Product reviews

For those of you who don’t already know, I’ve been a BzzAgent for the last few years.  This program is based on “Word of Mouth” (WOM) marketing and they send products to the average consumer for review and generating interest (which is termed “Bzz”) among their own personal network.

Prior to being a Bzzagent, I was a Hotspex innovator.  I was happy to take their surveys, thinking that I was making a huge difference as a consumer.  Then I realized that I was simply doing their Research and Development for free, my only payment being their “Bux” points which led to no tangible rewards.  I have been stunned to see some of my ideas and “phrasing” actually make it to the market.  The clients pay Hotspex for their research, and then they implement the best ideas.  They owe you absolutely nothing, since you volunteered to be part of the panel.  And remember, you do receive “Bux” as payment.   I think I would have preferred a tiny bit of credit, even anonymously as a “Hotspex innovator”.

Anyway, the gratification from being a Bzzagent has been tremendous.  They send you a product, you test it, tell everyone you know about it and then write a review called a “Bzz report” that you submit directly through their website. It’s been awesome.  I’ve received all sorts of great products, coupons, and vouchers for merchandise.   I’ve enjoyed these items and have had the opportunity to share coupons with my friends and family.  My favourite campaigns to date have been Fruits & Passion, South Street Burger, and especially Keurig!  Yes, the wonderful people at Bzzagent sent me a Keurig Single Serve Elite brewer for review.   I had to send in my reports prior to my starting this blog but maybe I will post a review for it anyway since I am so grateful.   Recently, Bzzagent has implemented a social media component, using Twitter, Facebook and blogging as eligible reviews.  My next post will be my first blogged product review, so please stay tuned!