In a social media video, an affiliate marketer claimed that possessing just a phone, laptop, and Wi-Fi, and dedicating one to three hours daily is all it takes. But is it possible?
Legendary Marketer, a company specializing in affiliate marketing, has recently faced backlash due to customer complaints regarding the deceptive nature of its advertising for a $7 course. This course, initially marketed as a 15-day online business builder challenge, turned out to involve a much higher financial commitment, reaching $2,500.
According to reports from NBC News, customers who signed up for the $7 course found themselves in a situation where they were pressured to invest further. The course, designed to educate individuals on affiliate marketing, promises to teach strategies for earning commissions by promoting and selling products for other companies.
However, within the first few days of the course, participants were required to consult with a business plan advisor. Some customers reported feeling coerced into purchasing an additional $2,500 Business Blueprint course. Allegedly, the advisor suggested that investing in this course was so worthwhile that individuals should be willing to sell personal assets, such as a car, to afford it.
Complaints lodged with the Better Business Bureau revealed that declining the $2,500 course hindered customers from progressing in the 15-day program. Those who did opt for the additional course found that while it provided valuable information, its main focus was on promoting the same expensive course to others, rather than on practical affiliate marketing strategies.
One customer, Dana Gunning, expressed regret after making a sale, stating to NBC News, “I made one sale and I felt very bad about it, promoting a $7 course when that’s not the goal.”
Legendary Marketer presents its courses as suitable for individuals seeking career changes or additional income streams. However, its Income Disclaimer page emphasizes that earning claims are not typical and testimonials may not represent realistic outcomes. Additionally, it cautions that most people who purchase instructional materials achieve minimal results, highlighting potential discrepancies between advertised promises and actual results.
“Never have to worry about money again…”
“Never have to worry about money again” – this enticing promise, emblematic of financial freedom, was echoed by customers who spoke to NBC News regarding their experience with Legendary Marketer.
Many of these customers discovered Legendary Marketer through advertisements on social media platforms. One such individual is Chelsea Ouimet, a stay-at-home mom who shared the $ 7-course offer with her extensive social media following, spanning platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Ouimet emphasized the course’s minimal initial investment and the potential for significant returns based on her own positive experiences with Legendary Marketer.
This testimony illustrates how individuals like Ouimet are drawn to opportunities promising financial security and prosperity, especially when presented through accessible and visually engaging social media ads. However, the reality behind such promises often proves to be more complex, as demonstrated by the discrepancies between advertised claims and actual outcomes experienced by customers.
Ouimet shared her journey on TikTok, recounting how she initially viewed a TikTok video discussing a potential scam side hustle. Intrigued by the idea, she decided to pursue it herself, thinking, “Hey, why not me?” She later disclosed that she utilized “educational tools” to develop her business, enabling her husband to retire and providing financial security, allowing them to “never have to worry about money again.”
In another TikTok video, Ouimet highlighted statistics suggesting that a digital marketer with no prior experience earns an average annual salary of $177,566 or $14,798 per month. She claimed to have achieved this income level within her first 11 weeks of venturing into the side hustle.
However, contrasting Ouimet’s claims, ZipRecruiter reports that the average annual pay for an affiliate marketer in the United States is $82,015 per year.
This contrast emphasizes the discrepancy between the extravagant promises made by some promoters of online ventures and the reality experienced by many individuals in these fields. It underscores the importance of critical thinking and research when considering such opportunities.
Legendary Marketer’s Rating — Revoked
NBC News reported that the Better Business Bureau (BBB) took action against Legendary Marketer by revoking its A rating and launching an investigation in response to customer complaints. Upon being contacted by NBC News reporters, the BBB initiated this investigation.
The BBB’s page dedicated to Legendary Marketer now features an alert regarding the situation, outlining the nature of the complaints and indicating that the claims made by Legendary Marketer regarding its courses and business model are currently being scrutinized.
Affiliate marketing stands as a substantial global industry, valued at $20 billion, as per a report from Astute Analytics. This figure highlights the significant economic impact and widespread presence of affiliate marketing initiatives.
It’s worth noting that Legendary Marketer is just one among many companies offering courses on affiliate marketing. Numerous learning materials are available on platforms like Udemy, Class Central, and others, catering to individuals interested in exploring this field.
Moreover, major corporations such as Amazon, Nike, and eBay operate affiliate referral programs, allowing influencers to earn commissions by promoting products and facilitating sales through personalized referral links. This broader context underscores the widespread popularity and diverse opportunities within the affiliate marketing landscape.
Exercising Caution on Online Money-Making Schemes
Jumping into online money-making schemes without careful consideration can lead to various risks and disappointments. Here are some reasons why it’s essential to exercise caution:
- Misleading Claims: Many online schemes promise quick and effortless riches, but they often exaggerate or misrepresent the reality. Genuine success usually demands hard work, commitment, and sometimes significant investments of time and resources.
- Financial Risk: Some online ventures require upfront payments or investments without any assurance of returns. Trusting unverified opportunities can lead to financial losses or, in worst cases, expose you to scams that leave you in a worse financial position.
- Ethical Concerns: Certain money-making schemes involve unethical practices, such as pyramid schemes or deceptive marketing tactics. Participating in such activities not only harms others but also jeopardizes your own reputation and integrity.
To mitigate these risks, it’s essential to thoroughly research any online money-making opportunity, scrutinize claims, and consider potential ethical implications before committing your time, money, or effort. Taking a cautious approach can help safeguard against disappointment and protect your financial well-being in the long run.
How to Save Yourself from Deceptive Money-Making Schemes
When evaluating the legitimacy of a side hustle advertisement, it’s crucial to assess various aspects. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Realistic Expectations: Approach ads with skepticism if they promise outcomes that seem too good to be true, such as instant wealth or enormous earnings with minimal effort. Authentic opportunities typically entail gradual progress and necessitate consistent dedication over time.
- Transparency: Legitimate businesses are forthright about their offerings, including products, services, and pricing details. If an advertisement lacks clarity or presents vague claims, it could signal potential deception.
- Research: Invest time in researching the company or individual promoting the side hustle ad. Seek out reviews, testimonials, and unbiased sources to verify their credibility and track record. A comprehensive understanding of their background can reveal crucial insights.
- Warning Signs: Stay vigilant for common indicators of scams, such as pressure tactics to prompt quick decisions, requests for sensitive personal or financial information, or guarantees of certain returns. Recognizing these red flags can help you steer clear of fraudulent schemes.
- Consultation: Seek guidance from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or professionals, before committing to any online money-making venture. An external perspective can offer valuable insights and help assess the legitimacy and feasibility of the opportunity.
By exercising caution, conducting thorough research, and relying on your instincts, you can safeguard yourself against deceptive side hustle ads and make well-informed choices regarding your financial pursuits. Taking these proactive measures empowers you to navigate the online landscape with confidence and avoid falling victim to misleading schemes.
