What Is YOUR Best Solo-Ad Secret? Here's One Of Mine...

70 replies
There's been a lot of discussion about solo-ads.

Where are they?

How do I find the best ones?

Should I rent buyer, non-buyer or both lists?

Etc.

So I thought I would share one of my secrets to
picking solo-ads...and if you like, you can share
a secret...or two...or three of your own.

Here is one of mines...

Be Weary Of Testimonials...Especially From OTHER
Solo-Ad Vendors

Here's why:

They rarely reflect results of a typical marketing
campaign from an average marketer.

THEIR perception of a good, responsive list can be
as simple as *how many LEADS* they got from that
list.

...not necessarily because they're quality leads...

...or because they convert (which matters most).

In fact...

...don''t take ANY testimonial at face value.

Your results will always be different depending on
the offer and how targeted it is to that particular
list.

But if there is a general consensus a list is sub-par,
you'd be better off AVOIDING it then trying it unless
you have money to burn if it goes bad.

So I'm curious...

...what is your best solo-ad secret that served you?


#driving traffic #generate leads #listbuilding #solo ads
  • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
    My best solo ad secret is that I no longer use them. I have found other forms of paid advertising to be much better, easier to track, and far more scalable.

    Here's a list of networks that should keep anyone busy for years.......

    http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...uces-ever.html

    RoD
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    - Jim Rohn
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    • Profile picture of the author eglobalbrad
      Originally Posted by Rod Cortez View Post

      My best solo ad secret is that I no longer use them. I have found other forms of paid advertising to be much better, easier to track, and far more scalable.

      Here's a list of networks that should keep anyone busy for years.......

      http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...uces-ever.html

      RoD
      Hey, thank you for this list, David. Do you mind if I use this list (not verbatim), but to do blog posts and other content related helps?
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      • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
        Originally Posted by eglobalbrad View Post

        Hey, thank you for this list, David. Do you mind if I use this list (not verbatim), but to do blog posts and other content related helps?
        You'll have to contact David directly, I was merely sharing the thread link.

        RoD
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        - Jim Rohn
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    • Profile picture of the author espresso
      Originally Posted by Rod Cortez View Post

      My best solo ad secret is that I no longer use them. I have found other forms of paid advertising to be much better, easier to track, and far more scalable.

      Here's a list of networks that should keep anyone busy for years.......

      http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...uces-ever.html

      RoD
      Solo ads (proper ones) convert really really well
      I got one on this site two week ago and had an optin rate of 40%
      (paid about 0.50 per sub)
      If all paid for traffic converted that well i would be laughing

      any recommendations on advertising networks welcomed
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  • Profile picture of the author Shaamj
    Thanks Rod for sharing that...Theres so many topics and info on this forum I would've probably never seen that..

    Thanks again!
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  • Profile picture of the author drewfioravanti
    I buy small at first to test.

    A high optin rate can often lead to no sales and those subscribers never opening one email I send.

    A low optin rate can lead to a more responsive list of leads.

    So, I initially buy low and test to see how that segment responds to my emails.
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    • Profile picture of the author tiroberts
      Originally Posted by drewfioravanti View Post

      I buy small at first to test.

      A high optin rate can often lead to no sales and those subscribers never opening one email I send.

      A low optin rate can lead to a more responsive list of leads.

      So, I initially buy low and test to see how that segment responds to my emails.
      Great strategy, Drew and this is exactly what I do as well.

      Whenever I come a across a new vendor that "appears" to have a responsive list, I always buy the lowest package they have ONLY for testing purposes. Meaning I'm not betting on anything and I don't care if I make back my investment.

      I think that every IM'er should always have some "gamble" advert money set aside specifically for testing purposes. OUTSIDE of your main advert budget. That way you can be free to play around and see what new pots of gold you can find.

      Ti
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      • Profile picture of the author PazG
        I have found, that in general, buying solos from commercial solo sellers is only a good idea if you are going to use those leads to sell solos yourself. Most of the these types of lists are pretty thin on the buyers.

        If you have a 'normal' list where you are more interested in selling stuff then it's a good idea to search and approach niche related product owners who are also building a list. Sometimes it's as easy as checking if they have an optin form on their page. Then you also have your endorsed mailings / corporate level solos which are amazing.
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        • Profile picture of the author myob
          From experience, I categorically buy solo ads only from established ezine publishers. First I test response rates with inexpensive classified or sponsor ads. If the metrics (including conversions) are acceptable, then I'll place solo ads. In addition, if the ezine is a good fit for my niche, I'll query the editor for article syndication; they are much more receptive above the masses of "article marketers" if you've previously been an advertiser.
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  • Profile picture of the author u119840
    I used to use Solo Ads, but do not use them anymore.. One simple reason - it's most likely the vendor I'm buying clicks from has a fairly old/used list (i.e. not fresh subscribers). How do you know how many lists those subscribers are on? How long have they been there? Your emails to those list will potentially be lost in a sea of similar emails.. You will have to try extra hard to make your email stand out amongst all others - of course those IMs will probably be doing the same!

    I prefer to focus my attention on other methods which will generate a list of RESPONSIVE Subscribers who are POTENTIAL BUYERS..

    JR
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    • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
      Originally Posted by Rod Cortez View Post

      My best solo ad secret is that I no longer use them. I have found other forms of paid advertising to be much better, easier to track, and far more scalable.

      Here's a list of networks that should keep anyone busy for years.......

      http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...uces-ever.html

      RoD
      Excellent list, Rod -- thank you.

      I saved it as a PDF to test and track many of
      those sources myself.

      Surprised I missed that one. It's a gold mine.

      Should be an interesting experiment...


      Originally Posted by drewfioravanti View Post

      I buy small at first to test.

      A high optin rate can often lead to no sales and those subscribers never opening one email I send.

      A low optin rate can lead to a more responsive list of leads.

      So, I initially buy low and test to see how that segment responds to my emails.
      ...yea...

      ...a lot of people are gung-ho about high
      opt-in rates.

      I could care less about it. Conversions and
      sales are the only numbers I look at.

      Everything else...is noise.


      Originally Posted by u119840 View Post

      I used to use Solo Ads, but do not use them anymore.. One simple reason - it's most likely the vendor I'm buying clicks from has a fairly old/used list (i.e. not fresh subscribers). How do you know how many lists those subscribers are on? How long have they been there? Your emails to those list will potentially be lost in a sea of similar emails.. You will have to try extra hard to make your email stand out amongst all others - of course those IMs will probably be doing the same!

      I prefer to focus my attention on other methods which will generate a list of RESPONSIVE Subscribers who are POTENTIAL BUYERS..

      JR
      True.

      ...but certainly not MOST of them.

      Most people limit themselves to vendors actively
      advertising it as a BUSINESS...

      ...and therein lies another secret.

      But I'm curious JR...

      ...could you share an example of a method that
      generates a list of responsive subscribers and leads?

      If you don't want to, that's totally understandable.




      ...
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      • Profile picture of the author u119840
        Hi Joe,

        Sorry for the late response! I'd actually missed your reply to my earlier post..

        Other responsive methods can include:

        - PPC campaigns & advertising
        - Viral marketing (Asking your current subscribers to recommend your site to a friend or two in exchange for a free gift (i.e. a FREE report)
        - Article writing (HAND-WRITTEN and not spun! Spun articles are junk!)
        - Video Marketing. Create a quick video offering helpful & insightful tips & techniques relevant to your product.. Include a link to your opt-in box in the video & description tab.

        That's just some of the main traffic generation methods which have (for me anyway) produced good quality subscribers..

        Jake Roslyn
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  • Profile picture of the author paul nicholls
    one of my best tips i can give you when it comes to solo ads (and this can be used for list building in general)

    most people struggle coming up with a free offer and then a product so all you do is:

    forget about creating a free offer and go ahead and create your product

    then say if you have 10 videos or 20 pages in a PDF for your product you give away say 3 free videos or 5 pages from your ebook as your free offer

    doing this saves you a tonne of time and will also increase your conversions because you can market your product as an "upgrade" as appose to a separate product

    i have been doing this for over 2 years and it works great

    hardly no one else does this and also i have not seen anyone teach it either, unless they have got it from me first and then perhaps taught it after :-)

    paul
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    • Profile picture of the author eglobalbrad
      Originally Posted by paul nicholls View Post

      Most people struggle coming up with a free offer and then a product.
      l
      Thanks, Paul! You just gave the answer to everyone's business solution!

      The free offer(s) is the key and then the product not just in SoloAds. The free offer(s) needs to be something that will help marketers, not something that is necessarily tied to the product being sold.
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  • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
    This one must be TOP SECRET because I hardly ever see it mentioned in a Solo ad discussion: Write excellent headlines and body copy.
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    • Profile picture of the author leighk
      Originally Posted by travlinguy View Post

      This one must be TOP SECRET because I hardly ever see it mentioned in a Solo ad discussion: Write excellent headlines and body copy.
      Great tip, second it, although you'd imagine this should be common knowledge, but maybe it isn't.
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  • Profile picture of the author rmolina88
    One of the most important is asking where they get their traffic from.

    If they don't tell me, I don't buy. Many Solo Ad vendors that I've used have told me truthfully.
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    • Profile picture of the author koreancowboy
      Originally Posted by rmolina88 View Post

      One of the most important is asking where they get their traffic from.

      If they don't tell me, I don't buy. Many Solo Ad vendors that I've used have told me truthfully.
      Or, you can do like I did, and pick this up to learn how to really track where those clicks are coming from...
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  • Profile picture of the author Mark Pescetti
    TravlinGuy pegged it. Write compelling subject lines that get your emails opened and connect with the emotions your target audience is feeling. If you're right (about your triggers,) you'll get a high rate of qualified clickthrus. If you unsuccessfully target the emotions your audience is feeling, it doesn't matter what list you buy traffic from, you'll fail.

    Focus on the copy and you'll make a goldmine out of lists that other marketers are consistently losing money with.
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  • Profile picture of the author Devin X
    Banned
    Originally Posted by Joe Benjamin View Post

    So I'm curious...

    ...what is your best solo-ad secret that served you?
    My best secret when it comes to solo ads/dealing with solo ads is to nXXX buXXXaXXXXXXolXXXfroXXXXXpleXXXXXXXXXvertiseXX XXXadservXXX.

    If I told you what it was then it wouldn't be a secret, now would it?
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    • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
      Originally Posted by TheRealDudeman View Post

      My best secret when it comes to solo ads/dealing with solo ads is to nXXX buXXXaXXXXXXolXXXfroXXXXXpleXXXXXXXXXvertiseXX XXXadservXXX.

      If I told you what it was then it wouldn't be a secret, now would it?
      If I had to guess...

      I'd say it says something like, "never buy solo ads
      from people who advertise their solo ads?"

      I could be wrong.

      At least, I know I rarely buy from people who run
      their business on selling solos or advertise for it un-
      less they have exceptionally good lists.

      All it takes is a little outside the box thinking.

      Zig while they zag.

      Did I nail it?

      Please tell.

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  • Profile picture of the author wrcato2
    Solo ad businesses sounds a lot like safelist marketing, with the exception buying solo ads.

    I am going to have to investigate this a little closer. Don't get me wrong the numbers I have seen on some of the sites sound impressive, just not sure yet.

    Gosh dog, ...
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  • Profile picture of the author solos
    Banned
    Thanks for sharing this advice.

    I am interested in buying some solo ads here on the forum.

    I have only ever used other sites to purchase solos and am hoping to find some solos here.
    I will definatly take your advice when looking through the testimonials and reviews

    Great advice for a newbie member
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    • Profile picture of the author Pitchfork Marketing
      Banned
      I stopped using solo ads a few months back.

      I split test my pages and many of the solo ads gave me dead traffic (atleast the ones from safe swap) - the traffic would never open my emails.
      But the traffic from other paid sources and independent solo ad dealers would convert on the same offer like gangbusters -- on a consistent basis.

      I highly suggest you find your own solo ad providers to deal with. They aren't cheap but they're worth it.

      I use trafficjunky for all of my dating and adult marketing
      Admob for mobile
      and I have a few others but i cant give those a way...

      however, you might enjoy this list, which is different from the one posted above.

      http://www.warriorforum.com/ad-netwo...c-sources.html
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7931774].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
        Originally Posted by paul nicholls View Post

        one of my best tips i can give you when it comes to solo ads (and this can be used for list building in general)

        most people struggle coming up with a free offer and then a product so all you do is:

        forget about creating a free offer and go ahead and create your product

        then say if you have 10 videos or 20 pages in a PDF for your product you give away say 3 free videos or 5 pages from your ebook as your free offer

        doing this saves you a tonne of time and will also increase your conversions because you can market your product as an "upgrade" as appose to a separate product

        i have been doing this for over 2 years and it works great

        hardly no one else does this and also i have not seen anyone teach it either, unless they have got it from me first and then perhaps taught it after :-)

        paul


        This is a much simpler way of creating a
        free offer that links to the paid product.

        You're right. A lot of people focus on the
        free offer separately from the paid, and
        it only leads to procrastination.


        Originally Posted by eglobalbrad View Post

        Thanks, Paul! You just gave the answer to everyone's business solution!

        The free offer(s) is the key and then the product not just in SoloAds. The free offer(s) needs to be something that will help marketers, not something that is necessarily tied to the product being sold.


        ...it's much easier to sell products and/or
        services if the free offer matches what it
        is you want them to buy.

        If it's going to help someone, it may as well
        be something that links to something they
        will buy.

        For example:

        I know a PPC guide will help marketers, but
        if my PAID product talks about article marketing,
        I will lose my audience.

        Originally Posted by travlinguy View Post

        This one must be TOP SECRET because I hardly ever see it mentioned in a Solo ad discussion: Write excellent headlines and body copy.
        Yes.

        If your solo ad copy, provided the vendor
        USES your ad copy (which they should be
        doing if they agreed to use it), it will target
        your audience and...

        ...when they click on your link it should be
        a natural progression from where they just
        were (the email), to where they are now
        (squeeze page), to where they're going to
        be (front-end or OTO offer).

        It should be like turning the pages of a good
        book. No interrupts.

        Originally Posted by rmolina88 View Post

        One of the most important is asking where they get their traffic from.

        If they don't tell me, I don't buy. Many Solo Ad vendors that I've used have told me truthfully.
        Transparency is also something I value.

        I've seen ad vendors do a FAQ with questions
        like, "where did you get your traffic from? and
        "how big is your list/click thru rate" and outright
        say, "It doesn't matter if I'm getting you clicks,
        right, RIGHT?!"

        No. Actually. It DOES matter. It determines the
        quality and value of the clicks you're trying to
        sell me.

        Originally Posted by Mark Pescetti View Post

        TravlinGuy pegged it. Write compelling subject lines that get your emails opened and connect with the emotions your target audience is feeling. If you're right (about your triggers,) you'll get a high rate of qualified clickthrus. If you unsuccessfully target the emotions your audience is feeling, it doesn't what list you buy traffic from, you'll fail.

        Focus on the copy and you'll make a goldmine out of lists that other marketers are consistently losing money with.
        Good secret, thanks.

        Originally Posted by wrcato2 View Post

        Solo ad businesses sounds a lot like safelist marketing, with the exception buying solo ads.

        I am going to have to investigate this a little closer. Don't get me wrong the numbers I have seen on some of the sites sound impressive, just not sure yet.

        Gosh dog, ...
        Solo Ad marketing is a great addition to your
        strategy provided their are solo ads you can
        actively buy in your niche (i.e. MMO)



        Originally Posted by solos View Post

        Thanks for sharing this advice.

        I am interested in buying some solo ads here on the forum.

        I have only ever used other sites to purchase solos and am hoping to find some solos here.
        I will definatly take your advice when looking through the testimonials and reviews

        Great advice for a newbie member
        You're welcome, my friend.

        If you're in doubt, click the testimonial users
        profile to look at their history. Also, look at thier
        signature links to see if they're selling solos.

        If so, place a lot less weight on their review, and
        not a whole lot on others.



        Originally Posted by antoniobrave View Post

        I stopped using solo ads a few months back.

        I split test my pages and many of the solo ads gave me dead traffic (atleast the ones from safe swap) - the traffic would never open my emails.
        But the traffic from other paid sources and independent solo ad dealers would convert on the same offer like gangbusters -- on a consistent basis.

        I highly suggest you find your own solo ad providers to deal with. They aren't cheap but they're worth it.

        I use trafficjunky for all of my dating and adult marketing
        Admob for mobile
        and I have a few others but i cant give those a way...

        however, you might enjoy this list, which is different from the one posted above.

        http://www.warriorforum.com/ad-netwo...c-sources.html
        Excellent list (yet again).

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        • Profile picture of the author solos
          Banned
          Originally Posted by Joe Benjamin View Post



          You're welcome, my friend.

          If you're in doubt, click the testimonial users
          profile to look at their history. Also, look at thier
          signature links to see if they're selling solos.

          If so, place a lot less weight on their review, and
          not a whole lot on others.



          Thanks for this advice I will definatly use this when looking to purchase solos here on the WF
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          • Profile picture of the author jamescanz
            Ask them as many questions as possible (which might include)

            1) Where do you get your traffic from?

            After buying 'a good amount' of solos, I figured out quickly that many traffic sources just flat out suck.

            2) What offers does your list like best?


            "Make money online" isn't a good enough answer. Do they like headlines such as "Make X amount in X time?". "Do they want to know how to build a list?" "Do they want to know how to send traffic to their offer?" Etc

            3) Ask for testimonials

            Everyone's idea of a 'good solo' is basically relative. So if testimonials aren't giving enough information from the solos, that might be telling you something. "Awesome solo" doesn't cut it (for me at least)

            4) When can will you have your traffic sent out by?

            Self explanatory

            5) Do you use a rotator?

            I won't get down to the details of that one, but I'd rather not buy a solo from someone using one.

            6) What are you prices / Ask about discount
            s

            Why not?

            Hope this helps
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      • Profile picture of the author koreancowboy
        Originally Posted by antoniobrave View Post

        I stopped using solo ads a few months back.

        I split test my pages and many of the solo ads gave me dead traffic (atleast the ones from safe swap) - the traffic would never open my emails.
        But the traffic from other paid sources and independent solo ad dealers would convert on the same offer like gangbusters -- on a consistent basis.

        I highly suggest you find your own solo ad providers to deal with. They aren't cheap but they're worth it.

        I use trafficjunky for all of my dating and adult marketing
        Admob for mobile
        and I have a few others but i cant give those a way...

        however, you might enjoy this list, which is different from the one posted above.

        http://www.warriorforum.com/ad-netwo...c-sources.html
        I've been seeing trafficjunky pop up quite a bit lately, I should check them out.
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  • Profile picture of the author Velant
    Originally Posted by Joe Benjamin View Post



    So I thought I would share one of my secrets to
    picking solo-ads...and if you like, you can share
    a secret...or two...or three of your own.

    Here is one of mines...

    Be Weary Of Testimonials...Especially From OTHER
    Solo-Ad Vendors

    That's not really a secret, just an obvious common sense. When I saw your title I thought you were indeed sharing something useful.
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  • Profile picture of the author Robert Montgomery
    My secret which isn't a secret its just my strategy I use is to buy small and test if I get good results I will buy bigger packages wash and repeat. As for testimonials I never even acknowledge them anymore anyway most of them seem like cheesy BS.
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    • Profile picture of the author mrfarshay
      I disagree with this strategy starting small then scaling. When I see people buy 50 clicks or even 100, its just to small to get any real results. You may get lucky but your better off with 200 to 300 as a test. Most Solo Sellers will mail 2x to get the job done and that usually means a higher over delivery , more subs and the chance to hit more buyers.

      To small of a test you could write a good seller off to quickly
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      • Profile picture of the author kafirpandir
        i also are struggling with freebies, oto ,front end, upsell,downsell and high ticket

        they just teach the how's and not give ample examples

        which products converts best ? they don't tell you
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  • Profile picture of the author Malcolm Thomas
    It's always important when buying solo ads to make sure that you are actually purchasing quality leads. Due diligence is required whenever you are purchasing solo ads
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  • Profile picture of the author wrcato2
    When I was advertising with solo ads four years ago, the best advice I can give anyone is to test and track your ads. If you're not testing and tracking It's not advertising, just public relations.
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    • Profile picture of the author focusedlife
      Glad I found this thread...amazing resource.

      Just bought my first solo ad and have to say...I'm a little addicted so far.

      Had a 40% optin rate conversion and 1 sale out of 100 clicks....

      Its a bit exciting and of course a bit nerve racking as I await and see if my offers or future emails lead to sales of these folks.

      I'll be playing more with some othjer resources but so far...I don't understand why anyone would not use solo ads as part of their online advertising....especially affiliate and mlm marketing.

      Thanks for all of the resources folks. very cool.

      Regards

      Los
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  • Profile picture of the author martimoney
    Hit up product owners in your niche and see if they will send your ad to their customer lists. Many won't, but some may surprise you and do it. It usually cost more but the leads are much better quality from my experience. Not nearly as easy to do in the I.M niche, but other niches some product owners are surprised you are willing to pay them to email to their list at all.
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  • Profile picture of the author Charles AK
    I usually like to test out different sellers with small solo ad's, then if those solo ads work out I buy their biggest package, my end goal is to make my money back and if I can't do that I will look for someone who has a responsive list, solo ads work in a lot of niches besides internet marketing also.
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  • My "solo ad secrets" are basically me asking the provider a few questions like:
    1. Can I see the squeeze page used for creating your list?
    2. How do you acquire your traffic?
    3. Can I see some testimonials?
    4. Which offers do your list prefer?
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    • Profile picture of the author dkla27
      Originally Posted by Frederik Jorgensen View Post

      1. Can I see the squeeze page used for creating your list?
      How about asking them to put you on the list so that you can see what they send out? Is that ever an option?

      Sorry if the answer is obvious but I 've never bought solo ads (I use other sources). Just curious...
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    • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
      Originally Posted by Charles AK View Post

      I usually like to test out different sellers with small solo ad's, then if those solo ads work out I buy their biggest package, my end goal is to make my money back and if I can't do that I will look for someone who has a responsive list, solo ads work in a lot of niches besides internet marketing also.


      Start small. Always. Good secret.

      Originally Posted by jamescanz View Post

      Ask them as many questions as possible (which might include)

      1) Where do you get your traffic from?

      After buying 'a good amount' of solos, I figured out quickly that many traffic sources just flat out suck.

      2) What offers does your list like best?


      "Make money online" isn't a good enough answer. Do they like headlines such as "Make X amount in X time?". "Do they want to know how to build a list?" "Do they want to know how to send traffic to their offer?" Etc

      3) Ask for testimonials

      Everyone's idea of a 'good solo' is basically relative. So if testimonials aren't giving enough information from the solos, that might be telling you something. "Awesome solo" doesn't cut it (for me at least)

      4) When can will you have your traffic sent out by?

      Self explanatory

      5) Do you use a rotator?

      I won't get down to the details of that one, but I'd rather not buy a solo from someone using one.

      6) What are you prices / Ask about discount
      s

      Why not?

      Hope this helps
      Great questions. I never thought to ask about
      rotator scripts.

      Rotator scripts, in case someone wants to know,
      are scripts that automatically redirect to another
      offer after the click thru quota has been met.

      This is possible with blind copy so when someone
      opens an email that says "Check this out PLEASE!",
      followed by body copy that says, "This is a money
      maker, check it out".

      If you and 2 or 3 other people (maybe more, who
      knows) pay for a solo ad the same day, the way
      some of them will fit you all in is NOT by sending
      out multiple solos the same day UNIQUE to your
      offer...

      ...it's by rotating your offer in the same blind copy
      email links.

      Maximizing profits for the solo ad vendor...while all
      the while you're getting screwed with lesser quality
      clicks.

      This wouldn't be a problem if vendors were upfront
      about it and charged LESS per click BECAUSE of this
      practice...but most people simply don't know what
      they don't know...and vendors do it without being
      questioned because they too figure it's okay since
      they're not asking.

      So when the offer doesn't convert or the leads don't
      respond after opt-ing in, buyers think it's something THEY
      are doing wrong.

      ...when, in some cases, it was the quality of the lead
      itself.

      Then again, a lot of offers also suck, so that doesn't
      help if the leads are no-good because it's harder to
      know for certain which is which.

      That's why I recommend making sure you know for a
      FACT how your offer, squeeze page, etc converts so
      when you DO drive leads with solos you know it's the
      quality of THEIR leads and/or bad targeting.


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      • Profile picture of the author jamescanz
        Originally Posted by Joe Benjamin View Post

        Rotator scripts, in case someone wants to know,
        are scripts that automatically redirect to another
        offer after the click thru quota has been met.
        Yup that's them.

        I have no problem with them, but I have been lied to (many times) about someone saying they don't use them, when in fact, they did.

        It's pretty obvious when someone is, especially when you watch the clicks come in as 'tediously' as I do.

        I saw the copy of the email too because it showed up in my tracking. The link said "Click here to watch the video" ...

        When I don't have any type of video what-so-ever, and of course...

        Ended up getting an abysmal 20% optin because of that

        So yea, long story short.

        Asking the questions might not always get you the appropriate answer ...

        But it's still better than not asking at all.
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        • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
          Originally Posted by jamescanz View Post

          Yup that's them.

          I have no problem with them, but I have been lied to (many times) about someone saying they don't use them, when in fact, they did.

          It's pretty obvious when someone is, especially when you watch the clicks come in as 'tediously' as I do.

          I saw the copy of the email too because it showed up in my tracking. The link said "Click here to watch the video" ...

          When I don't have any type of video what-so-ever, and of course...

          Ended up getting an abysmal 20% optin because of that

          So yea, long story short.

          Asking the questions might not always get you the appropriate answer ...

          But it's still better than not asking at all.
          What tracking software do you use, James?

          That 20% opt-in is exactly why I don't deal with
          vendors who use them.

          They are designed to benefit the vendor to get
          their clicks *out the way* so they can move on
          to the next.

          As you've said, rotator scripts aren't bad. It's just
          bad when you're lied to about not using them.

          If a vendor DID use a rotator, I KNOW the clicks
          are less targeted, and therefore I would pay LESS
          for the service.

          They, too, know this would be the case and try
          to avoid the discussion altogether. Or, in your
          case, lie about it when asked.

          I personally haven't had the problem. I deal with
          outside sources.

          Some call it more risky because these are the
          people who aren't advertising their services and
          who may not have reviews...but it's a risk I found
          worth taking, even if I did lose a few hundred $$$
          looking for the a good *undiscovered* vendor.

          I can imagine most people are more comfortable
          with getting rotator clicks then testing an unproven
          vendor who isn't advertising a solo ad service.

          ...and this is one of the reasons why it works.

          I take the risk of losing the money if they run with
          it...but I benefit greatly if they follow on their end
          of the deal simply because no one else is using
          them or the vendor doesn't care to advertise the
          service.

          It's high risk = high reward.

          Thanks for sharing.

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  • Profile picture of the author Todd Pedersen
    one of my best tips i can give you when it comes to solo ads (and this can be used for list building in general)

    most people struggle coming up with a free offer and then a product so all you do is:

    forget about creating a free offer and go ahead and create your product

    then say if you have 10 videos or 20 pages in a PDF for your product you give away say 3 free videos or 5 pages from your ebook as your free offer

    doing this saves you a tonne of time and will also increase your conversions because you can market your product as an "upgrade" as appose to a separate product

    i have been doing this for over 2 years and it works great
    Thanks for the input Paul. That is a very nice idea. I will try it out!!
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  • Profile picture of the author Ed Micah
    One of my biggest secret in solo ads is that, we all know that the deliverability is as important as the sales page, and the products.

    Reason being is that if the email doesn't arrive safely into the subscribers inbox, no matter how hard we work on the sales page, the swipe file, the product, the sales funnel, they are not going to see it.

    So this is a little tip how you can do it.

    Make an account in all of the popular email providers as as, Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, Msn, Live, AOL, etc, and etc. And subscribe all of them to your list.

    This way when you send a broadcast/newsletter next time, you'll know whether if you're email arrives safely into the subscribers inbox.

    This could happen due to a various factors, but the most important one is that you get to know whether if your email triggers any of the emails' spam filters.

    Hope this helped!
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  • Profile picture of the author celente
    nice tip from ED.

    my thing with solo ads is this.

    TEST 1

    TEST 2

    TEST 3

    one of these, with different subject lines and also message, offer, will convert way better than the other two. Then you know which offer and copy to use when you find a better solo ad provider.
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    • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
      Originally Posted by Frederik Jorgensen View Post

      My "solo ad secrets" are basically me asking the provider a few questions like:
      1. Can I see the squeeze page used for creating your list?
      2. How do you acquire your traffic?
      3. Can I see some testimonials?
      4. Which offers do your list prefer?
      Good questions.

      You forgot one more.

      "WHY are you offering solo ads to your list?"

      I want to know if they're selling solo's as a
      way to pay their BILLS, or as a part of their
      overall business online business strategy.

      Originally Posted by dkla27 View Post

      How about asking them to put you on the list so that you can see what they send out? Is that ever an option?

      Sorry if the answer is obvious but I 've never bought solo ads (I use other sources). Just curious...

      It IS an option.

      Just know that if you're going toask to
      be put on their list, you'renot going
      to get all their follow-up emails right
      away.

      ...and you're also not going to be put
      on ALL their list if they have more than
      one. And if they sell solo's, it's almost
      a sure thing they have more than one list.


      Originally Posted by Ed Micah View Post

      One of my biggest secret in solo ads is that, we all know that the deliverability is as important as the sales page, and the products.

      Reason being is that if the email doesn't arrive safely into the subscribers inbox, no matter how hard we work on the sales page, the swipe file, the product, the sales funnel, they are not going to see it.

      So this is a little tip how you can do it.

      Make an account in all of the popular email providers as as, Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, Msn, Live, AOL, etc, and etc. And subscribe all of them to your list.

      This way when you send a broadcast/newsletter next time, you'll know whether if you're email arrives safely into the subscribers inbox.

      This could happen due to a various factors, but the most important one is that you get to know whether if your email triggers any of the emails' spam filters.

      Hope this helped!
      I've always done Yahoo and gMail tests,
      never the others.

      I know I should be doing this. Thanks.
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      • Originally Posted by Joe Benjamin View Post

        Good questions.

        You forgot one more.

        "WHY are you offering solo ads to your list?"

        I want to know if they're selling solo's as a
        way to pay their BILLS, or as a part of their
        overall business online business strategy.
        Great question, thanks a lot Joe :-)
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  • Thank you for this information extremely helpful.
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  • Profile picture of the author PeakPerformance
    I am about to purchase m first solo, but have not found a seller yet. I emailed one that advertise here on the forum. I asked: have you mailed a similar offer to mine before, and if so, how did it convert? He answered he had mailed this affiliate offer a couple of weeks back, and results vary and were never guaranteed. When I asked back for a clarification, he became impatient and pretty much asked me to find another seller.

    I understand that sellers become sick of all the newbie questions. What I want to say here is that asking questions dont always work. A recommandation from a buyer, listing niche and results, would be much better, lol!
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  • Profile picture of the author taralomas
    Thanks for sharing.
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  • Profile picture of the author xxxJamesxxx
    Everything been said really - the only thing I can add is don't solely depend on solos.

    They're great and all (when you find a goodun') but you should ALWAYS diversify your traffic sources.

    Keep growing and expending your traffic sources, paid or free... It doesn't matter just keep learning and expanding your sources.

    That way, if you lose your solo sellers for whatever reason (and trust me - this can happen easier than you think for various reasons) ...You'll always have something to fall back on.

    So keep learnin' & earnin' folks

    James Scholes
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  • Profile picture of the author Vikky B
    I always prefer to start small - create a landing page and send out a 50 click solo or something close to that to that page. If it converts well, then order more. Eventually, solo ads may not work and you must consider PPC or PPV once you know the landing page converts well. Be kind to your list and you will make some great sales...
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    • Profile picture of the author mcsl
      Most things have been said here already, but it's also good to ask if the solo includes sellers in their list . Some solo ad vendors send regardless of it being also including their buyers, but more savy solo vendors segregate them and charge more to send to them.
      And yes, it's good to track the destination of the clicks.
      Also ask where most of the list are from geographically. If you intend to monetize, no offence but most English speaking countries in Western Society are highly more responsive to offers than others.
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  • Profile picture of the author Cliff Carrigan
    As I was reading through this thread I ran across one who said he really doesn't like to do business with people who use rotation scripts.

    While I 'get' where he was coming from (a possible way to hide real traffic source, which isn't from actual emails), I also see the other side of that coin.

    I have to use a rotation script - There is no option for me. For example, if I mail out to my IM niche, I know in advance that I'm going to get x hundred clicks from that mailing. But if the buyer only bought 100 clicks, then he would be getting way more than he paid for... Good for him, terrible for me since it's causing me to give away the vast majority of my list. - Next point is that sometimes I might have 3-4 orders to fill on the same day. The rotation script allows me to write a single email that 'works' for all of the orders, and allows me to tell it how many to send to each order/url, and then what to do with any remaining clicks.

    So, a person using a rotation script may not be a bad idea in general since they may be using it because their lists are large enough to fill multiple small orders in a single run.

    I think the big thing is to ask the seller why he is using a rotation script - Then use your gut to determine if you think he is telling the truth.

    My big secret for success with solo ads... Do the opposite of other people. Most people doing solo ads tend to try to be on the generic side in order to get the most opt-ins. I however lean toward tightly focused micro-niche inside the larger niche so that the opt-ins I get are much more likely to respond to my follow-up series. (not saying the other way is wrong - Just saying that this is how I do it and it works well for me).
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  • Profile picture of the author mrfarshay
    Here's a trick or a concept I guess:

    When I buy a solo ad ofcourse I want sales but I'm more concerned with getting opt ins and building a relationship. The old school way of sending subscribers to a sales page then hammering for 7 to 10 days with OTO'S doesn't work that well any more in my opinion.

    My method is to give them gifts of value, try to convince them to connect with me on Skype, FaceBook or Google+. I want the subscribers to see I am real and actually make a good amount of money from internet marketing. Yes, this can take time but I pull those subs that are on 10 lists away from what they are use to seeing back into buy mode after building a monster relationship.

    Solo's still work just think outside the box
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  • Profile picture of the author h20sdavid
    Thanks guys lots of good information. I've just started marketing my site etc and your information has been great. I've been doing the solo ads and started slow but it has increased. I made mine very personal bit about myself and why emailed them and the offer and wow out of my first 47 have one opt in which was cool. First time ever doing this.
    Now what I have read above will make things a lot easier
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  • Profile picture of the author Erzael
    Thanks for sharing. I'm new to solo ads, so I'll look forward to see, if it's possible for me to make money with it.
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  • Profile picture of the author devonm
    I had a Solo ad site with the script personally installed by Myself. Want to get back into that as OWNER, rather than a subscriber/whatever the case. After a few parts of a bitcoin, I should buy a domain and hosting for this return to business, after a VERY long hospital stay. Get back into the game.
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  • Profile picture of the author Regional Warrior
    [DELETED]
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    • Profile picture of the author shaunybb
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  • Profile picture of the author pamogatrw
    i would want to take my solo ads to a higher level using self hosted Autoresponder

    any thought
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  • Profile picture of the author wakyah
    so whos is still actively doing this ?
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  • Profile picture of the author atheistberiman
    is solo ads still kicking these days ?
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  • Profile picture of the author laknatkafir
    any progress on this thread ?
    Signature

    My Signature

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  • Profile picture of the author keldaidap
    any good ebooks or coaching here at WF that is good for solo ads ?
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  • Profile picture of the author atheistberkurap
    any good results with mailbulk emailer or dangerous emailer ? or still using AW, GR ?
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  • Profile picture of the author booiransyiah
    i would pay for coaching in solo ads business ...so hard to find reputable solo ads coach nowdays
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  • Profile picture of the author kerunai
    my tips :

    1. test with small amount first and scale
    2. test all variables untill you got the perfect blend of landing pages
    3. test swipe files of emails
    4. expand sales funnel ..believe in yourself dude ...what's stopping you from selling high ticket items ?
    5. always plan ahead ...how much are you willing to spend in order to achieve your desired income next years to come..
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  • Profile picture of the author maxsi
    I have 2 secrets:

    (1) I use PS clicks by working with my biz partners (very cheap and powerful)
    (2) transform the single lead into 2 optins (pretty powerful method)

    just think outside the box
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  • Profile picture of the author tyronne78
    Here are a few tips if you're going to buy solo ads:

    -Have an awesome lead magnet (this will help with conversions on your squeeze page)
    -Always drive traffic to a squeeze page so you can build a list
    -Solo ads are great if you're in the internet marketing/biz-opp niche
    -Never send solo ad traffic directly to a sales page
    -Have an effective followup strategy in place
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  • Profile picture of the author khalifahhudud
    hi all ..plz help me ...i just started my solo ads campaign but

    1. i don't know what to give as freebies ..any good recommendation plz?
    2. i don't have front-end and OTO yet ... any ideas bro ?
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  • Profile picture of the author salam541
    you are not sure that the vendor will sent u click from his buyers or freebie seekers list,i m sure he will not give his buyers that took him years of works to collect educate and build relationship with/
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