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Parroting for information…
I’ve been reading up on techniques for extracting information from people in order to let conversation flow as freely as possible. It appealed to me after a meeting not too long ago where the client was very subdued and almost unhelpful due to the fact he couldn’t communicate effectively what it was he was trying to achieve from search engine optimisation.
One method of overcoming this kind of person is to employ the ‘parroting‘ technique which simply involves repeating what the person says in such a way that it invokes them to elaborate on what they just said. Effectively, you are putting the ball back in their court. Subconsciously the natural reaction is to answer the question… For example:
So, what is your main service?
… Well, selling fireplaces.
Oh, Fireplaces?
… Yes, we sell a wide range of fireplaces from iron to marble.
Wow, marble fireplaces are the expensive ones right?…
… There’s two types actually, the marble ones and the marble effect ones and we sell both…
So you specialise in marble fireplaces?
… Well we actually specialise in iron fireplaces, but we do sell marble fireplaces too in addition to chimineas.
Immedietely more information has been extracted. It’s important not to overuse the parroting technique or else you risk looking like an idiot. Instead, subtly tease the technique in conversation being sure to ask other questions too.
How can this translate across to marketing online?
Ultimately in any venture you have, you need a desired outcome. If we simplify any business (online or offline) down, we have the following:
- An audience with a need.
- A product or service that satisfies that need.
- A method of selling that product or service.
Marketing online through a sales page requires compelling copy as a minimum, if you haven’t yet moved to video, that will do the selling for you. The rewards can be huge, afterall hitting it right can make you website a 24/7 selling tool. The difficulty is in getting to that stage!

I have a passion for Search Engine Marketing and Social Media, and I'm the proud Director of my exciting new venture,
{ 1 comment }
Nice writing style. Looking forward to reading more from you.
Chris Moran
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