The dangers of manipulative marketing tactics

Section 1 : When marketing crosses the line

Marketing should help people see why a product or service is right for them. It shouldn’t trick them into thinking they have no other choice. But manipulative tactics are everywhere:

• False urgency: “Only 3 left at this price!” (when there are plenty in stock)
• Misleading pricing: Hiding fees until checkout or inflating "original prices" to make a discount look bigger
• Guilt-tripping: “If you don’t sign up, you’re missing out on life-changing opportunities!”
• Fear-based messaging: Making customers feel like they’ll fail or suffer without your product
• Confusing fine print: Burying important details in long, unreadable terms and conditions

These tactics don’t create loyal customers. They create people who feel tricked and once they realise it, they won’t come back.

Are we saying don’t be creative or persuasive, especially when these methods seem to work? Not at all. Good marketing captures attention and drives action, but it should do so honestly. There’s a difference between highlighting value in a compelling way and manipulating people into decisions they wouldn’t make if they had all the facts. If your product or service is truly valuable, you don’t need to rely on tricks. You just need to communicate that value clearly and authentically.