When I first started working as a freelancer, I'd troll job boards looking for writing and editing work.
These days, applying for "gigs" is
about appealing as I imagine that getting back into the dating scene would be after being married for many years.
UUGH.
No thanks. I'll stay single. (I'm not single, I was just saying....)
Anyway, one day, I ran across this sad ad for a talented creative copywriter:
We are looking for a talented individual who can write killer sales copy. The type that can sell ice to Eskimos. We are a fast growing web firm and are in need of a full time copywriter to support our team and its goals. The assignment will consist of but not be limited to sales letters, sales emails, websites, etc. We are looking to fill this position immediately. Thank you for your interest!
Why is the ad sad?
First, because I’m not sure whether the type in the second sentence refers to the copy or the person writing the copy.
Second, and more importantly, the ad is sad because it might possibly reveal the heart of the company, which is to try to sell things to people at any cost — even to people who don’t really need them.
Do Eskimos need ice? Assuming the answer is "no" (it's not, but play along with me), then ... WHY would you try to sell ice to them?
Because you’re a shyster. A
swindler. A shark. A thief.
Not you, friend. I'm talking about that company.
The smell of the sell created by a "sell ice to Eskimos" endeaver stinks to high heaven, causing buyers to click "X" ... hit the back button ... press DELETE ... slam the door ... or take any other action
that might quickly end the conversation.
If you thought you had to sell ice to Eskimos, listen up; there IS a better way.
Yes, there really is a better way, which is always good news to the many gentle souls I serve, people who abhor the thought of selling.
If that's you, then I have good news for you.
You don't have to become a swindler to sell your products and services online.
My premise for writing and editing has long been that it's not in your best interest to try to sell things to people who neither want nor need them.
Instead, think about this: People love to buy, but they hate to be sold.
So instead of selling ICE to Eskimos, how about selling them something they really need — maybe some warm socks?
