A few days ago I got an email urging me to consider a product related to “video creation.” I’m always looking for ways to make videos work more easily so I took a look at the web page.
To my horror, the page just made a mention of “creating videos.” I had no idea how it worked, what was offered or how the product differed from the established products, such as Camtasia. The site offered some videos by famous names as “examples of what you can do.” In other words, they were selling a black box.
So I emailed the person who was promoting the product. What exactly was the video creation these folks were promising? She wrote back, saying it was much like Camtasia with some stock images targeted to certain markets.
OK…but where was the sales letter? Where were the features and benefits? How can I make an informed decision? Do people really buy this stuff?
Recently I checked out another product that promises to help me make videos, deliver videos, make websites, and probably serve up brunch on Sundays. Once again, there was no sales letter. Instead, an annoying voice promised to tell me more…if I signed up for a $1 trial.
What is so secretive about these products? Lots of services manage to tell you what they do before you buy. For instance, I like
http://budurl.com/best4classes
These folks aren’t shy. They’re not afraid to sell. They don’t make you listen to a 20-minute video (or even audio). It’s all right there.
That’s a good reason to promote with care. I signed up for a $7 ebook that promised to deliver secrets of money-making videos. This Report turned out to be a handful of tips with a link to a big-ticket up-sell to one of these mystery products. I originally considered promoting this ebook (hey, it’s just $7) . It was so tempting but I had to say no. I can’t do this. Instead I’m working on my own 2-session program on marketing with video (yes, I’m just starting my own videos, after coaching my clients). I can’t do it for $7 but I can promise to deliver realistic actionable information.
Bottom Line: Don’t be afraid to write back to whoever recommended a product or service. Give good feedback as well as bad. For instance, I keep promoting Reach Desperate Buyers. Typical feedback from readers: “I wish she’d revise her sales page – but I loved that book. Thank you for recommending it.” I also know that book has solid content and the author happily gives refunds to anyone who asks.
Yes…those are all my affiliate links. I am happy to use these products and proud to promote them