Contrary to popular opinion, just because you build a website—no matter how spectacular it is—people won't start flocking there in droves. I can't believe the number of people who come to me and tell me their site is informative and colorful and yet they garner no traffic. A large number of them have even paid a website designer to create them a "masterpiece" so-to-speak, but they just aren't able to drive traffic to their site and they most certainly don't rank impressively in the search engines. I know that when I first started our business, I had no idea you could coax a search engine—or bribe one! But you can and it doesn't mean paying one of those companies that promise to get you to the top of Google. That may work for a short term (in rare cases when it is a legitimate company), but it won't serve you long term and help continue your successful presence on that enormous world wide web.
A friend of mine has taught me a great deal about what will and will not secure rankings for a site. In those lessons, I realized that most people just don't get it. And that is a tough thing to find out the hard way and may just determine whether a business makes it or not. This friend of mine has been in the business for years and is what you would call an SEO Guru. She makes a great living by actually "teaching" people how to get where they want to be and stay there. She taught me, "Getting to the top of Google is one thing, staying there is another. Your position is affected by AUTHORITATIVE, VALID, RELEVANT, and CURRENT content. If a company promises to get you to the top of Google, but you don't contribute regularly to your site and social-media presence in a manner to sustain it, you will go to the bottom of the search-results list —and I do mean bottom. Then you pay them again. It's a vicious cycle. There is no reason to pay someone. Simply follow sensible rules and you will maintain and improve your positioning."
First and foremost, blog sites rank higher in search engines. It is a known fact. And most people don't realize that they are hurting themselves from the get-go by not having a blog site. They also misunderstand that a blog site doesn't just have to be a blog. It can contain and all content you wish to put on it—multi-media, text, images, contact forms, etc. But there should be a link that features blog postings as well and that content should be updated regularly. There is a great article as to why blog sites rank higher here:
http://www.xraymag.com/articles/xray_blogs_are_better_01.html
In setting up your site, it is definitely important to express yourself and your company through it's design. But no matter how much you pay a designer, just having a great looking site isn't going to tell people that the site is out there and it most certainly isn't going to provide them a road map to find that spectacular site.
We had this friend of ours assist us in our websites. We maintain one that is just a blog site and that we only post blogs too but no marketing. This is important to me as I want a source for others to have insightful information just to assist them in their small or home based business. However, we have 2 other sites which represent our business opportunity, and we diligently follow what we have learned from this guru to ensure that we are where we want to be in the search engine rankings.
We have now asked that guru to provide a way for others to understand and be able to increase their standings in the rankings. She has agreed to put together a package that will provide:
• Complete construction of a new site using blog technology or reconstruction of an existing site
• Posting of the first five stories
• Standard domain name of your choosing
• Your choice of WordPress template (from TemplateMonster.com, non-exclusive only)
• Customization of banner graphic
• Customization of color scheme
• Implementation of site directory
• Implementation of contact form
• Up to two hours of phone training to ensure that you are well equipped to maintain your site
• Hosting of your site for one year, with up to 10GB storage space
• Up to five email addresses with 25MB attachment-size limit
• Creation of site map and notification to search engines
• Technical support for issues not related to operator error
The package offer can be found at this link:
http://www.spidertrainers.com/facebook-wealthywayoflife/
We don't benefit from this package, but did want to offer people the opportunity to really learn how to help themselves. I know the training we received has proved invaluable to our success. So before you fall for the "when I build it, they will come" theory, make sure you clearly understand what it takes to actually direct those people and they will come.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Business Success: Utilize Key Sites and Stay Focused
In talking with a number of associates recently, I found out that some of them felt overwhelmed with all of the social media sites that are out there. They expressed concern that they wouldn't have time to actually call prospects and potential clients if they were to entertain a presence on the sites out there nowadays, yet knew that social media was an important part of their business. Some of them said it seemed that every day there was a new social site and they felt a pressure to sign on and participate when they were already spread thin. It's true. There are countless sites out there and available now to network, market and connect with others on that may help propel your business to success. And while a solid presence for your business on these sites is always beneficial if done right, it can also take away from time you need to effectively approach the clients that contact you regarding your opportunity.
What I tell them is that I do sign up for most sites out there. However, I quickly ascertain which ones seem to be the most popular and that offer what I want to portray as far as my business. I find quite a number of those sites are nothing but spam and people hyping their business or opportunity and offer no real advantage or knowledge that will help me build my business. And when that is the case, very minimal, if any, continued participation is necessary in my eyes. Lately there have been 2 sites that I set up a profile on, and to be honest, I haven't reaped even one shred of knowledge from them. What I have received is countless contacts and messages, all of which are from others pushing their opportunities. Since that is not the way I market, needless to say, I have relinquished all participation on those sites. I will leave my profile up, but since they don't really offer a chance for me to post items that will benefit others (other than if I was to push my opportunity and "spam" members), it makes no sense for me to take away from time that could be better spent in my business day.
What I have learned, and what I advise people to do, is to participate in any site they are on and gauge the response and the type of information exchanges that take place on those sites. If there are links with valid and useful information posted and the opportunity is there for you to do the same, then definitely invest the time to actively and regularly participate. If the site is netting you nothing but hype and spam-type marketing, then you will be one of countless others on there and not really be moving toward valuable exposure for your product or service.
As I have mentioned in previous posts, forums offer a relief from some of the social site's downfalls. They have moderators that keep the spamming out (except in maybe one section set aside for that) and allow for valid exchanges of information and advice. And also as I have mentioned, we can definitely always learn from others who have experience in areas we don't. I spend quite a bit of my time that I allot for sites on the forums. People are generally there to learn and to help others learn. And that's an environment I want to associate my business with.
I do participate on social media sites, but I stick to the key sites such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn and I make sure that my content offers value and that I develop relationships with like-minded business individuals. I enjoy meeting new people as well, and am able to share resources that I found useful in the building of my business. That, to me, is time well spent and invested and presents my opportunity the way I want it to be presented.
If you make sure that you appraise the actual quality of the sites you spend your time on, you will definitely gain from the dedication of time. And time in your business is money—so it is of the utmost importance that you dedicate your time to only the sites and forums which best "fit" you and your business. By doing that, you can also improve the quality of the content you share on those key sites and stay focused on growing your business. So, take the pressure off yourself to be "everywhere". Because being everywhere will not produce the results you are looking for if you aren't even in those places effectively.
What I tell them is that I do sign up for most sites out there. However, I quickly ascertain which ones seem to be the most popular and that offer what I want to portray as far as my business. I find quite a number of those sites are nothing but spam and people hyping their business or opportunity and offer no real advantage or knowledge that will help me build my business. And when that is the case, very minimal, if any, continued participation is necessary in my eyes. Lately there have been 2 sites that I set up a profile on, and to be honest, I haven't reaped even one shred of knowledge from them. What I have received is countless contacts and messages, all of which are from others pushing their opportunities. Since that is not the way I market, needless to say, I have relinquished all participation on those sites. I will leave my profile up, but since they don't really offer a chance for me to post items that will benefit others (other than if I was to push my opportunity and "spam" members), it makes no sense for me to take away from time that could be better spent in my business day.
What I have learned, and what I advise people to do, is to participate in any site they are on and gauge the response and the type of information exchanges that take place on those sites. If there are links with valid and useful information posted and the opportunity is there for you to do the same, then definitely invest the time to actively and regularly participate. If the site is netting you nothing but hype and spam-type marketing, then you will be one of countless others on there and not really be moving toward valuable exposure for your product or service.
As I have mentioned in previous posts, forums offer a relief from some of the social site's downfalls. They have moderators that keep the spamming out (except in maybe one section set aside for that) and allow for valid exchanges of information and advice. And also as I have mentioned, we can definitely always learn from others who have experience in areas we don't. I spend quite a bit of my time that I allot for sites on the forums. People are generally there to learn and to help others learn. And that's an environment I want to associate my business with.
I do participate on social media sites, but I stick to the key sites such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn and I make sure that my content offers value and that I develop relationships with like-minded business individuals. I enjoy meeting new people as well, and am able to share resources that I found useful in the building of my business. That, to me, is time well spent and invested and presents my opportunity the way I want it to be presented.
If you make sure that you appraise the actual quality of the sites you spend your time on, you will definitely gain from the dedication of time. And time in your business is money—so it is of the utmost importance that you dedicate your time to only the sites and forums which best "fit" you and your business. By doing that, you can also improve the quality of the content you share on those key sites and stay focused on growing your business. So, take the pressure off yourself to be "everywhere". Because being everywhere will not produce the results you are looking for if you aren't even in those places effectively.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
In Business: We Have Two Ears And One Mouth For A Reason
People new to home-based businesses sometimes jump in with both feet and head long into marketing and generating leads. And I applaud that. One of the most exciting times in life is the undertaking of a new venture or starting a new chapter in your professional life. Acting on that enthusiasm and energy is one of the smartest things you can do. But I also know that some of those people who are off and running, call me to ask why they haven’t had good results in their conversations and follow ups with those prospects all their marketing brought their way. That is where I remind them that we have two ears and one mouth for a good reason. And I remind myself of that with every call I make as well.
The best thing we can do, as business owners, is really listen to our prospects. That means really listen. Because they are actually providing us information that could ultimately help us bring them in on our opportunity. Sometimes in telling ourselves that we have to return the 20 calls today to keep up with our leads, we are, in fact, closing ourselves off from effectively handling each call as we make it. And we all know that 20 leads called back with no sales closed is as good as no leads.
When I talk to a prospect, or even a client in my previous professional life, I make sure that I am taking notes and that I am really in tune with what their questions and concerns are. Their feedback is invaluable. And even if they ask a question that I may have been asked hundreds of times before, they are asking it as it applies to them and their personal situation. If they took the time to call or respond to an ad I’ve place or marketing I have done, they are evidently looking for something. Is my opportunity the right fit? Who knows. But if I give them a “script” response and brush their questions or concerns under the rug so to speak, then I’m doing them a disservice and myself as well.
I’ve indicated before that I researched businesses forever before deciding on the one I went with. I was one of those prospects who wanted to know every scenario that could possibly come about. I wanted to make sure that I felt comfortable with my decision. And it is a major decision when someone believes in what you have to offer. It will potentially change their life and it should be made with as much information as possible. That’s not to say that you should spin your wheels and take hours to complete a conversation that isn’t moving forward. Your own business would suffer if you took that approach. But by listening, you will hear what the prospect needs and wants and why, and it is at that point that you can offer up what your opportunity would bring to the table to help your prospect get where he wants to be.
Utilize notes you have taken to bring a personal touch to your conversations. Refer to the person by name and even reference something they have told you is of great importance to them or a major concern for them. In doing this, they will know that you have really listened to them and they will immediately feel they are a person in your eyes as opposed to “just another business lead”.
In closing, every time you respond to a prospect, use your two ears first. And when you have made the time to hear what that prospect is searching for, then jump in with your one mouth to offer—in a clear, concise, and informative manner—exactly how your opportunity is just what they are looking for.
The best thing we can do, as business owners, is really listen to our prospects. That means really listen. Because they are actually providing us information that could ultimately help us bring them in on our opportunity. Sometimes in telling ourselves that we have to return the 20 calls today to keep up with our leads, we are, in fact, closing ourselves off from effectively handling each call as we make it. And we all know that 20 leads called back with no sales closed is as good as no leads.
When I talk to a prospect, or even a client in my previous professional life, I make sure that I am taking notes and that I am really in tune with what their questions and concerns are. Their feedback is invaluable. And even if they ask a question that I may have been asked hundreds of times before, they are asking it as it applies to them and their personal situation. If they took the time to call or respond to an ad I’ve place or marketing I have done, they are evidently looking for something. Is my opportunity the right fit? Who knows. But if I give them a “script” response and brush their questions or concerns under the rug so to speak, then I’m doing them a disservice and myself as well.
I’ve indicated before that I researched businesses forever before deciding on the one I went with. I was one of those prospects who wanted to know every scenario that could possibly come about. I wanted to make sure that I felt comfortable with my decision. And it is a major decision when someone believes in what you have to offer. It will potentially change their life and it should be made with as much information as possible. That’s not to say that you should spin your wheels and take hours to complete a conversation that isn’t moving forward. Your own business would suffer if you took that approach. But by listening, you will hear what the prospect needs and wants and why, and it is at that point that you can offer up what your opportunity would bring to the table to help your prospect get where he wants to be.
Utilize notes you have taken to bring a personal touch to your conversations. Refer to the person by name and even reference something they have told you is of great importance to them or a major concern for them. In doing this, they will know that you have really listened to them and they will immediately feel they are a person in your eyes as opposed to “just another business lead”.
In closing, every time you respond to a prospect, use your two ears first. And when you have made the time to hear what that prospect is searching for, then jump in with your one mouth to offer—in a clear, concise, and informative manner—exactly how your opportunity is just what they are looking for.
Monday, March 15, 2010
A Day In The Life Of A Home Based Business Owner
Over the weekend, I received a number of other calls that presented a question that I actually get asked a great deal…”What would I be doing?”
In point of fact, it’s a good question. And one I found myself asking when I was looking into opportunities. So, rather than put this blog post out there as one that seems to market myself and my business, I called a friend of mine who owns a home business and asked her if she would keep a schedule of what her day consists of in working that home business and share that with me. I figured it would give people out there a good idea as to what they would need to do, or expect to do, if they jumped into the home business arena. My friend is a successful business owner, so using her typical day schedule will give those inquiring minds out there a firm grasp of reality into what exactly needs to happen on a daily basis to experience success themselves.
Okay…so here it is:
Upon waking at her leisure, Jan checks her emails and voice mail for the prospects that have contacted her in response to her marketing. She is using a lead management system, so she enters those contacts in that database and makes notes of any important information about the prospects if they have provided a resume or other information. If you are just starting out and don’t have a lead system, or are watching your funds until you can subscribe to one or purchase one, you can do what I did in the beginning of our business undertaking and just take the pen and paper approach. Jan then posts her daily ads. Since she is of the same mindset as I am, she utilizes as many low and no cost marketing and advertising outlets as possible, posting on all the free classified sites daily.
After posting, Jan then reads through her local paper and notes any local events that she could attend and possibly meet prospects at. She keeps a Rubbermaid bin in her car at all times (as I do) that holds her marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and other handouts. These she places around at any and all businesses she goes to during her day—for example grocery stores, farmer’s markets, other retail stores, etc. If there is a local event, she will attend and share her information with any interested parties. She does utilize car signs and will actually have people ask her at stoplights about what it is. Every minute she is out, she is gaining exposure for her business.
If there are no local events, she will make a point to go get her morning coffee at a local internet cafe and will sometimes even bring her laptop and work from there, responding to emails or even posting her ads. She will also participate actively on social sites. She has received quite a few contacts from people also out for coffee, wondering what it is she does that affords her the capability to be out and about in the middle of the day. Portability is a big selling point for your home business.
Afternoons are spent exercising and jumping on social sites to participate as well. She also spends a little time blogging daily to keep her followers updated and to offer advice and tips. Late afternoons and evenings are spent on call backs to prospects and then she jumps on her team call to get all the latest information about her business and to touch base with team members and exchange ideas and brainstorm.
Is that it? Yes. And with the exception of specific errands and the outings with family, that is pretty much her normal routine. As I do, she loves the freedom. She knows that consistency and continued training are important so will read nightly before bed to learn at least one important thing about growing her business.
If you are considering a home based business and are wondering what your daily schedule and tasks would be, this will give you a rough idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that you will get back what you put in and emphasize that “consistency” factor as well as always presenting yourself wherever you go as an approachable and friendly person. But other than that, you can make your own schedule and find what fits best for you. By all means take advantage of training opportunities that come your way and network whenever possible. The most exciting part of your new venture will be to discover what lies ahead. And before long, you will be on your way to success!
In point of fact, it’s a good question. And one I found myself asking when I was looking into opportunities. So, rather than put this blog post out there as one that seems to market myself and my business, I called a friend of mine who owns a home business and asked her if she would keep a schedule of what her day consists of in working that home business and share that with me. I figured it would give people out there a good idea as to what they would need to do, or expect to do, if they jumped into the home business arena. My friend is a successful business owner, so using her typical day schedule will give those inquiring minds out there a firm grasp of reality into what exactly needs to happen on a daily basis to experience success themselves.
Okay…so here it is:
Upon waking at her leisure, Jan checks her emails and voice mail for the prospects that have contacted her in response to her marketing. She is using a lead management system, so she enters those contacts in that database and makes notes of any important information about the prospects if they have provided a resume or other information. If you are just starting out and don’t have a lead system, or are watching your funds until you can subscribe to one or purchase one, you can do what I did in the beginning of our business undertaking and just take the pen and paper approach. Jan then posts her daily ads. Since she is of the same mindset as I am, she utilizes as many low and no cost marketing and advertising outlets as possible, posting on all the free classified sites daily.
After posting, Jan then reads through her local paper and notes any local events that she could attend and possibly meet prospects at. She keeps a Rubbermaid bin in her car at all times (as I do) that holds her marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and other handouts. These she places around at any and all businesses she goes to during her day—for example grocery stores, farmer’s markets, other retail stores, etc. If there is a local event, she will attend and share her information with any interested parties. She does utilize car signs and will actually have people ask her at stoplights about what it is. Every minute she is out, she is gaining exposure for her business.
If there are no local events, she will make a point to go get her morning coffee at a local internet cafe and will sometimes even bring her laptop and work from there, responding to emails or even posting her ads. She will also participate actively on social sites. She has received quite a few contacts from people also out for coffee, wondering what it is she does that affords her the capability to be out and about in the middle of the day. Portability is a big selling point for your home business.
Afternoons are spent exercising and jumping on social sites to participate as well. She also spends a little time blogging daily to keep her followers updated and to offer advice and tips. Late afternoons and evenings are spent on call backs to prospects and then she jumps on her team call to get all the latest information about her business and to touch base with team members and exchange ideas and brainstorm.
Is that it? Yes. And with the exception of specific errands and the outings with family, that is pretty much her normal routine. As I do, she loves the freedom. She knows that consistency and continued training are important so will read nightly before bed to learn at least one important thing about growing her business.
If you are considering a home based business and are wondering what your daily schedule and tasks would be, this will give you a rough idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that you will get back what you put in and emphasize that “consistency” factor as well as always presenting yourself wherever you go as an approachable and friendly person. But other than that, you can make your own schedule and find what fits best for you. By all means take advantage of training opportunities that come your way and network whenever possible. The most exciting part of your new venture will be to discover what lies ahead. And before long, you will be on your way to success!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Own a Home Business? "Live In The Now" For Success
I want to start off saying I watched Dog Whisperer this weekend. I have loved that show since its inception...way back before Cesar Milan was an international success. And if I had to answer the question, "if you could choose to be anyone, who would you be" I would definitely be Cesar. Why? Because his unbelievable insights into dogs—and more importantly the humans who own the dogs—is so astounding. He spends most of the time actually working with the dog owners, as they are the reason in most cases, that the dog is having issues.
Every time I watch that show, I leave with the phrase he is best known for running through my mind: "Live in the now". The value of that advice is immeasurable, truly, no matter what you approach in life. See, he explains that dogs do live in the now. They don't reflect on their past, even if they lived a life of abuse or neglect or mistreatment. They let everything go and just exist in the moment. And if people can make that moment a good one, there is no need to feel sorrow or sadness for anything that has previously gone on in their lives.
This, perhaps above everything else, can determine whether you have what it takes to run a successful home-business. Everyday is a fresh start and every day offers new opportunities to expand your marketing ideas, change your approach, try new avenues for exposure and meet new people that will give you the chance to test drive those new concepts.
I've met people that tell me they tried a home business in the past and it failed miserably. And they are soured on the idea of working for themselves even though the benefits of business ownership are second to none. No setting an alarm, no keeping specific hours, freedom to travel, run errands, wear what you want, control your income, and the list goes on. It really makes me sad that they had the past experiences they have had as they missed the boat on one of the key elements to being a success—to live in the now.
Everyone—no matter who it is—will tell you that every day varies for him or her in their business. Some days, leads are so plentiful that you can't imagine making all the calls back to your prospects. People are enthusiastic that you talk to and can't wait to jump in and try their hand with your opportunity. Other days, your marketing may seem to yield less promise, and the individuals you speak to seem hesitant to commit. It's that way in any business really. But that is where your "dog psychology" must kick in. You do not look back at yesterday's less than stellar responses, and you most certainly don't chalk it up to a bad business opportunity. You just start fresh, and implement new ideas and tactics and you are off and running once again. If you tell yourself that you are a failure and don't have what it takes, you will never move forward. That is true with any endeavor in life.
A friend of ours got married and was needing to sell his car as he was going overseas and his wife didn't want to have to continue to pay on a second car or the insurance. They had tried and tried to sell it. And posted an ad on Craigslist and various free ad sites everywhere. Nothing at all came of any of their efforts. Then, one day, 3 different people called and they sold it within a couple hours of returning the first call. Had they told themselves it was hopeless and that no one wanted their car, the wife would still be paying on a vehicle that was of no use to them and they would never had gotten out from under the extra costs.
When I find an advertising campaign isn't creating results that I have had with other campaigns, I change it up. I try new things along with some of the tried-and-true stuff as well and am pleasantly surprised in the majority of the cases as it once again shows me how many people are out there looking to change their lives. I also learn from every conversation I have with prospects. I tell myself to always take something of value away from my exchanges. Learning about people and what their needs and goals are is part of it. And I don't ever forget that. I was, perhaps, one of those people who take quite a bit of time to decide if something is right for me. Once I do, however, I go forward with complete commitment.
If you are considering a home business, or even own one already, try waking up each day and live in the now. Any negative thoughts or feelings you may have, or doubt about your ability to be a success, should be wiped away and a positive approach taken. You will find that dogs can teach us a great deal about what creates happiness, self-confidence, belief in someone and most of all what each new day holds.
Every time I watch that show, I leave with the phrase he is best known for running through my mind: "Live in the now". The value of that advice is immeasurable, truly, no matter what you approach in life. See, he explains that dogs do live in the now. They don't reflect on their past, even if they lived a life of abuse or neglect or mistreatment. They let everything go and just exist in the moment. And if people can make that moment a good one, there is no need to feel sorrow or sadness for anything that has previously gone on in their lives.
This, perhaps above everything else, can determine whether you have what it takes to run a successful home-business. Everyday is a fresh start and every day offers new opportunities to expand your marketing ideas, change your approach, try new avenues for exposure and meet new people that will give you the chance to test drive those new concepts.
I've met people that tell me they tried a home business in the past and it failed miserably. And they are soured on the idea of working for themselves even though the benefits of business ownership are second to none. No setting an alarm, no keeping specific hours, freedom to travel, run errands, wear what you want, control your income, and the list goes on. It really makes me sad that they had the past experiences they have had as they missed the boat on one of the key elements to being a success—to live in the now.
Everyone—no matter who it is—will tell you that every day varies for him or her in their business. Some days, leads are so plentiful that you can't imagine making all the calls back to your prospects. People are enthusiastic that you talk to and can't wait to jump in and try their hand with your opportunity. Other days, your marketing may seem to yield less promise, and the individuals you speak to seem hesitant to commit. It's that way in any business really. But that is where your "dog psychology" must kick in. You do not look back at yesterday's less than stellar responses, and you most certainly don't chalk it up to a bad business opportunity. You just start fresh, and implement new ideas and tactics and you are off and running once again. If you tell yourself that you are a failure and don't have what it takes, you will never move forward. That is true with any endeavor in life.
A friend of ours got married and was needing to sell his car as he was going overseas and his wife didn't want to have to continue to pay on a second car or the insurance. They had tried and tried to sell it. And posted an ad on Craigslist and various free ad sites everywhere. Nothing at all came of any of their efforts. Then, one day, 3 different people called and they sold it within a couple hours of returning the first call. Had they told themselves it was hopeless and that no one wanted their car, the wife would still be paying on a vehicle that was of no use to them and they would never had gotten out from under the extra costs.
When I find an advertising campaign isn't creating results that I have had with other campaigns, I change it up. I try new things along with some of the tried-and-true stuff as well and am pleasantly surprised in the majority of the cases as it once again shows me how many people are out there looking to change their lives. I also learn from every conversation I have with prospects. I tell myself to always take something of value away from my exchanges. Learning about people and what their needs and goals are is part of it. And I don't ever forget that. I was, perhaps, one of those people who take quite a bit of time to decide if something is right for me. Once I do, however, I go forward with complete commitment.
If you are considering a home business, or even own one already, try waking up each day and live in the now. Any negative thoughts or feelings you may have, or doubt about your ability to be a success, should be wiped away and a positive approach taken. You will find that dogs can teach us a great deal about what creates happiness, self-confidence, belief in someone and most of all what each new day holds.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Business Blogging: Keep It Simple And Informative
It's pretty much been established that blogging is important in network marketing. To quote a popular Business Week article: "Blogs Will Change Your Business—Look past the yakkers, hobbyists, and political mobs. Your customers and rivals are figuring blogs out. Our advice: Catch up...or catch you later". Blogs offer an abundance of information from an even bigger variety of sources. They are generally—if done well—honest and provide insights that are tougher to absorb sometimes through news articles and news reporting. The right blog can answer questions you may have in regard to any number of topics related to your business. Subscribing to blogs you find informative is a must. I do. I have perused the internet for bloggers who seem to speak to me and offer another view of things that I hadn't thought about. And we should never stop learning or being open to receiving new information.
When I was previously in the work force putting in my 8-5 hours, blogging was part of my responsibility as a Press Relations specialist. It was also part of my freelance writing career. I was able to write about software in a way that offered easy reading and a view from a "real-world" user of that software. And now that I own my own business, I approach it from the same way. I write what I know was important for me in my learning how to be successful in my business and I want to offer it to others in the way I perceived it. I write every entry hoping what I write will change someone's life and help them to better understand what it takes to be their own boss. I take the attitude that if I can help even one person change the level of their success, then I'll know I've contributed.
I get contacted by people who ask me things such as "what do I blog about?", or "what do I say?", or "what if no one thinks I'm interesting?". And overthinking and analyzing what you want to say in your blog can actually detract from its effectiveness. If you sit down and expand on one thing that happened to you, or that you learned from, you will, most certainly, have appropriate blog content. That said, however, you should also put it out there in a way that is readable, understandable and appropriate. Thus, the importance of writing skills...
No one is a perfect writer. And writing styles vary person to person. That's why one person likes Nora Roberts and the other lives for Stephen King novels. And comments, if you receive them, should be received with the attitude that you value the input and will grow and learn from that input. The more you write, the better you will become at it. And there are many people whose blogs I read even a year ago, that I revisit now and am taken aback at how inspirational their content has become. The best writing, to me, is done in a conversational style. If you can say what you want to say the way you would to a friend through your writing, you will reach people.
Ideally, your blog subscribers or readers should feel you there talking to them, and welcome the content as offering a value in it's information. It should also be simple and follow a clear train of thought. No matter what you are covering, it should be read, and reread before you put it out there as your own.
Sometimes, I will write a blog and read it the next morning and decide the best place for it is in a file. It wasn't what I wanted representing me and it didn't offer content that I would have read myself. That's the true test. Ask yourself, "Do people really need this information?" And if they do, are you including content that is actually supporting the point you are trying to make? Is it guiding your subscribers and readers to the conclusion you want them to come to? When you read it, if it sounds redundant, edit your work. Keep what you need to make your point, and do away with fluff or unnecessary content.
I started a habit a long time ago of keeping a small pad and pen with me wherever I go. If I'm out and about and think of something that changed the course of my day, or try something that I experience success with, I jot down a few words to remind me about that thought. At any given time, I may have 10 topics that are pending as possible topics for my blog. Some may never be used. Others, I can't wait to write about and they are crossed off the next day. It's a great habit to get in and will provide you with content to expand on. Even things people say to you or something you read in a book can be a spur for a great blog idea.
The important thing is to get started. Once you do, you will find it comes easier with each entry. Worst case, you find out you need to improve your writing skills and utilize a grammar/spelling checker to help you out initially. Best case, you may discover that you have a hidden talent and actually might have fun doing it.
When I was previously in the work force putting in my 8-5 hours, blogging was part of my responsibility as a Press Relations specialist. It was also part of my freelance writing career. I was able to write about software in a way that offered easy reading and a view from a "real-world" user of that software. And now that I own my own business, I approach it from the same way. I write what I know was important for me in my learning how to be successful in my business and I want to offer it to others in the way I perceived it. I write every entry hoping what I write will change someone's life and help them to better understand what it takes to be their own boss. I take the attitude that if I can help even one person change the level of their success, then I'll know I've contributed.
I get contacted by people who ask me things such as "what do I blog about?", or "what do I say?", or "what if no one thinks I'm interesting?". And overthinking and analyzing what you want to say in your blog can actually detract from its effectiveness. If you sit down and expand on one thing that happened to you, or that you learned from, you will, most certainly, have appropriate blog content. That said, however, you should also put it out there in a way that is readable, understandable and appropriate. Thus, the importance of writing skills...
No one is a perfect writer. And writing styles vary person to person. That's why one person likes Nora Roberts and the other lives for Stephen King novels. And comments, if you receive them, should be received with the attitude that you value the input and will grow and learn from that input. The more you write, the better you will become at it. And there are many people whose blogs I read even a year ago, that I revisit now and am taken aback at how inspirational their content has become. The best writing, to me, is done in a conversational style. If you can say what you want to say the way you would to a friend through your writing, you will reach people.
Ideally, your blog subscribers or readers should feel you there talking to them, and welcome the content as offering a value in it's information. It should also be simple and follow a clear train of thought. No matter what you are covering, it should be read, and reread before you put it out there as your own.
Sometimes, I will write a blog and read it the next morning and decide the best place for it is in a file. It wasn't what I wanted representing me and it didn't offer content that I would have read myself. That's the true test. Ask yourself, "Do people really need this information?" And if they do, are you including content that is actually supporting the point you are trying to make? Is it guiding your subscribers and readers to the conclusion you want them to come to? When you read it, if it sounds redundant, edit your work. Keep what you need to make your point, and do away with fluff or unnecessary content.
I started a habit a long time ago of keeping a small pad and pen with me wherever I go. If I'm out and about and think of something that changed the course of my day, or try something that I experience success with, I jot down a few words to remind me about that thought. At any given time, I may have 10 topics that are pending as possible topics for my blog. Some may never be used. Others, I can't wait to write about and they are crossed off the next day. It's a great habit to get in and will provide you with content to expand on. Even things people say to you or something you read in a book can be a spur for a great blog idea.
The important thing is to get started. Once you do, you will find it comes easier with each entry. Worst case, you find out you need to improve your writing skills and utilize a grammar/spelling checker to help you out initially. Best case, you may discover that you have a hidden talent and actually might have fun doing it.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Home Business: Make Sales With a Millionaire Mindset
I have been contacted the last few weeks by some people who have purchased a business opportunity or are wanting to do just that. But many of them are concerned they are not "natural sellers". They either have a limited past in sales, an unsuccessful past in sales or are worried they won't be able to sell the opportunity/service/product in such a way that they will profit from their venture. When we started out, my past was NOT in sales.
Actually, our backgrounds were in Press Relations, Freelance Writing and Technical Support. We didn't have to worry about quotas or reaching sales goals, so this was an issue for us as well. Would we have what it takes?
The answer is that anyone can be successful in sales. And all it takes is the proper mindset. Seriously. And if you can adopt that mindset, you will find success in your venture. I've covered other things that are important to home-business success, and please note that these are all still a must when it comes to achieving the kind of success that most people want—consistency, positive attitude, honesty, integrity and ongoing training and mentoring. But equally as important is the approach you take with your business. Adopting this mindset released us from fear of failure and being able to move forward with our business.
Stop right now and ask yourself, "if I had a million dollars in my bank account right now, would I be afraid of calling this prospect back and chancing rejection?" Because it will instantly change your approach and your selling technique. It will free you to speak with prospects honestly and openly and will take the "desperate" out of your sales pitch. You will relax and say what you mean—covering the best about your opportunity with total self-confidence.
Let me explain further, why this approach will make you the best representative you can be for your business...
When you convince yourself that each and every sale will not determine your success, and that you have breathing room, so-to-speak, your technique instantly alters to one that projects success. And people need to know that they can believe in YOU as well as the opportunity you are selling. Since I dealt with a great number of editors through email when I was in Press Relations, phone interaction was rarely needed and I have to admit that my phone skills cried out for a complete makeover. I dreaded dialing a number to return a call to a prospect and when I did, I instantly tensed up and got ready for the rejection. Obviously, I went nowhere fast. And through the advice of a seasoned colleague, I completely revamped my approach and mindset to that of a millionaire. And lo and behold—I found success.
People don't want to buy into a business through someone who lacks confidence, seems beaten down or desperate. That's all there is to it. They want to follow the lead of others who are experiencing success and who are relaxed in the pursuit of that success. By telling myself that no call I made would make-or-break me, I went into it without apprehension, without trepidation and without butterflies in my stomach. Every lead wasn't going to decide my success or failure. There will always be people out there who are looking for something, and your opportunity might not be what they are looking for, no matter what your technique is. So to stress over it, only displays a business that isn't that desirable. When you phone or contact prospects with confidence and with the attitude that you know you believe in your business, people gain a sense of trust and will, in turn, believe in your opportunity too.
Take a few minutes each day to ensure your mindset is what you need it to be to make every call and contact count. Tell yourself that your bank account reflects your success, so that the sense of desperation and "overselling" that can occur are no longer an issue. Our lives, and our business, changed the moment we took that advice. And I guarantee YOU will find that others will respond and will find what you have to offer is exactly what they want for themselves.
Actually, our backgrounds were in Press Relations, Freelance Writing and Technical Support. We didn't have to worry about quotas or reaching sales goals, so this was an issue for us as well. Would we have what it takes?
The answer is that anyone can be successful in sales. And all it takes is the proper mindset. Seriously. And if you can adopt that mindset, you will find success in your venture. I've covered other things that are important to home-business success, and please note that these are all still a must when it comes to achieving the kind of success that most people want—consistency, positive attitude, honesty, integrity and ongoing training and mentoring. But equally as important is the approach you take with your business. Adopting this mindset released us from fear of failure and being able to move forward with our business.
Stop right now and ask yourself, "if I had a million dollars in my bank account right now, would I be afraid of calling this prospect back and chancing rejection?" Because it will instantly change your approach and your selling technique. It will free you to speak with prospects honestly and openly and will take the "desperate" out of your sales pitch. You will relax and say what you mean—covering the best about your opportunity with total self-confidence.
Let me explain further, why this approach will make you the best representative you can be for your business...
When you convince yourself that each and every sale will not determine your success, and that you have breathing room, so-to-speak, your technique instantly alters to one that projects success. And people need to know that they can believe in YOU as well as the opportunity you are selling. Since I dealt with a great number of editors through email when I was in Press Relations, phone interaction was rarely needed and I have to admit that my phone skills cried out for a complete makeover. I dreaded dialing a number to return a call to a prospect and when I did, I instantly tensed up and got ready for the rejection. Obviously, I went nowhere fast. And through the advice of a seasoned colleague, I completely revamped my approach and mindset to that of a millionaire. And lo and behold—I found success.
People don't want to buy into a business through someone who lacks confidence, seems beaten down or desperate. That's all there is to it. They want to follow the lead of others who are experiencing success and who are relaxed in the pursuit of that success. By telling myself that no call I made would make-or-break me, I went into it without apprehension, without trepidation and without butterflies in my stomach. Every lead wasn't going to decide my success or failure. There will always be people out there who are looking for something, and your opportunity might not be what they are looking for, no matter what your technique is. So to stress over it, only displays a business that isn't that desirable. When you phone or contact prospects with confidence and with the attitude that you know you believe in your business, people gain a sense of trust and will, in turn, believe in your opportunity too.
Take a few minutes each day to ensure your mindset is what you need it to be to make every call and contact count. Tell yourself that your bank account reflects your success, so that the sense of desperation and "overselling" that can occur are no longer an issue. Our lives, and our business, changed the moment we took that advice. And I guarantee YOU will find that others will respond and will find what you have to offer is exactly what they want for themselves.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
