How Life Imitates Deceptive Copywriting Practices
Like most, the pandemic hit these people hard because they couldn't work as waiters or cooks like they usually did. And even if they could, the money they earned wasn't providing what they wanted.
So, they lied to their mom and grandmother. They told her they couldn't provide food for their kids and needed her help.
Naively, she took the bait and literally wiped out her retirement income. POOF! Just like that—the money was gone.
The next thing you know, there were "new" cars, fun trips, and renovations done to their homes. They were living the dream.
Of course, at whose expense? Not theirs.
No way! They were entitled to the little bit of money the old lady had saved up.
So what if she was dumb enough to buy into their lies?! They deserved the money.
And so, they let greed and lies take over. They didn't give it a second thought... until one day they had to explain their actions.
Justified they were not. And nothing these people could say or do would ever change what they did. Unless they won the lottery and paid the money back, but, of course, that would never happen.
Sadly, this true story is all too common in the U.S. today. It happens ALL. THE. TIME. in life and business.
Many marketers use a similar approach by writing copy that lures buyers to purchase things they do not need or that won't produce the promised results.
Sure, sometimes the marketing tactic seems genuinely sincere. What other entrepreneurs and business owners offer may even be helpful.
A business owner shares how they made 6-figures. They offer the blueprint, so "you can do it, too." When in reality, that blueprint is not a one-size-fits-all and rarely produces the same results.
They're selling a dream that will never be realized or experienced by the vast majority of those who buy their blueprint. Only a few may eke out a win here and there.
"Discover what top [business owners] do to earn $10,000-$100,000 per month" <—This example is one of many you see flood your inbox every day, show up in online ads, and promise a pie-in-the-sky reality.
Just like the kids who stole their mom and grandmother's money—the intent is hidden. The promises are vague and unrealistic. The reality uncovers a lack of ethics and integrity waiting in the wings.
No matter the topic, issue, or product—there is NEVER a valid reason for twisting reality to take someone's money, not in life or business. Any form of hype or manipulation is wrong, no matter how you try to dress it up.
Here's the reality: Ethics and integrity are the difference between knowing what you have the "right" to do and what is RIGHT to do.
The next time you're tempted to immediately buy or sign up for something—press pause for a minute.
Then take time to reflect on what you're doing. Ask yourself:
Then take time to reflect on what you're doing. Ask yourself:
- Do I really need this product or service?
- Is tapping into this resource a wise use of my time or money?
- Will adding this shiny object to my world benefit my life or business?
- Is the person or business I'm about to engage with authentic or genuine?
- Do they appear to be helpful but are actually disguising their ulterior motives of deception?
If you're a Christ-follower like me, take it one step further and ask the Lord those same questions about what you're considering. After you've walked through those questions thoughtfully, you should be equipped to make a solid decision.
Apply this train of thought to whatever you create, market, or sell customers. When you do, you'll be showing up in the marketplace with solid ethics and integrity.
