely I agree with lakeville and ProfessorMetal, Bobsedge.

    That being said, telemarketers should be respectful and back off when told someone is not interested. Disregard for this common courtesy is what killed telemarketing in the first place. But I think part of the problem is that people don't know how to say no. They beat around the bush but never actually say "go away".
    Oh I don't know people can get extremely rude and slam the phone down (in the UK it's known) or blow a whistle if a marketer does'ent get the message first time.

    There are actually rules of conduct and laws in the UK againgst this sort of thing from Double Glazing salesmen; doorstep sales, telesales etc... You have to draw a line in the sand where you sell with integrity before becoming very pushy boardering on harrassment.

    Sure this is how they become millionaires.
    Not how I want to build my business.

    Keren
    Signature

    Have a great day

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1126903].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MoneyPlus
    The internet marketer that you refer to hires a telemarketing firm
    (probably located off site) to bombard their buyers list with additional offers.
    This is nothing new but most marketers don't do this (because it's expensive).

    Put yourself on the Do Not Call list and don't give out your phone number.
    If they call again, get the name of the caller and tell them you are going to
    report them. That should stop the calls.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1281274].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TyBrown
    Originally Posted by hunty View Post

    Hi all
    Is this some kind of new strategy or affiliate marketing?.As the IM Guru in question is a Multi millionaire and surely would not need to revert to this kind of approach.
    I worked on a call floor like this about 13 years ago when I was 17. I was selling back end coaching for BIG name marketers. So no, it's not new. And regarding a 'need' to 'revert' to this approach....these call floors were generating MILLIONS for us, our bosses, and the big name marketers as well.

    No one is subjecting you to anything. Ask to be put on their do not call list. Me personally I listen to them. They are human just like me and I figure I can always learn something good or bad by how I'm getting pitched.

    I always get surprised when marketers resent being marketed to. Granted, it seems like they are annoying with how they are being pushy but give them a break or tell them not to call.
    Signature
    Online Dog Training
    Salt Lake City, Utah Dog Training
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1899016].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author shintaro
    Hi Hunty

    That's right that is the way of internet marketing which they called funnel system but actually like a mouse trap, once you get in it's seem will be put you into another trap
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1899055].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Online Bliss
    I also received a similar call
    and they wanted me to pay for personal training,
    I mentioned the price being a little steep but they would not take no for an answer and started talking about leverage and what I could sell to pay for it.
    I argued with them before hanging up.
    I later went online to view the original videos I purchased
    and found that they Blocked my IP address.
    The site worked fine on a friends computer.
    I'm glad there are legitimate marketers here whom I can trust.
    Signature
    You've got it Made
    with the Guy in the Shades!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1899303].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Kevin Riley
      Sigh! Nobody ever calls me. Cheap basterds don't want to pay the long distance. I feel rather neglected. Going to go sit in the garden and eat worms.
      Signature
      Kevin Riley, long-time Warrior living in Osaka, Japan

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1899321].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author celente
        Originally Posted by Kevin Riley View Post

        Sigh! Nobody ever calls me. Cheap basterds don't want to pay the long distance. I feel rather neglected. Going to go sit in the garden and eat worms.
        haha .... eat worms you say...i thought I was the only one.....I stick to a nice midnight feed, that way the neighbors wont see how crazy I really am!!!

        regarding this thread....comon...no one has picked it up yet.

        This is how I make just over 5 figures a month with just my main business.

        Instead of acting all whiney...and like a winging POM go out of your way and study this sales funnel. Do the reverse...and be smart about it. Thats how these big marketers and yours truely can pay sometimes hefty fees in PPC.

        My funnel goes like this PPC > OPT IN > SALEPAGE > THEY ORDER > UPSELL > OTO > SOLD!!

        Then after that maybe 2 weeks later I get about 1000 optins I have a calling house call them and sell a big 5k package or continuity program. It hardly costs me much at all because I provide the list. Yes it is legit if you are thinking its all scammy....i have some customers even thank me later.

        Yes you get lots of No's but my conversion rate is about 2% on a list of about 1000, but it does take some some time for the calls to go through as the call centre does this.

        Cant belive i just gave this info out here. Stop crying and study these sales funnels.... I do it continually to try and perfect my sales funnel even more!!!
        Signature
        Create a $5000 USD a month Business. 1-on-1 Coaching. By 6 figure marketer! - CLICK HERE
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1900535].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author TheGraduate
      Originally Posted by Online Bliss View Post

      I also received a similar call
      and they wanted me to pay for personal training,
      I mentioned the price being a little steep but they would not take no for an answer and started talking about leverage and what I could sell to pay for it.
      I argued with them before hanging up.
      I later went online to view the original videos I purchased
      and found that they Blocked my IP address.
      The site worked fine on a friends computer.
      I'm glad there are legitimate marketers here whom I can trust.
      Telemarketers work with something called a prospect call script, that script has many sections called rebuttals to which they by job description rules are required to deviate to every time you present them with an objection, it is not really their fault that you keep listening to them, they have to keep the pitch going using these rebuttals for as long as you keep listening to them, the calls get recorded by supervisors to make sure that they are not the ones ending the call, if they do they most likely get fire.

      it works something like this: they ask you yes or no questions and they have two scripts one for when you answer no and the other for when you answer yes, the trick is that by law they can keep going with the pitch as if you had answered yes if you have not given them a firm NO anwer to a question (I can't, Not today, etc are not NO for a Telemarketer)
      Signature
      amazing product coming soon!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1899436].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Kella Bella
    Okay....looks around n hopes no one hates me for this.....lol. I realized a LONG time ago that usually if you buy a product such as a business idea, etc that you will get back end marketing for it. I love the internet because I use an email specifically set up for this stuff and I can go in and check it once a week and see if anything interests me and I have purchased items later due to back end marketing emails I have received. That works for me.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1899685].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author alice23
      Banned
      [DELETED]
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1900011].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
    Banned
    This is used a lot ... ethical?
    What would be unethical about it?
    The only thing that would be unethical would be to upsell a really crap course for thousands of dollars, but upselling in and of itself is not unethical.

    That being said, this happened to me in the past and it never takes me 10 minutes to get rid of someone on the phone. Click ... it's done.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1900071].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Sheila Atwood
    Yes, these strong armed tactics go on all of the time. There is an office near my home that runs this kind of IM business.

    Although you would think that buying a $47.00 product would not give some one permission to harass you, but if you give your phone # you give permission to be called.

    It is possible to do a search on complaints for each marketer. True everyone will get complaints. But there are some "Gurus" who do not have a big list of complaints when you check them out.

    You can solicit the help of your phone company to stop the calls and donotcall.gov.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1900747].message }}

Trending Topics