Interesting to note that when a person does a search for bait and switch advertising odd programs you would not expect show up in the search results. From Dell to Groupon to guides from the FTC to help you recognize and avoid bait and switch advertising are all on the front page of Google.
Bait and Switch Advertising Defined
A short piece of the message from the FTC tells us that this tactic is “an alluring but insincere offer.” There is more, of course, but the point is clear. Wherever we go, especially online, there are so many individuals and businesses using bait and switch advertising; I’m sure we have all been taken in by that approach.
Some internet marketers are infamous for their use of bait and switch advertising. They use it because they paint that pretty, nay glamorous, picture of the pot of gold just waiting for you. Their message, the one you read, tells you it can all happen without you spending a penny. Common sense should tell you that something will be required from you or some limitations will apply.
But, this article isn’t about internet marketing. And, best of all you don’t have to worry about the old bait and switch advertising either.
Free Should Mean Free With No Bait and Switch Advertising In Sight
How many times have you read about ways to get totally free things, only to find that they aren’t? How many times have you freely given your information (name and email at a minimum) only to be hit with upsells and downsells just to get where you thought you were going for free, only to be deceived?
Yep, that’s what I thought. You cannot even count the number of times, nor can I.
Well, personally I believe free should mean free. No strings, no bait and switch advertising. Just give me what I asked for… that free thing you promised.
How to Control Your Own Destiny and Avoid Bait and Switch Advertising
First, understand that all programs online want something from you. From the simple (so they can continue to email you) to the more advanced – a better opportunity – what I’ll call the “if only.” And, that’s okay. At least now we are approaching with excitement tempered by reason.
Second, look closely at the sales page. Look for the FAQ or, better yet, the “Refund Policy”, or any disclaimers, etc. Read them, too.
Be informed. Understand first what your options are going to be; the right web site setup will clearly outline these details for you. Use them to make informed decisions.
Obviously if there is something like a Refund Policy, that means:
1. You can, without a doubt, get free stuff without spending a dime, because you cannot by law make a claim that is not true, and
2. You are going to be given the opportunity to see what going one step further will get you.
Spelling It Out Means Dodging That Bait and Switch Advertising
When any business, online or offline, clearly defines its intentions by granting their visitor access to information, ahead of time, that’s a business in which most people will participate. So when you are presented with the chance to give free things, take them. You do deserve them. It is okay to get them. Again take them.
If you are also given the opportunity to explore a program more closely, to see if by upgrading you will benefit even more, do so. Read all the fine print “out front” so you will understand what you can and cannot get.
Be smart, be thorough. Do get free things and have fun getting them. Also temper your actions with reason and read. Avoid bait and switch advertising whenever possible!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
David Reid spends his time closely studying programs before jumping into anything online and so should you. See what free things you can truly get for free by getting all your information and options upfront. Bait and switch advertising is wrong; don’t fall for it.
