When people hear the word "timeshares," one of two images usually comes to mind. Either 1) "A nice, relaxing vacation spot" or 2) "A horrible purchase that I can't get rid of!" Timeshares represent a unique aspect in the business world because many people have the preconceived notion that they are a bad idea, a poor "investment," or otherwise some sort of ripoff, yet these same people often have a tendency to go and see a timeshare sales presentation "just to see what it is all about" and end up being talked into purchasing one.

Now consider what is required for someone to be talked into buying something that they already have a preconceived notion of as being a bad thing: an effective sales strategy.

Indeed, timeshare sales presentations use a few "tricks" to get people to buy. These include:

Herd Mentality - The presentation may be set up in such a way that you think everyone else there is buying a timeshare. People will be clapping, possibly opening champagne, and being congratulated. Seeing this happen to others may make you want to buy a timeshare, too.

Tit-for-tat - Have you ever noticed how timeshare sales presentations often give out free gifts to people? Many people subconsciously feel that, if something is done for them, that they need to do something back for the other person. This subconscious thought translates into being more likely to buy a timeshare in order to "repay" the favor of being given a free gift.

Scare Tactics - The popular "we won't be able to offer them at this price for long" to make the person think "if I don't act now, I may miss out!"

Entitlement Criteria - "don't you work hard and deserve a good vacation?" The salesmen know that if they can convince you that you deserve it, you will be likely to buy.