Guy's

Came across this again recently from two of my writers. It's a good issue to cover for new copywriters (and in some cases experienced writers)

CLIENT AND NEW COPY:

Their current copy is pathetic. You write new proven strategic DR copy. They hate the style etc. Because of that ... they want a refund without even testing!

The question is; when a client is unwilling to test what you know are proven copywriting strategies.

A: Do we shoot them?
B: Do we refund them?
C: Do we pack our notebook away and live in a cave?

What do YOU do, Tell all?

Cut 'em off at the pass.

Here's what I mean...

1) I don't give refunds for the initial deposit - I make it clear that this is their risk if they want me (unless I never deliver the copy, then I will refund of course).

2) I do promise better results, but it is conditioned (written in an agreement) on them proving that my copy did not improve their results. If it doesn't improve AFTER they test, then I promise a free rewrite. No test, no rewrite (and certainly no refund). Opinions don't matter.

3) The potential client knows my style of writing, or at least we talk about what it will be like before they hire me (I try to avoid surprises and feel out if they are attached to strong biases (despite poor results) - this is a warning sign).

In other words, I make it very clear before starting, to avoid such a nightmare.

I know this doesn't really help your current situation Alan, but this is what works for me... so far so good (knock on wood). I'm sorry to hear you have this situation - major bummer my friend.

T

Yep, like Tim says: make it clear up front tied with a non refundable deposit.

If a client won't even test it, it's a big, big problem because the rest of the fee usually depends on it... So I would do everything in my power to convince someone to put it up.

If ego is a problem, you can convince them to put it on another domain and tell 'em to see it as a "lead-generator"... an outside-sales process so that they disassociate the DM style with their "corporate identity". Basically, find out the REAL objection and then counter that. So many times you're countering what they SAY is their objection... but when you give them a logical argument against it, they're still not convinced.

In those cases, the real objection is usually something entirely different

Also, it may help to point out the fact that THEY hired YOU for your expertise in the first place.

And last of all, it can help to show some conversion rates from sites with a similar style. In the end, they'll smell the results and follow the money.

Guy's

Thankfully this isnt one of mine, just a couple of guy's that write for OB now and then.

I think it's a good one to throw in this arena though for newer guy's.

I personally take them to the long wall at 6A.M and shoot em! Does that seem a little tough?

I usually threathen to take 'em to the same hairsalon you go to.

Scares 'em everytime

(Sorry dude but loved the Hairjokes at WIS )

YES ...

That might just work

That's terrible!

Why force yourself to get up so early... hang-em' after supper...

T

BRILLIANT ... only a psychedelic punked out californian pasta muching copywriting hippy could have arrived at such a conclusion

It's ecological too - announcing the

100% Natural And Recyclable Bum Client-Killer Solution...

Benefits include...

- Pure hemp (canapa) rope - (THC variety not required, but ok after due harvesting) - 100% natural and recyclable.

- No wasted lead to pollute the earth.

- No unnecessary blood stains to clean.

- No noise pollution (early shots are jarring, and there is ample evidence that it can bring in noise complaints from local sleeping neighbors)

- Relaxed condemnation schedule (alarm clock not needed like other solutions on the market)

(legal disclaimer: despite his wild creativity, the author is 100% THC free for over 18 years - contrary to common belief, and because his clients love him for skyrocketing sales, the author has no direct experience with the Recyclable Bum Client Killer Solution - use at own risk as this is an untested product).

TIMOTHY...

Thank you sir. You actually make me feel NORMAL

All my love 'The Worlds Best Dressed Copywriter' Alan.