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If it seems too good to be true, it likely is

How naive we are. Someone out there is always going to be offering wonderful returns on our money, a “free” weekend in a condo, a trip somewhere or a seminar without charge.

How naive we are.

Someone out there is always going to be offering wonderful returns on our money, a “free” weekend in a condo, a trip somewhere or a seminar without charge.

The old adage of something being to good to be true comes to mind.

Marketers are skillful people, enticing us with their product then turning on the psychological pressure to join up or sign up.

This is not to say that the product is not of merit, but we naively place ourself in a vulnerable position.

Recently, in Red Deer, I attended a 38-hour “free” seminar touted to offer opportunity for self development. The course was experiential in nature and we were told, up front, that four days into the seminar we would be subject to a two-hour “infomercial.”

At the time I had no problem with the program or requirements therein but reflection since then has led me to believe that a psychological trap exists here.

As helpful as the seminar may have been, it was fundamentally a sales pitch, so designed that it skillfully led participants to the point of purchase.

At that moment, I believe that most of us were mesmerized by the process and most vulnerable to the suggestion to buy. I feel offended but also foolish.

How naive I believe I was to think this was all for “free.”

Personal growth is a sensitive area. One should not be subject to the whim of a marketer for that end. I have spoken to a company representative and hopefully my concerns will be considered.

Glenn Allen

Red Deer