Bob Bly Direct Response Copywriter Official Banner

Are Your Customers Tightening Their Belts?

April 2nd, 2009 by Bob Bly

Yes, according to a March 2009 survey of 2,005 U.S. adults (DM News, 3/30/09, p. 7).

Of those surveyed, 84% said they are concerned abou the economic recession and have cut back their spending.

Only 14% of consumers said they are not concerned about the economy (and 1% said they didn’t know).

In my little online publishing business, we hear our customers voicing similar concerns.

These days they overwhelmingly favor our low-priced (under $100) information products, although we still sell respectable amounts of mid and even high-priced items.

Customers also demand that our products deliver the value they paid for. While our refund rates on mid and high-priced products are still low (less than 5%), they are triple what they were a year ago (1.5% then vs. 4.5% today).

Instead of keeping the audio or DVD album, the customer now considers that he has already listened to or watched the program once and may not ever again. By returning the item, he can save $100 or more. And in today’s economy, that’s more tempting than when folks were flush.

Tell me how the recession is affecting your business, and I’ll give you a free copy of my special report “15 Recession-Proof Business Strategies” (value: $29). Just click here to get started:

http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2hnqgubfsoaur48/a0111ft1syupc/questions

Share

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 2nd, 2009 at 1:53 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

52 responses about “Are Your Customers Tightening Their Belts?”

  1. Dream Big/Take Action said:

    (Survey wasn’t working when I clicked on it.)

    My company has seen subscription-based products suffer for the past 16 months or so. When renewal times come around, a lot more people are passing than in the past. And with those that do want to renew, a lot more cards are bouncing, which I think it pretty telling. NEW subscriptions are also way down compared to the past.

    Meanwhile, one-time order infoproducts have actually picked up, which I think shows that people are willing to pay for a solution to their problems, but much less likely to enter into a longer term financial commitment. I haven’t seen a real noticeable change in refund requests.

    I think this is a good lesson. A lot of info-product marketing “gurus” go out of their way to tell clients that subscriptions are the key to long-term, recession-proof cash flow. At least for my business, I’m EXTREMELY glad that we don’t rely solely on subscription-based products.

  2. SEO Copywriting | Three free ways to get your online marketing butt in gear said:

    […] posed the question, “Are your customers tightening their belts?” The DM News study he cited said that 84 […]

  3. peopleinorganisationsjcu said:

    Sites we Like……

    […] Every once in a while we choose blogs that we read. Listed below are the latest sites that we choose […]……

  4. twin bedroom furniture sets said:

    Right here is the perfect blog for anyone who wishes to understand this topic. You realize so much its almost tough to argue with you (not that I personally will need to…HaHa). You definitely put a new spin on a subject that’s been discussed for a long time. Wonderful stuff, just wonderful!

  5. Hison said:

    I can try to help with which programming languages are most needed now and are really needed for everyone involved in the IT sphere. My friends told me that it is necessary to study this article https://merehead.com/blog/most-in-demand-programming-languages-2021/ which is very detailed about the problems with programming languages and the tendency of their development next year. For this purpose it is necessary to be completely ready. I hope that I can help everyone with this and you too can know much more than before.

  6. digital world said:

    I really appreciate your hard work and efforts for making the world reach down to such an informative platform
    Good luck
    Thanks and Regards
    https://www.editsoftdigital.com

  7. MarthaA said:

    It is very interesting that when the author was writing this article he would never know that he was looking into the crystal ball. Now, few years later, we face exactly the same problems. Even if we can operate Bitcoins and work online!

  8. Howard Goose said:

    Yes Martha, but I guess there is nothing mystical in it. As an economist I can tell you that the market has it ups and downs. So we are living in the pit right now, but soon it will start improving again. So here https://duckdice.io you can see the website with Bitcoin games as long as you mentioned it. Try to earn something there for a change.

  9. Truth Maker said:

    So MarthaA how are you? Did you manage to win anything there? I also want to try, but I wanna know about you darling. Always feels safer following someone.

  10. Ben Blodgett said:

    Consciousness is part of that. We are sort of like the universe looking at itself, and interacting with itself. I think that wherever in the universe life is possible, it will evolve. It’s just how the universe works. But I could be wrong. The customers of proessays proofreading service are mostly students who do not see the structure of life so vividly and determinedly.

  11. Lucy jhonson said:

    I am really very happy to visit your blog. Now I am found what I actually want. I check your blog every day and try to learn something from your blog.
    Please keep it up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
    McAfee is the ultimate cybersecurity software range that keeps your devices protected round the clock. Although set up for any application is a time consuming and complicated process. However,
    McAfee Activate activate setup is much simpler and convenient than expected.

  12. Fasna Ali said:

    Do you think, ‘recession’ probably associate with a bad economy? Whatever it is, it likely makes you a little bit nervous. Sure! As we all know, it is a period of negative economic growth. While recessions don’t significantly drag on for long periods of time, the impact of the recession on businesses can often remain for much longer, even if the economy is in a period of growth. There are a handful of positives. Recessions could also cut your competition as businesses are unable to remain to trade. If you make it through a recession, that’s a strong indicator that you’re running your business the right way. As one of the leading pest control companies in Sharjah, we always have a sensible plan while the profits and the economy are healthy. Once you understand the feature of any economy, you can make a plan of action.

  13. Noor Fasal said:

    It’s fascinating to think of a recession as a time to batten down the hatches and play it safe. However, downturns perform to encourage the selection of new technologies. The demand for tech skills reverts to more normal levels once the labor market grows. Technology can make your business more transparent, more flexible, and more efficient. Waterproofing technology is the best example of that. The waterproofing contractor Dubai can create much more flexibility around product changes.

  14. Gloria Ben said:

    The catastrophic effect of the coronavirus is waving its way through economies, destructive businesses, and crippling economic growth. Although many industries will hurt badly, there are possibilities to start a business, invest, or earn employment in industries that could remain unaffected by the economic recession. Teaching Programs UAE is likely to benefit or remain largely unaffected during an economic recession.

  15. Alma Cargo said:

    During a recession, it’s even more important to create a financial cushion to remain safe if disaster strikes. The best way to increase your emergency savings is to funnel money away from non-essential purchases such as new clothes, tech devices, or cars. Developing innovative practices may help you adapt to changing market conditions and stay ahead of your competitors. Relocation Company in Dubai is finding ways to retain your existing customers by providing good after-sales service.

  16. miketoffd said:

    Beyond the people close to Paul, not many are giving him a chance Floyd vs Paul fight match to beat one of the greatest boxers of all time. You can add one of the biggest attractions in the history of boxing to the list.

  17. Little Diamond Nursery said:

    Preschool or nursery businesses are difficult to start and operate. Various concerns must be met to open and run a company that is in the priceless business of providing quality care to children. Along with the common concerns such as insurance, facility upkeep, employing expert caregivers, and maintaining a safe environment, there are more widespread economic factors to consider which are most distinct to your facility’s area to run early learning centres in Dubai. Parents need quality child care. So the workforce might be strong in this area.

  18. Jen Davis said:

    How about top espresso machines under 200 dollars? Here you will find a lot of important information for choosing the best device for your kitchen.
    https://coffeelikeapro.com/gear/best-espresso-machines-under-200

  19. One Dasty said:

    Bringing home a new puppy is a wonderful experience involving the whole family, which is why we begin training early to ease the transition to their new home and family.s a great amount of support, we assist in the preparations to make it less stressful. To provide a completely different environment for our puppies, we thoroughly researched and make sure this puppies will only go to respectable families
    https://pugslandbreeder.company.com

  20. robert said:

    https://savannahbengal.company.com/

  21. Ndure Shoes said:

    Ndure offers their customers the highest quality hoods and pullover hoodies for kids. Get the best available boys Hoodies and hoodies for girls in Pakistan. All types of denim jackets for girls so they can stay in comfort without compromising on style. So, come to Ndure for amazing pullover hoodies for girls.

  22. Metro Shoes said:

    Metro shoes offers their customers the highest quality high heels and block heels Get the best available pencil heels in Pakistan, today So, buy the best heel shoes for girls online from Metro shoes We bring you only the highest quality heels for girls and high heels for girls

  23. Little Minds Nursery said:

    Hi,
    Really happy to say your post is very interesting to read. I never stop myself to say anything about it. We are one of the leading and Award-Winning, Best Preschool in Dubai, provide your child an exciting learning experience with an aim of shaping the next generation.Check our page, “https://littlemindsdubai.com/”. Expecting more blogs.

  24. Chris said:

    Little Feet Nursery aims to provide children with the best opportunities for Early Learning Education in a caring, secure and stimulating environment.
    https://www.littlefeetdubai.com/

  25. Enem Mall said:

    Time is precious so check out online watches in Pakistan on enem online store.

  26. Rivaj UK said:

    Grab amazing cosmetics and related products like primer makeup and the best primer, only from Rivaj So, grab their best primers today and enjoy Their primer makeup sets are truly unbeatable and offer a high degree of satisfaction Rivaj offers the best primer makeup to their customers all the time

  27. little minds said:

    Little Minds Nursery is one of the best British Curriculum nurseries in Dubai, We provide warm,happy and nurturing envirnment for Little Ones to spend their most cruisial formative years. We follow British EYFS curriculum in compliance with KHDA and the demands of UAE community.https://www.littlemindsdubai.com/registrations.html

  28. Play House Nursery said:

    Great Post!
    Check the page, “https://www.playhouse-nursery.com/’

  29. Highway Fashions said:

    Highway fashions give the unique Farasha collection online. Match the broad range of women’s clothes online at Highway fashions. Get your favorite women’s dresses online in Pakistan at reasonable prices.

  30. Royal Leafs said:

    If you’re searching for the best Cannabis store, you’re at the right place! At Royal Leafs, you can find plenty of Cannabis products such as Cannabis pre-rolls, raw and milled flowers, drinks, and accessories such as bongs and vapes of the highest quality.

  31. Sarmun said:

    Explore the variety of Jackets Online at Wearsarmun. Sarmun offers a wide range of the best-quality classic jackets for men online across America. So, get your favorite jackets online at reasonable prices.

  32. Oxeltech said:

    Firmware development services involve the creation and programming of software that is embedded in electronic devices, such as microcontrollers, sensors, and other electronic components. These services are typically offered by specialized firms that have expertise in electronic engineering and software development.

  33. Ammara khan said:

    Introducing the latest fashion trend in women’s clothing, Ammara Khan presents a stunning new dress design for women. With a blend of elegance and contemporary style, these dresses are a perfect choice for fashion-forward women. Shop now.

  34. Walkeaze said:

    Check out the latest collection of Flat Sandals online in Pakistan. Walkeaze offers a wide range of flat sandals for women online at the best prices. So, grab your favorite flat sandals online across Pakistan.

  35. Shahtaj said:

    Shahtaj Qaiser is one of the top women clothing brands in Pakistan. Discover your favorite outfit and upgrade your style with this unique and stylish collection. Shop now and stay on-trend with the latest fashion from Pakistan’s most famous designers.

  36. Mohagni said:

    Mohagni offers high quality luxury Pret dresses for women, which can be easily found on our website. Discover the latest luxury pret that makes you beautiful and precious on any occasion. Get your favorite dress online today!

  37. voucher pro said:

    Hey there, bargain enthusiasts! I’m Thomas, your dedicated discount code supplier. Let’s uncover a treasure trove of deals and discounts at voucherpro.co.uk and save like never before!

  38. voucher pro said:

    Shop your heart out without breaking the bank at Gardening Naturally Discount Code your discount code haven.

  39. latestentertainment said:

    Latest Entertainment

  40. S 4 She said:

    Thomas, an advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment, invites you to delve into her captivating stories that challenge stereotypes and celebrate the strength of women. Find her work at s4she.com.

  41. artical said:

    Explore the realm of ideas curated by Thomas at Article of the Week, where his articles provoke introspection and inspire growth.

  42. article online said:

    Welcome, fellow adventurers! Thomas here, an author dedicated to crafting online articles that transport you to different worlds. Join me on “article.onl” for an unforgettable literary journey.

  43. article online said:

    Seeking a source of inspiration and knowledge? Look no further! I’m Thomas, an author committed to sharing my expertise through enlightening online articles on “article.onl”.

  44. Jon said:

    Visit Thomas’s curated collection of ideas at Article of the Week, where his essays encourage reflection and personal development.
    https://bit.ly/442B0wb

  45. BSNS Consulting said:

    BSNS Consulting offers top-notch Taxation Services in Pakistan, catering to businesses of all sizes. Our experienced tax experts navigate the complexities of the tax landscape, ensuring compliance and optimising your tax strategy. Trust us to handle your tax planning, filing, and reporting, so you can focus on growing your business with peace of mind.

  46. tiptop-einrichtung said:

    A Nageltisch is simply a nail table or manicure table. It’s a piece of furniture designed for performing various nail care treatments, such as manicures and pedicures. These tables often come equipped with storage drawers and a comfortable work surface.

  47. Maren434 said:

    Immerse in the digital symphony, where each click reveals undiscovered realms of excitement. This platform goes beyond the ordinary gaming experience; it’s a cosmic portal to https://mostbets.pt/ an expansive universe. Picture it as a vibrant canvas, where strategic clicks weave an immersive tapestry resonating with dynamic energies from uncharted territories.

  48. AJ22 said:

    As businesses increasingly rely on PayPal for their payment processing needs, understanding the platform’s fee structure becomes paramount. Whether you’re selling goods or services, conducting domestic or international transactions, being aware of transaction fees, cross-border fees, and other charges is crucial for optimizing your financial operations. By factoring these fees into your pricing strategies and choosing the right PayPal account for your needs, you can maximize profitability and streamline https://pay-gebuehrenrechner.de/ your payment processes. Additionally, staying informed about PayPal’s fee updates and policy changes can help you adapt your strategies and stay ahead in today’s competitive marketplace.

  49. Green Grass Nursery said:

    Green Grass Nursery stands out as the premier bilingual nursery school in Jumeirah & Al Manara, Dubai. With a foundation rooted in the British Curriculum, our kindergarten provides a comprehensive educational experience encompassing Arabic classes, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and the innovative Reggio Emilia Approach.

  50. BSNS Consulting said:

    At BSNS Consulting, we deliver top-notch services of web development to complement our tailored Business Consultancy solutions. Backed by our expertise in driving growth and optimising operations, our web development services are crafted to enhance your online presence and elevate your business.

  51. Billie Jollie said:

    Use data and analytics to track purchasing patterns, customer preferences, geometry dash and the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns.

  52. TipTop Enrichtung said:

    A barberstuhl is a specialized chair used in barbershops. It is designed to provide comfort to male clients and facilitate optimal working posture for the barber.hese chairs often have a classic design and can be antique or retro-styled.

Leave a Reply