Look, that might not literally be the message that shows up in my Inbox day after day, but it might as well be.
Negative advertising.
Negative soliciting.
Personally, I can't stand either one. If you can't make a case for your product or services without bashing the competition, do you REALLY have what I want?
"I was going through your website, which isn't doing well" followed by promises to put us on page 1 of Google.
What that comment says to me is, you don't even begin to know the purpose of my website and the audience I'm targeting, nor whether it is effective at bringing me the clients I seek.
It also tells me you offer the "holy grail", page 1 of Google. Now for what search term?? Pffft. There are only so many spots on page 1 of Google and only so many keywords that I'd have interest in. Basically, it's not an appealing proposition.
On the other hand, another email offers me "would you be open to discussing a collaboration on a customized digital marketing strategy?", while still a hard pass for me, isn't off putting.
Frankly, some things that are considered standard marketing in our business just might come off the same as the first guy.
"It's a great time to buy!".
Interest rates are double, home prices are up 75%, and my job is laying off people left and right. You sure about that statement?
"FSBOs sell for less money".
I tend towards "it depends". As Sold data is often readily available, and if the seller can detach their emotions from the house and recognize market value, there's a pathway for success that doesn't leave dollars on the table. But blanket advertising telling the world you're an idiot if you don't list with an agent? (yeah, I know this might sound like sacrilege coming from an agent, but shoes that fit...)
"I've got a buyer!" to the seller who just came off the market after 90 days and you never showed their house once, but the day they expire, SUDDENLY you have a buyer if they'll just sign a listing agreement with you. Don't be shocked if they think you're related to Pinocchio.
Bottom line, I hate feeling like I'm being manipulated, and I don't think that feeling is isolated to just me.
Make a clear and objective case for why your product/service will solve a problem of mine and your message is more likely to be heard.
E.g. our message to the buying public doesn't have to be spoken, it's strictly pull, not push advertising. They find our information about Cincinnati patio homes...we're EVERYWHERE they look (their words, not mine). While it's no guarantee they still won't hire the agent who is a friend of the family, we've had our opportunity to gain their attention without once calling them a jackass :)
Until next Tuesday, just Ask An Ambassador if you need help,
Bill & Liz aka BLiz
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