Black Friday deals that aren’t, and marketing on social networks

Monday, November 23, 2009

This time of year, many marketers and merchants in the US are ramping up for the “black Friday” deals.

But all is not simple out there. With the rough economy continuing for many merchants, they once again are resorting to very bad tactics. Lying and cheating. This may work a couple times, or even a lot if your customers are dolts.

Check this article by Cnet’s Chris Matyszczyk : The Black Friday deals that aren’t

What I find most interesting, is that retailers still don’t get it. Social media means people can TALK about your brand, behind your back. Do you really want angry customers?

Here’s the key to Black Friday marketing – be honest! And I’m not gonna charge you for that. Really, it’s that simple. If you just want people to come in your store, hire some models and have an event. This garbage marketing of “only 2 per store” will only continue to hurt once the word spreads, and it will.

That’s where social media comes into play. And too many companies are still marketing on social media as if it were TV. It’s not, folks.

Smaller companies, here’s your opportunity to snag some customers from the big guys! Probably too late for this year but there are other opportunities coming. Are you ready?

And remember, if David Lyle or Angela Render can help you with honest marketing, please give us a shout. Thunderpaw clients are already taking advantage of the weaknesses of their competition.

Me, I’m hoping to sleep in on Black Friday and spend some time relaxing with my family and friends.

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Followup – Another article to check out:
This holiday, who’s looking out for online shoppers?
by Greg Sandoval
Notice the backlash forming? This is one aspect I was talking about above about honorable marketing, and how so many violate that and think it’ll never come back to them. Well it is.
Check the article out, there’s even a nice graphic listing which merchants are involved. Sadly I liked TigerDirect, but Newegg offers similar deals so may be switching off to them for my own tech purchases.