Have you ever paid for an event, only to find yourself being pitched for something even more expensive at the end? That’s exactly what happened to me at a conference on women and money. The last 20 minutes of the event were dedicated to pitching a coaching program, but the price wasn’t revealed until after you applied.
This isn’t just a one-off incident, either. This tactic, known as “upselling,” is a tried and true method in the business world. But is it ethical?
The Dilemma of Upselling
Upselling is a common practice, especially in the world of online events and webinars. The idea is to entice attendees with a lower-priced product, then offer them a more expensive option with additional benefits. It’s a strategy that can be highly effective, but it raises some serious ethical questions.
Think about it: You’ve already paid for the event. You’re there to learn, to connect, and to gain valuable insights. But then, the focus shifts to selling you something else, something more expensive. It can feel like you’re being taken advantage of, especially if the price of the “upsell” isn’t disclosed upfront.
The Facebook Factor
This dilemma isn’t just confined to small businesses and conferences. It’s a topic that’s been debated in Parliament, specifically when it comes to Facebook. Lawmakers have been questioning the company’s practices, specifically how they prioritize profit over the well-being of their users.
This raises a crucial question: When the interests of customers clash with what’s most profitable for a company, which factor should prevail? It’s a question that every business owner, big or small, needs to grapple with.
The Power of Your Inner Voice
If you’re a business owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of profits. But it’s important to pause and ask yourself: Am I doing what benefits both my customers and myself?
If you’re ever in a situation where your conscience is telling you something feels wrong, listen to it. It might be a sign that you’re sacrificing ethics for profit.
The best kind of success is the kind that’s built on a foundation of integrity. It’s about creating a win-win situation for both your customers and your business. It’s about building trust and loyalty, not just maximizing profits.
So, the next time you’re faced with an ethical dilemma in your business, remember this: Your conscience is a powerful tool. Listen to it, and you’ll be on the path to success that’s both profitable and ethical.
Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.