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Does this seem like a scam?

by tremayne
56 replies
I really hope as many people as possible will be critical.

Our PR firm disagrees with a new site we put together. They think it "looks like a con job and hustle" and "paints the owner as someone running a scam on the public". Obviously, this would hurt our reputation. We went to great pains to give full evidence that what we say is absolutely true. We want people to put us to the test. A media tour is scheduled to start next month so if the website gives the wrong impression I want to know about it now. I would appreciate your opinions. The site is at Wealthy Investor Secrets - index.

Please be tough if you think it is required. I intend to send all comments, good or bad, to our PR people.

Thanks for your help,

Sydney
#scam
  • Profile picture of the author Kevin Perry
    I don't understand why your own PR firm would say something like that. You're giving people 26 weeks of free advice to feel it out.

    If you want my honest opinion I think you are just plugging your site.

    To me, your site seems a little plain for your own PR firm and 'media tour'. You need a custom logo, a more interesting font and better graphics. Also, your grammar is pretty good, but not 100%...everything just doesn't flow together.

    Other than that, I think you have a great idea and I wish you luck.

    Kevin
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by The Godfather View Post

      I don't understand why your own PR firm would say something like that. You're giving people 26 weeks of free advice to feel it out.

      If you want my honest opinion I think you are just plugging your site.

      To me, your site seems a little plain for your own PR firm and 'media tour'. You need a custom logo, a more interesting font and better graphics. Also, your grammar is pretty good, but not 100%...everything just doesn't flow together.

      Other than that, I think you have a great idea and I wish you luck.

      Kevin
      Hi Kevin!

      Thank you for taking the time to look and for your comments.

      Let me deal with the points one by one.

      1. Plugging the site? I doubt that many marketers would be too interested in investing, though I have been wrong before. I started this thread because it will be read by marketers, not investors. And by the way, the newsletter is free for life to Warriors who ask for the book in the next week or so.

      2. I was flabbergasted by the PR firm's comments. All previous comments from investors has been positive. I made every effort to include everything including the kitchen sink. I want people to know all the warts as well as the good points before they decide they want the newsletter. I don't want misunderstandings to cause disappointment for anyone and I want subscribers who will stick for life. Also, I want people to have enough information to prove to themselves that every claim is genuine and verifiable.

      (As you will have noticed, the site has been written for potential clients, not for search engines. The majority of publicity will be offline.)

      3. Logo: I agree. I think we need one. We are only now tidying up the essentials so we can launch. The logo is high on the list.

      4. Writing: Shakespeare, no! All I aim for is clarity and provision of all the tools for analysis. Those willing to do their own charting don't even need us after downloading the free book. If I fall down on this and you care to point out where I will be happy to listen and improve.

      5. "...plain for your own PR firm and 'media tour' " Expensive though it is, we need solid offline promotion. The target is 100,000 copies given away in six months. The firm (after extensive interviewing of six) believes they can deliver. Can they? I honestly don't know and I am having doubts after reading their comments. If they can't believe in the product, how do they expect to sell it (even free)? I wonder whether the harsh criticism is an attempt to pad the bill.

      Thanks, Kevin, for taking the time with this.

      Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author Frank Donovan
    Hi Sydney,

    I wouldn't say it seems like a scam...but I think it looks a bit confusing.

    I'm assuming the main point of the site is to get people to download your ebook and, in the process, to sign up for a free 26-week trial of your newsletter (?). I'm making this assumption because when I clicked through to the 'proof' page, the first line said I should read the ebook first. If that's the case, I believe the focus of your landing page should be more on the opt-in.

    Your header takes up a third of the browser, without really doing anything to sell your proposition. The opt-in box is relegated to a position well below the 'fold'. Not the best place for optimum sign-ups.

    If you're using the ebook to sell the benefit of your services, I'd say the landing page needs to be a lot punchier, with the key benefits of opting in highlighted much more clearly.

    You also suggest that after 26 weeks, you'll begin charging for the newsletter. Do you need such a long trial? And how will you be acquiring their credit card details? Unless you get these details upfront, you're just going to have to sell them on your newsletter all over again six months down the line. Apologies if I'm misunderstanding the process.


    Frank
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by Frank Donovan View Post

      Hi Sydney,

      I wouldn't say it seems like a scam...but I think it looks a bit confusing.

      I'm assuming the main point of the site is to get people to download your ebook and, in the process, to sign up for a free 26-week trial of your newsletter (?). I'm making this assumption because when I clicked through to the 'proof' page, the first line said I should read the ebook first. If that's the case, I believe the focus of your landing page should be more on the opt-in.

      Your header takes up a third of the browser, without really doing anything to sell your proposition. The opt-in box is relegated to a position well below the 'fold'. Not the best place for optimum sign-ups.

      If you're using the ebook to sell the benefit of your services, I'd say the landing page needs to be a lot punchier, with the key benefits of opting in highlighted much more clearly.

      You also suggest that after 26 weeks, you'll begin charging for the newsletter. Do you need such a long trial? And how will you be acquiring their credit card details? Unless you get these details upfront, you're just going to have to sell them on your newsletter all over again six months down the line. Apologies if I'm misunderstanding the process.


      Frank
      Hello Frank:

      Thank you for your comments. I will pass them on in full to my people.

      I wrote and designed the site with one purpose in mind: To prove that what we are offering is factual. Frankly, when I ran the 40-year test the numbers were so far ahead of what I expected that I saw the word SCAM in big flashing letters. That's why to PR firm; that's why I went to such effort to let readers see the inside workings. It scared me from a marketing standpoint.

      I was not really looking at the site as a selling site, though obviously it is. I didn't think I needed to sell. I felt that if I 'sold' it would smell.

      One thing is essential: that anyone who is even mildly interested has all the facts so they can see why and how the dots are connected as they are. That will never change, though it seems we should rethink the way the message is delivered.

      Thank you for that, Frank.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by Frank Donovan View Post

      Hi Sydney,

      You also suggest that after 26 weeks, you'll begin charging for the newsletter. Do you need such a long trial? And how will you be acquiring their credit card details? Unless you get these details upfront, you're just going to have to sell them on your newsletter all over again six months down the line. Apologies if I'm misunderstanding the process.


      Frank
      I was just putting comments together for the PR folks and I noticed I did not answer the above questions earlier. My apologies!

      I think I explained elsewhere in this thread why the long trial. Call it an ethical thing since there will be times when no new buys are advised. I don't want people paying for something they might not be getting for weeks at a time. They might rightly feel upset. So I explain this up front then there are no surprises.

      The site as it now stands does not have anywhere that is accessible to enter credit card details. That is deliberate. Access to a credit card page will be provided in count-down emails near the end of the 26 weeks. I am so certain of the product that I feel the conversion rate will be unusually high once people have used the newsletter for six months.

      I'm biased, for sure, but you couldn't pay me to give up my copy if I were a subscriber. How would I then know, without a ton of work, when to sell stocks I had bought, or when to buy once I had cash?

      In short, I am not in the least worried about losing interested potential clients during the credit card phase. They will be selling themselves every single week...or is that just too, too confident?

      Someone, I believe, also asked how we were going to handle payments. Part of the reason for a company in the Eurozone is that we have a merchant account, and it was either Europe or the U.S. I now live in a country where all foreign income is tax-free. If the company was in the U.S it would pay U.S taxes. I am Canadian (and British!) and pay tax only on income from Canada. As we expand to other countries, we will file taxes in some of them. Maybe that helps to explain why such a small company has its own CFO, a brilliant tax accountant who is retiring from his own company and moving as many do to Panama.

      When you see the site that everyone loves (!) so much, you see just the tip of a very complicated iceberg. A lot of people have been involved...and next we will add a designer.

      All the best,

      Sydney
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      • Profile picture of the author Frank Donovan
        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        I think I explained elsewhere in this thread why the long trial. Call it an ethical thing since there will be times when no new buys are advised. I don't want people paying for something they might not be getting for weeks at a time. They might rightly feel upset. So I explain this up front then there are no surprises.
        The site as it now stands does not have anywhere that is accessible to enter credit card details. That is deliberate. Access to a credit card page will be provided in count-down emails near the end of the 26 weeks. I am so certain of the product that I feel the conversion rate will be unusually high once people have used the newsletter for six months.
        Yes, Sydney; from your other responses in this thread, I now have a better understanding of the rationale behind a 26-week trial. And I'm sure your confidence in your service is well justified.

        Count-down emails asking for credit card information toward the end of the trial period could work, although the cynic in me wonders what would stop a subscriber from signing up again under a different email address for a fresh 26-week trial. That was one of the reasons I asked about the details you were capturing upfront from your subscribers.

        However, I can only applaud your intentions and the obvious belief you have in the service and wish you the very best for your launch.


        Frank
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        • Profile picture of the author tremayne
          Originally Posted by Frank Donovan View Post

          Yes, Sydney; from your other responses in this thread, I now have a better understanding of the rationale behind a 26-week trial. And I'm sure your confidence in your service is well justified.

          Count-down emails asking for credit card information toward the end of the trial period could work, although the cynic in me wonders what would stop a subscriber from signing up again under a different email address for a fresh 26-week trial. That was one of the reasons I asked about the details you were capturing upfront from your subscribers.

          However, I can only applaud your intentions and the obvious belief you have in the service and wish you the very best for your launch.


          Frank
          Hey Frank!

          Thank you so much for this; I had not thought of the repeated free sign-up angle. I am naive enough to believe that most people are honest and a few bad people here and there would make no difference. But I think maybe the real point is this: Why should a few dishonest people gain when honest people are paying?

          When I realized the problem a wide grin spread over my face. One of the people in my company is the finest programmer I have ever had the pleasure of working with - summa cum laude from one of the top UK universities. He can fix this problem in his sleep and not even interrupt his sweet dreams.

          I'll make a note to tell him.
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  • Profile picture of the author InternetSuccess001
    Hi --

    Speaking straight up... the way you are speaking sounds as if you have a 'company' developing this site (i.e., >10 people). The site itself though looks cheap, and looks like it was put together in about 20 minutes by a 'get rich quick' kind of person. Yes, it does look a bit scammy.
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    • Profile picture of the author Kay King
      I think there are a few places where an itemized series of facts might help with formatting.

      However, I like the straight forward talk in the site. What I didn't like -

      The handful of money in the header. Draws too much attention and sets a tone that does not blend with the copy. A stock ticker image or just plain header with the site title might be better.

      Too much white space after the header (though I like the headline - simple and straightforward) - pull the headline and text up a bit and eliminate some line spaces there.

      Fonts used are different sizes on different sections. Overly large on some pages.

      Several internal links didn't work properly. One particular was on the page linked by "proof" as it was a full page of text but when came to "proof" there was a click "here" and it's not linked in a way that made sense to me.

      I've done some copywriting - but I'm not an official copywriter. If you asked 20 copywriters you'd probably get 20 answers and most would be good answers. Some, however, would be from a "sales page" in IM viewpoint and I don't think that fits with this business.

      I read it from the point of someone familiar with the problem and much of read well. The strongest text for me were the paragraphs directly above the opt in becuase there you explain what you are doing.

      I don't agree with the PR department that it looks scammy but I do think it could be polished a bit through better formatting and by adding some "points" to break up the text here and there. (I don't mean the standard hype points you see on IM sales pages but just a way to better organize the important points of the offer).

      Just my opinion - and probably not worth quite 2 cents.

      kay
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      • Profile picture of the author tremayne
        Originally Posted by Kay King View Post

        I think there are a few places where an itemized series of facts might help with formatting.

        However, I like the straight forward talk in the site. What I didn't like -

        The handful of money in the header. Draws too much attention and sets a tone that does not blend with the copy. A stock ticker image or just plain header with the site title might be better.

        Too much white space after the header (though I like the headline - simple and straightforward) - pull the headline and text up a bit and eliminate some line spaces there.

        Fonts used are different sizes on different sections. Overly large on some pages.

        Several internal links didn't work properly. One particular was on the page linked by "proof" as it was a full page of text but when came to "proof" there was a click "here" and it's not linked in a way that made sense to me.

        I've done some copywriting - but I'm not an official copywriter. If you asked 20 copywriters you'd probably get 20 answers and most would be good answers. Some, however, would be from a "sales page" in IM viewpoint and I don't think that fits with this business.

        I read it from the point of someone familiar with the problem and much of read well. The strongest text for me were the paragraphs directly above the opt in becuase there you explain what you are doing.

        I don't agree with the PR department that it looks scammy but I do think it could be polished a bit through better formatting and by adding some "points" to break up the text here and there. (I don't mean the standard hype points you see on IM sales pages but just a way to better organize the important points of the offer).

        Just my opinion - and probably not worth quite 2 cents.

        kay
        Hello Kay!

        Your comments are worth far more than 2 cents!

        I like your non-IM approach...which is what I was aiming for. But it may be that a mix could be helpful. It had not been our intent to extensively promote the site on the web but rather to use it as a destination following offline marketing and media relations. But...what the heck do I know!

        My field is the investment business.

        What everyone has said so far is that the site needs a fair bit more work. Given what's involved here, I'd better pay close attention. I was considering canning the PR people; maybe I should can myself instead!

        I will go over all your points very carefully.

        However it is eventually done, I insist only that the site teach and carefully explain the system. Once people understand what it does and how, there is no need for hype. As it is right now, a few hours of study would allow readers to replicate what we have been doing. The only problem with that is that at a mere two minutes per stock...which is pushing it...it would take 16.5 hours to cover each of the S&P 500 stocks - and we have two systems, not one! I think most people will prefer just to have all the answers for a small monthly fee once they are sure it works.

        Hey, Kay, don't sell yourself too cheaply; your thoughts are worth much more than two cents!

        All the best,

        Sydney
        PS: All the 30 drop-downs on the proof page are an essential part of the proof and the training. I will have to look at that fast to see what's wrong. Thanks for the heads-up.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by InternetSuccess001 View Post

      Hi --

      Speaking straight up... the way you are speaking sounds as if you have a 'company' developing this site (i.e., >10 people). The site itself though looks cheap, and looks like it was put together in about 20 minutes by a 'get rich quick' kind of person. Yes, it does look a bit scammy.
      Hm! Oops! Back to the drawing board!

      No, there are not 10 people, just three. And there is a company, offshore limited in the UK for tax purposes.

      Take care,

      Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
    Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

    I really hope as many people as possible will be critical.

    Our PR firm disagrees with a new site we put together. They think it "looks like a con job and hustle" and "paints the owner as someone running a scam on the public". Obviously, this would hurt our reputation. We went to great pains to give full evidence that what we say is absolutely true. We want people to put us to the test. A media tour is scheduled to start next month so if the website gives the wrong impression I want to know about it now. I would appreciate your opinions. The site is at Wealthy Investor Secrets - index.

    Please be tough if you think it is required. I intend to send all comments, good or bad, to our PR people.

    Thanks for your help,

    Sydney
    Sydney,

    I plan websites that convert so here's my feedback. After giving your site the once over it looks incredibly plain and it looks like an untrained web designer put it together. It simply doesn't convey professionalism, doesn't grab any attention, and I'm inclined to side with your PR firm.

    Investing in some professional looking graphics that convert would be a good start. Also, what specific demographic are you targeting?

    Another thing, your opt-in form should be at the top of your page somewhere. Look at where these guys put their:

    Investment U - Investment Advice and Investment Research with a Contrarian Point of View

    Look at how prominent the form is on this site:

    Retirement Planning - Create a Retirement Plan that Pays Off

    The headline is pushed down too far, is too small, and does grab attention.

    RoD
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    • Profile picture of the author A Bary
      Well...let's be honest...

      I won't join your site myself if I am a targeted visitor.

      Why?

      A very poor design..a generic header with "dollars" in it...a typical feature of phony money making and investment scams...

      Indeed, I won't bother reading the rest of the page...

      You're targeting wealthy investors and stock market....how am I supposed to trust your company if it didn't bother to invest some little money to put together a decent site?

      Actually, I can understand the PR firm concerns..

      Sorry for being harsh...but you asked for honest opinions...

      A. Bary
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      • Profile picture of the author Crew Chief
        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        I really hope as many people as possible will be critical.
        You're targeting investors???

        I didn't waste a lot of time with my superficial perusal because wasn't needed. I'll start by saying, you need to CAN this site design altogether.

        Meaning, the layout, the color scheme and the navigation.

        Your target market is going to see this and quick EXIT. The design is just flat out unprofessional. What's really sad is, it was designed using XSitePro and the designer could have easily created a more professional and robust layout and color scheme with a few clicks, here and there.

        And then there is this...

        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        Contact information

        Wealthy Investor Limited is incorporated in the UK but managed from the Republic of Panama.

        We may be contacted by mail at: scam, scam, scam BAM!

        Box 0424-00011
        Volcan, Chiriqui
        Rep. de Panama
        00000

        The postal service in or to Panama leaves a lot to be desired        . scam, scam, scam BAM! It is best to register mail. Allow as much as two months for mail in either direction though it is usually much faster than this. We use mail only when absolutely necessary.
        Oh and what about this...

        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        Wealthy Investor Limited is a private limited company incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 of England and Wales. The company number is 7189587. Registered office is Overseas House, 66-68 High Road, Bushey Heath, Hertfordshire, WD23 1GG, United Kingdom.
        So between Panama and Hertfordshire, it looks like I'll need to hire a private detective, a bounty hunter or maybe a mercenary to find you if I want a refund.

        Yeah, whoever said this looks like a scam was dead on!

        Giles, the Crew Chief
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        • Profile picture of the author Mohammad Afaq
          Originally Posted by Crew Chief View Post

          Yeah, whoever said this looks like a scam was dead on!

          Giles, the Crew Chief
          You too are dead on

          Here's my tip to the OP.

          Shell out a couple hundred dollars to get a professional looking design and

          Pay attention to everything Giles said. Trust me, his post is pure gold.
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          • Profile picture of the author tremayne
            Originally Posted by Mohammad Afaq View Post

            You too are dead on

            Here's my tip to the OP.

            Shell out a couple hundred dollars to get a professional looking design and

            Pay attention to everything Giles said. Trust me, his post is pure gold.
            Hello Mohammad:

            It will be far more than "a couple hundred dollars" I am sure, but it will be done.

            A question, though, where should I tell people to contact us? I have Canadian and UK citizenships, live in tropical Panama and for tax purposes have an offshore company in the UK. I know Panama rings (usually false) bells in people's minds but I'm not going to lie and send them to a drop box in the U.S. I think Noriega is now incarcerated in France, then he faces murder charges here.

            But your point, and those of so many other people, is well taken. One of the most valuable things I have done recently has been to ask for criticism here.

            Take care,

            Sydney
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            • Profile picture of the author Janice Sperry
              Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

              Hello Mohammad:

              A question, though, where should I tell people to contact us? I have Canadian and UK citizenships, live in tropical Panama and for tax purposes have an offshore company in the UK. I know Panama rings (usually false) bells in people's minds but I'm not going to lie and send them to a drop box in the U.S.

              Sydney
              There are some great companies registered in Panama but there are also many HYIP ponzi's and other scam operations. You are right that a Panama address would immediately scare off many prospects especially with the people you are trying to target.

              Could you have a virtual office in the UK or Canada and still not lie? Be honest and upfront like you are in your other content. Tell your visitors that you have a central office contracted to forward your mail etc. As a semi-retired investor you choose to live in different parts of the world. I don't think I would have "Panama" listed anywhere on the site.
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              • Profile picture of the author tremayne
                Originally Posted by Janice Sperry View Post

                There are some great companies registered in Panama but there are also many HYIP ponzi's and other scam operations. You are right that a Panama address would immediately scare off many prospects especially with the people you are trying to target.

                Could you have a virtual office in the UK or Canada and still not lie? Be honest and upfront like you are in your other content. Tell your visitors that you have a central office contracted to forward your mail etc. As a semi-retired investor you choose to live in different parts of the world. I don't think I would have "Panama" listed anywhere on the site.
                Hello Janice:

                You are quite right, of course, but I have to think about the approach. I have to be fully satisfied within myself that having a "central office" would not be misleading. I am pretty sure the PR firm (or am I no longer able to allude to it in case some other pinhead thinks it's BS?) would be able to set up something in New York?

                I appreciate your helpful comment Janice. Thank you!

                Sydney
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      • Profile picture of the author tremayne
        Originally Posted by goldmind123 View Post

        Well...let's be honest...

        I won't join your site myself if I am a targeted visitor.

        Why?

        A very poor design..a generic header with "dollars" in it...a typical feature of phony money making and investment scams...

        Indeed, I won't bother reading the rest of the page...

        You're targeting wealthy investors and stock market....how am I supposed to trust your company if it didn't bother to invest some little money to put together a decent site?

        Actually, I can understand the PR firm concerns..

        Sorry for being harsh...but you asked for honest opinions...

        A. Bary
        I was not kidding when I asked for honest opinions so I would far sooner harsh than platitudes!

        I'm working through the list as I reply, but everyone so far has had problems with the site. The message to me is that I should stick to what I do best and leave the rest to pros!

        (Now I feel less insulted by the PR firm! After all, we pay them to achieve a target, not be nice!)

        Take care,

        Sydney
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      • Profile picture of the author Viewcaster
        Originally Posted by goldmind123 View Post

        Well...let's be honest...

        I won't join your site myself if I am a targeted visitor.

        Why?

        A very poor design..a generic header with "dollars" in it...a typical feature of phony money making and investment scams...

        Indeed, I won't bother reading the rest of the page...

        You're targeting wealthy investors and stock market....how am I supposed to trust your company if it didn't bother to invest some little money to put together a decent site?

        Actually, I can understand the PR firm concerns..

        Sorry for being harsh...but you asked for honest opinions...

        A. Bary
        Have to agree here... when first loads I am thinking generic or template site.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by Rod Cortez View Post

      Sydney,

      I plan websites that convert so here's my feedback. After giving your site the once over it looks incredibly plain and it looks like an untrained web designer put it together. It simply doesn't convey professionalism, doesn't grab any attention, and I'm inclined to side with your PR firm.

      Investing in some professional looking graphics that convert would be a good start. Also, what specific demographic are you targeting?

      Another thing, your opt-in form should be at the top of your page somewhere. Look at where these guys put their:

      Investment U - Investment Advice and Investment Research with a Contrarian Point of View

      Look at how prominent the form is on this site:

      Retirement Planning - Create a Retirement Plan that Pays Off

      The headline is pushed down too far, is too small, and does grab attention.

      RoD
      Hello Rod!

      One thing in particular I have always appreciated about the WF is the quality of most answers.

      Frankly, I thought the PR people had not really looked at the site. (Was it sooo obvious I [a rank amateur] designed it?!!!) I can see we will have to get it done right.

      Your comments have been most helpful. I feel thoroughly chastised! I appreciate the lesson I am getting from people who know marketing.

      Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author Jordan Kovats
    My only comment is it looks like a capture / funnel page leading to a buy now button. I don't know the back ground on your company, but I believe if you fixed up some design elements so it didn't look so much like a sales page, you may be able to put you PR firm at ease. You need a more professional look. I think your type of clientelle may expect it.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by theseoguys View Post

      My only comment is it looks like a capture / funnel page leading to a buy now button. I don't know the back ground on your company, but I believe if you fixed up some design elements so it didn't look so much like a sales page, you may be able to put you PR firm at ease. You need a more professional look. I think your type of clientelle may expect it.
      You're right: it is a funnel but leading to a 'kick this around thoroughly and prove it to yourself' button. There deliberately is no sales page. That, I hope, will be totally unnecessary when folks see the results. That's why the free 26 weeks. But you are also right: subscribers will expect pure professionalism throughout, not just on the website.

      I suspect what is going to happen is that the PR people will do the site...just so long as they find a way to tell the complete story.

      Thanks for this!

      Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author dafiz
    The colour, the logo, the position of the title and the opt-in form, it all comes across as very cheap and unprofessional. Considering your target market, I would expect a very professionally designed website.

    I would sack your web developer and hire a quality one this time.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by dafiz View Post

      The colour, the logo, the position of the title and the opt-in form, it all comes across as very cheap and unprofessional. Considering your target market, I would expect a very professionally designed website.

      I would sack your web developer and hire a quality one this time.
      I have already decided to sack myself and stick to what I do best! I'll let the PR firm and their people look after the site.

      You and everyone else has me convinced!

      Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author JayVance
    I would have to agree with some of the other comments, poor design, hard to read, doesn't look professional. To me without the professional layout it looks more like a scam. But just by reading it I wouldn't think that as a targeted visitor just based on the content.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by JayVance View Post

      I would have to agree with some of the other comments, poor design, hard to read, doesn't look professional. To me without the professional layout it looks more like a scam. But just by reading it I wouldn't think that as a targeted visitor just based on the content.
      Hi Jay:

      Here's my take so far from all the comments, yours included: The detail is right, the site is crap. Does that sum it up? If it does, I intend to let the PR firm handle the site provided the information remains intact. To me, that is the crucial part. The returns for the past 40 years of back testing have been so high (given that we're talking about long term investing in S&P 500 stocks with no 'extras') it is essential we give all the information possible so people who are interested can work through step by step and see whether it is for them.

      Thanks for contributing the the decision!

      Sydney
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      • Profile picture of the author psresearch
        Yes, it looks scammy.

        And I suppose the thing that really screams out at me is why a company teaching how to be a wealthy investor hasn't spent the money to pay a professional web design company.

        Also, I'd get more credibility factors on the main page (like your Prentice-Hall book info).
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        • Profile picture of the author tremayne
          Originally Posted by Paul Schlegel View Post

          Yes, it looks scammy.

          And I suppose the thing that really screams out at me is why a company teaching how to be a wealthy investor hasn't spent the money to pay a professional web design company.

          Also, I'd get more credibility factors on the main page (like your Prentice-Hall book info).
          Thank you Paul!

          The message has been loud and clear, as you will see from my comment above. Changes will be made...by someone qualified. And you are right: Given the money and effort that has gone into this already... What's the saying: 'to spoil the ship for a hap'orth o'tar'?

          Sydney
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      • Profile picture of the author jpibanez
        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        Hi Jay:

        Here's my take so far from all the comments, yours included: The detail is right, the site is crap. Does that sum it up? If it does, I intend to let the PR firm handle the site provided the information remains intact.

        I couldn't have said it any better. Just fix the site design. Make it look professional.

        When the home page finished loading, I immediately closed it upon the assumption that the site is one of those fly-by-night companies.

        I opened the site a second time to take a look at the content (ignore design mode: on). So far I have no problems with it. I actually think that if the design fits your content or if both blended well together, it would be profitable asset for your company in one way or another. You just have to figure it out.

        Cheers!
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        • Profile picture of the author tremayne
          Originally Posted by jpibanez View Post

          I couldn't have said it any better. Just fix the site design. Make it look professional.

          When the home page finished loading, I immediately closed it upon the assumption that the site is one of those fly-by-night companies.

          I opened the site a second time to take a look at the content (ignore design mode: on). So far I have no problems with it. I actually think that if the design fits your content or if both blended well together, it would be profitable asset for your company in one way or another. You just have to figure it out.

          Cheers!
          Hello JP:

          Thank you for this. With WF's great assistance I think it will now be figured out. An experienced and proven pro will do the website. I am heartened to hear from you that the major problem in with the design and not so much with the content. The content is what is important to me; the rest can be done according the proper design rules. I will be relieved to have that off my plate!

          Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author mattlaclear
    We were creating websites that looked just like that back in 1995. It is horribly outdated and needs to be revamped. You spend money on a pr firm but cheap out on the design? I think I agree with the other poster who thought you posted only to plug your own site.

    Hey...you asked.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by mattlaclear View Post

      We were creating websites that looked just like that back in 1995. It is horribly outdated and needs to be revamped. You spend money on a pr firm but cheap out on the design? I think I agree with the other poster who thought you posted only to plug your own site.

      Hey...you asked.
      Hi Matt:

      I don't see how publicizing something that is free for life to WF members can be taken as promotion but you are entitled to your opinion.

      As for your other comments, clearly you are right and I am deluded! The design part looked so easy with XSitePro!

      Take care,

      Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author tremayne
    Originally Posted by believemarketing View Post

    its not good
    That seems to make it unanimous...and I am listening!

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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      WRAP UP!

      Okay everyone, this has been most useful. I appreciate your time and thought. The message has been delivered and received.

      Tomorrow, I will begin to draft a letter to the PR firm and attach a summary of all comments. There is too much at stake for me to fool around with things beyond my expertise. I broke one of my own rules: Don't try to be everything, life is too short; hire people who are already experts.

      Thank you to everyone for your time and your comments.

      Best wishes from rain-drenched Panama!

      Sydney
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    • Profile picture of the author Kay King
      A question, though, where should I tell people to contact us? I have Canadian and UK citizenships, live in tropical Panama and for tax purposes have an offshore company in the UK. I know Panama rings (usually false) bells in people's minds but I'm not going to lie and send them to a drop box in the U.S. I think Noriega is now incarcerated in France, then he faces murder charges here.
      When you explain that - it could take away the "sting" aspect.

      As it is right now, a few hours of study would allow readers to replicate what we have been doing. The only problem with that is that at a mere two minutes per stock...which is pushing it...it would take 16.5 hours to cover each of the S&P 500 stocks - and we have two systems, not one! I think most people will prefer just to have all the answers for a small monthly fee once they are sure it works.
      To me, THAT sounds like your unique selling position. Convince visitors of that and you don't need any hype to sell them on giving it a try.

      kay
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      • Profile picture of the author tremayne
        Originally Posted by Kay King View Post

        When you explain that - it could take away the "sting" aspect.



        To me, THAT sounds like your unique selling position. Convince visitors of that and you don't need any hype to sell them on giving it a try.

        kay
        Once more, Kay, thank you for that...and for your encouragement.

        The site as it exists (and that until tonight I thought was pretty good!!!) will be scrapped.

        I am convinced we do not need hype; I think that would turn off more people than a poorly-designed site. In my mind, the site is simply a tool...but when you want to cut a piece of wood you'd better know not to use a hammer! What is essential to me is that the entire process be explained in a clear no-holds-barred manner so readers absolutely know the value without having to be told...if that makes sense.

        Now, there's a ton of information on the site. I didn't see any way around that. But let's face it, people who are not willing to do some proper investigation probably are not our clients anyhow. It's a delicate balance but I'd rather people had all the information they need than not enough.

        As it is, the site is by no means a waste of time. Apart from allowing the content to be examined here, it is a solid blueprint for what the final site will say. The design will be professional, the writing may be tightened (though the PR people's reference to neurolinguistics concerns me - it sounds like hype, but what do I know?) but the message will be essentially the same.

        I appreciate all your help. Your advice will be part of the package the PR folks get. (I'm sure they will be pleased everyone agrees with them! So am I; I was getting concerned and was beginning to think we had chosen the wrong company. It turns out it was me that was wrong.)

        Sydney

        All the best,

        Sydney
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  • Profile picture of the author alanmoore78
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    • Profile picture of the author mcmahanusa
      You've had some spot-on responses, and your reaction has shown a good maturity and willingness to listen.

      Summed up in an old cliche: "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." It's true, and if you follow the sound advice you've received, you'll be able to make that good impression.
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      • Profile picture of the author tremayne
        Originally Posted by mcmahanusa View Post

        You've had some spot-on responses, and your reaction has shown a good maturity and willingness to listen.

        Summed up in an old cliche: "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." It's true, and if you follow the sound advice you've received, you'll be able to make that good impression.
        That's absolutely correct. As I am sure you know, WF is populated with a lot of very talented people. Whenever I take a hesitant step connected with marketing I always get sound advice here.

        All the best,

        Sydney
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by alanmoore78 View Post

      I have a testing site I put up in about three hours awhile back, just Google "Beater World Texas and it's #1"

      Any college kid could crank out one of these (fully functional, too, unlike mine which has broken links due to my lack of motivation to write additional content) in about the same amount of time. Free template, free labor to type in the copy, free images, nothing special other than the little flash thing I made in Wix for the Browse Inventory tab.

      I like playing around with these sort of things. I may never get a dealer's license and I may never sell a car other than the ones I drive every day, but I have the satisfaction of knowing if I did get the chance, that I could get the website up by myself. I have hidden pages all over there with videos and pictures and miscellany. Mostly to share with my kids' grandparents. Definitely worth the $12 a year or whatever to keep the domain alive and use GoDaddy's free hosting.

      It's a short learning curve like the last few yards leading up to a putting green. Once you've played around with it, it comes naturally.
      Now you know exactly why I thought I could put our site together. I have been convinced tonight (thank God!) not to let this site see the light of day longer than it takes for a new professional site to be done. The only problem: this one is not for the grand-kids. Too many people and too much money is at stake for that.

      Sometimes a person can take on more than they should. I need to recognize I am not all things to all people!

      Keep having fun and getting satisfaction with your sites!

      By the way, when I wasn't in the trees I could usually reach the green in three...and then after rolling into two bunkers get down in another six!

      Sydney
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    • Profile picture of the author SteveJohnson
      Originally Posted by Paul Barrs View Post

      First things first - don't just sack the designer, deport him / her. They shouldn't be allowed in the country.
      Sydney - sorry, I have to ask...can you deport yourself?

      The best thing you'll do is hire a professional designer - and I'm not talking just a webbie person here - that knows how to relate to a target market through visuals. There is a LOT that goes into professional design - color palette, typefaces, layout, etc. Expect to pay dearly. Don't do elance, don't do rentacoder, don't do "the best price". Find a designer who works with a developer who can take the site from design to the web.

      If you want to have 100,000 signups, you'll need to look thoroughly professional, and your copy will have to be thoroughly professional. Hire a professional copywriter, one who knows or can research your target market, who knows how to talk to them.

      The copy on your site is OK, but not compelling, and doesn't hold interest. A professional copywriter can do that without being too "salesy", and still get your message across in the way that you want it.
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  • Profile picture of the author snapcontent
    Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

    Our PR firm disagrees with a new site we put together. They think it "looks like a con job and hustle" and "paints the owner as someone running a scam on the public".
    I don't know whether I'd go that far, but it does have a couple of stock photos (hand with money, old guy on yacht with champagne & young girl) that could be better. Also, having the word 'secrets' in the url may not be helping.
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  • Profile picture of the author facetheace
    I agree with the PR firm, the site looks as if it wants to make a quick buck by some kind of trick, instead of something with real value.
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  • Profile picture of the author tpw
    Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

    I really hope as many people as possible will be critical.

    Our PR firm disagrees with a new site we put together. They think it "looks like a con job and hustle" and "paints the owner as someone running a scam on the public". Obviously, this would hurt our reputation. We went to great pains to give full evidence that what we say is absolutely true. We want people to put us to the test. A media tour is scheduled to start next month so if the website gives the wrong impression I want to know about it now. I would appreciate your opinions. The site is at Wealthy Investor Secrets - index.

    Please be tough if you think it is required. I intend to send all comments, good or bad, to our PR people.

    Thanks for your help,

    Sydney

    Remember, you asked for brutal honesty... This is going to be brutal...

    I have not gone beyond your first page... I have a sense of futility going beyond the first page...



    Personally, I don't have any issues with hiring family members to do a job, but it looks like you pulled in your 7th grade grandson to build this website for you, for $50 in summer spending money...

    The design of my original website was horrific, and this is worse... LOL

    Background color is wrong... Header images are wrong... Images in copy are wrong... Buttons don't even fit the template correctly... And links at the bottom of the page fail to inspire confidence in your website...

    This website is the home for your marketing message, and its visual elements either inspire trust or they inspire fear...

    In your case, you are hoping to build trust, but planing the seeds of distrust...

    It is not that this site looks like a scam so much, but rather it was built by a scammer chasing a quick buck...



    With most of the visual elements covered thus far, I am going to tackle the copy...

    If the person who wrote this sales copy for you has "copywriter" anywhere in his or her resume... FIRE THEM NOW!!

    The first thing that comes to mind is BORING!! The second thing is that the copy bounced between ideas, as if it were a game of Pong... The third thing is that the copy completely failed to inspire confidence in you, your website or your offer... And fourth, it failed to make a compelling case for your offer...

    After all, your goal is to sell the reader on your newsletter... Yet, the information presented in your sales page is written badly, very badly...

    If the writer of your newsletter writes as bad as the person who wrote your website copy, your newsletter will be laughable at best...

    You need to be building trust, and you simply are not doing that effectively or at all...



    Free Optin is at the bottom of the page... It should be both at the top and the bottom of the page... Next to the copy and below the copy....



    Your only mood image in the page is the couple happily enjoying their day on the boat... Yet, your copy begins on a sour note...

    The images should be congruous...

    I would have one image at top, reinforcing the fear and anger that your prospect has about losing their retirement...

    Then I would include the existing photo towards the bottom of the page, when you are promising to help them recover their financial well-being...



    Use bigger font on your copy... We old people might have to strain to read what you have written... I am only 44, but the print was a pixel size or two, too small...

    Where is your headline? Non-existent...



    Mind you, I am not a professional copywriter, although I have written some pretty successful copy for my own sites...

    But if I were in your shoes, I would open with a big, bold headline reinforcing the despair of the local economic climate...

    For the first half of the copy, I would be putting my finger into their wound and twisting my finger about to really make them feel the pain of their losses...

    I would include a Pain image next to that copy, showing either the graphs going down, or the guy in absolute despair at his losses...

    I would include sub-heads throughout the copy, to signal changes in mood...

    The first change in mood would be to point out that the worst case that they have experienced is not the reality for everyone...

    Introduce them to a different way of thinking, by showing them the stories of people who have already got back onto the road to security...

    The second change in mood would be to present your product as a solution...

    Then describe your product and the reason people would want it....

    Build value and price expectations that exceed what you will ask for the product....

    The third change would be what you really charge for the product...

    Followed by the Special Offer copy -- Try us out for 6 months free, with no obligations... In enlarged font and off-color print...

    Then the call-to-action... Get your first six months for free... Fill in your information below...

    I would also be inclined to offer the Digital Version for free six-months, and an offer for the Print Version, which you may not have yet.... Also for a discount from its real price... Or perhaps even free too...

    If you present the print version first, you can talk about the value and price expectations of the print copy alone... Then when you get to the call to action, offer the price on the print version, an option on the digital version, and another special price is you get both...

    And offer a guarantee on your print version...

    If you can swing them paying you now, instead of six months from now, that would be awesome for your bottom line...

    In fact, I would offer extra material in the print version that is not in the digital version, to encourage more people to go that route...

    Some people want the hard copy more than the digital copy... So give them a discount, or the first few months for free...

    Increase the size of the opt-in box, and put it towards the top of the page for those who don't feel a need to read your copy, and put a copy of it towards the bottom of the page, for those who did read your copy...



    And because many people are too lazy to read, I would go ahead and add a 2-minute video at the top of the page that surmises everything in the actual copy....

    So put the video in the upper left, with the first optin box next to it...

    Then run your copy down the page...

    And present another optin box at the bottom, with the size of both optin boxes doubled at minimum...

    Make it absolutely clear that your call to action is Subscribe Here...


    When you hit the links at the bottom of the page, integrate them into the design, so it does not seem like they were an afterthought to the websites' designer...


    And if at all possible, include testimonials on your sales page...
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by tpw View Post

      Remember, you asked for brutal honesty... This is going to be brutal...

      I have not gone beyond your first page... I have a sense of futility going beyond the first page...
      Hello Bill:

      Comments would be a waste of words and time, yours and mine, if they were not completely honest.

      Much of what you say at the start of your post has been drilled into my head and as soon as I can get a break from responding to very helpful posts like yours I will be drafting a letter to the PR folks with WF comments appended.

      I will not comment on what is right or wrong with the design; I think that is clear from many posts. I will let the new designer figure out what should or should not be. If the PR guy is half as tough on that person, I have nothing to worry about. It is clear I am not a designer and I promise never to hire myself again!

      It's a shame you did not get beyond the first page. You would know I'm no scammer. But not getting beyond it is an illustration of its own; if potential clients don't get beyond... well!

      As far as writing is concerned, I was trying to completely avoid even any hint of hype or selling. Again, I will leave that to the pros so long as the result is completely honest and provides enough detail with the book that people understand what's being offered without being "instructed".

      One thing I will not change, though it would clearly help us considerably: The 26 free weeks stay. The system is not a hyperactive trading system. There will be periods when there are no new buy recommendations. The free period originally had nothing to do with marketing; it was to make up for "empty" periods in advance. It allows for existing positions to be followed and the system understood better. Meanwhile, free subscribers are not getting mad paying $9.95 a month for non-existent advice. That was a personal decision.

      After it was taken, it also became obvious that it will probably help conversions considerably.

      I have not disagreed with most of the suggestions that have been made, but I have to turn this one down for reasons of conscience and fairness.

      I am unsure what you mean by: "I would also be inclined to offer the Digital Version for free six-months, and an offer for the Print Version..." If you mean the newsletter, it is produced and emailed every Saturday attached to a brief autoresponder message. Investors will need to get instructions to their discount brokers before trading begins on Monday morning. A physical version would be so out of date it would be useless.

      If you mean the book, we are looking to distribute 100,000 free copies in six months (that's why the PR firm). The postage alone would be a killer!

      In addition, we expect to offer sister products in a dozen different markets over the next 24 months. The heavy lifting is already done with development and testing of the program.

      I would have increased the size of the opt-in box but couldn't get the design software to allow that without messing up badly. I'm sure it will change when handled by people who know how.

      I think a video, or maybe more than one, is an excellent idea. Maybe that's one of the things they will shoot in New York.

      Testimonials will be important...but first we have to launch properly and then get some! In time, I am sure we will hear about big gains for happy clients.

      Either you are a speed typist or you could have done a new site of your own in the time it took for you to prepare your comments. Thank you so much for all your work and suggestions.

      Best wishes,

      Sydney
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      • Profile picture of the author tpw
        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        It's a shame you did not get beyond the first page. You would know I'm no scammer. But not getting beyond it is an illustration of its own; if potential clients don't get beyond... well!

        Sydney,

        For the record, I am pretty sure I did not suggest you were a scammer....

        If I recall my words, I said that it looked like the site was built by a scammer looking for quick cash...

        I don't miss the point that you designed the site... But my comments were not intended to suggest you were anything less than ethical...



        Originally Posted by tremayne View Post

        I am unsure what you mean by: "I would also be inclined to offer the Digital Version for free six-months, and an offer for the Print Version..." If you mean the newsletter, it is produced and emailed every Saturday attached to a brief autoresponder message. Investors will need to get instructions to their discount brokers before trading begins on Monday morning. A physical version would be so out of date it would be useless.

        I was just trying to give you an idea for additional ways to monetize on this... Not all consumers will buy into the six months free, so to give them an immediate buy option may be beneficial to them and your bottom line...

        Perhaps, the last six months in print can be offered in archive format? Just another idea...

        In fact, since you are selling stock predictions, your past history is often the best representation of your future success... I think it could cement the deal for you with some customers...


        p.s. I do type in the 100+ words a minute range... But sometimes, I slow down to be more thoughtful about what I am going to say...

        p.p.s. Some people think I talk to much... Just ask Suzanne or my wife... LOL
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        • Profile picture of the author tremayne
          Originally Posted by tpw View Post

          Sydney,

          For the record, I am pretty sure I did not suggest you were a scammer....

          If I recall my words, I said that it looked like the site was built by a scammer looking for quick cash...

          I don't miss the point that you designed the site... But my comments were not intended to suggest you were anything less than ethical...
          Hello Bill!

          I stand corrected. I misremembered the actual wording. I am sure you are too much of a gentleman and scholar for name-calling!

          Yes, I am sure there are other ways to monetize this, but I will leave that to others. It may strike you as amusing, given the business I am in, but so long as I have enough to live comfortably and to take care of those who are important to me, I don't care that much about money. Ultimately it will all be given away anyhow. I don't have unlimited years ahead.

          I truly am interested in helping others and I'm having a lot of fun doing it.

          As for your wife's comment, you can talk to me as long and often as you like...on the fairly rare occasions I make it to the forum!

          Take care,

          Sydney
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          http://wealthyinvestorweekly.com

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  • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
    Banned
    Site looks like your average get rich quick sales letter only not as well done as some of them. Typical cheesy photo of dollar bills and a couple on a yacht.

    A media tour? Maybe the site will convert ... I don't know, but I wouldn't invite the media to pick it apart.
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    • Profile picture of the author Kay King
      It's really refreshing to see someone ask for opinions - and then listen to the opinions given with an open mind.

      The willingness to accept and consider constructive criticism will result in a good site in the end.

      kay
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      Saving one dog will not change the world - but the world changes forever for that one dog
      ***
      One secret to happiness is to let every situation be
      what it is instead of what you think it should be.
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      • Profile picture of the author tremayne
        Originally Posted by Kay King View Post

        It's really refreshing to see someone ask for opinions - and then listen to the opinions given with an open mind.

        The willingness to accept and consider constructive criticism will result in a good site in the end.

        kay
        Thank you yet again, Kay!

        But my road is the simplest one. I have learned repeatedly of the amazing storehouse of knowledge represented by WF. I am not here often because it seems I am either flat out on the computer or flat out in bed getting ready for the next computer onslaught! (And sometimes I simply want to hide from computers!)

        Anyone...and I don't think I exaggerate...can be successful with probably any aspect of IM if they will set their ego aside, ask questions...and then listen and act accordingly. One more thing: this forum would not exist except for people like you who answer those newbie or not-so-newbie questions.

        I believe the past 24 hours will make a huge difference to our business and that more people than otherwise will benefit from what we have developed.

        Thank you so much

        Perhaps the major reason I have limited going outside is that so often I have bought disasters instead of solutions, so I am gun-shy. One firm hired to design a website for $6,500 produced nothing in seven months, when they were fired. But the PR firm is by far the most expensive of the group interviewed and impressed during the interview. I just have to hope that among their 40-or-so staffers they have good website people who get the job done pronto.

        Outside of that, I am quietly and cautiously building a team of real experts...which makes it more surprising I designed the new site myself!

        Take care,

        Sydney
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        CEO
        Wealthy Investor Limited
        http://wealthyinvestorweekly.com

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  • Profile picture of the author Geoff101
    Common, I can't believe you're in the business and can't see that your site is not professionally put together?

    Pay someone for a professional design and logo.

    As someone pointed out you're opt-in form should be above the fold.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by Geoff101 View Post

      Common, I can't believe you're in the business and can't see that your site is not professionally put together?

      Pay someone for a professional design and logo.

      As someone pointed out you're opt-in form should be above the fold.
      Hi Geoff:

      That's the whole point: I am not "in the business" but the next version of this site will be produced by someone who is.

      I hear ya!

      Sydney
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      CEO
      Wealthy Investor Limited
      http://wealthyinvestorweekly.com

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  • Profile picture of the author THK
    I haven't read the text yet but the graphics definitely look tacky. The type of graphics you are using in the header are very common in get rich quick type sites. If possible change those.

    I was blunt because you asked for it. All the best with your project.

    Tanvir
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by THK View Post

      I haven't read the text yet but the graphics definitely look tacky. The type of graphics you are using in the header are very common in get rich quick type sites. If possible change those.

      I was blunt because you asked for it. All the best with your project.

      Tanvir
      I am very glad I asked for blunt and that most people have been. All the comments have been useful and have led to a definite plan for resolving all the problems.

      Take care,

      Sydney
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      CEO
      Wealthy Investor Limited
      http://wealthyinvestorweekly.com

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  • Profile picture of the author garyv
    I'm not sure if this is a serious thread or not. So if it is serious, I apologize in advance for being so blunt. However, it is what you asked for.

    To be quite honest, I believe this entire post is a publicity stunt to get people onto your list. Because we all know full well that any company that can afford a PR firm would NEVER pay to have someone on their staff that makes a website that looks like that.

    However - I think that this website was made like this on purpose. And you phrased your original post the way you did on purpose to stir up controversy, and to get curious people to sign up to the list on your website. (And I'm actually inadvertently helping you by making this post)

    But that's my honest opinion. So if you DO actually have a PR department (I highly doubt it) but if you DO. Then they are right. This looks like a pure scam.
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    • Profile picture of the author tremayne
      Originally Posted by garyv View Post

      I'm not sure if this is a serious thread or not. So if it is serious, I apologize in advance for being so blunt. However, it is what you asked for.

      To be quite honest, I believe this entire post is a publicity stunt to get people onto your list. Because we all know full well that any company that can afford a PR firm would NEVER pay to have someone on their staff that makes a website that looks like that.

      However - I think that this website was made like this on purpose. And you phrased your original post the way you did on purpose to stir up controversy, and to get curious people to sign up to the list on your website. (And I'm actually inadvertently helping you by making this post)

      But that's my honest opinion. So if you DO actually have a PR department (I highly doubt it) but if you DO. Then they are right. This looks like a pure scam.
      Unlike all others taking part in this thread, you have provided zero practical and useful information that could improve my site or product. I object far more strongly than I can ever tell you here to being called a liar. That is all I need to say to you.
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