When it should probably be free?
In the past two weeks, I’ve picked up two lemons… ah-hem, I mean ebooks that really should have been free.
One thing to make me run from a marketer really quick is when they put price tags on things that should be really be free.
Now I’m not saying that everything you do should be free, because that really isn’t always the case. However, when you write something, read over it, if it isn’t something you would buy, then 99.9% of the time, others wouldn’t want to buy it either.
“Our lives improve only when we take chances – and the first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves.” W. Anderson
I think what most people miss is when you’re providing tips, or the “Top 10 Things to….”, in my opinion, it isn’t saleable material. That resource should be something you use to let people know you’re an expert in that target market and you’re available to help them (in details) with each of those 10 things. When you give it away free you’ve just built a list of people who want to hear more of what you have to offer. People begin to trust you because you aren’t ‘holding back’ so when you DO create that powerful ebook, home study guide, ecourse lesson or membership, they’re ready to learn even more from YOU!
As business owners – contrary to popular saying, our first goal isn’t to make money. Our first goal should be to provide compelling products and/or services that will take a customer from A to Z without wondering what to do next.
“Money can cloud judgement at times.” Jimmy D. Brown
Keeping it real!
All the best,
Regina
P.S. I invite you to pick up my free report, “Don’t Believe the Hype“, How to Govern Your Business Accordingly. Grab it here.
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Twitter: latarahamying
June 1, 2009 at 2:06 am
I love this post. There have been many times when I have purchased an e-book only to say, \”Is this it\”. I am not quick to buy them anymore just because someone suggested it or it is a great deal. I am more cautious of the lemons now.
Thanks for sharing this. I sure hope people heed to what it says.
Well put, Miss Gina! I had this very discussion with a group of writers not long ago — when to sell information and when to give it away. I really believe that if it’s a topic that you’ve put a lot of time and research into, and it is based on expertise you have worked hard to acquire, you should get paid for it. But I have a couple of rules about it: (1) If you do not have writing skills, it will be worth it to you in the long run to hire someone who does to write it for you, and (2) if you sell it, make sure you go the extra mile and give something away with it! For example, if you write a really great book on press release know-how, include a free report on the top 10 places to submit a press release. That courtesy will go a long way, and it will also prompt people to buy your e-book on press release know-how!
I couldn’t agree more!! I want something of value first, before I am willing to open my wallet, especially in a down economy. They always say in marketing that people need to hear your name over and over before they actually buy into your platform or product. It’s all about building relationships and these two EBook authors will not be getting your business ever again and have lost all credibility with you and probably many others who purchased their books. I am also not a fan of twitter posts, blogs or newsletters that are always “buy me, buy me, buy me” either! Adding value makes lemons into lemonade.
I agree on paid vs. free material. IMO, free material should help guide readers toward a decision, give clues (ie: tips) on how to approach the problem, and/or provide an overview of the topic. Paid material, on the other hand, should contain a substantial amount of “meat,” with a more in-depth look at a topic and detailed information. Customers should come away knowing EXACTLY how to accomplish their goals.
Hi Regina,
Your post was timely for me. I purchased several information products – a couple ebooks and one being a hard-copy manual – and I was greatly disappointed.
When you said business owners are “to provide compelling products and/or services that will take a customer from A to Z without wondering what to do next”, you were 100% correct. I was left wondering why someone charged me for their minimalist information product and what do I do next regarding this topic. Like another commentor, I am more caution now and the authors of the products I purchased have lost credibilty with me.
Savor life’s best,
Aimee
Great post, Regina! There\’s definitely a difference between something that should be for free and things that should not be.
Short tips and such are a great way to offer free reports that you give away in order to establish credibility.
Amen! I have also purchased several ebooks that were worthless or should definitely have been free. It ruins that market for those who are selling ebooks of real value.
I also liked “to provide compelling products and/or services that will take a customer from A to Z without wondering what to do next”. If you build it, they will come:)
Twitter: StaciJansma
June 11, 2009 at 10:57 pm
Regina,
I am glad I read this now. I have not purchased many ebooks because I have been unsure what is good and what will help me. I have asked a few people and now realize that if many people say this is a good thing – then I will go for it and not pass up a good thing.
Living and learning as I go.
-Staci
Well put Regina. I like your point of view.
Regina, What a thought-provoking post! I very rarely pay money for ebooks because I know if I keep searching I’ll find a resource that’s free. Unless, of course, it’s highly recommended by others I know and trust.
It is good to make sure there is a money back guarantee on a product before buying. Some products just aren’t what you think they are, and you should be able to get your money back if you are dissatisfied! Of course there are those who will abuse it, but I think it is worth that risk!
Hi Regina
Love this post! I think that those who are new to the whole “ebook” sales thing over look the importance of “giving” away their knowledge BEFORE trying to charge for it. (hope this makes sense).