    
Jmho
AALBC .com Platinum Poster
Username: Jmho
Post Number: 86
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 | | Posted on Monday, October 11, 2004 - 08:56 am: | |
Carey wrote:
I'd sure like to know how important they are and the demographic of those that use them as a buying guide.
Carey, I think this is a very good question, and you did raise some other good points.
I know that I have decided to buy/read a book based on reviews. As well, I have decided to not buy/read a book based on the reviews. Even if the review was seen as a favorable review by many others, including the author. The same hold with movies, music, etc.
I agree, you have to know your reviewer(s). You track the books they've reviewed as favorable or unfavorable and take in consideration what type of books you like to read.
But, I also think that reviewers are included in the "word of mouth" crew.
Reviews are written to influence, among other things. The author of the book want people to read them and be influenced or swayed to read or buy and read their book. As mentioned before they are a way to advertise. And, as a consumer, with all advertisments, you have to take a look at the ad and make a decision -- is this a product (book) that I think I will like to buy. Or ponder is this a product (book) that I will enjoy.
Besides, don't all ad agencies get paid by their clients? They get paid to do what they do best -- ultimately to get folks to buy or try product or service advertised. Advertisting is more than just making the consumer aware of products and/or services. But we all know that ad agencies get paid, and most would be shocked if they didn't receive any type of compensation. But we also can't deny when you know there is compensation, then one considers did that have any influence on what is said about the product or service. |