You’ve probably seen the ads: “Get a $50 gift card just for a quick chat!” It sounds like a no-brainer – but before you book that call, it’s worth asking: What’s really in it for them?
🎯 What’s the Real Motive?
When companies offer incentives like gift cards or cash to schedule meetings, it’s often a tactic to quickly fill sales pipelines – not necessarily to understand your needs. These meetings can turn into high-pressure sales pitches, and your time and business insights may be more valuable than the reward.
“If someone’s paying to talk to you, they’re not just being generous – they’re investing in a chance to sell. That’s not inherently bad, but it’s important to know what you’re walking into,” says Marco D’Ercole, Executive VP at 360 Visibility.
🔐 What Are the Risks?
While not all incentive-based meetings are harmful, there are real concerns to consider:
- Privacy: You may be asked to share details about your tech stack, budget, or business goals – information that could be used to tailor aggressive follow-ups or even shared with third parties.
- Pressure: These conversations often come with a strong sales agenda, which can make it hard to get objective advice.
- Misaligned Intentions: If a company needs to pay for your attention, are they truly focused on your success – or just closing a deal?
“We’ve seen customers come to us after being overwhelmed by follow-up calls and emails from companies they only spoke to for a gift card,” says Lynn Cooke, President of 360 Visibility. “It’s not about fear – it’s about helping people make informed decisions.”
✅ What to Look for Instead
Look for partners who lead with value, not incentives. Companies that offer educational content, transparent pricing, and a consultative approach are more likely to prioritize your long-term success.
“At 360 Visibility, we believe trust is earned through expertise and transparency – not transactions,” adds Cooke.
Bottom line: Your time and information are valuable. Make sure you’re sharing them with people who treat them that way.
