I got a “one time offer” in the mail today to renew a magazine subscription.  I threw it right into the recycle bin.  I never respond to the first renewal offer I get for a magazine.  If you have ever subscribed to a magazine you know why.  Regardless of what the offer says (one-time deal, last chance, etc.) there is always another offer coming, usually at the same price — or better.

You’d think that in this world of “voice of the customer,” viral marketing, extreme customer service, etc.  that magazine publishers would figure out that they would get more subscriptions, with fewing mailings, if they would stop lying to us.

Instead of numerous renewal offers that start cluttering our mail box just weeks after we complete the prior renewal, just send an e-mail with a link to their web site.  On the site give us three or four options (1 year, 2 year, gift subscription, etc.) with pricing that we can trust.  And, offer to not bill the credit card until the current expiration date. I’d go for that.

But, forget the “one time offer” that involves my payment 9 months before my current subscription runs out, when I know I’m going to get at least six more offers.  Just be honest with me, and leave the “buy now, or else” scare tactics to the sleazy used car salesmen.

Is that too much to ask?