The Worst Infomercial Ever
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The Worst Infomercial Ever
By Steve Multer
Jun 22, 2010
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For the eleven people in the world who’ve never seen it, here is the now un-embeddable link to the YouTube posting titled, “HOME SHOPPING FAIL” – enjoy.
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The Brilliance of Howard McCoo
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Yes, it’s a timeless classic from 1979 that has so much to teach us about the nature of live marketing and product demonstration. I laugh at this every time I see it. I’ll watch it when I’m 80 years old and still be laughing, it’s just that good. Actually it’s perfect. Poor Harold McCoo gets it all wrong and unintentionally lays out the 5 key lessons for any professional speaker in a magical 45 seconds of brilliance.
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1) KNOW YOUR RIG! Don’t speak or represent until you know not just what you’re talking about but the in and out operations of the mechanics involved. Unless you can show it perfectly, don’t show it at all!
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2) FOLLOW THROUGH! Harold is the consummate professional; even when he falls on his face from 4 feet in the air he never stops pitching or wavers in dedication to his effort!
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3) NO APOLOGIES! Mr. McCoo (a bit too close to Mr. Magoo) shows us the power of conviction, and even more fervently after an obvious failure. This is the beauty of live theatre and he knows it, urging us with his last ounce of dignity to “continue to call for it.” Never apologize, no caveats, be the master!
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4) OWN THE ROOM! Despite a risky endeavor, despite an overdressed and under-helpful sidekick, Harold fearlessly takes on the beast. It slaps him once and he slaps back, pressing forward until his own sorry demise. Never let the bastards get you down – take control and finish on your own terms!
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5) BE THE LADDER! Harold is not in it for his own glory but rather for the glory of his client. He’s not trying to impress you with his dazzling tan and tight-fitting suit; it’s the safety of the ladder that steals the show and he wants to make your life safer too when you make this wise purchase. To the bitter end – and all the way to the hospital – Harold is only interested in your safety!
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© 2010 | Steve Multer | SKM Creative
