The Myth: Politeness is your best sales tool. After the deal is closed or the invoice is paid, you should shower the client with gratitude. You write, «Thank you for choosing us,» and send heart emojis. You think this is loyalty, service, and «being human.»
The Reality Check: In the predator hierarchy, «thank you» is a signal that you received more than you gave. It’s an admission that the client did you a favor by buying your product. You just confirmed: «I am small and hungry; you are big and kind.» From that moment on, you are no longer an expert. You are The Help.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF DEBT: WHO OWES WHOM?
When you say «thank you» for a purchase, you subconsciously trigger a Status Superiority mechanism in the client’s brain.
- Destroying the Value Balance. A deal is an even exchange: your genius for their money. If you thank them for the money, you’re admitting the cash is more valuable than your labor. The client feels this and starts «stepping on you»—demanding discounts, endless revisions, and 24/7 attention.
- The Master-Servant Instinct. In nature, the one lower on the food chain says «thank you.» Think about it: the waiter says it for the tip; the courier says it for you opening the door. Do you really want to be in that lineup?
- The Relief Effect. Over-the-top gratitude implies you were terrified they wouldn’t buy. You are broadcasting Need. And need is the ultimate anti-aphrodisiac in high-stakes business.
THE ALTERNATIVE: STATUS AFFIRMATION
The pros in the U.S. and those who speak Naked Copy have replaced the submissive «thank you» with a dominance tool: Confirming the Win. Your job is not to thank the client, but to confirm that they made a damn smart decision.
How to speak the language of power:
- Instead of «Thank you for the payment»: «Payment received. We are moving to execution. This is a smart move for scaling your project.» (You affirmed their status as a strategist).
- Instead of «Thank you for choosing us»: «I’m glad you recognized the strategy. For a company of your caliber, this is the only logical step.» (You affirmed they are in the elite club).
- Instead of «I’d be grateful for a review»: «Your insight is critical for the market. A case study like this moves the needle for the entire industry.» (You made their opinion heavy, not yourself needy).
The Verdict: «Thank you» kills your margin and your authority. A real expert doesn’t thank the client for being hired—they deliver a result that makes the client thank themselves every time they look in the mirror.
Want to be respected, not just used? Stop being «polite.» Become valuable. In the world of Alphas, status affirmation is worth more than any words of gratitude.
