Can i be very rude and ask you this weird question...

60 replies
Why aren't you consulting for your local business

The more internet marketers i speak to the more confused i am as to why they aren't consulting for at least ONE local business. This is of course if you aren't doing AMAZINGLY well with your online stuff.

Offline consulting is mega bucks, and for the amount of work involved, for me so far, it has a bigger ROI than my affiliate stuff.

I consult for 2 companies (it used to be 5 but as I grew my affiliate business i had to let some go and just kept the 'well behaved' ones) for £500/month each. Thats £1000 a month, which in dollars is $1540 Nice.

How much work do I do? Not much, after the initial keyword research which i redo every few months, I spend about an hour, to two hours per client PER month.

I outsource the rest. I get each client about 50 ok-ish links, from social profiles, article sites, other peoples sites and directories, and also add content to the site on a regular basis, around 10 articles a month. The links are spread from the homepage right down to the new articles and I aim for the low hanging fruit, while all the time the site gets more powerful.

The content and the links are outsourced, both to people I met on elance. The links cost around $50 a month, and the content around $70-80.

I then simply make a report at the end of every month detailing the rankings, and the links, and what I've done.

Every month the traffic on the site goes up, they get more sales, and the rankings go up.

Rather than trying to get the client number one for 'plumbing' or whatever it is your client does, go for smaller phrases like 'birmingham plumbing', and revisit your keywords often to add new ones once achieved. Remember I said I do keyword research once every 3 month to try and find new opportunities within the sector. I simply try and get as many top 10 results as possible.

For small phrases the ok-ish links are good enough (directorys, social bookmarks, article sites) just dont do it too fast, 50 per month max, and spread anchor text and spread target destinations.

Hope you find this interesting, go ahead and email a few companies telling them you can make them MORE SALES FROM THE WEB.

Don't start being all geeky and saying you can get them page rank 1 links blah blah.

Sorry this wasn't better presented, but I just kinda wanted to share this on a whim

Help your local town get out the recession + earn some moneyz )))
#question #rude #weird
  • Profile picture of the author thebitbotdotcom
    I have been kicking around the idea. You just brought me one step closer.
    Signature
    Do Your Copywriting Skills Suck?

    Let Us Help You Develop Your Writing Skills!

    Submit Guest Posts With [ TheBitBot.Com ]
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541348].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Jaymark
      The one thing which concerns me is that there seems to be a tremendous amount offers related to marketing to the offline (or local) market. My problem is once you land a client, how do you provide the deliverables to them (ie optimized website ranking on the first page)? I'm not real strong in SEO. Are there any programs which addresses this piece of the the puzzle????
      Signature
      Article Writers - American article writers, sharp pricing, quick turnaround, quality articles and web content
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541419].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
        Deliverables as in milestones?

        If this is what you mean, the deliverables are not set in stone. It's a monthly retainer in which I will come up with a price, which is dependant on their business (how well they are doing or appear to be doing), the sector (difficulty in keywords) and my gut feel at the time... also it depends on how skint i am.

        Basically if they are getting more sales, they are happy and will continue to pay me. If the cost of my work justifies the extra sales or reach they are getting directly, or indirectly because of my efforts, they continue to pay.

        Don't underestimate the report either. The better you make the report, the better they feel about paying you.

        Make it clear any IMPROVEMENTS on last month or improvements from when they didnt have you helping them... and kinda dumb down any fails, without being dishonest. Work hard at it and follow simple google guidelines (CONTENT + LINKS) and you wont fail.

        SO yeah bottom line, make no clear deliverables like, page 1 in 2 months, or position 1 for keyword x in 4 weeks because it probably wont happen, and the world changes every single day. It's unprofessional to make these promises and can make you look stupid if you don't deliver.

        Simply forecast what you EXPECT to happen, but explain how you have no control and how you are following googles guidelines, and want to achieve top rankings for this list of keywords in which they should agree with and let you get on.



        Originally Posted by Jaymark View Post

        The one thing which concerns me is that there seems to be a tremendous amount offers related to marketing to the offline (or local) market. My problem is once you land a client, how do you provide the deliverables to them (ie optimized website ranking on the first page)? I'm not real strong in SEO. Are there any programs which addresses this piece of the the puzzle????
        Signature
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541446].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TheMagicShow
    Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post

    Why aren't you consulting for your local business

    The more internet marketers i speak to the more confused i am as to why they aren't consulting for at least ONE local business. This is of course if you aren't doing AMAZINGLY well with your online stuff.

    Offline consulting is mega bucks, and for the amount of work involved, for me so far, it has a bigger ROI than my affiliate stuff.

    I consult for 2 companies (it used to be 5 but as I grew my affiliate business i had to let some go and just kept the 'well behaved' ones) for £500/month each. Thats £1000 a month, which in dollars is $1540 Nice.

    How much work do I do? Not much, after the initial keyword research which i redo every few months, I spend about an hour, to two hours per client PER month.

    I outsource the rest. I get each client about 50 ok-ish links, from social profiles, article sites, other peoples sites and directories, and also add content to the site on a regular basis, around 10 articles a month. The links are spread from the homepage right down to the new articles and I aim for the low hanging fruit, while all the time the site gets more powerful.

    The content and the links are outsourced, both to people I met on elance. The links cost around $50 a month, and the content around $70-80.

    I then simply make a report at the end of every month detailing the rankings, and the links, and what I've done.

    Every month the traffic on the site goes up, they get more sales, and the rankings go up.

    Rather than trying to get the client number one for 'plumbing' or whatever it is your client does, go for smaller phrases like 'birmingham plumbing', and revisit your keywords often to add new ones once achieved. Remember I said I do keyword research once every 3 month to try and find new opportunities within the sector. I simply try and get as many top 10 results as possible.

    For small phrases the ok-ish links are good enough (directorys, social bookmarks, article sites) just dont do it too fast, 50 per month max, and spread anchor text and spread target destinations.

    Hope you find this interesting, go ahead and email a few companies telling them you can make them MORE SALES FROM THE WEB.

    Don't start being all geeky and saying you can get them page rank 1 links blah blah.

    Sorry this wasn't better presented, but I just kinda wanted to share this on a whim

    Help your local town get out the recession + earn some moneyz )))
    The consulting is not hard at all, it is the point of contact, face to face aspect, that makes it very hard and uncomfortable for most.

    Many Offline businesses, hate being pitched to and think they know how to run, a perfect business.
    Signature

    " You can either give a man a fish and feed him for a day OR teach him how to catch a fish and it will feed him for a lifetime"

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541362].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
      Originally Posted by TheMagicShow View Post

      The consulting is not hard at all, it is the point of contact, face to face aspect, that makes it very hard and uncomfortable for most.

      Many Offline businesses, hate being pitched to and think they know how to run, a perfect business.
      I understand what your saying here. Quite simply i put it down to honesty, just be honest... You're not a professional salesman, yuor not a 'mcdonalds seo' company with bronze silver and gold packages, get ppc free bull****, you are simply just you, an seo 'expert'.

      I turned up to meet my first client in an old peugeout 106, some jeans, and a few bits of scrap paper with notes on i had made about their site. I had already previously sent an email with a full pdf report about his site, and opportunities within their sector.

      I think they like the honesty and trust it. I didnt sell anything really, I simply said what I could do and forecast some results.

      Once you get one client you wouldn't believe the word of mouth marketing you get if you get decent results.

      Go to your local business meetings to meet potential clients.

      Over here in the UK we have 'business link', don't know what the equivalent is in the US, but they do free courses for businesses and self employed.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541394].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KenJ
      Hi Joe

      That's a nice little run down you presented there. It is almost exactly what I do for my own Offline business. I do not outsource the work as yet because it is critical they don't mess up for me.

      The one thing I would point out to marketers who approach business owners is not to insult them when you try to talk to them. Every week I get phone calls telling me my site is failing and my seo is not working. They might be right (Unlikely) but the insult as an opening gambit makes me put the phone down.

      Kenj
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541409].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jamesburchill
    Shhhh! Don't tell everyone about this. Localization of high-demand "money" search phrases are killer. I have been doing this for a while.

    If you take a major/immediate problem/pain + cityname and optimize for that then you can certainly sell consulting to the local business. I publish a couple of directories too that have many local businesses onboard.

    Bottom line, if Google is targeting local then you might want to consider it. Providing Marketing Consulting to local business is very easy when you consider that true competition is almost zero in the local area.

    Be a big (well trained, well armed fish) in a little pond and eat your fill
    Signature
    James Burchill ~ Bestselling Author & Coursepreneur
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541392].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
      Possibilities are endless.

      I have considered the purchase of all the cities x sectors and selling listings.

      birmingham restaurants
      birmingham plumbers
      birmingham decorators

      You see where I'm going.

      Don't know why I'm being so revealing, maybe because I'm toying with the idea of being a full time affiliate this year and dropping the consulting

      Originally Posted by jamesburchill View Post

      Shhhh! Don't tell everyone about this. Localization of high-demand "money" search phrases are killer. I have been doing this for a while.

      If you take a major/immediate problem/pain + cityname and optimize for that then you can certainly sell consulting to the local business. I publish a couple of directories too that have many local businesses onboard.

      Bottom line, if Google is targeting local then you might want to consider it. Providing Marketing Consulting to local business is very easy when you consider that true competition is almost zero in the local area.

      Be a big (well trained, well armed fish) in a little pond and eat your fill
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541415].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author l_christopher
    This seems very interesting. Not for the faint of heart (or newbie lol). How much SEO experience do you believe you need for this?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541450].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Ashleydupray
      I am doing offline in Philly.
      I actually want to get out of it.

      It sounds easy but it's a lot of selling and convinceing people.

      If customers business owners aren't already sold on IM then it's hard to convince them it works.

      AD
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541462].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
        If you know it works then that's all you need.

        They don't need to know what you're doing. Just simply tell them you will get them more sales. If you aren't getting them more sales they won't pay you.

        Whenever I get a new client I do the first month free, and there definately is an increase in traffic at this point, and most the time an increase in sales too, so they take the plunge for a three month term with me, and I've had these 2 current clients since november.


        Originally Posted by Ashleydupray View Post

        I am doing offline in Philly.
        I actually want to get out of it.

        It sounds easy but it's a lot of selling and convinceing people.

        If customers business owners aren't already sold on IM then it's hard to convince them it works.

        AD
        Signature
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541468].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author jasonthewebmaster
        Banned
        Originally Posted by Ashleydupray View Post

        I am doing offline in Philly.
        I actually want to get out of it.

        It sounds easy but it's a lot of selling and convinceing people.

        If customers business owners aren't already sold on IM then it's hard to convince them it works.

        AD

        This is the "catch" of the whole "local consulting" business that everyone keeps talking about.

        It is ultimately a SALES JOB where you have to meet and sell business small business owners who by nature are notorious for being cheap, hard to please, and extremely hard to sell!

        What's even more disheartening is that at this time in the economy, most business owners DO NOT want to add another monthly bill to their budget! Especially 500 bucks, most small businesses in your average town could not afford it.

        The only chance you got is to bring results hard and heavy and make them see the value of this investment so they continue to pay.

        Being vague about the results you will get them will only kill any potential sale. They want milestones and they want results. This is quite a catch-22 if you ask me.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2544514].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
      if you basically follow what i wrote you can do this with next to none.

      outsource it to someone on elance that does this kinda thing all day long.

      all you need to know is:

      no paid links
      no blog roll links
      no footer links
      no 'links page' links

      simply directory, social bookmarks, social profiles, forum links, article links

      not too much of one, and not too fast. spread anchor text A LOT, spread target pages A LOT.

      with content simply order content for the terms you've deemed targets in your keyword research. if your client is a plumber and operates in 5 places, then you'll need a page written about city x, city y, city z, city a and city b.

      does it make sense ?

      Originally Posted by l_christopher View Post

      This seems very interesting. Not for the faint of heart (or newbie lol). How much SEO experience do you believe you need for this?
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541463].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
        The reason I don't cater to off line businesses is simple.

        I have no desire to.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541465].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Aaarrrggghhh
          Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim View Post

          The reason I don't cater to off line businesses is simple.

          I have no desire to.
          Exactly what he said

          Seriously tho, doing offline work is like having a regular off-line job where you have multiple bosses - so you have effectively traded in 1 boss for many bosses. Hardly my idea of the whole living on-line working in your PJs on your own terms. Sorry, I think I got spoiled somewhere down the line from doing fulltime web development being dependent on having many bosses to converting it into learning SEO and internet marketing and making and promoting my own sites...on my own terms...in my own niches...etc. etc.

          I know there is ALOT of chatter going on about the off-line biz world, biz is biz whether it's off-line or on-line, each face their on challenges but I still like the path of least resistance...so I'm staying on-line until the internet just blows up because it has no where to go - lol!
          Signature
          "What Can The Source Publishing Do For My Business?"
          We Grow Your Business On-Line
          >> TheSourcePublishing.com <<

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543087].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author sal64
            Originally Posted by Aaarrrggghhh View Post

            Exactly what he said

            Seriously tho, doing offline work is like having a regular off-line job where you have multiple bosses - so you have effectively traded in 1 boss for many bosses. Hardly my idea of the whole living on-line working in your PJs on your own terms. Sorry, I think I got spoiled somewhere down the line from doing fulltime web development being dependent on having many bosses to converting it into learning SEO and internet marketing and making and promoting my own sites...on my own terms...in my own niches...etc. etc.

            I know there is ALOT of chatter going on about the off-line biz world, biz is biz whether it's off-line or on-line, each face their on challenges but I still like the path of least resistance...so I'm staying on-line until the internet just blows up because it has no where to go - lol!
            Very good points.

            That's why I don't like the recurring thingie.

            Don't need the hassles.

            I'll just restate:

            Find the 20% of clients who provide 80% of income and don't bother with the rest.
            Signature
            Internet Marketing: 20% Internet - 80% Marketing!
            You Won't See The Light Until You Open Your Eyes.
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543466].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author hitesh93
    First off, I do work with offline companies (and into tens of thousands, not a few hundred) - but it is precisely because of posts like this why I've considered distancing myself from IM. Declaring proudly that you 'hardly' do anything for the amount of money you're paid is not the best PR.
    It's actually pretty sad because when real business owners see content like this out there, they feel like they're being ripped off by IMers. For those of us who provide real value (consulting + full out designs, user interactions, and REAL results) have a harder time separating ourselves from those looking to just make a buck off of a local business (or any business for that matter).

    My advice to anyone wanting to get into this - separate yourselves from the rest - provide results/milestones based services and true value.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541474].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
      nice post and you are right, the way i've come across there does sound pretty bad.

      i was trying to reinforce the point that if you have the knowledge, it is something you can be doing to make money, and you can definately be doing it with a day job or along side your affiliate efforts, you dont have to bust your balls to make big buck, you can outsource.

      just because i have mentioned i dont work hard, doesnt mean my service doesnt get results. it clearly does. I have other people work hard for me. this is how a business works. you dont see richard branson driving the trains or flying the planes.

      what i really meant by not working hard is that, you don't have to spend a lot of time doing the 'work'. you can simply outsource the simple tasks after the initial research. you are essentially executing a campaign you have come up with specifically for their website. as long as it gets done accordingly, you have done your work right? whether it was you clicking the mouse to get the links or someone you outsourced.

      Sorry if you read what I put the wrong way but I in no way intended to make out to anyone that they should scam businesses with shady seo / consulting.


      Originally Posted by hitesh93 View Post

      First off, I do work with offline companies (and into tens of thousands, not a few hundred) - but it is precisely because of posts like this why I've considered distancing myself from IM. Declaring proudly that you 'hardly' do anything for the amount of money you're paid is not the best PR.
      It's actually pretty sad because when real business owners see content like this out there, they feel like they're being ripped off by IMers. For those of us who provide real value (consulting + full out designs, user interactions, and REAL results) have a harder time separating ourselves from those looking to just make a buck off of a local business (or any business for that matter).

      My advice to anyone wanting to get into this - separate yourselves from the rest - provide results/milestones based services and true value.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541493].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Lucky500
      Originally Posted by hitesh93 View Post

      First off, I do work with offline companies (and into tens of thousands, not a few hundred) - but it is precisely because of posts like this why I've considered distancing myself from IM. Declaring proudly that you 'hardly' do anything for the amount of money you're paid is not the best PR.
      It's actually pretty sad because when real business owners see content like this out there, they feel like they're being ripped off by IMers. For those of us who provide real value (consulting + full out designs, user interactions, and REAL results) have a harder time separating ourselves from those looking to just make a buck off of a local business (or any business for that matter).

      My advice to anyone wanting to get into this - separate yourselves from the rest - provide results/milestones based services and true value.
      I do not think that was the intention of the OP.

      I find hard to believe that a Hairstylist or a plumber will be searching online for this kind of content, or they will be lurking around IM Forums. Not that they can't, is just that they have more pressing things to do, like attending their business.
      Anyways, the OP is not saying that he does not work hard to drive results. He is just saying that much of the work can be outsourced. IM is hard work, and everybody out there knows that, otherwise they(small bizz) would open their sites and optimize themselves.
      It takes a lot of time to learn this stuff. Countless hours reading forum posts, buying 15 Ebooks and getting value for just 1. Going on different forum to hone on skills such as Web Design and so forth.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541666].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author hitesh93
        Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post

        nice post and you are right, the way i've come across there does sound pretty bad.

        i was trying to reinforce the point that if you have the knowledge, it is something you can be doing to make money, and you can definately be doing it with a day job or along side your affiliate efforts, you dont have to bust your balls to make big buck, you can outsource.

        just because i have mentioned i dont work hard, doesnt mean my service doesnt get results. it clearly does. I have other people work hard for me. this is how a business works. you dont see richard branson driving the trains or flying the planes.

        what i really meant by not working hard is that, you don't have to spend a lot of time doing the 'work'. you can simply outsource the simple tasks after the initial research. you are essentially executing a campaign you have come up with specifically for their website. as long as it gets done accordingly, you have done your work right? whether it was you clicking the mouse to get the links or someone you outsourced.

        Sorry if you read what I put the wrong way but I in no way intended to make out to anyone that they should scam businesses with shady seo / consulting.
        Alrighty. I apologize if I came across too harsh - thanks for clarifying!
        The reason this rubbed me the wrong is because just yesterday I was talking with one of our clients who have an IM person who gets all their info from SEOMoz and have been doing a less-than-useful job of SEO on their site. I had to dispel a lot of myths and fix a bunch of stuff too...not to mention ram heads against the other SEO person (the business owner doesn't know right away who's right, you know?). The point being that there is a BIG difference between knowing some stuff and implementing it. I think you have it right, but your post may mislead some into thinking they can charge premiums and not deliver the goods.

        Originally Posted by Lucky500 View Post

        I do not think that was the intention of the OP.

        I find hard to believe that a Hairstylist or a plumber will be searching online for this kind of content, or they will be lurking around IM Forums. Not that they can’t, is just that they have more pressing things to do, like attending their business.
        Anyways, the OP is not saying that he does not work hard to drive results. He is just saying that much of the work can be outsourced. IM is hard work, and everybody out there knows that, otherwise they(small bizz) would open their sites and optimize themselves.
        It takes a lot of time to learn this stuff. Countless hours reading forum posts, buying 15 Ebooks and getting value for just 1. Going on different forum to hone on skills such as Web Design and so forth.
        You would be surprised. You think a plumbing company isn't getting calls from IM/SEO companies? You think they don't do any research on this stuff? Almost every client I've worked with has had some experience with IMer before (and typically not pleasant ones).

        Here's a word of warning - unless you have a good set of freelancers that YOU persoanlly have experience with and/or a good sales/marketing system set up, you are going to hate working with offline clients. It's a lot more work than it seems like on the surface. The OP is correct in that there is a HUGE opportunity here, but if you know enough about PPC and Web design to generate traffic/build nice sites, then you should do just that - run PPC campaigns and create sites that you flip and/or build a profitable income with.

        Again, as I noted, I understand there is a big potential here, but there's a lot of work to be done here too
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541744].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TheMagicShow
    I firmly believe that To be successful, you will need for the Clients to come to YOU, instead of YOU going to them. Using tactics such as flier promotions, postcards and other inexpensive media, is how to bring them to YOU.

    Going to them can make them pissy and they will not hold back, on their negativity either.
    Signature

    " You can either give a man a fish and feed him for a day OR teach him how to catch a fish and it will feed him for a lifetime"

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541481].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Lucky500
    You know Joe.
    You are absolutely right.

    There are a lot of Internet marketing fellas struggling right now (me included). We all know that making money with Internet Marketing is possible, but yet for one reason or another we are not there yet.

    Nonetheless, We all accumulate knowledge, be it from this forum, WSO’s or other stuff that we had to get a handle on to make sure we are successful online.

    Just the other day I didn’t know what heck HTML tags were. Now, not only I know what they are, but I can set up a site, buy a domain, set up that site on a server with no problems. I also know the importance of backlinks for a site, be it (social bookmarking, web 2.0 profiles, forums, link exchanges, etc). I know some very good SEO automation tools and site monitoring software.

    All that knowledge was acquired in the last year, and I am just wasting or not gaining anything from it, if I do not put it to good use (make money in other words).

    I think mainly, is the stigma that off line marketing has. It sounds it so Sale-ish, and most of us have sales phobia, myself included. But not anymore. I will take action today and so should you that is struggling to make money online. And as you mentioned Joe, when things start picking up in our online ventures, we could all scale back.

    How about start a movement?

    Regards,
    Lucky
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541568].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
      Lucky sounds like you already know 100% more than most business owners.

      give it a shot. email or call a few and ask them if they'd like some free advice no strings attached on their web presence and sales.


      Originally Posted by Lucky500 View Post

      You know Joe.
      You are absolutely right.
      There are a lot of Internet marketing fellas struggling right now (me included). We all know that making money with Internet Marketing is possible, but yet for one reason or another we are not there yet.
      Nonetheless, We all accumulate knowledge, be it from this forum, WSO's or other stuff that we had to get a handle on to make sure we are successful online.
      Just the other day I didn't know what heck HTML tags were. Now, not only I know what they are, but I can set up a site, buy a domain, set up that site on a server with no problems. I also know the importance of backlinks for a site, be it (social bookmarking, web 2.0 profiles, forums, link exchanges, etc). I know some very good SEO automation tools and site monitoring software.
      All that knowledge was acquired in the last year, and I am just wasting or not gaining anything from it, if I do not put it to good use (make money in other words).
      I think mainly, is the stigma that off line marketing has. It sounds it so Sale-ish, and most of us have sales phobia, myself included. But not anymore. I will take action today and so should you that is struggling to make money online. And as you mentioned Joe, when things start picking up in our online ventures, we could all scale back.
      How about start a movement?

      Regards,
      Lucky
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541592].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
    Banned
    I started with offline businesses. I want nothing to do with that much face to face contact with local business customers not to mention working for pain in the ass people building sites when I can build them for myself and make a profit flipping them.

    Offline was nothing but a big headache for me. The neverending web design projects ... ohhhh ... can you just change this and change that ... No thanks. It's the same as Working For Someone Else.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541642].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Hoopatang
    Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post

    Why aren't you consulting for your local business
    Because then I would have to deal with people who have absolutely no idea how to do what they're paying me to do, yet they feel obligated to tell me that their 14-yr old niece told them that they should be doing it this other way, and their grandmother thinks they should be getting faster results for their money, and they were talking with their coworkers over a few beers and...

    Not to mention the things you ask *them* to do on their site to help their SEO (or whatever you're helping them with) and it never happens, or they want you to do that for them too, for free - oh and that includes writing all of the content...

    It's like a bad marriage.

    No, let me amend that.
    It's like interacting with upper management who don't know how to operate their email, and you are the tech support guy.

    I've tried it, and it's not for me. For someone who is infinitely patient and enjoys taking 10 calls a day from one customer who can't figure out where the "any" key is on his keyboard, much less what "social networks" are... it's a great business to have.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541702].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author SDenham
    I think the biggest need is for small business owners to realize the power of a little SEO for their site that their neighbor's kid built. Knowledge is power, and while nobody is the ultimate authority, we can certainly teach others how to test, track, optimize and research. and the basics of SEO, which we all learned the hard way.

    I met with a very successful offline businessman, and was stunned at his lack of knowledge about the online market, and his inability to believe that I, a housewife, might know what I'm talking about.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541871].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author l_christopher
    Actually joewooweb,

    It does sound pretty doable. I'll have to check this out.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2541970].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KenThompson
    I would like to also reinforce, and reiterate, some of the comments
    made about dealing with offline clients.

    This area of marketing was on my mind for a long time, but I was always
    hesitant for certain reasons. And then I found myself with a few that just
    sort of happened.

    It is way too high maintenance for my tastes. I always try very hard
    to work with people and help them. But for me at least it got to the
    point where it was making me crazy. I felt like I was mentoring people.

    So if anyone reading this decides to get involved, then make everything
    extremely clear upfront about the nature of your service and your business
    relationship. Be very clear about what you will do and will not do. If they
    want to ask you a million questions, then be clear upfront that you also
    charge for consulting (mentoring and hand-holding - answering questions).

    Maybe that is not the best approach, and I don't know what the best approach
    is, to be honest. But it is something you should think about before you get
    your first client.

    In fairness, I have to say that probably not all are like that, meaning high
    maintenance. I actually took on one client, recently, who is not high maintenance.
    In fact, we hardly communicate, but he has my phone number and email. There
    have been some delays on his end, so I'm just waiting and working on some
    things for him. But he doesn't know much at all about IM, yet he's very low
    maintenance.

    So you never know who you're going to be dealing with.

    I think the best course of action is to be prepared for whatever happens. Have
    something in place that will allow you to protect your time by being fairly
    compensated.


    Ken
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2542625].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Hoopatang
      Originally Posted by KenThompson View Post

      If they
      want to ask you a million questions, then be clear upfront that you also
      charge for consulting (mentoring and hand-holding - answering questions).
      Great points Ken, and it made me think of something: lawyers.
      We have our lawyer's email, we have his phone number - but we also know if we call him with every little question we've got, we're gonna get hit with one painful bill. So we end up saving the questions for one big "spanish inquisition" meeting, or we actually take the time to look up the answers ourselves.

      I really think taking that sort of approach would be the best way to do it, whether the customer is high-maintenance or not. You never know, the low-maintenance guy who hired you could hand the project off to someone else who turns out to be high-maintenance, and if you don't have that clause in the contract already you'll wish you did.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2542838].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author KenThompson
        Originally Posted by Hoopatang View Post

        You never know, the low-maintenance guy who hired you could hand the project off to someone else who turns out to be high-maintenance, and if you don't have that clause in the contract already you'll wish you did.

        Well then let's keep our fingers crossed. Actually, I'm prepared for this
        now after the first two.


        Ken
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543034].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author sal64
          Let's all jump on the offline band wagon shall we?

          It's all the rage... all the buzz... the latest silver bullet.

          The reason most people don't is the same reason many prefer IM... they are either not interested nor do they have the skills to build a real business.

          Now everyone is putting out products telling everyone how it easy it is to make money this way... until they get into the real world and have to contact and present to real people and network... not to mention close the deal.

          Can you make a mozza? Sure can - sure do!

          Can anyone do it? I doubt it.

          If people cannot build a real profitable online business, what makes you think they can make a fist of consulting offline businesses?

          There's an old saying: If becoming a millionaire was easy, every park-bench bum would be driving a Mercedes.
          Signature
          Internet Marketing: 20% Internet - 80% Marketing!
          You Won't See The Light Until You Open Your Eyes.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543055].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
            Banned
            Originally Posted by sal64 View Post

            If people cannot build a real profitable online business, what makes you think they can make a fist of consulting offline businesses?

            There's an old saying: If becoming a millionaire was easy, every park-bench bum would be driving a Mercedes.
            Plenty of people are making a real business and real money with online marketing and have ZERO interest in the offline market. I'm one and there's many more.
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543895].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author sal64
              Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

              Plenty of people are making a real business and real money with online marketing and have ZERO interest in the offline market. I'm one and there's many more.
              Really? WOW. That's news to me.

              Yes Becky...

              Because right now there are a lot of people who can't even make a dime for themselves online, yet they're positioning themselves as business experts and consultants.

              And that was my exact point.
              Signature
              Internet Marketing: 20% Internet - 80% Marketing!
              You Won't See The Light Until You Open Your Eyes.
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2544122].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jimian
    I found it's easier if you already have something REAL to present to a potential offline business that's in need of something...

    ...like LEADS or a pre-designed website.... FOR EXAMPLE: I made a roofing Website and got google placed:



    It took about 6 weeks but I now lease it for $197/month...



    Unfortunately, I screwed up the google listing but It's still #1 when you type "ri roofing"

    When you can PHYSICALLY show them something, they'll pay attention instead of yawning.
    Signature

    OFFLINE Marketing Strategies For The OFFLINE Warrior
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2542713].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author jasonthewebmaster
      Banned
      Originally Posted by giga View Post

      Hi Jimian,

      I found your post the most interesting I ve ever read on a IM forum,

      I am a beginner in IM and I am trying to learn, basically, how the system works;

      May I ask you Jimian when you refer to "I leased the website" what exactely you mean?

      Does it mean you registered,created and seo the website and then you lease your traffic to the local roofing company "higher bidder"?

      Forgive my ignorance, but I am new here and I d be very happy if you reply,

      Thank you

      Rob


      THIS is a great idea!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2544522].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Lucky500
      Hey Jim, since you build a website first and place it on Local Business listing, how do you get around the Local Phone number? Don't you have to have a local phone number so Google can call and verify that you are a real local bizz?

      Regards,

      Lucky


      Originally Posted by Jimian View Post

      I found it's easier if you already have something REAL to present to a potential offline business that's in need of something...

      ...like LEADS or a pre-designed website.... FOR EXAMPLE: I made a roofing Website and got google placed:



      It took about 6 weeks but I now lease it for $197/month...



      Unfortunately, I screwed up the google listing but It's still #1 when you type "ri roofing"

      When you can PHYSICALLY show them something, they'll pay attention instead of yawning.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2550141].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
    Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post

    Why aren't you consulting for your local business
    Because it isn't in my business model.

    Rob
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543061].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author FrankBowman
    Some people prefer to work 100% online, never actually meeting their customers.

    I see the phrase ".....I don't want to deal with people....", unfortunately you need to deal with people in some way for commerce to exist. Some prefer dealing with people purely online, its more anonymous and, in a way, solitary. Thats what some people feel comfortable with. People like that are better off staying away from the "offline SEO/consulting biz"

    I, as well as my partners, come primarily from the "offline sales" arena. So for us, "dealing with people" is what we do best. If this is an attribute you have, then offline Local SEO work or consulting, can be a nice business, its what my partners and I do. We set it up like a real offline business, office, conference room, etc (there are ways to do this without spending too much money, remember the commercial realestate market sucks right now).

    So in answer to your question Joe, our business is offline consulting. But that doesn't mean its good for every IMer.

    Peace
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543166].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author terrapurus
    I have only 1 thing to add to this thread -

    http://clientsfromhell.net/
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543544].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author phsims
      Originally Posted by terrapurus View Post

      I have only 1 thing to add to this thread -

      http://clientsfromhell.net/
      I was crying with laughter while reading this
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543958].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
      Banned
      Originally Posted by terrapurus View Post

      I have only 1 thing to add to this thread -

      http://clientsfromhell.net/
      lol ... perfect. Exactly why I don't do offline. I had years of this stuff.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543988].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author R Hagel
        Hi Joe,

        You asked:

        Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post

        Why aren't you consulting for your local business
        You said this gig is worth big bucks to you:

        Offline consulting is mega bucks, and for the amount of work involved, for me so far, it has a bigger ROI than my affiliate stuff.

        Then you said:

        Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post


        Don't know why I'm being so revealing, maybe because I'm toying with the idea of being a full time affiliate this year and dropping the consulting

        So, you're dropping your high ROI, mega-bucks business in favor of focusing on affiliate marketing. And you're asking people here why they don't do offline business consulting? I suspect you already know the answer.

        Becky


        P.S. Also...

        The more internet marketers i speak to the more confused i am as to why they aren't consulting for at least ONE local business. This is of course if you aren't doing AMAZINGLY well with your online stuff.
        I wish that second sentence used the word "ARE" instead of aren't. Because right now there are a lot of people who can't even make a dime for themselves online, yet they're positioning themselves as business experts and marketing consultants.

        It's one thing to make websites for folks. That's fine. It's another to promise increased sales (when the promiser can't even make his or her own sales online).

        This comment isn't about the OP... just the general trend.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2544121].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author phsims
    I have been thinking about it but tbh I got into IM cause I wanted to work for myself, answer ONLY to myself and not have to put up with people in general.

    consulting means doing face to face business and I just dont have the paitince
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2543915].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Xmas
    I'm Lazy and don't want to go find customers.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2544802].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author rparikh
    I did it long time back but i find that it is much more fun in the online business .

    The opportunity and the freedom in the online business much more rather than offline business.
    Signature

    Internet Marketing Product Reviews And Bonus - https://theim.org

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2544804].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author thesweetspot
    I agree with some of this and some I do not.

    First, local internet marketing is a great opportunity for many reasons, everyone already knows why. But I understand calling hundreds of people that are trying to convince them and how that is such a waste of time..But you guys, this is how it works when one way does not...I know that everyone in this forum knows someone who knows someone that owns a small business...be it in another state,city or country. For example..I have a client in florida but I am not located there...And he and I good enough b2b relationship where he gives me full access to his logins and website and he just trusts me. Well, I asked him that if he would start talking to his other business people about referring me...

    But my point is,,start asking your sister's friends, brother's friends, etc, etc...but we have confidence in our services, now lets tell the people we already know and find out what they know and get into their inner worlds and then come along to their gatherings...Or just ask your friend's or family members that if they know any local businesses, to just tell them to keep their ears open..and then if they hear anything to drop your main url or tell those people that"hey, my brother(im) knows all about that internet marketing stuff, here is his number, he is really busy, but he or she is really smart" This way you have free marketers and you can keep doing your thing. I will always tell my peeps or even strangers i tell them while i am out, and of course i just make friends and make small talk and then talk about technology or how eveyone these days has cell phones...just whatever and then i ask them what they do and how long they do it...and then they feel they need to know me and i tell them and if i have a business card which now i always have with me..i tell them if they know someone who really needs marketing for their small biz or whatever..i tell them to refer me and if they pay me..i will give a commission...

    You guys and gals we are ALL very creative folks...but lets use what we have now...learn as products come out and test what works and doesn't.

    For example, i just told my girlfriend's mom who is a nurse and asked if she knows any one at work, if she hears about her co-workers, brother, husband or whatever. if she hears about them and their world and if they have small businesses to keep their ears opened..because by us internet marketers leaving these subconscious messages...and as our industry grows ever more..it well be like seed that can only grow..plus it will boost our own self-confidence.
    Signature
    Drop Shipping Success
    How I Went From A Simple Idea To Processing Over $1,000 Dollars PER CUSTOMER!!!!!!!!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2545756].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ASCW
    Because SEO in all shapes and forms makes me want to blow my brains out.

    However anyone who knows how to run effective SEO campaigns should definitely be marketing to local businesses. I know of two businesses who have tried to hire me to "do their internet stuff." and have turned both of them down. There is definitely ALOT of money to be made here people.
    Signature

    Site being revamped.

    If you want help with copy stuff, pm me.

    Cool.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546137].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Vogin
      It's only a matter of time before all, and I really mean ALL businesses will be looking and implementing IM techniques, simply because of the one rule:

      "You don't have a webpage? You don't exist."

      I agree with "selling" your skills to local businesses, it could be a bit tricky though for me (no-name college student) to persuade some CEO (ruler of all the universe)...
      Signature

      ppcsluzby.cz/en - PPC agency


      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546170].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Black Hat Cat
      Banned
      Like I said in a similar thread, one reason I don't do it is because I don't like ripping people off.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546310].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author sal64
        Originally Posted by Black Hat Cat View Post

        Like I said in a similar thread, one reason I don't do it is because I don't like ripping people off.

        Are you implying that everyone is a rip off?

        Sheeesh....

        Where is the rip off when you can set up a business so that it gets more eyeballs for a tiny fraction of traditional media?

        And what if they spend $5k and make an extra $10k in sales in one year?

        People will pay because they want it done. We can all pull our own teeth, so why do we allow ourselves to be ripped off by Dentists?

        If your house is worth $100k and is up for sale... suppose someone offers you $200k... what would you do?
        Signature
        Internet Marketing: 20% Internet - 80% Marketing!
        You Won't See The Light Until You Open Your Eyes.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546439].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DropWizard.com
    Not everybody can sell. Not every business listens.

    And let me tell you the biggest problem is keeping them focused. I've got clients paying me large $$$ every month that can't find the time to do what's necessary.

    It's not as easy as it looks.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546366].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Nick Brighton
    I have no problem with people doing the whole consulting thing, but it's the professionals who are given a bad name from the "fakers" that riles me.

    You have no idea how many regular small businesses are called on a daily basis with internet related services.

    It makes me laugh how so many people assume this is some newfound promised land with no competition. Anyone who claims that has no clue what's going on in the real world, I can assure you.

    I still think it's a lot easier to make money ONLINE that through offline clients. Sure, the pay might be better for offline clients, but you better be good at selling in those shark infested, noisy waters.

    I'm actually running two small offline businesses, but my secret to success so far is offering services that are risk free and completely tailored to my skills - skills that I can prove.

    The problem is, most of these "offline consultants" have nothing to substantiate their claims. No background, no selling points, no proof, no USP.

    If you can get results upfront, they're more likely to listen, but don't assume it's an easy ride getting your foot in the door even when offering upfront results. You're dealing with people who will cut costs at every turn, who are sick of cold callers, who are tired of BULL****.

    So you've got to balance the offer between realistic and too good to be true... and with a smile, a smooth tongue and a certain amount of charm.

    (source - worked in newspaper advertising, sales and marketing for 4 years)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546573].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author sal64
      Originally Posted by Nick Brighton View Post


      The problem is, most of these "offline consultants" have nothing to substantiate their claims. No background, no selling points, no proof, no USP.
      The problem is also that most of these consultants are glorified web designer / builders. It appears there are many people looking for a low cost opportunity to make extra money... and no shortage of people willing to sell them licenses or franchises to show them how.

      It's a bit like people who are selling opportunities to Filipinos about how to make a fortune as a VA... and telling them what to put on their resumes to get hired... regardless of their real skills.

      Nor is it any different from online marketers who make more money from selling magic bullets than they do from actually using the magic bullet.
      Signature
      Internet Marketing: 20% Internet - 80% Marketing!
      You Won't See The Light Until You Open Your Eyes.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2546644].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Lucky500
    There is a lot of discouragement here. I understand that clients can be a hag. And the whole purpose of online business is to make money from home without a boss, or bosses. But trying offline marketing like many other things boils down to: Give it a try. What does not kill you makes you stronger.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2549714].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
      Banned
      Originally Posted by Lucky500 View Post

      There is a lot of discouragement here. I understand that clients can be a hag. And the whole purpose of online business is to make money from home without a boss, or bosses. But trying offline marketing like many other things boils down to: Give it a try. What does not kill you makes you stronger.
      Give it a try ... if you want to. It's not my business model and hasn't been for over 10 years. As I said, it was like working for any other pain in the ass boss. It wasn't until I ditched offline marketing that I felt like I was working for myself.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2549744].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Lucky500
        Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

        Give it a try ... if you want to. It's not my business model and hasn't been for over 10 years. As I said, it was like working for any other pain in the ass boss. It wasn't until I ditched offline marketing that I felt like I was working for myself.

        Of Course. If you don't want to, there is no need to try. If you are making enough money with your sites, there is definitely no need to. IM for me is about freedom. You can make money from the comfort of your home, you can check on your sites at your sister's house, and you can be vacationing in Hawaii and just logging in to see how much you made today. But until you not there, than offline does not sound like a bad idea.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2550079].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Super Affiliate
    Thanks for sharing, Joe. Actually that's what my partner and I do everyday. We find local businesses and contact them by phone. And we tell them all the benefits of using our services such as more customers, more sales, etc.

    For each customer, we make about $1,500 plus HST for the 1st month and we charge different amounts for the months afterwards. It's a great business model and if you have what it takes to rank sites in the 1st page, you should definitely go for offline local businesses.

    My 2 cents...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2550119].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author passionforgolf
    Originally Posted by joewooweb View Post

    Why aren't you consulting for your local business

    The more internet marketers i speak to the more confused i am as to why they aren't consulting for at least ONE local business. This is of course if you aren't doing AMAZINGLY well with your online stuff.

    Offline consulting is mega bucks, and for the amount of work involved, for me so far, it has a bigger ROI than my affiliate stuff.

    I consult for 2 companies (it used to be 5 but as I grew my affiliate business i had to let some go and just kept the 'well behaved' ones) for £500/month each. Thats £1000 a month, which in dollars is $1540 Nice.

    How much work do I do? Not much, after the initial keyword research which i redo every few months, I spend about an hour, to two hours per client PER month.

    I outsource the rest. I get each client about 50 ok-ish links, from social profiles, article sites, other peoples sites and directories, and also add content to the site on a regular basis, around 10 articles a month. The links are spread from the homepage right down to the new articles and I aim for the low hanging fruit, while all the time the site gets more powerful.

    The content and the links are outsourced, both to people I met on elance. The links cost around $50 a month, and the content around $70-80.

    I then simply make a report at the end of every month detailing the rankings, and the links, and what I've done.

    Every month the traffic on the site goes up, they get more sales, and the rankings go up.

    Rather than trying to get the client number one for 'plumbing' or whatever it is your client does, go for smaller phrases like 'birmingham plumbing', and revisit your keywords often to add new ones once achieved. Remember I said I do keyword research once every 3 month to try and find new opportunities within the sector. I simply try and get as many top 10 results as possible.

    For small phrases the ok-ish links are good enough (directorys, social bookmarks, article sites) just dont do it too fast, 50 per month max, and spread anchor text and spread target destinations.

    Hope you find this interesting, go ahead and email a few companies telling them you can make them MORE SALES FROM THE WEB.

    Don't start being all geeky and saying you can get them page rank 1 links blah blah.

    Sorry this wasn't better presented, but I just kinda wanted to share this on a whim

    Help your local town get out the recession + earn some moneyz )))
    Great Idea, a friend of mine has just started his own kitchen supply and fit company, he built his own website which looks great. I've given him lots of FREE advice (I wouldn't charge him anyway) with the knowledge and experience I have with SEO etc and realised I could offer my services to local businesses in my area and get paid:-)

    Perehaps I should give it a go!

    Kind regards,
    Joe Krarup.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2550125].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Joseph Michael
    I too would like to know how to get around this. I have done this strategy but have never tried to get in Google local for a leasing/directory type site.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2565152].message }}

Trending Topics