Fear
Without this you are basically unprotected.
The claim describes a large threat without naming the problem, its signs or the product's limits.
Say thisWhat problem does this solve, and how do I know I have that problem?
Fear selling
If somebody is selling you a solution to a problem you did not know you had, stop.
High-pressure sales tactics can catch anyone off guard. The same use of urgency, fear and authority appears on the phone, at a shop counter, in sponsored videos and inside apps.
Recognising the tactic gives you a chance to pause before deciding. Below are six common tactics and a sentence you can use in response to each one.
Six tactics
Urgency
This price is only valid for the length of this call.
A short deadline leaves too little time to check the price, the terms and the seller's details.
Say thisSend me the offer in writing and I will look at it tomorrow.
Authority
I am calling from your operator's security department.
The caller uses the name of a familiar organisation to make the request sound trustworthy. A name or the number on the screen does not confirm who is calling.
Say thisEnd the call and ring back on a number you look up yourself.
Confusion
Your router has no active intrusion prevention.
Technical terms hide what the product does, what it costs and whether you need it.
Say thisExplain that so that I understand it. Otherwise I am not buying.
Invented problem
Our system shows that your device is infected.
An unexpected caller or a website alert presents a diagnosis of your device without a trusted check.
Say thisWhere do you see that? I will check it myself.
Commitment
On a 24-month contract it is cheaper per month.
The monthly price is prominent, while the total cost and cancellation terms receive less attention.
Say thisHow much does this cost in total over the whole contract?
Three questions before you buy
Where to go next
- Phone sales and your rightsOne rule that ends the call. And ready-made sentences for saying it.
- Do I need this?Eight products and questions that help you decide whether buying one would help.
- Sales claims and factsFourteen common sales claims, checked against the evidence.
- It already went wrongIf you gave out details or paid. Six things in order, the most important first.
- PrintablesTwo A4 sheets for the fridge door or to hand on. They work without a network connection.
Checked