What is the first step in a bait and switch tactic?

The first step in a bait and switch tactic involves advertising an attractive price to lure customers. This strategy is designed to capture the attention of consumers by presenting a deal that appears too good to pass up. In practice, this often means that a business will promote a product at a significantly lowered price, enticing customers to visit or engage with the business. Once there, however, the advertised item may either be unavailable or of inferior quality, leading customers to be pushed towards more expensive or higher-margin alternatives.

The essence of the bait and switch tactic is in its deceptive nature. It relies on attracting consumers with the promise of a great deal, while the actual intention is to switch them to other offerings. This practice is generally considered unethical and can be illegal in many jurisdictions, as it creates a misleading representation of what is available to the consumer.