A simple marketing lesson inspired by an indoor trout pond

Several years ago, I attended a fishing or boating expo.  The only thing I remember was an indoor trout pond.  There were at least 30 people using the same pole and same bait.  They had to drop their hooks at the same time and they to raise them simultaneously when directed to do so.  I remember watching one round of this activity.  I do not recall seeing anyone catch a fish.  I wonder if the fish were bored, seeing the same bait over several days of this expo.

Years later, I remembered how this event relates to internet marketing.  Affiliates and network marketers are trying to use the same bait over and over (plastering affiliate links everywhere without providing any value), and the fish are not biting.

Time to change tactics.  How about using the best bait possible (live bait, if trout like this) and the correct tackle?  By doing so, we provide value to the trout (the bait they want in the style it normally moves).  Then they just might bite.  At least we increase our odds.

So, the simple lesson in internet marketing, lead with value, not a link.

Leave a Comment