Talk about Awkward...
Here is an example of email marketing gone wrong. This email arrived today. It is addressed to Susan Ritchie, one of the co-founders of NNEP. She died in 2016. (dang, I miss you Mom!!!)
Your words matter, people!!!
Hi Susan,
I tried reaching out several times earlier regarding the [product/services] we provide but haven't been able to get your attention.
Typically, this is either because you are busy or not interested. If you're alive, when should I ping you next?
And if you're not interested, well, I am sorry for wasting your time. Let me know, and I'll stop being a pest 🙁
Very Best,Brand X
Yes, email lists are an essential component of a robust marketing plan. However, you might want to carefully consider the phrases and words you use when you are sending to a cold and unknown list.
Here is what I sent back to this company, I just could not help myself.
Well - this is awkward...
Susan Ritchie died in 2016... so...RE: If you're alive, when should I ping you next?Ummmm, never?Seriously, pls unsub us from your list.
How would you have replied?
6 Responses
I am sorry this happened to you. It is sad that this is going on today.
I have been getting emails saying they are following up on our phone call discussion? What! ..... what discussion? I wrack my brain to go over just over who I have spoken with and realize I never spoke with them at all, so how can they say that. It is like putting a guilt trip you that you owe them a response. It is deceptive marketing in my opinion.
We are experiencing a lot of hacking of emails in an international educational women's organization I belong to. (Yes, I ended the sentence with a preposition.) I warned the members to put their cursor over the supposed sender to verify they are valid. Too often the sender is trying to get info or lists of emails. So, unless you really knew who sent the email to your mom, I might have just ignored it. I know exactly why you did it though. Their words were offensive and you wanted to get at least a little revenge. It's too bad that the hackers are so smart - they should use those skills to better our country.
Fondly remembering your mom,
Darlene Duseberg
Five Point Embroidery
Lexington, SC 29072
I would think their response to you should be a BIG bouquet of flowers with condolences. You were tactful and professional, as always!
I can relate to the pain. If someone calls or emails you, they should have some idea who they are contacting.
I still get emails and phone calls for Keith, who died in 2009. (Miss him and his creative input, still)
Usually, when it is a call, they cannot even pronounce Keith's name. What's more, they do not want to speak to anyone else.
I am afraid that I am not as nice as you. I just say "Keith is dead", Wait for that awkward pause and then hang up. If they do not feel awkward and continue with "Let me talk to someone in charge". I ask if they have made an appointment.
In very much the same way! It has been 2 years of nonstop snail mail and emails, all of whom have been notified multiple times that she died. Just another stab everytime something comes in. I guess they have never lost someone they loved.
I think that was a perfect response! Would definitely inform them of their carelessness. In this all about me society even the business side is turning that direction. So very sad.