In previous posts we discussed the “Sales Funnel” – How those landing or “Squeeze” pages are actually written by copy writing professionals that are paid thousands of dollars in order to essentially hypnotize you into purchasing their product.
Even the most conscious individuals can find themselves squandering 30 minutes reviewing an extended sales pitch and yanking out their charge card at the conclusion to take advantage of the time sensitive offer.
Initially, I too was enticed by well written copy or those well written sales or squeeze pages …. Especially felt pressured or challenged when presented with a DEADLINE.
They give you a time frame which a special offer will come to an end and interestingly enough it’s just a couple of hours away or for a limited time only! It provides you with a sense of urgency like you might miss out if you don’t buy it NOW! Sometimes there’s even a clock countdown.
They insert this Pressure Cooker FAKE DEADLINE once you have sifted over the Sales Funnel. You have studied testimonials, they have tugged at your heart strings and you barely have any reservations remaining concerning the merchandise …. Then WHAM!
“This 50% discount offer is only valid for a limited time”
“Buy at this special discounted price only available until midnight tonight”
“We are going back to our original price when current stock runs out”
The perception is you are receiving a bargain, when in fact it was never priced at the excessively high price anyway. At this time the best thing to do is take a step back and contemplate whether it is a WANT or a NEED! Ever wonder why gum and candy bars are at the grocery store checkout? They are looking for compulsive buyers and know many will grab a little something extra when waiting to pay. Marketing 101. Okay back to compulsive spend… Keep in mind you are in control of the situation. It’s your cash and you have worked hard for it, so don’t separate yourself from it!
When I initially became suspicious about this technique I did something they do not want you to do. I added the website to my favorites and returned at another time …. And you know what? The Pressure Cooker FAKE DEADLINE was still there. I tested it again and again with the same results.
Do you follow the slap chop guy…buy one and get second one free so buy now cause we cannot do this all day blah blah…that commercial has been running for two years!
When shopping we have to control our urge to emotionally spend, so if I really want something I ask the sales assistant to hold it for an hour. If I return for it, then I know I truly need or want it. If I don’t then I know it might have been an EMOTIONAL purchase.
There are many other sneaky things marketers do to entice you into purchasing their products or services. You can find out more in my future posts, but until then remain aware of your wants and needs. Be prudent!
