You’ve may have heard that it’s a good idea to mention a minor flaw in a product that you’re selling to increase credibility.
Here’s a real-world example:
I recently listed a vehicle for sale on Craigslist with LOTS of photos from every angle. I got a couple of calls over the first 2 weeks… Then, a guy called from 100 miles away and was interested but said that when he’d gone to look at other vehicles, they were actually in terrible shape (ie, the ads he’d responded to were misleading)
I didn’t want him to waste a 100-mile drive if he wasn’t going to be happy with the vehicle, so I took a close-up photo of a small tear in the leather in one of the back seats, and took close-up photos of some fine scratches and minor paint-chips on the hood, explaining that it was in great shape for a 6-year old vehicle, but it of course wasn’t perfect.
I added those “flaw” photos to my Craigslist ad and something interesting happened…
I started getting a lot more calls, with serious buyers offering to come look at it with cash in hand to buy. (I’d already taken a deposit on it, so I had to turn them down.
I Raised My Credibility With The Buyers
When I pointed out the small tear in the leather that they most likely would not have seen if I ddn’t show them, they figured I telling the truth about everything else (and I was).
What That Means To You:
It’s easy to forget, but try to point out a potential flaw or drawback in your product/pitch. Too many sellers online sound like snake oil salesmen… Increase your perceived credibility and you’ll increase your sales.
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About Tim Gross Tim Gross is an online marketing consultant, direct response copywriter, author, and video training developer. For the latest free training videos, free advice, and additional resources, subscribe now at http://InternetMarketingCourse.com or at his blog http://TimGross.com |
Leave A Reply (2 comments So Far)
Vishal Nayak
1148 days ago
The last paragraph sort of explained ‘The Great Mistrust’ spreading gradually the in the online world due to snake oil salesmen. In between all these if you are genuine and accept your mistakes you come across as a human and thus, credible. Nice post!
Martin Malden
1128 days ago
Tim, hi,
An inspiring post – thanks!
I do always try to point out what I see as shortcomings in any product or service I’m promoting, but to go to the trouble you did in response to that guy’s call was great.
I’m delighted posting them on CL boosted your traffic too – integrity is still alive and well!
Cheers,
Martin.