Help me with a sales letter!

[Serena Atnip]

Hello All,

I am starting a new freelance business which is creating websites. the only problem is that I don't have a portfolio yet, and I don't know how to convince potential clients to work with me

I have sent a sales letter to hundreds of people, but I did'nt received any positive answer, I know that my writing skills sucks!

- I have offred a no risk guaranteed clause.
- I told the clients that their websites will be done in less that two weeks
- I included a free domain and hosting for two years
- to top that, a six months support for bug fixing, free!

but no one wanted my service
out of desperation, I have even offred a free website for a marketing assitant in exhange of a small service, but she refused!! I don't understand what's wrong with her??

I would be very grateful if someone could help me writing a sales latter that works.

Thanks

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by Serena Atnip

Hello All,

I am starting a new freelance business which is creating websites. the only problem is that I don't have a portfolio yet, and I don't know how to convince potential clients to work with me

I have sent a sales letter to hundreds of people, but I did'nt received any positive answer, I know that my writing skills sucks!

- I have offred a no risk guaranteed clause.
- I told the clients that their websites will be done in less that two weeks
- I included a free domain and hosting for two years
- to top that, a six months support for bug fixing, free!

but no one wanted my service
out of desperation, I have even offred a free website for a marketing assitant in exhange of a small service, but she refused!! I don't understand what's wrong with her??

I would be very grateful if someone could help me writing a sales latter that works.

Thanks

This could be the reason. People can smell desperation.

Why don't you offer your services on here for nothing, or a very low price? At least you get to build up your portfolio. If you're good you'll get some testimonials for it, as well.

[arfasaira]

Originally Posted by Serena Atnip

Hello All,

I am starting a new freelance business which is creating websites. the only problem is that I don't have a portfolio yet, and I don't know how to convince potential clients to work with me

I have sent a sales letter to hundreds of people, but I did'nt received any positive answer, I know that my writing skills sucks!

- I have offred a no risk guaranteed clause.
- I told the clients that their websites will be done in less that two weeks
- I included a free domain and hosting for two years
- to top that, a six months support for bug fixing, free!

but no one wanted my service
out of desperation, I have even offred a free website for a marketing assitant in exhange of a small service, but she refused!! I don't understand what's wrong with her??

I would be very grateful if someone could help me writing a sales latter that works.

Thanks

Hi Serena,

The problem is that you can't convince people to take a chance on you if you don't have a portfolio - people just won't trust you otherwise.

I too do websites which I outsource and only received clients when I had samples to show them - this is what I suggest:

- create some websites - perhaps 3 of different styles to show what you can do

- go to yell.com or your local Google business directory online and lookup businesses which are most likely to need your services such as solicitors, accountants, salon owners, health professionals etc

- each business with no website next to it is a definite potential customer - go and visit them in person if you can

- be casual, not desperate - just asking simple questions such as 'how has business been lately' is a good place to start

- I always ask 'do you have a website I can take a look at' and when I know they are going to say no, i conveniently add 'oh that's a shame, a good website would really help improve your marketing efforts and attract more customers for you' and then give them your business card

I use this approach and it does work - im working on a website for a local optician at the moment, with another 2 after that. I get a designer to complete the work and I write the content.

If this still doesn't work, then I would be happy to write a sales letter for you

best of luck!

Now get out there and drum up some business!!

[SeoWizzard]

I agree with Rezbi. I would add that maybe you include some little bonuses as well... it usually helps raise the conversion.

PS. Welcome to the Warrior Forum

[markpocock]

Why not upload the letter so we can take a look? You may get some great comments.

[Ross James]

Specialize - be the eye surgeon, or the anesthesiologist . Find one big thing they don't have and elicit fear of not having it - I would look into mobile phone sites

[The Niche Man]

Hi Serena, Welcome!

I would suggest you try to focus on a specific market. Instead trying to be all things to all people, start off with a specific market to focus on.

Choose a market you feel comfortable and exited working in and know something about.

For example, if your hobby is fashion, focus on boutique owners in your city or county. If you're into hair and makeup, focus on beauty, and nail salons. See my point?

Next immerse yourself in this market. That means research. For example, know the current problems, irritations and issues they face. This will give you more confidence in approaching them and help you to speak on their level.

People can sense when you've done your homework - and that's impressive, especially as a first impression.

And remember, try to focus on forming a relationship with business owners in your market, not just on selling them something. People may not buy when first meeting you, but they may on the second, third or fifth time.

So, if they say no, not right now, leave the door open for another visit, phone call or email contact.

Remember give off the vibe you're their to serve them - not sell them and you'll be just fine. And let me know when you get your first client.

To Your Success.

[thegotoguy]

I agree about the desperation part! When people see a deal thats too good to be true, they often think it is.

Do some free web design for a few people and take screenshots of your work. Build an online portfolio gallery where people can see your work. Then ask for testimonials.

Focus on all of your strongest abilities and make those your biggest selling points.

Offer the ability to create mobile phone "friendly" sites. This is a great place to start. It doesn't have to be built for mobile sites but simply be "mobile friendly". Mobile sites are so popular now that I believe it will eventually create a new standard.

Let us know how it goes.