Howdy, partner! (?)
Lately, I've received a number of voice messages that go something like this: "Hi, Jonathan. [Though I've never met these people before, they feel quite comfortable addressing me casually through my first name.] I've been on your website and I found it really interesting. I'd like to discuss a partnership opportunity with you. Please give me a call at etc."
"Partnership opportunity." That sounds like a business deal, right? In which we both work together for our mutual gain and benefit. On the same side.
But when I return the call, I don't find a business opportunity, but a sales pitch. The caller doesn't want a "partner," she wants a customer.
Let's cut the crap, shall we? With a nod to Tarzan: You -- vendor. Me -- customer. While you may think the "partner" schtick is a clever way to get a return call, it's dishonest. In fact, it's a lie, plain and simple. And when I realize that you've lied, do you really think I'm going to become your customer?
News flash to sales people: If you're going to leave a message, give me a benefit, a deal, an offer, a reason to be interested. But don't give me that "partnership" bullshit.
"Partnership opportunity." That sounds like a business deal, right? In which we both work together for our mutual gain and benefit. On the same side.
But when I return the call, I don't find a business opportunity, but a sales pitch. The caller doesn't want a "partner," she wants a customer.
Let's cut the crap, shall we? With a nod to Tarzan: You -- vendor. Me -- customer. While you may think the "partner" schtick is a clever way to get a return call, it's dishonest. In fact, it's a lie, plain and simple. And when I realize that you've lied, do you really think I'm going to become your customer?
News flash to sales people: If you're going to leave a message, give me a benefit, a deal, an offer, a reason to be interested. But don't give me that "partnership" bullshit.
3 Comments:
Hear hear! Glad to see I'm not the only one that gets pissed off at this.
I hate stuff like this - the phone call, not your post.
I've had similar experiences where a "media company" calls to congratulate me on winning some industry award or having made an announcement. They leave a message implying they want to report the news. When I speak with them, it turns out they want to sell me a commemorative.
I totally agree with you. I've learned to understand the "code" of these calls. I screen most of my calls and when I get caught by one of these con artists I hang up yesterday. These are old tricks made new again.
Post a Comment
Links to this post:
Create a Link
<< Home