What to do with this prospective advertiser

A few weeks ago, I was contacted by a company wanting to advertise on one of my sites. I gave them my banner rates and they said they had to get approval from the bosses -- A week or so later, he said it was all cleared, but needed an address to send the check.

2 weeks later (today) I get an email that now is asking to pay half price for a few months to "try it out".

I sell my ads on an annual basis, this guy wants to not only pay half, but not commit for the year either. I have several advertisers on the site so its not like im some newbie or running a small site. I ahve 6000 members on the particular site.



SO what do you all think? How should I handle this?


-

Depends on how bad you need the ad sales - and it doesn't sound like you're in a pinch to sell the space. If I thought I could sell the ad space to another customer at full price I wouldn't bother discounting for one advertiser...unless you think this particular advertiser has the potential to be a long-term and valuable customer.

Wouldn't do it. Have to be firm, because if word gets out XYZ got a cheaper rate than the other advertizers, you may lose them (as folks don't like getting the short end of a stick).

Unless you can offer a smaller ad for that rate, IMO, decline their offer. Worst is a lost sale, meanwhile keeping peace with other advertizers.

Chris

I would not do it either. I have had more than one company want the "try and see" deal. My minimum contract period is for 3 months, take it or leave it politely. $5?

John

Basically thats what I told him. I also reminded him how upset he would be if he bought the package and the next guy didnt have to.