Yesterday I shared a link to a product, and specifically because I had just ordered it myself and it was on sale. Not a little sale either, but literally a very generous $40 off.
The product was Popup Domination, which has been very popular - even at the usual price of $77. It has been on sale for $47, but I found a way to get it even cheaper - for only $37 - which is the buying tip I shared.
As you can see in the screenshot image (top right), one of the replies to my 'share' was less than positive. But I thought Mac brought up some great points, and I wanted to open those up for discussion...
Mac MacPherson says: Oh Please. Lynn i'm disappointed in you. Not 'cos the product is bad, but because the guy selling this is like a second-hand car salesman. Cheesy as hell. Surely you must get fed up with the same old dreck being told on these sales videos? Just as i believe in trying to create quality content, i also believe in buying from those who don't reel out the same old crap sales techniques. Com' n Lynn. -source
Very interesting comment, and definitely food for thought. (Thank you Mac!)
The interesting point is that Mac's concerns weren't over the product itself but in the sales strategy & process.
I checked out the product because it's in line with something I am working on at the moment. Namely, improving my list building process. One of the things on my task list is to create more appealing subscription forms and landing pages.
The product we're discussing is Popup Domination, by the way.
I'm not a huge fan of pop-ups, and I know most of you aren't either. You've told me so. That said, there is a time and a place for a professional lightbox.
Also, since there are PSD files I figured I could configure some of the nice forms to work on page as well as in a lightbox or popup. I was just looking into that this morning. Here's a screenshot from my computer:
To state the obvious, I purchased the product. Honestly I paid very little attention to the sales videos that Mac mentioned, or to any of the sales page elements at all. I was analyzing the product to determine whether it was what I needed to accomplish my task - or not. I determined that it was, or at least worth checking out hands-on for the reduced price, and so I placed my order.
I did notice all the one-time-offers in the sales process though. I declined each of them and completed my purchase. It didn't really faze me and only took a minute (90 seconds tops) to get through to the download page.
My point is that I gave no thought to the sales strategies, the person selling the product, or anything else other than whether the product was right for me. Did I want the product or not? I chose yes. Everything else was just scenery.
This is in line with something I've said often, which is:
Only buy what you need, when you need it, to accomplish what you're working on right now. Period.
I don't purchase based on sales copy, and I don't NOT purchase based on sales copy either. Right or wrong, that's my stance. It's all about ME when I'm pulling out my credit card. That said, I get Mac's point - and it's a good one. He's basically saying he wouldn't buy the product on principle alone.
There are exceptions, of course - such as when I've already had a negative experience with a merchant or marketer. Or when something has been discussed publicly in a negative light. Then I'm more cautious (wary, even) and less likely to purchase based on the product alone.
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on this. What drives your buying decision when it comes to Internet Marketing related products?
Are you easily swayed, easily put off, or do you focus on the product alone? I would also love to hear your thoughts on my mentioning the tip to get it $40 off - if you have a thought on that to share...
Best,
p.s. The tip was to go to the page, then close it without ordering. When you close it you will get an offer to buy the product for only $37 (instead of the $47 sale price). It doesn't include any of the bonuses, but that may suit some just fine.
The sale is still live and the "close page" trick still works at the time of this writing
About Lynn Terry
Lynn,
I saw that discussion on Facebook yesterday. You may remember that you and I had a brief discussion about pop-up opt-ins last Thursday. I have very mixed emotions about them, but I know they do work.
Popup Domination is one of the most effective ones out there. I have it, and I use it - very judiciously. I, too, got it at a discounted price a while back. There's something to be learned from internet marketers about the use of "leave this page" scripts. 😉
I agree with you. I only look at the product itself. Although there is a continuing argument about whether long sales copy is more effective, I do not - and probably never will - read the copy.
I guess it comes from working with attorneys for over 20 years that makes me say, "just give me the bottom line" - tell me what you're selling and how much it costs.
I'll decide whether I need it, and whether I'm willing to pay what you're charging.
I'm a bit torn, because you're not just buying a product, you're buying support and updates as well. The impression I get of the seller from the sales copy he CHOOSES to use does determine to an extent whether I would want to be in a business relationship with him or not. I also have a personal "thing" against videos with no controls (as if my time is sooo unimportant to the seller), so if there's no text on the page, I'm gone.
I haven't read all the comments here, so apologies if someone has already mentioned this. A couple of months ago, an internet marketer promoted a product where the sales page wasn't just cheesy, it was full of outright lies about the "story" behind the product and had very little info about the product itself. The next day, the marketer sent out another email saying that he'd received some complaints so he'd watched the sales video for the first time, and "hey guys, take a look - do you think it's cheesy or not?" kind of thing. He said he'd used the product and it was good, and that this type of sales page converted far better than a straightforward, honest letter (what does that tell you about US, the purchasers?)
After still more people complained, he was quite put out and said that he supposed from now on he would have to spend several hours a day actually reading the sales pages and watching the videos of products he was recommending - which some of us thought he should have done in the first place! That particular product was removed from Clickbank for excessively high refunds, by the way.
Now with you, Lynn - you already have my trust, so the situation is completely different. There are a few people whose link I would buy through (if I wanted the product) no matter how bad the sales page was, because I trust the affiliate. However, there's a part of me that really resents encouraging this type of selling, so although I trust your recommendation, I would prefer you to promote products that don't resort to these techniques (like Andy Fletcher's Digi List Builder, for example).
Lynn, all I care about is that you continue to only recommend products that you believe to be valuable. The way you teach and do business are the reasons I follow you. I know that I would be out of this business if I hadn't found someone (YOU) who could demonstrate how to be an Internet Marketer with integrity. Although I might buy a product like Popup Domination from a guy with a cheesy sales pitch, I wouldn't buy a course on Internet Marketing from him.
I am not dissapointed with you but the product is not the greatest, can't believe no-one
has replicated it and made it what it could be.
When you create a pop up you can't save, so if you want to test you have to build it all over from scratch.
IMO 2ndly the support is on the ropey side.
So when people recommend it I think they should mention the pitfalls as well as the benefits of which there are some.
Interesting. You should send your suggestions for improvement to them through their support address. It would be much easier to send feedback than to replicate it, and way cooler of you. 🙂
I did test that by the way - sent them an email, and got a response the same day.
Not disappointed with you at all even though I hate pop ups and don't care to use them. You were recommending a product you felt could benefit your readers.
I always value your advice even if it doesn't benefit me directly. I also know you wouldn't spam your list with worthless products.
My only disappointment is that I think Slim needs a softer couch out on the deck.
LOL he's spoiled rotten! 😉
Lynn,
First off you were right to buy and promote it. It's an awesome product that's easy to use and creates results.
Regarding the cheesy sales videos people keep producing them because they work. If you don't pimp the offer people switch off. Personally although there was a little false scarcity there it's much better than 90% of the clickbank junk that jams up my inbox each day.
Joe Hughes
This is an issue that I've struggled with since I've been online. The cheesy stuff actually works at getting sales but I can't bring myself to promote myself that way.
I find that when I'm looking at a sales page, I have to keep in mind that while the techniques used bug the heck out of me, they work (and have been proven to work by big name marketers both on and offline).
The only way that this kind of stuff will stop is when it stops working, just like spam. In the mean time, we have to make sure that we use our own judgement when looking into a product.
I doubt I will ever be disappointed in YOU, Lynn. You are always straight forward and transparent in your online presence. I really appreciate your recommendations (and your buying tip for this item).
Since I already have a popup script I did not follow through on this one. However, I definitely have an opinion on the type of marketing discussed. It infuriates me. I may very well have NOT bought this just because of the marketing tactic. I have even asked for my money back on products I bought because as the buying process continued there was a plethora of hype, 'upsells,' and, OTOs. I really dislike this type of marketing.
That said, I do not think less of YOU for recommending it. It is a product you like, purchased, and use. You did not choose the tactic this marketer used. The only recommendation I would have would be to "warn" your followers of the tactics so they are aware of it before hand.
I just want to say thank you so much for being you and for all the help and guidance you so freely give your followers. You are truly and GEM in the IM arena. You are always up front about everything and not all hyped up about things you recommend. Wish all marketers were like that. 🙂
Janis
Thank you Janis 😉 I probably should have mentioned the multiple screens of OTO's. I just whizzed through them and didn't give it a second thought - but should have. Had I written a review of this product, I certainly would have mentioned it. I just thought it was a steal for $37 and whizzed straight through to the download page! ...then shared the discount trick, assuming others would appreciate the low price as much as I did.
Hi Lynn, thank you for having the cajones to extend this subject into a blog post.
You are spot-on. I didn't/won't buy the product because his sales technique was 'false', manipulative and insulting. I won't buy any product from him because i can only assume that if he has no respect for those who watch his video i can only assume he only wants my money, and at any price he can get it (witness the final offer of another $10 when you go to exit the sales page).
Before anybody wets their knickers, yes I know the sales pitches 'work'. I've been watching many of them from IMs for some time. I 'm familiar with all the 'research' etc. In the past, I"ve even bought products despite the scammy sales approaches.
But, no more.
Thankfully, the 'net (in the shape of search engines) is moving towards 'quality'. Content, first. But eventually, everything. Including sales approaches.
The only thing missing from his video is a picture of him standing next to a yacht and screen shots of a clickbank account.
Now, the interesting thing is this. I would have bought his product had he bothered not to trot out the same, tired, old, cliches. Even a half considered video would have parted me from my money. 'Cos I could do with the product.
Thanks again for raising this, Lynn.
Mac - you're cool in my book 🙂 Thanks again for starting this awesome discussion. It's obviously a hot topic. The minute I saw your comment on Facebook I *knew* that if you were saying... plenty of others were thinking it!
Your perspective is interesting to me. I don't think either of us are right or wrong, just seeing it from our own perspectives. You were viewing the sales page and assessing the seller's intentions (ie "he only wants my money"). I was viewing the sales page and assessing MY intentions.
Therein lies the difference in our response to it...
Lynn,in no way am I disappointed in you. You were sharing your opinion, which you are entitled to do and I did not see you holding a gun to anyone's head to make them buy it too! ALWAYS, your suggestions are worth checking out, and obviously not everything suits all of us at the same time (what a boring world that would be). So I say,quit beating up yourself Lynn and continue in the great work you always produce for us!
Thank you Carol 🙂 I'm not beating myself up at all though. I'm very happy with my purchase, content with the fact that I shared the discount trick for those that appreciated it, and REALLY enjoying the awesome discussion on the topic!
I'm not dissapointed, I buy what I need and if I feel the
Salesperson is cheesy or unethical I can move on to someone else.
I'm not disappointed at all. Actually, I appreciate the info. and the tip on how to save money. Who doesn't want to save money? That's what I thought.
Ya, sure, some people are cheesy when it comes to making the pitch, but I'm more interested in the message(what it does for me) and if it's a good product for me at the time. There are a few marketers out there who have personalities I don't really care for, but the knowledge they have and share makes it easy to overlook.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
This post touches on the subject of of "internet marketers" themselves. Personally I hate that "internet marketer" has come to mean, for the most part, someone who teaches other people how to make money online. As far as I can see, internet marketing just means marketing ANY product through the medium of the internet.
Some people mention they would not buy the product just because they don't like the techniques used to sell it. Personally I think that is their loss. They are trying to prove a point that they are not gullible to fall for such "marketing tricks" and this can cause them to miss out on some fine products.
If Lynn liked the product, why should she not recommend it?
Everyone has a different line that others cross. The line where people will start classifying them as too "used car salesman" like or too "sleazy"
But, everyone's line is different.
If you loved a product...really loved it, when would the line be crossed for you so you wouldn't promote it?
a - they use a pop up on their salespage
b - they use a salesletter you consider cheesy, you know with the big red headlines, yellow highliter, etc.
c - they use an exit popup for an immediate discount
d - they use upsells after you purchase
e - they use salescopy that you think is really too manipulative and promises the world
f - they send 2 emails a day to their list
g - they send a "half price" special to those on their lists who have not purchased within 21 days, thus almost penalizing people for ordering too early
These are all things I have seen done, which would cross your "line"? Would any of them cross your "line" Is your "line" the same as mine, or Bob's, Jim's, Sandy's or Jane's?
If I made a statement like this:
"I am bothered by those sleazy marketers who are always touting the next great thing that at times contradicts the very last thing they sold. They use hard pressure sales pieces and marketing tricks and email way too often. I wish there were more cool marketers who really cared about their list and were ultra cool to them"
Everyone is going to picture marketers in their head who they feel fit these two descriptions. But, who you think of for the "cool" marketer someone else may think of for the "sleazy" marketer and vice versa.
Obviously Pop Up domination crossed the line for Mac as in his mind the product and the tactics used to sell it he associates with "sleazy" marketers.
Lynn does not. It's an interesting discussion, but it comes down to the ol statement of "you'll never please everyone" and if you try to please everyone you'll end up pleasing nobody.
If Lynn all of a sudden changed her style, associations, etc. people would notice and they would have to decide if she crossed their individual "lines", but I think what attracted people to Lynn has not changed. If one person or even a few were offended by the promotion of Pop Up domination, I think that's just part of business.
Excellent points. It's definitely not cut & dried. And everyone is entitled to their perception, opinion and reaction.
Lynn, I agree wholeheartedly that I am not disappointed in you or your product recommendation. But,
For me, I always start out watching or reading the first part of the sequence. I will turn away in a heartbeat if it does not speak with my values and what I want to accomplish. If it's not too bad, I'll bypass and go to the end of the sequence to purchase the product, BECAUSE it was recommended to me by someone I trust.
This whole discussion does put my mind at ease knowing that there are others that dislike the cheesy, sleezy, annoying, although tried and true marketing techniques. From an old fashioned marketing person who has transitioned to an online copywriter (thank you Karon- and thank you Lynn for that recommendation!) I cannot and will not write copy that repels the majority or even the minority of possible customers.
And I certainly don't want possible customers bypassing the whole process even if they purchase in the end. How does that really build any long-lasting customer relationships? I am in my business for the long haul, and so are my clients.
I hope this is a start of a new movement to put integrity back into online sales.
I think this like many other IM topics is very subjective. I do not and will not ever have a problem with marketing and or sales techniques, as this is how products are sold. When and if Mac ever decides to sell something, how does he plan on doing so? What techniques will he use? What salespage will he use and what discounts will he offer to entice the reluctant, etc.
Smart marketing moves product, plain and simple. And "the definition" of smart marketing sure can vary person to person.
MAC: What is your definition of smart marketing? And what would you have done differently that the person selling Pop Up Domination? And who is to judge (and decide) that your way, is the better way?
Cheers,
Missy
Hey Lynn..I'm not at all disappointed in YOU. You gave instructions on how to get the best deal and what the product was.
Pop ups are annoying in some cases, not in others. Depends on how they are used.
Anyway, you have a right to try whatever you want.
You may get good results with the product and the service. Whether you do or you don't, most likely your followers will appreciate you writing about your experiences and motivations.
If people disagree with your choices does not mean you were wrong.
As for sales techniques...I think we learn not to be concerned with the hype but with the product.
If a product is good enough, it can overcome it's smarmy sales message. If a product or service is no good, it will create a bad reputation despite the best sales message.
The last time I purchased a product that I was disappointed with it was because I allowed myself to believe the sales message and did not pay enough attention to what it didn't say. I had questions later that I should have been asking before buying.
I got angry and decided from then on to do more research on any online marketing products before I buy. Now I make sure that I know what the product is, how it works and ask myself if I have any questions, or reservations. I may even contact customer support, just to see what kind of response I get.
Now I ignore all time sensitive and expiring offers, unless I've already made up my mind to buy and want the "deal," which is rare these days.
You know we read that the reason that hypey sales presentations persist is because they work. They also work in reverse. They actually kill future sales and drive potential customers away.
Hi Lynn. Your post is a breath of fresh air and something that I blogged about a while back. I ask myself one question before purchasing any product. That question is - how much value will this product be to me. I ignore the well crafted sales copy and just look purely at what my return on investment will be. If it's a product like popup domination and, as you said, you are looking for a better, easier way to create nice landing pages then it's easy to see the value. On the other hand, if it's a product that promises great riches for no work etc then my own experience has taught me that the product most likely has no value at all to ME.
It's one of those lessons that we all learn at some stage - to actually look at the product, what it does and how it fits into our own online business rather than being dazzled by very unrealistic numbers and hype.
"Only buy what you need, when you need it, to accomplish what you’re working on right now. Period." Lynn Terry
Lynn, this quote says it all. I listen to what you say, and there are others I respect and listen too also, but I have finally learned to make my own decisions based on my needs, not just endorsements. Everyone needs to print and paste your quote next to their computer. Or at least wrap it around their credit card! 🙂
It's a shame that the crappy sales video turned Mac off. Michael isn't a professional actor, but he did create a great product that does happen to convert well.
Everyone has spots they can improve. Why not be brash and send Michael an email saying his sales video killed the sale? He could improve it, increase his own conversions and have Mac to thank for it!
Sweet tip on the savings Lynn. I already own Pop-Up Domination but5 good share anyway.
I click right out of a popup. I mean so fast that I don't even know what it says. I dislike them so much. The ones that semi-hide the close or leave or no thank you button are the worse. I spend a lot of money on products, but it it comes in a popup, they won't get my money that way. Just my opinion.
I will wait to see if you share how this all works out for you in the end. I have to admit I was shocked to see popup and Lynn Terry in the same sentence (lol).
I am the same - I immediately close pop-ups and those annoying bottom bars that pop up at the bottom of the screen too. They're annoying and get in my way.
I'll definitely share. I should have some live examples up on a few sites, in a few different ways, so you can see how I'm *really* using the product. 😉
Like a number of the comments here, I don't care much for pop-ups. You review products as an affiliate marketer and if you did the same for the marketing process, you'd gain more brownie points with me if you'd mention a bit about it in your review.
It's the totality of the package (branding, marketing, products and support) that makes an IM trustworthy, IMO.
I agree with that 100%. I actually teach that when I discuss how to write a great review.
In this particular case I did not review the product. I had just purchased it based on Gideon Shalwick's recommendation for myself and discovered the hidden discount - which I shared publicly for everyone's benefit.
Just to clear up any confusion 🙂
I think if I happened across that product's sales page all on my own, I would be turned off and leave. However, if I saw a product review on the blog of someone I know and trust, it would be worth a second look and some investigation. At that point, I would tend to see beyond the sales pitch and really look at the product and it's relevance to me. This says a lot for recommendations and word of mouth.
Disappointed? Short answer = No ... Long answer = NO Way! 😉
Seems like people missed the fact that it wasn't actually a review you were doing. Looks like you were just giving a "heads up" about the product and how it might work out for what you wanted.
And let's see ... as every good affiliate marketer should be doing (in most cases), you gave out your affiliate link to this product in case someone wanted to check it out also. Heaven Forbid! :p
Heck ... You weren't even necessarily recommending it. Just that you got it and were checking it out and let those on your lists know about it. Plus the way to get it for $10 off the $47 price. (I always forget about that trick.) LOL
And some people are upset with you?? Sheesh ...
Seems like there are more than a few here that would rather "cut their nose off to spite their face", as my Mom was fond of saying at times. heh heh
But whatever floats their boats.
You keep on doing what you've been doing. There are plenty of us that appreciate what you share with us to help us along.
Rick Wilson aka CorpRebel
P.S. I bought this last month and still playing with it on a couple sites. I like it.
I am not a big fan of pop ups. The reason is that it doesn't give the viewer enough time to read the content before deciding to sign up for the newsletter. Even though I agree with the writer about the annoying sales pitch that's used to sell products, there is no reason for anyone to be disappointed in you for recoomending a product that your readers may have interest.
I have been your subcriber for a while and you always give very valuable information and I know in my heart that you would never recommend any product for the sake of making a sale. You are the real deal. Keep up the good work.
Thank you Dacia 🙂
Lynn, I grateful to you sharing your thought and experience here. No way I am disappointed because you give your best to us. As you said, get what you need .. is absolutely true.
Your blog and comments has inspired me to where I am now and I always read your recommendations before clicking the BUY button. I came a long from a non Blogger to a Blogger ... all after coming to your site and elite group.
Truly I am not disappointed at all and thank you for that you have shared here
Yes, off course you have the right to promote "any" product, and in "any" which way. It's your site/blog. And there will always be people who will follow ANY suggestion and buy. But IMO you must be careful about your audience, and WHY they are your audience.
Some follow you because they are groupies that latches on to anybody nice,(blogs/forums), and eat anything you feed them without thinking for themselves. BUT then you have those that are with you SPECIFICALLY for whom you are. For the quality information you provide, the "type" of ethically correct person you appear to be over the net, and the subsequent respect they have for you. Compare it to "true" friends and all the others that leave when your money and parties run out.
Lets face it. PopupDomination may work and rake up a list that turns into money, but is that what you are about to us. Are you here to share your essence with us to enjoy a fulfilling "relationship".
PopupDomination is about hoovering up email addresses and making money out of the groupies. ALL net marketers know it is a cheap "trick" that works, but does that mean I must use it. I will NEVER use this type of irritation technique. Not because they don't work, but because it instantly categorizes me as a "money maker". The day James Sch. started using "popups" and "hey, before you leave" second-hand car salesman techniques was they day I stopped buying from/via him for example.
This popup domination offer has "re-qualified" you in "some" people's eyes. And I think THAT is what is raising the hairs at the back of your neck.
Just look at all the value you added in the recent weeks with your GYL series. All that work. All that credibility. And then PopupDomination? Don't get me wrong. Off course it's all about making money. Net-marketing provides you with the means to feed your family and provide you with an amazing lifestyle and luxuries. But as always, keep a perspective from the customer/audience side. Why are we there. You don't see a Mercedes dealer use cheap techniques "just" to get the sale. That's what second-hand car salesmen do.
Ps. I wish "I" could have a "popup" (offering something to You) right now as/at-the-time you move on to the next post. That would get my point across. Would you then find my rant above coming from the heart ... or just a slick speech to get my foot in the door?
Cheers. Love your "good stuff"
The hairs on the back of my neck are just fine, actually. 🙂 I'm not bothered at all by this conversation, but rather enjoying the feedback and open discussion.
I've stated my intentions with the product several times. I've never been one to use pop-ups or a hard sale. That said, list building IS an important part of my business. Particularly on my niche affiliate sites. And not just to make money, but to serve my market appropriately.
When you see my examples, I think it will calm the hairs on the back of your neck too. 😉
Well who cares about the person or the sales strategy if the product is good and recommended by many pioneers in the IM field. I know Michael and he is a very talented and dedicated young man. I know that the PopUpDomination is great and so is your blog and posts.
Thank you Edgar. Apparently though, a lot of people care - if the number of comments here is any indication. 🙂
I purchased this product off a strong recommendation by Gideon Shalwick. For anyone that wonders why, it's because I use his squeeze pages as a STELLAR example so often... so I was very eager to use what he uses.
Lynn, its all about a USP, and quite frankly, I think you had one.
#1 - the product is related to all of us. Heck, I use it too, and it is a damn good product!
#2 - If you were going straight in for the sale, you would have promoted it like everyone else is, and who cares about the discount because if they pay full price, you get a bigger cut.
You didnt just suggest the product. You suggested something in a way that put your need to earn a few dollars as far behind the need of your followers - and I admire that kind of behaviour. Too many people dont focus on what people want first.
That said, I didn't choose to promote Popup Domination, nor do I intend to just yet. When they zig, I zag. Or something like that... 🙂
I am not planning to review or recommend it either. That said, I saw no harm sharing the discount trick, or the sale news, considering I purchased it myself. In my opinion, that is NOT an endorsement or a recommendation - simply sharing of news.
Appreciate your points!!
Lynn,
There are several questions going on here.
To answer the first question, your question:
"Are you disappointed in me?"
My answer is no, I am not disappointed in you.
As other commenters have mentioned I value you as a trusted source.
This trust has been earned and it is something that I think you value as a currency and that makes your business and recommendations more valuable over time.
I also pay very little attention to the sales videos but the thing that bothered me the most about the video was not the content the fact that there was no indication on how long the pitch was going to be.
My time is the most valuable resource that I have. So I might give someone 2-4 minutes if it sounds like what I need but 15-30 minutes as some people have on sales pages is too much.
But don't hide what the length of what the video is.
I did buy Popup Domination a couple of month's ago so I didn't get the discount.
I'm not going to cry about that.
But I do have a beef with them and am NOT a SATISFIED customer.
Here is my issue:
I have a wordpress blog with a Thesis Theme in a dating niche.
Like you I value my visitors and want to build a positive relationship with them.
My problem is that my Popup Domination has 'gone rogue' (to quote Sarah Palin).
It literately has a mind of it's own.
Here are my settings:
When the close button is clicked, how long should it be before the lightbox is shown again?
7 days (recommended 7 days)
*** This is THE PROBLEM ***
This pop up shows up EVERY TIME you visit my site.
I can't get it to show only every 7 days. It shows every time I visit my site.
(It's kinda like the accelerator problem that Toyota had a few years ago... I can't get it to stop)
I have a 20 second delay before the lightbox is shown
I've read and watch all the tutorials.
I've gone online to see if I could get the answer.
I've gone on to the user forum for information.
I've sent their 'support' desk and email over 5 days ago for help and there has been no reply.
Here is my dilemma:
I want what Popup Domination promises.
I see other people that I respect and trust using it successfully
(Ryan Lee, Yaro Starak, James Schramko, Gideon Shalwick, Yanik Silver)
I can't get it to work properly.
I can't get 'support desk' to respond.
I'm frustrated but open to suggestions.
What would you do if you were me?
Please check out my site, maybe it's obvious that I'm doing something wrong.
Thanks for listening to my rant (I got carried away).
Suzy Weiss
Hi Suzy!
First ... Keep at them at customer service.
Second ... It does it to me too when I just took a look at your site. Everytime I refreshed the page, after 20 seconds your popup appeared.
So ... Since you bought it a couple months ago, they probably have a more updated version by now. I'd suggest that you download their latest version of the plugin again and reinstall it. You may have just gotten a corrupted file. It happens at times.
I haven't come across any problem like yours on my WP sites so far, so it's most likely a bad file.
Hope this helps some.
Rick Wilson aka CorpRebel 😎
Rick,
Thanks so much for you reply and recommendations.
I will give them a try.
Sometimes it's good to get a little 3rd party validation that I'm Not crazy!
Thanks again,
Suzy Weiss
I've read about a few others having issues with Thesis, with this product, so that must be a known issue by now. I agree with Rick. I tested the customer support by emailing the address - and got a reply back the same day. Good luck!! Keep us posted. 😉
I'm using Thesis these days and haven't had that issue. That's why I think maybe the updated file will hopefully do the trick for her.
Rick
No disappointment here, Lynn, you run your Business for profit with integrity! I saw your recommendation. If I was in the market for a light box, or pop-up, this would have gotten my attention, even moreso now with the others that have piped up about this particular product.
Considering what I learn from you, I adjusted "my blinders" at that moment, realized I am NOT in the market for this, & it's ok not to bite today! I can't say I do it all the time, but I do use those blinders more than I used to, and treat developing an online business as a way to 'profit with integrity' because of the way you pass on your wisdom and practicality in many different ways.
Thank you.
Best, Mary
Thank you Mary 😉 Gotta love those blinders!!
Lynn, thank your for a great and honest discussion. If I landed on a site through a search, the sales strategy definitely impacts my buying decision. If the copy is formulaic, and cheesy, I am unlikely to buy. If I am led to the copy by someone I trust (like you) then the sales strategy doesn't matter and I'll buy if it fits my need and ignore the cheesy message. So it always boils down to credibility. Mac's point is a good one about HOW you create that trust with buyers. The formulas are not the problem, it is the application of those formulas that is at issue. As someone brought up in the traditional discipline of marketing this is one of my pet peeves about digital and traditional marketing. Tool or formula jockeys who have no clue about WHY or WHEN formulas should be applied. There is a science behind the formula and if you don't know it you're copying an assumed result without a clear understanding of the methodology.
Just startled that you would honor this kind of ad until I reread your blog and felt you were concerned nuf to post about it. I trust and depend on you re biz decisions probably more than anyone, but I wasn't mad or deeply questioning you on this, knew you had a good reason for this rather atypical discussion. Just noticed, but no ill affect!
I didn't really "honor the ad", I just bought the product. I should have examples of it in use for you guys to see in the next couple days. 😉 Playing with it now - well worth the sale price!
Not sure anyone pointed this out yet, but Aweber has a Lightbox Signup Box feature now Seen Here http://www.aweber.com/blog/new-features/triggered-lightbox-web-forms.htm
This might work for most, if you have Aweber.
Just my 2¢
Mike, thanks for pointing this out. I use Aweber, but had not seen the Lightbox info. I'm definitely going to watch the tutorial on it!
Teresa
Very cool - thanks for sharing the link. I was familiar with the option, but am not actually creating pop-ups or lightboxes. I'm using the PSD files, graphics & CSS code (a steal for $47) to create on-page subscription forms. I'll share examples when they're live.
First, no. I'm not disappointed.
However, let me register one objection to polyps that's more than just "I hate them."
I do most of my web reading on an iPhone, and too many times I go to read a site, and I get a "subscribe" popup before I've read a single word. I don't even know yet if I want to subscribe. But because of the popup I can't see the site, and because of the small screen I can't close the popup box. So I click off. Maybe I would have wanted to subscribe, but I have no way of knowing that.
Maybe PUD has features that keep from bouncing new visitors. If so, good. But anyone thinking about using popups should take into account the exponentially expanding audience reading their sites on tiny screens.
I agree, and that's a great point. I am usually on my mobile device as well. I've been to sites that have a pop-up I can't maneuver around on that screen and it's annoying. This would be a good reason to have a mobile version of your site that doesn't deploy pop-ups if you use them.
I am actually using this product to create cool opt-in boxes and squeeze pages. Not it's original intention, but I bought it for the PSD files and CSS code - an easy work around for me. 🙂 I'll show you guys some examples as soon as I get them live.
I meant popups, not "polyps." that's why "sent from my iPhone" is a warning, not a boast.
Hello Lynn,
I am too new to be disappointed by you...However, being new to this "group" might enable me to give you a good point of view of what I think Mac is saying.
If you referred me to a product, and I would call and get an old style hard and full of corn sales pitch, I would never buy, and I would leave the experience unhappy. By referring me to this product you are associating your self (whether you like it or not...) to my entire experience.
If this happens enough times... I mean, after all, the main reason I subscribe to you is because of the "No hard sale" impression at your introductory communications, which create the trust, which in turn moves the wheels on your wagon. Without this trust, you (and all of us) will find yourself in a lurch.
I think what Mac is saying is that he trusted you, followed you, and found him self in a situation we all hate (a hard sale). I would have felt the same.
Hope this helps,
David
Good points David. I said earlier I may not be objective in these situations. I didn't consider it a hard sale at all, but I admitted I wasn't really paying attention to the pitch - I was analyzing the product for my own needs. I also didn't recommend the product, but simply shared the trick to get the secret discount for anyone else buying it for the same reasons I did.
Still, points taken and I don't disagree with you.
I suspect that what is happening here is that your original message may not have been clear enough. It seems that many have taken it as a sales message or review rather than just a tip to get a better price on a decent product.
I'm not sure if you can fully avoid that since people are very busy and just skim emails and posts for the most part. But I think that in the future you can work something in that warns people about hype in the sales page if you notice it.
As Mac (and David) point out, we are often judged by the company we keep, so when I hang out with the guy wearing Herb Tarlek outfits my reputation as a snazzy dresser suffers 8=)
You are too positive in your field and working like you is a gateway to the progress.
I think it's somewhat unfair for anyone to be disappointed in you because they don't like someone else's sales pitch, though I kind of understand. In this case you bought the product and recommended the product, and that should end any speculation putting you in a negative light.
However, there are other times when we see many "gurus" all helping to push a product where the sales copy is irritating and we're left wondering whether the people helping to promote something have even tried it, and then wondering why they'd want their names associated with, well, tripe. Disclosure can close a lot of holes in my opinion.
I think you will all be pleasantly surprised when you see MY popup domination package in action. Check out these before and after examples:
Maybe This Will Calm The Controversy... 😀
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I'm VERY disappointed in you Lynn - for not telling me about this sooner! 😉
Disappointed in you? Come on, I know you don't recommend anything you don't personally like and approve of. I am the one to decide whether I buy it or not. There's no gun in your hand.
Thank you for sharing so much of your experience and always being truthful with what works and what doesn't.
Any criticism of you in this matter, in my opinion, is misplaced. You have a history of providing very valuable and useful information to your subscribers and customers. And your link for the purchase of Pop Up Domination was in line with this history. If you had waited any longer to mention this product and provide the link, you might have faced other misplaced criticism - if, in the meantime, the price was again $77 - and these same critics lost the opportunity to save $40. In my judgment, there is no questions that your motivations are characterized by integrity and a keen interest in assisting others in their internet marketing efforts. Please don't change.
I guess what you are trying to say here is we don’t have that much of luxury time or money to buy something we don’t need. The things we want might be the things that we don’t need. That makes sense. It is indeed true that we should observe proper buying attitude.
Hello Lynn,
I am new to your blog and have only been able to partially look around, but have been impressed with what I had seen so far. I was fascinated to find this post and am always amazed how people can turn so quickly. I do not appreciate pop-ups, have considered using them but have not so far. That being said, I appreciate you sharing a link that will help save me money anytime for a product you feel comfortable with.
By the way, is the pop up working well still for you?
Thanks.
Kim
Great recommendations Lynn! Thanks. Any btw, i hate pop-ups as well 😀