Offline biz members, are you happy with your results?

[Vikuna2009+]

Hi you all,

I've been studying the offline biz model for about give or take, 6 month now. I've seriously considered joining one of the several offline groups for some time but I am a little bit sceptic.

Are you a member of any of this groups? Has it helped you (i.e. as in ACTUALLY making a buck or two?).

Is there a particular one that you would HIGHLY recommend?

Any input is greatly appreciated, thank you.

P.s. That goes for any WSO as well but please ONLY post IF you have made money, thank you.

Looking forward to your replies, Eva

[amyleigh]

Hi,

I was a member of BNI (Business Networking International) and I did make money from some of the contacts I made. However, I found the group too time consuming to be worth it and have had greater success finding clients online and with offline marketing efforts such as direct mail.

Hope this helps, amy

[Quentin]

The secret to any business like this is to have some tools so when you go into a business you can show them then and there why their site is not working or how you can solve a problem for them.

I joined a few groups however found they were fairly insular in that if you do not do their method then they are not interested in looking further afield.

I have actually been helping offline businesses for years and only just recently set up systems to make it work as I have a couple of sales people on the road.

I have a course in my sig file that will help you and then can support you along the way.

I also notice that a lot concentrate on email marketing and autoresponders however this is pretty old hat and there are a lot better ways to get leads and traffic.

You can always ask if you can join their forum and you will see pretty quick if they are working or not.

Just some thoughts for you.

Quentin

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by Quentin

The secret to any business like this is to have some tools so when you go into a business you can show them then and there why their site is not working or how you can solve a problem for them.

I joined a few groups however found they were fairly insular in that if you do not do their method then they are not interested in looking further afield.

I have actually been helping offline businesses for years and only just recently set up systems to make it work as I have a couple of sales people on the road.

I have a course in my sig file that will help you and then can support you along the way.

I also notice that a lot concentrate on email marketing and autoresponders however this is pretty old hat and there are a lot better ways to get leads and traffic.

You can always ask if you can join their forum and you will see pretty quick if they are working or not.

Just some thoughts for you.

Quentin

I know there are several warriors on here that are in the offline biz. I'm just lost in the fact that I know basically 80% in how to do it, just lacking the vital 20%. Figured if I joined one of them, they would take me to the next step IF their learning material was good enough.

Why do you call auto-responders old hat? Many businesses do not have them. What do you consider a better idea?

[SusanneUK]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

I know there are several warriors on here that are in the offline biz. I'm just lost in the fact that I know basically 80% in how to do it, just lacking the vital 20%. Figured if I joined one of them, they would take me to the next step IF their learning material was good enough.

Why do you call auto-responders old hat? Many businesses do not have them. What do you consider a better idea?

Have to say that paragraph intrigues me.. if you know 80% of how to do it, what do you consider is the missing 20%?

I ask because I don't think there is a package, lesson, ebook, course (whatever you want to call it) that will totally give you the 100% right way of doing offline out there.. Simply because working offline will be different for everyone, depending on their location, their knowledge, their mindset, their comfort zone and how far out of it they are prepared to step, etc, etc.

You say you know 80% and that seems to me to be a good junk of knowledge so perhaps the other 20% in YOUR case is just to now take action on something, perhaps get out there and see what happens..

Again, what do you consider that vital missing 20% is?

Sue

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by SusanneUK

Have to say that paragraph intrigues me.. if you know 80% of how to do it, what do you consider is the missing 20%?

I ask because I don't think there is a package, lesson, ebook, course (whatever you want to call it) that will totally give you the 100% right way of doing offline out there.. Simply because working offline will be different for everyone, depending on their location, their knowledge, their mindset, their comfort zone and how far out of it they are prepared to step, etc, etc.

You say you know 80% and that seems to me to be a good junk of knowledge so perhaps the other 20% in YOUR case is just to now take action on something, perhaps get out there and see what happens..

Again, what do you consider that vital missing 20% is?

Sue

For example, auto responders. I do know about Get Response and Aweber and also that there are others. I also understand that the best thing to do is to have each client on their own separate account even though that means paying for each account.

The reason for separate accounts are that if you get accused of spamming and they shut your account down, not ALL of them go down! The details that I am missing is this: When purchasing a domain, I do the purchase, I pay for it, I host it but how do I transfer the domain to their name and still keep hosting it?

I guess the best way to find out is to call my host or where I purchase the domain? Yes, thanks for your question, you made me pinpoint my own short-comings, lol.

As far as the auto-responder goes, same thing there, I will check unless you know the best way how to handle it.

Same goes with their email account, know I'm really starting to get irritated on myself . Pure lazyness, I guess . Truth of the matter, minor details like that have kept me off the streets, when all along I should have pounded the pavement...

I DID print out 100 flyers yesterday for a free 30 minute consultation and today is the day to get them out. If I only get 1 out of 100, I'll be a happy girl !

That was just one topic, I could go on and on, right now I'm working on my wordpress blog and trying to figure out how to change themes. See, I'm at least trying but not too technical and it is a struggle
Thanks again for your question.

[SusanneUK]

Well very glad I got you thinking with my question.. that's a good start for the day isn't it?

First suggestion for you, come and join Local Business Builders Forum, it's free and you will get lots of help from the members there.

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

When purchasing a domain, I do the purchase, I pay for it, I host it but how do I transfer the domain to their name and still keep hosting it?

I have a hostgator reseller account and host all my sites there. You buy the domain, suggest namecheap and later have you client register there as well, you can then "Push" the domain over to them (which is how you transfer it to them).

Same goes with their email account, know I'm really starting to get irritated on myself . Pure lazyness, I guess . Truth of the matter, minor details like that have kept me off the streets, when all along I should have pounded the pavement...

You can set up email accounts for their business through the cpanel for their hosting on your hostgator reseller account.

Most offliners make the hosting something that comes in the price but others don't.

I DID print out 100 flyers yesterday for a free 30 minute consultation and today is the day to get them out. If I only get 1 out of 100, I'll be a happy girl !

That was just one topic, I could go on and on, right now I'm working on my wordpress blog and trying to figure out how to change themes. See, I'm at least trying but not too technical and it is a struggle
Thanks again for your question.

You are getting there, come to LBB and lets help you a bit more over there.

Have to go out now..

Good luck
Sue

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by SusanneUK

Well very glad I got you thinking with my question.. that's a good start for the day isn't it?

First suggestion for you, come and join Local Business Builders Forum, it's free and you will get lots of help from the members there.



I have a hostgator reseller account and host all my sites there. You buy the domain, suggest namecheap and later have you client register there as well, you can then "Push" the domain over to them (which is how you transfer it to them).



You can set up email accounts for their business through the cpanel for their hosting on your hostgator reseller account.

Most offliners make the hosting something that comes in the price but others don't.



You are getting there, come to LBB and lets help you a bit more over there.

Have to go out now..

Good luck
Sue

Thanks Sue, will look into that. What about OfflineBiz.com ? They also have a free section and then a paid version called Gold.

[Corwinnx]

If you want to create an 'Internet Marketing Consulting' business, like any other business, it's how you market it that's going to get you clients. Mainly, that means well placed advertising with exceptional direct response copywriting that features a strong call-to-action.

You do this 'online' by branding 'yourself' 'online' as a marketing expert.
You do this offline by Marketing, Advertising and promotion.

Marketing- knowing exactly who your target audience is, what they buy, how much they pay, and where they 'hang out' (i.e. in the paper, they read the business setion, on television, they watch CNBC, not Disney)

Advertising- copywriting and promotion

Promotion- specials, giveaways, etc.

Fortunately, as an Internet Marketer, you know:

how to search for keywords- so you can look for keywords that businesses would search to finding your service (hint: city+website design)

get access to some of the best copywriters in the world (*ahem* WF)

get access to some of the most creative marketing minds in the world (do I have to say it again?)

AND USE THESE RESOURCES TO CREATE OFFLINE MARKETING CAMPAIGNS

Create your advertising using 'great copy' for flyers, postcards, letters, yard signs, classified ads in print news media (yes, it still exists, and yes it's still DAMN EFFECTIVE) and more. And 'promotions' (like featuring a different giveaway every month- auto responder install, portal directory listing, website, video, etc...)

There is a reason that the big G likes 'fresh, updated, content': Just as the same information gets old in the online world, marketing messages, headlines, promotions, etc... all get stale in the offline world too.

*As to your question about autoresponders- there was a post on here a while back about "PLR aweber, or Private Label Aweber"... do a search in the Main Discussion and you'll find your solution to having to pay for each one separately.

Distributing 1,000 flyers is a great start. Congratulations on taking that action and on a Saturday no less. Keep us updated on how they work out for you.

Warmest Regards,
Marcus

[SusanneUK]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

Thanks Sue, will look into that. What about OfflineBiz.com ? They also have a free section and then a paid version called Gold.

Well I would advise checking out both, my personal preference is LBB however you may feel differently. They both have free and paid areas if that helps at all.

Cheers
Sue

PS Also pay attention to what Marcus has posted that's wonderful advise and as he points out you can find a goldmine of information at the WF as well as the other two places, I use WF and LBB.

[Vikuna2009+]

Quote: "Distributing 1,000 flyers is a great start. Congratulations on taking that action and on a Saturday no less. Keep us updated on how they work out for you. end Quote"

Actually, I did say 100, lol. That is for today though. If no response, I'll do another 100 or until I do get response.

Marcus, I have read somewhere about the private label Aweber, will do another search, thanks for the reminder.

For now, I'm going to concentrate on auto responders, video, Google Business Center and article marketing. I'm just starting to learn Wordpress, got my domain and host, installed Akismet.

Next step is to learn installing a theme and plugins. Did learn how to upload Youtube to my blog.

From another thread of mine:
Hi guys,

just wanted you to know that I figured it out and I want to share it with you, lol ! Searched high and low and finally found the information. Here is what you do:

When in Wordpress on your dashboard, click "Users", then click "Your Profile". At the top of that page is the wording "Visual Editor" and next to it is a little box where you need to put a check mark "disable the visual editor when writing".

After that, go back to your post, open up another window for Youtube, find your video and copy the embed code, NOT the url. Then back to your post and paste it where you like it. Thada, done!

Well, not quite, you need to go back to that check box and un-check it if you still need to add more text to your post.

As far as the url goes, I've also learned this: by clicking on the icon for adding a video to your post, or actually a LINK, go to the top tabs and click on the one that says "from url", then paste in the url from Youtube and NOT the embed code.

Also type in on the second line how you want your link to read. Finally click the button that says "add to post" and now you have a link.

I hope this information was found useful for you, have a great day !

[SusanneUK]

Have sent you a pm you might find useful

Cheers
Sue

[Corwinnx]

oops.. damn 40 year old eyes!

Installing a theme is pretty easy, first install the oneclick plugin, then you can install any plug-in or theme right from the WP admin panel and not have to FTP them all the time.

Let me add: Serving as a 'marketing consultant' means that you have to be able to identify what your customer needs which their target audience will respond to, so you need to know what purpose each and every marketing method serves to the individual needs of your customer and their customer. In B2B, you have two customers you must be serving at all times, your customer, and your customer's customers.

My best advice- make a 'map' of every single type of marketing that is done 'online'

websites
graphics
autoresponders
blogs
videos
social media
traffic generation
ppc
articles....

Make a list of 'service providers' (search WSO and Warriors For Hire Section, jot down the ones you would recommend/hire and keep this in a document, spreadsheet and text file) so that when you identify which marketing method(s) will serve your clients, you know where to turn.

It doesn't matter if you dont' know how to build a site, or a blog, etc.. as long as you can determine if it's what they need and you know who to go to get it done.

A final thought (for the next few hours anyway)- the quickest way to a business owners heart, is to 'make them more money.' Don't try to sell them on being on the first page of Google, SHOW them how being on the first page of Google will make them more money.

[Off soapbox.]

Warmest Regards,
Marcus

[nailzer01]

I haven't taken offline biz seriously. I like to have a backup plan. This thread is like a great tutorial. Thanks to everyone.

[globalpro]

You need to do better than posting the same comment in different threads. It's called 'SPAM'.

Thanks,

John

Originally Posted by loserooi

Hi,I am new member,nice to meet you our.

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by Corwinnx

oops.. damn 40 year old eyes!

Installing a theme is pretty easy, first install the oneclick plugin, then you can install any plug-in or theme right from the WP admin panel and not have to FTP them all the time.

Let me add: Serving as a 'marketing consultant' means that you have to be able to identify what your customer needs which their target audience will respond to, so you need to know what purpose each and every marketing method serves to the individual needs of your customer and their customer. In B2B, you have two customers you must be serving at all times, your customer, and your customer's customers.

My best advice- make a 'map' of every single type of marketing that is done 'online'

websites
graphics
autoresponders
blogs
videos
social media
traffic generation
ppc
articles....

Make a list of 'service providers' (search WSO and Warriors For Hire Section, jot down the ones you would recommend/hire and keep this in a document, spreadsheet and text file) so that when you identify which marketing method(s) will serve your clients, you know where to turn.

It doesn't matter if you dont' know how to build a site, or a blog, etc.. as long as you can determine if it's what they need and you know who to go to get it done.

A final thought (for the next few hours anyway)- the quickest way to a business owners heart, is to 'make them more money.' Don't try to sell them on being on the first page of Google, SHOW them how being on the first page of Google will make them more money.

[Off soapbox.]

Warmest Regards,
Marcus

True, will make finding outsourcing sources here on the forum a priority, thank you. As far as not knowing (yet) how to design a site or set up a wordpress blog, there is a way to impress (or depress, lol) a business owner.

Simply us the site http://www.websitegrader.com and by typing in their website and then print out the results, you can cold-call easier because you are bringing them an unsuspected gift (the report).

I forgot all about website grader (have them in my old bookmarks) and then ran across them again. That's what I think I will try (with high income business owners to start with). If I can actually show them, their site is not up to par, they'll probably be happy to pay me. Any thoughts about this approach?

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by globalpro

You need to do better than posting the same comment in different threads. It's called 'SPAM'.

Thanks,

John

Thank you for that information, really did not know that that is what it is called ! Thank you for your correction, learned something new, lol. Seriously, I thought I could actually help somebody, I guess that is not a good idea...

Again, thanks for keeping me inline and teaching me something new.

[Mark Riddle]

In my opinion the FIRST thing you need to do is to get rid of the concept of being a online consultant

Be a marketing consultant, a business consultant, a promotions specialist, business growth consultant, business systems analyst.

It is NOT about selling web sites, email promotion, or even joint ventures.

Its about profitably growing a business.

You have skills, talents and experience that will allow you to assist your clients with your background and knowledge in ways that others can't.

It is sometimes quoted if all you have is a hammer everything looks like a nail. However of you don't view your self as a hammer-er and take the time to identify traits of nails, and go find nails, all you need to know is how to find systems that could be using nails, or could improve their uses of nails. Or specialize in nails that are a match of your specific hammer, and hammering style.

Mark Riddle

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by Mark Riddle

In my opinion the FIRST thing you need to do is to get rid of the concept of being a online consultant

Be a marketing consultant, a business consultant, a promotions specialist, business growth consultant, business systems analyst.

It is NOT about selling web sites, email promotion, or even joint ventures.

Its about profitably growing a business.

You have skills, talents and experience that will allow you to assist your clients with your background and knowledge in ways that others can't.

It is sometimes quoted if all you have is a hammer everything looks like a nail. However of you don't view your self as a hammer-er and take the time to identify traits of nails, and go find nails, all you need to know is how to find systems that could be using nails, or could improve their uses of nails. Or specialize in nails that are a match of your specific hammer, and hammering style.

Mark Riddle

Totally agree, I'm not going out to try to sell something. My mission is to first found out about their business and then look at the whole picture and to determine what would be BEST for them, not my wallet.

I really do think I can help offline businesses grow. And yes, I prefer the term Marketing Consultant too !

[SusanneUK]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

Thank you for that information, really did not know that that is what it is called ! Thank you for your correction, learned something new, lol. Seriously, I thought I could actually help somebody, I guess that is not a good idea...

Again, thanks for keeping me inline and teaching me something new.

Eva, that post was not directed at you, if you look at the quoted part, you will see it was another poster, probably long since gone now as I had also reported them when they got to posting the same sentence ten times, they were trying to raise their post count by posting the same thing in tons of threads.

Sue

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by SusanneUK

Eva, that post was not directed at you, if you look at the quoted part, you will see it was another poster, probably long since gone now as I had also reported them when they got to posting the same sentence ten times, they were trying to raise their post count by posting the same thing in tons of threads.

Sue

Sue, really? So is it ok to do what I did (i.e.) copy something from an old post if it is related to the new thread and can actually help somebody? Just need to know...

[MarkR]

Vikuna2009+,

Globalpro's comment about Spam wasn't aimed at you, it was meant for lisarooi who has since disappeared.

You're getting a lot of good advice here. Mark's and Marcus' advice is gold! If you know 80% of what you need to know, you're already ahead of 50% of the offliners out there.

Lead generation method # 1 - Take what you know well, document your past success, build a simple website that has good content about the areas of your expertise, provide testimonials/examples of your success, SEO the site and business owners will find you!

Lead generation method # 2 - I've been doing the offline thing for six years. I belong to a local business network (less meetings/less intense/pressure than BNI) and it provides all the leads I can handle.

My take is that offline is either about 1) generating leads from search engines (example # 1 above) or 2) developing relationships with local business owners and letting word of mouth work for you (example # 2 above). They are both very legitimate ways do develop leads (I do both!). Which you choose should depend on your personality.

Mark

[Jagged]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

True, will make finding outsourcing sources here on the forum a priority, thank you. As far as not knowing (yet) how to design a site or set up a wordpress blog, there is a way to impress (or depress, lol) a business owner.

Simply use the site http://www.websitegrader.com and by typing in their website and then print out the results, you can cold-call easier because you are bringing them an unsuspected gift (the report).

I forgot all about website grader (have them in my old bookmarks) and then ran across them again. That's what I think I will try (with high income business owners to start with). If I can actually show them, their site is not up to par, they'll probably be happy to pay me. Any thoughts about this approach?

Hi Eva,

Website Grader is good to show a "before & after" view of their website composition. Show the deficiencies, where they need improvements....then show them an updated "Grader" showing the improved status.

Another one I use is:

Search Engine Rankings SERPs - SEO Tools

Shows where their website is on major search engines like google, yahoo, msn, ask....another good "before & after" tool.

Another is:

BuiltWith - Website Analysis and SEO Optimization

I use this both for the client as well as my own reference. Shows a lot of analytic graphs, informs you of who is presently hosting the site...so you can compare, a bunch of other cool features too...

These along with the usual goggle analytics is more than enough to show...just familiarize yourself with each so you are able to explain the features when asked....

Good Luck,
Ken

[sblackburn]

Thank you for the great links. I will be incorporating these into the tools we are currently using when prospecting for new clients as well as showing the results to clients.

[Bennette]

Lead generation method # 2 - I've been doing the offline thing for six years. I belong to a local business network (less meetings/less intense/pressure than BNI) and it provides all the leads I can handle.

@Mark. Do you mind sharing the name of the networking group you prefer because I was going to check out BNI. I too had some concerns about being pressured, but also felt I should just go look into with an open mind.

[JaySabree]

Originally Posted by Mark Riddle

In my opinion the FIRST thing you need to do is to get rid of the concept of being a online consultant

Be a marketing consultant, a business consultant, a promotions specialist, business growth consultant, business systems analyst.

It is NOT about selling web sites, email promotion, or even joint ventures.

Its about profitably growing a business.

You have skills, talents and experience that will allow you to assist your clients with your background and knowledge in ways that others can't.

It is sometimes quoted if all you have is a hammer everything looks like a nail. However of you don't view your self as a hammer-er and take the time to identify traits of nails, and go find nails, all you need to know is how to find systems that could be using nails, or could improve their uses of nails. Or specialize in nails that are a match of your specific hammer, and hammering style.

Mark Riddle

I think the above post was so wonderfully written and received. Thank you . Throughout this thread I think it became clear that you already had all the tools needed to start earning income through offline marketing. You only needed a little kick to get started. That's the wonderful part of this forum is that we all lean on each other for help.

Now that you've started taking action you need a method to continue. What's important here is your mindset and the goals that you've set for yourself. One of the most powerful weapons that you have is your pen/pencil and a sheet of paper.

Try using the below system

Step 1. Take 15 to 30 minutes out of your day and start writing your
dreams and goals down. Don't worry about how you're going to achieve any of those dreams and goals just write them down. Act like you're 12 years old again and everything is possible. Don't stop writing for at least 15 minutes but go as long as you need to get everything out.

Step 2. Look at your dreams/goals and number the top three. Then look at the top three and letter them for a-c as to which ones you want to get started on first.

Step 3. Now put a date to accomplish each goals/dream.

Step 4. Take inventory of yourself. Again just start writing on a fresh sheet of paper. Write down every skill that you have. Then take a look at your dreams/goals and write down every skill that you think you need. Again number the skills needed and letter a-c the importance of the skills. Then place a date on how long you're giving yourself to acquire those skills.

Step 5. Look at your strengths and determine what you can use to start making money right now. Build on your strengths.

Step 6. Write down who is in your circle of influence. Determine if anyone can use your services. Then ask around to see if they know anyone that can use your services.

Place your goals somewhere that you can continuously see them. Before you take any action ask yourself this, "if I had reached my goals is this how I would be acting?" For example, if one of your goals is to run a successful company does a company owner procrastinate when it comes to getting things done? If your answer is 'no' then start doing what you feel a successful company owner would do.

Don't be afraid to raise the bar and set your goals high. The successful people always stretch themselves. In order to do that you need to place high expectations on yourself. It is better to reach for the stars and land on the moon then reach for the tree tops and never achieve your potential.

[BlueHouse]

Hi this is Jeanne Grazier and I am a member of the Offline Biz forum and yes I am making money.

I have been a member since it was launched and it just keeps getting better.

Andrew Cavanagh and Jim Cockrum respond to every question - usually within hours.

Also the resource material is new, clearly written and without filler.

They overdeliver.

I would be happy to answer any questions.

Jeanne Grazier

[globalpro]

Hi,

Sorry to cut in on your thread. This wasn't for you, but for somebody 'spamming' the forum. Looks like they are gone now.

Thanks,

John

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

Thank you for that information, really did not know that that is what it is called ! Thank you for your correction, learned something new, lol. Seriously, I thought I could actually help somebody, I guess that is not a good idea...

Again, thanks for keeping me inline and teaching me something new.

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by MarkR

Vikuna2009+,

Globalpro's comment about Spam wasn't aimed at you, it was meant for lisarooi who has since disappeared.

You're getting a lot of good advice here. Mark's and Marcus' advice is gold! If you know 80% of what you need to know, you're already ahead of 50% of the offliners out there.

Lead generation method # 1 - Take what you know well, document your past success, build a simple website that has good content about the areas of your expertise, provide testimonials/examples of your success, SEO the site and business owners will find you!

Lead generation method # 2 - I've been doing the offline thing for six years. I belong to a local business network (less meetings/less intense/pressure than BNI) and it provides all the leads I can handle.

My take is that offline is either about 1) generating leads from search engines (example # 1 above) or 2) developing relationships with local business owners and letting word of mouth work for you (example # 2 above). They are both very legitimate ways do develop leads (I do both!). Which you choose should depend on your personality.

Mark

My problem is, since I am not a pushy sales person, but been doing sales for the last 15+ years, they were all warm leads.

The thought of going out and cold-calling (and feeling that I did not have it all down) prevented me from moving forward , to heck with that!

This forum is truly a blessing, thank you all (yep, I admit, I HAVE CRIED SEVERAL TIMES ABOUT MY PERSONAL SITUATION, but (f**k this) i WILL move forward.

Bang, one of my wild feral cats just came up to me, crying. Not that I did not feed them, probably more for attention, just like you and I!

Keep on plugging fellow Warriors, there is GOLD out there, just got to find it!

[JaySabree]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

(f**k this) i WILL

That's what I like to see!

[MarkR]

@Bennette,

The group I am a part of only has chapters in Southeast Michigan, so it may not work for where you live. The best recommendation I can give you is to start your own group. Meetup groups are very similar and can be rewarding. Also look in Google for "business networking group yourcityname" or "business referral group yourcityname". For a concept and better understanding, you can check out www.locbusnet.com.

Mark

[MarkR]

Vikuna2009+,

Neither of my methods for getting leads involve cold calling. I hate cold calling to. It's not a productive use of my time.

Effectively, for both methods, clients come to you!

Mark

[momwow]

I've been in Offline Biz since November.

I've been online since 1999 and have spent thousands of dollars on courses, mentoring, ebooks, memberships, software, services etc etc.

Offline Biz has made me more money than anything else I've done and it's now the only forum I visit every day (only now I spend as much time helping people as I do getting help for myself.)

It's rather embarrassing to admit it - I know a LOT about Internet Marketing, have achieved some notoriety and high rankings in certain fields - but I've never made the amount of $$$ the "Goobers" claim is so easy to produce. It's been frustrating and depressing, to say the least.

I saw the light when I was meeting with a friend - a local attorney - about another product I promote, Send Out Cards (which is ALSO awesome, but that's another story!). I told him a little bit about my background, and as soon as I mentioned I had my own websites, he got all excited and said "Wow, so can you tell me how come nobody can find me in Google?"

It was easy to tell him (did "View Source" on his website, no title tag or meta-tags) - but you'd think I was a genius!

These local people APPRECIATE my knowledge - I'm a big fish in a small pond now - and Andrew & Jim & my friends in the Offline Biz forum have truly taught me how to go transform my personal experience into a money-making BUSINESS.

And after spending the last 10 years stuck in my office at my computer, I'm finally getting out and talking to people too - which is wonderful!

I HIGHLY recommend Offline Biz - and if anyone wants to PM me, I'll reveal a little more of my background and you can ask anything you want, privately.

Diana
biztips@gmail.com

[TrvlPal]

Hi,

Want to introduce myself and say that Ive been with OfflineBiz for approx 5 wks. And Ive never run across a forum that has provided so much free valuable content
enough to be an equivilant of a 4 yr college degree on IM. Ive never experience the founders of the company to be sooo hands on a daily basis answer every inquiry and question posted and in a very timely matter...As a matter of fact within 30 days of joining I may be on the verge of closing several deals that could total 7000-8000.00 in revenue. Even if i dont have the skills , I got off my $%@^ and started to talk to bus owners , network with groups and get outthere. So I would say that Andrew Cavanaugh and Jim Cockrum discuss, provide, advise, endorse and recommend very valuable resources, sources and support their members with genuine care while making a few dollars along the way.

[Jagged]

Originally Posted by BlueHouse

Hi this is Jeanne Grazier and I am a member of the Offline Biz forum and yes I am making money.

Originally Posted by momwow

I've been in Offline Biz since November.

Originally Posted by TrvlPal

Hi, Want to introduce myself and say that Ive been with OfflineBiz for approx 5 wks.

OK...who made the announcment over at offlinebiz to come over & post free testimonial plugs for their program? Some just signing up today / first post just to make the plug....lol

[JaySabree]

Originally Posted by Jagged

OK...who made the announcment over at offlinebiz to come over & post free testimonial plugs

Agreed ... What's going on with all the plugs?

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

15+ years

Quick question

If you've been selling stuff for 15 YEARS why on earth are
you not just contacting your book of clients to promote
your new services? As a sales lady you must have made
a relationship or two, right? I would hope so or you would
have starved many moons ago.

I can't get my head around that one. Why make life hard
on yourself? Leverage your current relationships. Find out
if they can use your service and/or if they know someone that
can use your service.

Lets take this a step further. After being in sales for so long
you must know a couple sales people, right? Why don't you give
your fliers to some old sales buddies of yours and tell them
that if any sales come from referrals that you'll give them 10%
or it's worth dinner for two at a classy restaurant. If you're
not ok with doing that give me your old sales buddies names
and phone numbers. I'll give them my fliers.

You have a huge untapped well that is likely all you need to
experience a life on your own terms.

[AndrewCavanagh]

Originally Posted by Jagged

OK...who made the announcment over at offlinebiz to come over & post free testimonial plugs for their program? Some just signing up today / first post just to make the plug....lol

Eva specifically asked for feedback about OfflineBiz.com...

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

Thanks Sue, will look into that. What about OfflineBiz.com ? They also have a free section and then a paid version called Gold.

I made this very brief post on the forum (word for word how it appears there)...

Subject:
your Chance To Say What You Think Of This Forum


On another forum someone asked about what it's like being a member here...
Offline biz members, are you happy with your results?

Hopefully someone has something positive to say LOL.

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh



I guess people some like it there. I must say I didn't expect people to sign up here to make posts LOL.

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by globalpro

Hi,

Sorry to cut in on your thread. This wasn't for you, but for somebody 'spamming' the forum. Looks like they are gone now.

Thanks,

John

So, my original question still stands un-answered: Was it ok for me to copy a piece of my old post, since it is related to this one?

[barefootsusan]

Eva,

The biggest thing to look for in a forum of the "offline biz" nature is to find one that is 1. ACTIVE; 2. NOT a pitch fest with a bunch of people with little to no experience trying to sell you the next "shiny object" that will help you make thousands; 3. full of people who are actively DOING this business and have valuable content to share that will help YOU grow your business.

I've been working this model since October/November of last year and have gotten several clients...PAID clients that were NOT warm leads to start with.

I think a lot of people in this niche have some inflated numbers because they say stuff like, "I got a client for $50K after just one meeting!" and then you later find out they already had an established relationship with that client, ie. had done some type of work with them in the past.

My husband and I work this together. I do the tech, he does the face to face.

While some do have fast success, most people find it takes a bit of time, usually about 6 months, before the income starts to be consistent. Having a way to get referrals and work with business owners you already know is a great way to start and yes, cold calling stinks, but if your referrals are slow in coming, you need to be willing to try this.

Just my 25 cents worth. :P

[Riz]

Yep, i'm with Susan here.

I also started my 'offline biz' in Sept/Oct last year and it has been the best thing i have ever done.

Bear in mind it takes time to establish yourself. I was lucky enough to land a client quickly but that does not always happen.

My biggest successes have come with holding seminars and since joining offlinebiz.com.

It's a fantastic learning resource and there is a lead generator called the 4 line letter which i use to get at least 1 to 2 paying clients every week.

RA

[AndrewCavanagh]

Originally Posted by barefootsusan

The biggest thing to look for in a forum of the "offline biz" nature is to find one that is 1. ACTIVE; 2. NOT a pitch fest with a bunch of people with little to no experience trying to sell you the next "shiny object" that will help you make thousands; 3. full of people who are actively DOING this business and have valuable content to share that will help YOU grow your business.

Yes the "idea of the week" is my pet peeve in this niche. There are just so many people trying to sell you some unproven plan, something that just can't work for the ordinary person starting out or even straight out lying about their results.

I like methods that are proven to work and I've also found that the people who genuinely want to build a real income don't mind being told straight what it takes to get paying clients...even if it does take some genuine work.

The great irony is that once you've developed the skills you need to talk to business owners this whole business does get pretty easy.

Some people already have the skill, for most people it will take two to four weeks of actively talking to buisness owners and for some people it could take a few months.

The money is good enough whether you're the person who has the skills right out of the gate or the person who takes weeks or months to develop them.

Regardlesss of your lead generation method you will have to develop those skills if you want a stable business though.

That's really where you need to focus starting out...not on the newest idea you've read somewhere.

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by Jagged

Hi Eva,

Website Grader is good to show a "before & after" view of their website composition. Show the deficiencies, where they need improvements....then show them an updated "Grader" showing the improved status.

Another one I use is:

Search Engine Rankings SERPs - SEO Tools

Shows where their website is on major search engines like google, yahoo, msn, ask....another good "before & after" tool.

Another is:

BuiltWith - Website Analysis and SEO Optimization

I use this both for the client as well as my own reference. Shows a lot of analytic graphs, informs you of who is presently hosting the site...so you can compare, a bunch of other cool features too...

These along with the usual goggle analytics is more than enough to show...just familiarize yourself with each so you are able to explain the features when asked....

Good Luck,
Ken

Thank you for those links, will definitely check them out !

FYI: Did some research on beauty salons and spas Friday morning, then went to town and visited them. Of course, most owners were not there but I pitched the gatekeepers instead and left my material with them to forward to the owner.

What did I leave? A print-out of Google Maps, (99% has NO pictures there and you can have 10, same thing with coupons, you can have up to 3 coupons).

Second item that I researched (but did not leave) was to check getlisted.org to find out if they were listed in google, yahoo, msn and best of the web (most were NOT, can you believe it!!!).

Got one appointment for Monday morning, almost had a heat stroke, yea, it was 105F and I'm out "cold"-calling !

Yesterday was even hotter so I decided to work on my Power Point skills. Took out a glossy, full color local magazine and picked a half page ad for a lawyer specializing in bankruptcy and credit repair.

Made 14 slides with his exact wordings and color theme, imported them all to Photo Story 3, added music and movement and put each slide on their own timer for a better effect.

Now, here comes the bold part: I called his office, got a hold of the receptionist, got her to give me his email after explaining what I was doing.

Then I typed up a nice email to what I could do for him (using tube mogul, google maps etc.) and then I emailed the video slide show to him.

Here is the part that I don't know: Was he in? Did he have time to look at it? It's been 1/2 a day since I sent it, have not heard anything yet.

Why did I do this?

1. To make a sale
2. To hone my Power Point skills
3. If he does not want it, I can use it as a sample
4. And so forth

Guys, at least I am DOING it!

After that, I started doing the same thing for a local animal hospital, not finished guite yet (more practise).

Anyway, have not joined offlinebiz as a paying member yet. Decided that I had to prove to myself that I had what it takes to do this and after somebody pays me, then I might join.

Best of luck to all of you, out there, trying !

[MikeHumphreys]

Congrats on starting to take action. That's really one of the biggest keys to successs -- offline or online.

Focus on playing to your strengths. Get out of the 'must learn everything first' mode and consult on what you DO know. It's far more believable to a client that you don't know everything -- but know where to find the answer or expert -- then trying to be a master of all skills and trades.

For example, I'm a marketing consultant and copywriter. I'm not a graphic designer or webmaster... but I do have experts that I can call or refer to if that's what my client needs.

I'm not busy trying to learn PhotoShop... I leave that one to the people who want to learn it or have already mastered it. I leave it to the graphic designers who can do a much better job with graphic design than I could. Ultimately, my clients get the very best quality consulting, regardless of how many "parts" I personally deliver.

One tip on what you are doing already: Unless it's something you can do very quickly, I'd create a portfolio instead of pieces for each prospective business.

Use what you've already created to make your portfolio. Ideally from paid clients, but if it's a non-client, you can add the watermark word "EXAMPLE" to them. You're showing your prospects the range of things you can help them with.

IF you can set it up on your own website, that's even better IMHO.

Hope that helps,

Mike

[Jim Cockrum]

Originally Posted by momwow

OfflineBiz.com has made me more money than anything else I've done and it's now the only forum I visit every day (only now I spend as much time helping people as I do getting help for myself.)

biztips@gmail.com

It's members like Diana that make OfflineBiz.com great.

As an FYI - there are over 4,000 members at offlinebiz.com and we average several hundred member log ins every day and dozens of new posts on Offline Business related topics.

I hope that doesn't sound like a promo...it's just some fact based data I thought I'd throw in since there is some comparison of forums going on in this thread.

There is no question in my mind that one of the easiest and most legitimate ways to make money with IM is through working with Offline Businesses.

There is simply no substitute for getting out there and doing it. Just attending local small business meetings and letting people know that you know "how to make money on the Internet" can get the ball rolling for you. Having great forums backing you up boosts your confidence though the roof. There's NO situation you can't tackle and you'll be seen as a genius from day one.

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by MikeHumphreys

Congrats on starting to take action. That's really one of the biggest keys to successs -- offline or online.

Focus on playing to your strengths. Get out of the 'must learn everything first' mode and consult on what you DO know. It's far more believable to a client that you don't know everything -- but know where to find the answer or expert -- then trying to be a master of all skills and trades.

For example, I'm a marketing consultant and copywriter. I'm not a graphic designer or webmaster... but I do have experts that I can call or refer to if that's what my client needs.

I'm not busy trying to learn PhotoShop... I leave that one to the people who want to learn it or have already mastered it. I leave it to the graphic designers who can do a much better job with graphic design than I could. Ultimately, my clients get the very best quality consulting, regardless of how many "parts" I personally deliver.

One tip on what you are doing already: Unless it's something you can do very quickly, I'd create a portfolio instead of pieces for each prospective business.

Use what you've already created to make your portfolio. Ideally from paid clients, but if it's a non-client, you can add the watermark word "EXAMPLE" to them. You're showing your prospects the range of things you can help them with.

IF you can set it up on your own website, that's even better IMHO.

Hope that helps,

Mike

Hi Mike,

I'm working on a WP site right now to show as an example what I can do but I have a long way to go. As far as a portfolio, could you elaborate a little on how to go about that?

I'm putting my video slideshows on Youtube, could you call that a portfolio? Thanks in advance, Eva

[JaySabree]

Hey Eva

Congrats on getting out there and doing something.
Not everyone can cold call like you've been doing. I
like to idea of meeting with the lawyer. He would have
a strong influence of business owners. Perhaps you
could workout an agreement to have him send you
some customers?

You have both Andrew and Jim in this thread. That
covers the founders of offlinebiz.com, right?

[Jim Cockrum]

Neither Andrew or I endorse cold calling as an effective way to work the Offline Biz opportunity. It's infective and there are so many easier and faster ways to find eager clients. When you cold call you are just another salesman and there is little chance to build a long term relationship which is what your success will ultimately be built on.

[Vikuna2009+]

Originally Posted by Jim Cockrum

Neither Andrew or I endorse cold calling as an effective way to work the Offline Biz opportunity. It's infective and there are so many easier and faster ways to find eager clients. When you cold call you are just another salesman and there is little chance to build a long term relationship which is what your success will ultimately be built on.

Jim,

I totally agree with you but after pounding the pavement Friday in 105F heat, and it wasn't any cooler yesterday either. That's why I did what I did. Maybe I get a call Monday, maybe not. At least I tried. Today I've made 3 more video slideshows for other businesses, all on spec. And it's only barely 11.30am. I will get a lot more than before the day is over .

In the meantime, I'm honing my skills and learning. Wish me luck !

[MikeHumphreys]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

Hi Mike,

I'm working on a WP site right now to show as an example what I can do but I have a long way to go. As far as a portfolio, could you elaborate a little on how to go about that?

I'm putting my video slideshows on Youtube, could you call that a portfolio? Thanks in advance, Eva

Hi Eva,

No problem.

I consider a portfolio to be examples of your work. If you go to any established copywriter or marketing consultant, you'll find a portfolio somewhere on their site. Many graphic and web designers have a portfolio on their site too. The reason being, it helps sell your service and because it's online, it sells on your behalf 24/7 without break.

If you mention that these are examples of what you can do, rather than actual client projects, it's still effective. Not as much as paid client work but it shows prospects that you're not afraid to show what you can do.

As you build up your portfolio, it can "pre-sell" a lot of prospects for you because it's a strong example of showing the prospect what you can do for their business too. Same for testimonials... as you get them, add them to your site.

re: cold-calling. I'm not a fan of it and as a result have never done it to get any consulting business. There are plenty of other marketing, advertising, and promotional methods you can use instead if you choose. Of course, if you enjoy cold-calling, then keep at it. It's just not my cup of tea.

Take care,

Mike

[Peter Thompsen]

Originally Posted by Vikuna2009+

Jim,

I totally agree with you but after pounding the pavement Friday in 105F heat, and it wasn't any cooler yesterday either. That's why I did what I did. Maybe I get a call Monday, maybe not. At least I tried. Today I've made 3 more video slideshows for other businesses, all on spec. And it's only barely 11.30am. I will get a lot more than before the day is over .

In the meantime, I'm honing my skills and learning. Wish me luck !

Hello Amy,

Gee, your doing it the hard way. You need a commission based salesperson doing that work for you.

Peter