[Fernando Veloso]

Originally Posted by JR Griggs

I know that AP said he does all the directory submissions himself. Has anyone found a quick way to do this? I thought about outsourcing but I too would be concerned about someone screwing it up.

The times that I have done it for a company it takes forever. I started using Roboform and creating profiles for each client and that way it made it a bit easier. But it still took a long time, but I submit to a ton of directories.

I also use social bookmarking for the clients too, but I outsource that. I have been too lazy to setup my own social bookmarking sites and submitter.

Hey JR

Chris (and Lilly) and a wonderful WSO you should check.

Let me find it for you.

Gotcha:

http://www.warriorforum.com/warrior-...tubemogul.html

Very, very useful.

[reilly3000]

Hey folks, I here's something I REALLY want to know, and I know ou guys can help with:

What does a conversion optimized web site look like for a local business, such as a pest control company or carpet cleaner?

I know how to do good landing pages for B2B, I know what a sales letter should look like... but what does the *ideal* local business site contain?

I know some basics:

- Phone number of every page.
- Clear value proposition
- SEO optimized navigation and content
- Call to action to join e-mail list
- Testimonials/Reviews
- Local optimization for address, etc
- Social Media links
- Coupon Offer

Here's my question- should the site be formated like a one page sales letter, the traditional 5 page brochure site, or something different?

Can anybody post (or PM in if concerned about privacy) some sites that are performing really well for your local business clients? Most of the conversion oriented literature out there isn't really design for the typical local business consumer looking for the local business website...

Thanks so much for your thoughts

[raskal]

Regarding Positioning- Do you have / what are your feelings on 8XX (Toll Free) numbers for your clients to call? Do you think that positions you as a "larger" firm/ Is it more convenient that's its toll free?

I know many work with local clients, most seem to prefer a local number but just looking to see what the consensus is.

[rrakausk]

Regarding Social Bookmarking - Every link builder I know who gets outstanding results always does it by hand rather than use software. A lot of those sites now need blurb which is on topic and useful (kinda like Google), and most are smart enough to figure what is machine automated.

If you provide specific guidelines for each site to be submitted to, oursourcing is a snip (in my experience anyway).

Also remember, a lot of these sites provide an RSS feed, which needs to be collected, aggregated and then sent to RSS directories.

I want to thank all posters in this thread for your engagement with this very broad topic. I think the basic premise is simple - find problems and fix 'em. But there are myriad ways of doing that. Every addition to the armoury of tools and tactics is beneficial no matter who offers it, because they will get used by somebody, somewhere for the betterment of someone elses business.

Stay Awesome!
Rick

[eflo]

Originally Posted by Andrew S

That is cool and that makes a lot of sense.

I read a quote last night that I think would go nicely with that:

"Prospects have to buy you before they buy what you offer."

Jay Abraham touches a little bit on building trust and a sense of connection by educating prospects, I was reading some of his stuff last night.

I'm thinking of setting up a drip marketing campaign through sendpepper - they fuse direct mail and an e-mail autoresponder. Direct mail only limited to postcard, though

Anywho, good stuff. I've learned more from your posts than most of the offline WSO's out there. Seriously.

The service I use for postcards / cards and what not is Send out Cards. Been fabulous so far, and it's actually landed my my current job.

[jacquic]

Originally Posted by raskal

Regarding Positioning- Do you have / what are your feelings on 8XX (Toll Free) numbers for your clients to call? Do you think that positions you as a "larger" firm/ Is it more convenient that's its toll free?

I know many work with local clients, most seem to prefer a local number but just looking to see what the consensus is.

Originally Posted by raskal

Regarding Positioning- Do you have / what are your feelings on 8XX (Toll Free) numbers for your clients to call? Do you think that positions you as a "larger" firm/ Is it more convenient that's its toll free?

I know many work with local clients, most seem to prefer a local number but just looking to see what the consensus is.

Our UK version is 0800.

In real terms the cost of our calls has come down a lot over the last 10 years and we see little difference in response rates now. For national firms, that might be different.

Probably unfairly, if I see an 0800 number, I now assume it means a franchise and expensive services! Of course, if it were for a public service (like a government debt or flood help site), that would be fine, and probably expected.

As far as Google Local/Maps goes, I gather it does make a difference. An 0800 number (or mobile/cell phone number for that matter) means Google doesn't see it as local as it can't 'tell' and that can count against you.

For local listings I'd go for a local number, but you could always split test.

Regards

Jacqui

[RainDrop]

Has anyone tried CreativePro Office ?
I haven't tried it yet, but it looks like it might be a good fit for some of us, (and its free)



"CreativePro Office is the most complete set of online office management tools you're likely to find at any price - and it's completely free! Manage your team, clients, projects, invoices, events and quotes (coming soon) from one web-based application.


CreativePro Office is well suited for both independent professionals and small teams of graphic designers, programmers and web developers."

----

Also, I agree that Zoho CRM is awesome because it is so user friendly, I have showed complete morons how to use it!! You can do quite a bit with the free version. It is somewhat customizable, too. It's web-based so you don't have to worry about installs.

[slvrsrfr]

Originally Posted by reilly3000

Hey folks, I here's something I REALLY want to know, and I know ou guys can help with:

What does a conversion optimized web site look like for a local business, such as a pest control company or carpet cleaner?

I know how to do good landing pages for B2B, I know what a sales letter should look like... but what does the *ideal* local business site contain?

I know some basics:

- Phone number of every page.
- Clear value proposition
- SEO optimized navigation and content
- Call to action to join e-mail list
- Testimonials/Reviews
- Local optimization for address, etc
- Social Media links
- Coupon Offer

Here's my question- should the site be formated like a one page sales letter, the traditional 5 page brochure site, or something different?

Can anybody post (or PM in if concerned about privacy) some sites that are performing really well for your local business clients? Most of the conversion oriented literature out there isn't really design for the typical local business consumer looking for the local business website...

Thanks so much for your thoughts

Have a look at this one.

Edmonton Alberta Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Clinic: Dr. Barry Lycka | Cosmetic Dermatology, Liposuction, Botox, Collagen, Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve

I think this is guy is pretty close to what I'd like to see for a client's website (he's not my client). He's a student of Glazer/Kennedy. Though there are some things I can think of to help him improve.

Sales pages are good for us, but for folks looking for your regular offline business, you want to give them value. Give them info that they find useful and try to capture their info.

First seek to give and you then shall receive.

Hope this helps,

Jason

[HypnoticTonic]

regarding toll free numbers.
I slightly remember Gary Halbert mentioning that local numbers pulled better responses then toll free numbers.
I think I also remember he drove traffic to a phone number rather then a website.
I haven't checked out his site in a while though.
comments?

[Dexx]

Hey AP,

Going waaayy back, you mentioned that you have clients on a 12-month agreement.

SO at the end of the 12 months, what is the general thing you do next?

Will you review the results of the past 12 months and then propose to increase fees or leave?

Do you just have the agreement auto-renew until the client wishes to cancel?

Do you contact the client at month 9-10 and discuss the next year's agreement etc?

Just curious,

~Dexx

[Venturetothetop]

Originally Posted by Kristen

I'm thrilled Venturetothetop had to post his reply. Otherwise we would not have gotten info on apprenticing.

Thankyou Kristen, nice of you say...

I cannot state enough the concept of learning practically - ie apprenticing

I was lucky enough to be brought up in business environment so learnt little things that built up over the years... Don't expect to learn this business in '30 days' or any of that rubbish i often hear... and learning by working with someone successful is the best way...

Some steps to becoming an apprentice:

1) Know your reasons why you want to become an apprentice, know what you are prepared to do to gain the experience (relocate, take a course etc). Any potential mentor will ask you that question and judge in seconds if you are serious or will simply waste their time..

2) Have or develop a quality which will make you a valuable apprentice (and I dont just mean you make a good cup of tea). When I first started as an apprentice with my father I simply did his book keeping. He put all the invoices and stuff together and I simply logged them all and added them up. I got to see the whole business from the accounts and he got relieved of a boring job. When I was 100% with this, then greater jobs came along...

Naturally most people won't let a stranger anywhere near their books, but try to offer something which although easy (all i did was add up), will save your mentor time... and therefore make them more inclined to take you on.

3) Choose a good mentor who you are going to approach (dont approach multiple people, that's unfair, stupid and you will easily get caught out as people talk...) pick someone who you think is special and focus on convincing them

The mentor should not be in any competing district (if they are, why would they train a competitor??!)

4) Put the work in to contact your mentor. A simple PM will not do. If you like someone on here, then reply with good comments to their posts. Don't just say you liked what they said, tell them what exactly hit you, how it will change you and what your next step will be.

Make, it easy for the potential mentor to understand that you understand them, show them you appreciate what they have to say, and prove you are a mover, so that they may even start following you...
Everyone likes success stories, so be one for your mentor... (sure way to get noticed)

If they have a blog etc, join it and write good comments to their posts. (This is how one student convinced me to take him under my wing and he does very well now)

Leanring a business takes time, so be prepared to put in the effort to keep in front of your mentor. Quality replies to my blog over a period of time would surely get my attention, and I'm sure to start replying to dedicated commentors on my blog... If it works for me, I see no reason why it would not work for others..

When you get dialog back from the mentor, then and then only is the time to ask for a little more.... a phone call, a few steps of guidance in your career and then take it from there... Build the relationship, dont force it.

Securing a mentor can be hard work, but if you put in the effort, you prove to the mentor, that you also are worth their effort...

I hope that helps some of you...

Dee

[Dexx]

Originally Posted by sb

I like these guys: Universal Business Listings for Online Yellow Pages, Search Engines, Local Directories and 411 Directory Assistance

Awesome find!

Gonna take a close look at these guys, I'd be curious to know if AP would ever consider a service like this, or if he prefers to continue the manual route?

Seems like for $30/year we could charge business quite a lot for just this service alone!

Hell I might even use it as a lead generation tool for when I attend an upcoming Chamber of Commerce meeting:

"Current promotion of a Universal Business Listing to get your business massive exposure across the various online business directories ($5,000 value) done at our expense if this card redeemed within 48hours" type thing (I rushed writing this, but you get the idea)

I mean if a company is willing to spend $5,000 for a full-page Yellowpage ad in JUST their local city...I'd think the value of such exposure across most of the online business directories would be a muchy better value (not to mention the ability to track visitors from them to their websites)

Thoughts?

~Dexx

[eflo]

Originally Posted by AP

The people who run the Local Chambers are morons. Housewives with absolutely NO marketing skills whatsoever. They act like YOU are the lucky one to join their organization, NOT.

Clueless, mindless, idiots.

I have never met one Chamber that did any good for any of it's members, very similar to Unions.

Take your dues and nothing in return.

Every single WF member knows 10x more about marketing than those clueless %^*@!

I agree for the most part that they're lacking in marketing skills in general, however I'm a previous member of the Vancouver Board of Trade, and the Burnaby Board of Trade (in BC, Canada) and they've actually proven to be quite useful at creating networking opportunities, as well as giving USEFUL discount to their membership base (eg:Gas cards, Merchant accounts, etc).

The smaller chambers lack this generally speaking, but there are exceptions to every rule

[Kristen]

Originally Posted by Dexx

Awesome find!

Gonna take a close look at these guys, I'd be curious to know if AP would ever consider a service like this, or if he prefers to continue the manual route?

Seems like for $30/year we could charge business quite a lot for just this service alone!

Hell I might even use it as a lead generation tool for when I attend an upcoming Chamber of Commerce meeting:

"Current promotion of a Universal Business Listing to get your business massive exposure across the various online business directories ($5,000 value) done at our expense if this card redeemed within 48hours" type thing (I rushed writing this, but you get the idea)

I mean if a company is willing to spend $5,000 for a full-page Yellowpage ad in JUST their local city...I'd think the value of such exposure across most of the online business directories would be a muchy better value (not to mention the ability to track visitors from them to their websites)

Thoughts?

~Dexx

Dexx,

Click on the Everywhere link on their home page. It is the graphic AP gave us awhile back (173). He said he uses them and his VA does some greyhat stuff. (794)

I like your lead generating idea. That is some kind of Irresistible Offer!

Kristen

[sdentrepreneur]

Just launched this product for all my offline retail business, Internet Training Education.
Sold several already, will let you all know how it goes.
My BlackBox Marketing - Home

James Hickey

[Curleyjohn]

Originally Posted by Venturetothetop

Thats it. Anyone could see that was a problem, but nobody took the reigns and said I will change it. The upselling manager was getting a bonus on his 1% sales increase and everyone else thought he was really clever for coming up with the idea... until I kicked his ass...

The problems are so obvious in most companies, but they never have time to stop working, sit back and ask the right questions. That is what they pay money to do.... and rightly so...

5) Whilst there I ask the same question to people: What do you think is wrong and what would you do to change it. Implement 3 simple changes that gets me noticed (job done)

These 3 statements say it all for me.The people that have the answers to the problems are right there.You just have to ask the questions.These are also the people that are pulling their hair out because nobody in management will listen to a word they say. These people don't have the positioning and they are the one who's opinions aren't valued. But when someone comes in and asks questions, listens and then takes action, they get a big fat check.

Moral of the story...you don't have to have all the answers, just listen.

Originally Posted by surf17

I am on page 23 now....whew outstanding, simple outstanding.

I wanted to take a few minutes and see what I could come up with

Maybe something like:

Want Quality Food?
Want Low Prices?
Want Outstanding Service with a Smile?

Never WANT again when you can HAVE at ............(insert name of restaurant)
Guaranteed!!!!!

Maybe something like that. Let me see what else I can come up with.

Back to reading......

Thanks for input Keith but as you will find out, I think that its better if the customer works on this particular one with me. Just like the video that was posted.

Keith

Originally Posted by JR Griggs

I know that AP said he does all the directory submissions himself. Has anyone found a quick way to do this? I thought about outsourcing but I too would be concerned about someone screwing it up.

The times that I have done it for a company it takes forever. I started using Roboform and creating profiles for each client and that way it made it a bit easier. But it still took a long time, but I submit to a ton of directories.

It would be nice to know if AP does just the major ones like Yelp, Yahoo, etc. or if he does all of them. I'm with you, submitting to directories is a real pain in the ass. The first time I did it, I did about 20 directories and it literally took all day.

It would seem that for the less important (if there is such a thing) directories could be outsourced.

Its in the blue

[raskal]

Just wanted to say THANK YOU to all. I modified some of my tactics and forms from this thread and I just landed a great client. Most importantly they said Quote

" I feel comfortable with this, it is all laid out nicely and I look forward to the result"

I took the advice about positioning and got a great new client. Drafting up an agreement now.

TAKE ACTION. It can be done.

[rrakausk]

hey slvsrfr that link to the cosmetic surgeon was great.

I love the way he implicitly uses Oprah to add credibility, even though he never appeared on her show lol.

Great pice of copywriting and credibility building IMHO

[James Druman]

Originally Posted by Dexx

Awesome find!

Gonna take a close look at these guys, I'd be curious to know if AP would ever consider a service like this, or if he prefers to continue the manual route?

Seems like for $30/year we could charge business quite a lot for just this service alone!

Hell I might even use it as a lead generation tool for when I attend an upcoming Chamber of Commerce meeting:

"Current promotion of a Universal Business Listing to get your business massive exposure across the various online business directories ($5,000 value) done at our expense if this card redeemed within 48hours" type thing (I rushed writing this, but you get the idea)

I mean if a company is willing to spend $5,000 for a full-page Yellowpage ad in JUST their local city...I'd think the value of such exposure across most of the online business directories would be a muchy better value (not to mention the ability to track visitors from them to their websites)

Thoughts?

~Dexx

Seems like you'd be better off selling yourself than selling this--you'll either get clients who don't really understand what that means and/ or just don't understand why that's important. Keep in mind that a few days ago even the Dexx-man was unsure what a vertical directory was--yeah, I know that's a little different, but you know what I mean...

The reason the yellow pages sells for such a high price is because they've spent decades and decades ingraining into the business owners mind that they are worth that--which most of us now know is bull--and while convincing these businesses that the directories are important while you're making their head spin with all the other stuff is doable, I'm not so sure I'd count on it as your lead generation device.

I'd keep this one in your back pocket and count on it more for it's power as a tool than a selling point.

Just my opinion of course--you're way further along here than I am, Dexx. Keep the ideas coming though--I like how you're always throwing questions out there because there's obviously a lot we can still learn from you but you seem even more eager to learn than almost anyone on here. Probably why you're doing as good as you are.

cheers,
james

[James Druman]

Originally Posted by rrakausk

hey slvsrfr that link to the cosmetic surgeon was great.

I love the way he implicitly uses Oprah to add credibility, even though he never appeared on her show lol.

Great piece of copywriting and credibility building IMHO

I agree, and Jason said the guy was a Kennedy student, right? I could almost hear Kennedy talking when I read that copy...lol

[Dexx]

Originally Posted by dru-man

Seems like you'd be better off selling yourself than selling this--you'll either get clients who don't really understand what that means and/ or just don't understand why that's important. Keep in mind that a few days ago even the Dexx-man was unsure what a vertical directory was--yeah, I know that's a little different, but you know what I mean...

Oh don't get me wrong, what I said was just the general idea, I'd actually phrase it so its more results oriented and less-tech talk...

Perhaps something like:

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Online Business Directory Blast - New Customer Generation Service Promotes YOUR Business' Services and Products on the Top Visited Business Directories Online ($5,000 Value) at ZERO Expense to Your Business If Redeemed Before [Date Set for 48hrs From Now]

Originally Posted by dru-man

Just my opinion of course--you're way further along here than I am, Dexx. Keep the ideas coming though--I like how you're always throwing questions out there because there's obviously a lot we can still learn from you but you seem even more eager to learn than almost anyone on here. Probably why you're doing as good as you are.

cheers,
james

I'm always looking for ways to expand on my existing products and services, before I was just offering a Google Business Listing, I never realized the extent of the listing opportunities out there...I mean this knowledge alone will allow me to make the service even more impressive!

Everyone should always be eager to learn AND apply new things =)

Cheers,

~Dexx

[JRG]

Thanks for the Universal Business Listings tip. AP did say he uses them but the link that was posted was incorrect and I never did find the site. Definitely will be a good tool.

And the cosmetic site is awesome, very well done. Going in my bookmarks.

[DogScout]

Originally Posted by sdentrepreneur

Just launched this product for all my offline retail business, Internet Training Education.
Sold several already, will let you all know how it goes.
My BlackBox Marketing - Home

James Hickey

1st, I think it is too 'cheap' (too easy not to follow through, if it was $10,000 with more than $30,000 in value, it would be harder for a buyer to ignore. Just as IM wannabes spend $500 on products they never implement, so do all people.) -How many Magic Bullet buyers at 2k have gone past opening the box?-:confused:
2nd, business owners do not want to do that, they want it done for them. In my experience.
3rd even the ones you get to do it,without continued extreme support, like MMCs and follow-ups, most won't impalement it so no recurring income. (& a hit to your rep) "Oh, that's the guy that sold me that black box thing that was useless." (The fact he never used the info in it is inmaterial)

I base this on the area I live in with over ½ million small businesses and less and 200 DIY Dan Kennedy members WITH monthly face to face MMCs and 100% support & follow-up and 2 national conferences a year, all at $49/mo. (Though the conferences are extra)

I am sure you can sell them, but I think that is more of a reflection of the seller than the buyer. I do not see this as a long term hands off model. (My personal, completely, unsubstituted opinion):rolleyes:
Lol.

When you sell an item for enough that you can outsource and manage, you are managing your own rep as well as the results. Putting it in a small business owner's hands is like handing a 2 yr old a loaded gun.

(one reason MMO niche was such a horrible rap, in addition to the sociopaths in any niche, MMO relies on 2 yr olds to implement.) IMHO

[Curleyjohn]

Originally Posted by dru-man

Seems like you'd be better off selling yourself than selling this--you'll either get clients who don't really understand what that means and/ or just don't understand why that's important. Keep in mind that a few days ago even the Dexx-man was unsure what a vertical directory was--yeah, I know that's a little different, but you know what I mean...

The reason the yellow pages sells for such a high price is because they've spent decades and decades ingraining into the business owners mind that they are worth that--which most of us now know is bull--and while convincing these businesses that the directories are important while you're making their head spin with all the other stuff is doable, I'm not so sure I'd count on it as your lead generation device.

I'd keep this one in your back pocket and count on it more for it's power as a tool than a selling point.

I see what your saying but it is kind of a purple cow type mentality to do this for your prospect/client because it makes you unique. Project the image of giving more then you are getting.

Just my opinion of course--you're way further along here than I am, Dexx. Keep the ideas coming though--I like how you're always throwing questions out there because there's obviously a lot we can still learn from you but you seem even more eager to learn than almost anyone on here. Probably why you're doing as good as you are.

cheers,
james

Originally Posted by dru-man

I agree, and Jason said the guy was a Kennedy student, right? I could almost hear Kennedy talking when I read that copy...lol

Didn't it seem like it was all about him and not the value or service he provides? Sure it positioned him as an expert but just by the fact he has Dr. in front of his name that is accomplished. Although I suppose he may be able to charge more for his services because of the copy. If that is the case then yes, it's great copy.

see the blue

[JRG]

Originally Posted by Fernando Veloso

Hey JR

Chris (and Lilly) and a wonderful WSO you should check.

Let me find it for you.

Gotcha:

http://www.warriorforum.com/warrior-...tubemogul.html

Very, very useful.

Thanks! I have been paying $15 for someone here on the WF for social bookmarking but it is 150 sites. But it would be nice to have my own setup for submission.

[reilly3000]

Originally Posted by Dexx

Oh don't get me wrong, what I said was just the general idea, I'd actually phrase it so its more results oriented and less-tech talk...

Perhaps something like:

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Online Business Directory Blast - New Customer Generation Service Promotes YOUR Business' Services and Products on the Top Visited Business Directories Online ($5,000 Value) at ZERO Expense to Your Business If Redeemed Before [Date Set for 48hrs From Now]

I'm always looking for ways to expand on my existing products and services, before I was just offering a Google Business Listing, I never realized the extent of the listing opportunities out there...I mean this knowledge alone will allow me to make the service even more impressive!

Everyone should always be eager to learn AND apply new things =)

Cheers,

~Dexx

I found out about UBL back in Oct 2009. Got ALL excited. I thought I was sitting on a goldmine. I signed up for their agency program, set up a website, and sold their offering with a nice healthy markup to a few local businesses, including one with 26 locations. It was a nice check.

Here is the problem: we're into February, and I submitted MY business info to them on 10/19/2009. I am STILL not in Merchant Circle, nor many other important directories. My business was a good case study because I had just started a year ago and hadn't been picked up by Axiom/Localeze yet.

I already have a healthy sized list from pre-selling the service online, got a logo, drew up plans to hire a sales force to promote the thing, was going to setup a nice affiliate program etc... I was really going to build my business around selling high volumes of UBL service plus manual submission to a few other directories to many businesses at the same time at a price point that would dictate an easy one call close but still be profitable.

All of that is on ice right now and I'm doing my usual web stuff and moving into AP style consulting because UBL hasn't been able to prove to me its a reliable service. I know that is must work, they are recommended by lots of pros in the business, but all that I have asked said it can take 90 days plus to get any results from when you submit to them.

In testing, it has taken a VA 2 full days to to one listing run similar to what UBL promises. Plus you have to wait for several verification post cards. UBL also has some exclusive data sources you can't just submit to.

Finally, from Mike Blumenthal, a local search GENIUS: once you claim a listing, you own it. When you own it, UBL, info usa, etc CAN NOT HELP YOU. If you ever want to update hours of operation, a phone number, website, or just add a new product/service to the company description, YOU MUST GO TO EVERY LISTING YOU'VE CLAIMED MANUALLY. You *don't* want to do this.

Dexx, others, I hope I save you some spinning of your wheels because I have been down that road. Instead of charging low fees to give mass directory coverage to businesses, I think the model of charging $10K upfront and having UBL + manual submission be part of a package makes a whole lot more sense YOUR bottom line.

Feel free anybody to ask me questions about this. I've focused on this for the past several months, spoke with one of the founders of UBL a few times and several others in the local search business about what UBL can and cannot do. Likewise, if anybody has some ideas for me, send them my way.

[DogScout]

http://discerningimage.com/images/Of...keters1-10.pdf

http://discerningimage.com/images/Of...eters11-20.pdf

http://discerningimage.com/images/Of...eters21-30.pdf

[Dexx]

Originally Posted by Kristen

Dexx,

Click on the Everywhere link on their home page. It is the graphic AP gave us awhile back (173). He said he uses them and his VA does some greyhat stuff. (794)

I like your lead generating idea. That is some kind of Irresistible Offer!

Kristen

Heh, wow I'm such a ditz, I kept seeing AP post that image etc. but never actually understood where it was coming from, thought it was just a graphic he made of example places lol

Wow...I need to get more sleep!

Cheers,

~Dexx

[Kazooli]

Originally Posted by AP

Every single WF member knows 10x more about marketing than those clueless %^*@!

Halleluiah!

[JRG]

Yeah I would definitely not use UBL as something to resell. Then you are back to being a commodity. My thought was to offer it is a service in my full marketing package and not even mention it, just tell them I am submitting them to the directories. Too much of a headache to try and resell it in anyway. But doing it like AP does and then manually submit to the extra sites that UBL does not cover.

I applied for the affiliate account and I will just create accounts for clients. Not sure if the agency option is better unless it gives me a discount instead of a commission.

[James Druman]

Originally Posted by Dexx

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Online Business Directory Blast - New Customer Generation Service Promotes YOUR Business' Services and Products on the Top Visited Business Directories Online ($5,000 Value) at ZERO Expense to Your Business If Redeemed Before [Date Set for 48hrs From Now]

Ah, yes--sounding good now...lol

Originally Posted by Dexx

Everyone should always be eager to learn AND apply new things =)

Cheers,

~Dexx

100% correct on that one

[Dexx]

Originally Posted by JR Griggs

My thought was to offer it is a service in my full marketing package and not even mention it, just tell them I am submitting them to the directories.

Ya, this is what I had in mind to, not selling it as a service on its own, but including it within the "online branding" of the business.

I mean I was/am charging $497 - $997 just for a Google Business Listing!

So for $30, really even a handful more places getting listed is better than what I was doing (personally) before heh

For those that have used UBL, are you saing you got NO results with it, or just that SOME of the sites never ended up listing your business?

Did you try a manual submission to those same sites to see if they listed the business then?

Cheers,

~Dexx

[Dexx]

Originally Posted by reilly3000

...Finally, from Mike Blumenthal, a local search GENIUS: once you claim a listing, you own it. When you own it, UBL, info usa, etc CAN NOT HELP YOU. If you ever want to update hours of operation, a phone number, website, or just add a new product/service to the company description, YOU MUST GO TO EVERY LISTING YOU'VE CLAIMED MANUALLY. You *don't* want to do this...

Are you saying if you use the service to NOT claim any of the listings when directed to?

Will the business still be listed without claiming?

~Dexx

[JRG]

Another question for those using UBL. Are you paying renewal fees? Would probably not be a big deal if it is for a client I have an agreement with but just wondering what happens if you do not pay for renewal.

[reilly3000]

Originally Posted by Dexx

Are you saying if you use the service to NOT claim any of the listings when directed to?

Will the business still be listed without claiming?

~Dexx

To clarify, once you claim it then UBL and other services can't update the data and it must be updated manually.

One thing UBL offers is unlimited updates for a year for $30 ($20 if you're an agency), so you could theoretically update listings monthly across the web with new links, etc.

If you claim a listing say in InsiderPages, and MagicYellow you're then going to have to update those listings manually if there is EVER a change to the business information, they won't touch them.

Hope that makes sense.

Recommended to claim the important listings and use UBL to reach the rest.

[Dexx]

Originally Posted by JR Griggs

Another question for those using UBL. Are you paying renewal fees? Would probably not be a big deal if it is for a client I have an agreement with but just wondering what happens if you do not pay for renewal.

Additional Question on top of that:

Will the renewal request info be sent to YOU or the business' contact person based on the information submitted?

i.e. Is it possible for the business to NOT KNOW that we are using UBL, or will they receive promo information / renewal messages that their listing will be expiring soon (revealing the serviced used)?


~Dexx

[LouCyphre]

The parent company of UBL (Name Dynamics) was recently acquired a couple of weeks ago by a larger company. I'm curious what effect this reorganization will have on pricings and the services they provide, if any at all.

Might be something to ask about through a phone call with them before signing up as a new client, just to get an idea of what could be in store.

Chris

[jlmkt]

Two sites yo might find helpful with directory information:

Sorry I don't have enough posts to share these as clean links (substitute . for DOT), but these two sites can yield a lot of directory info -- both very different. I've never used either but bookmarked them several months ago when I was doing research on subject, just went back to review. Both free to use.


1. getlisted DOT org/
This seems to be a great resource for us to use, as well as for the small business owner. By entering a business name and zip code, getlisted will return the local business listings found on Google, Yahoo. Bing and Best of the Web for that business. It gives a score 0-100 about listings found and how to improve your score

ALSO you can create your own dashboard (signup with email and password) and save the information there for multiple businesses you might want to contact.

By clicking through to resources you'll find a wealth of information aboul "Local Search Marketing Advice, Tips, and News." Under "A Look at Important Data Providers & Second-Tier Search Engines" in the resource section you can find listing links to some of the major sites.

This is just a quick overview. From my short time there, very impressive site.


2. locallytype DOT com/pages/submit.htm

Looks like this was started by Frank Fuchs in Munich Germany. He calls it a "work in progress," his Guide On HowTo Get Your Business Listed On Major Local Search Engines, Yellow Pages Sites and Social Local Networks.

It includes quite a bit of information on how to list, update and delete for a good list of search engines, internet yellow pages, Meta Search Engines & Special Search Engines, Data Providers and Aggreators and Social Local Networking Sites / Local Web2.0

Along with USA, the list provides directory information for those in Germany, France and United Kingdom.

You can click through each link to reached the named directory.
Shows last updated 2007, but I checked his blog, which is current, and still points to this.

Hope this helps,
JL

P.S. Is there a better way to post links until forum rules allow me to?

[reilly3000]

Originally Posted by Dexx

Additional Question on top of that:

Will the renewal request info be sent to YOU or the business' contact person based on the information submitted?

i.e. Is it possible for the business to NOT KNOW that we are using UBL, or will they receive promo information / renewal messages that their listing will be expiring soon (revealing the serviced used)?


~Dexx

with the agency model UBL is invisible (per their design). You are invoiced for the renewal annually.

If you don't pay they take you out of their database. The directories that rely on them for data may or may not chose to purge your businesses record as a result.

[Tanner]

Today was a $5,000 dollar day.

I just published my first book on Amazon and the box of books I ordered showed up late yesterday. Today I was out, giving away a few books to some of my existing clients and I dropped in on my investment broker who I had done a website for a few years ago.

I really had planned on just dropping a book off as sort of a present, but as soon as he heard that I was now a published author, he cleared his schedule and took me to lunch to pick my brain on how he can get a book published.

Long story short, as soon as lunch was over he wrote me a check for $5,000 and told me he’d have a topic and an outline to me by Friday.

And I didn’t have to sell him anything…I just told him why I had written a book…credibility…expert status…etc. how quickly I made it happen…the next think I know he’s practically throwing money at me.

And the $5,000 dollar price I gave him….I had no idea what to say, cuz I hadn’t planned on selling anything, but I did remember that someone on this thread had posted that you could charge 5k easy for a book…so that’s what I said, and my broker didn’t even bat an eye, he just had his secretary cut me a check.

And what will I make off this little deal…

$600 - $1000 for the ghostwriter
$50 For a professional cover
$100 for professional editing and formatting
$300 - $500 for a box of 100 books for him to give away

Total Cost: $1650 Total Profit: $3350 (I know it’s not residual, but still not a bad days work)

Moral of the story…Push the book angle on your clients, appeal to their ego…it PAYS!

And my thanks to whoever posted the $5k price earlier in this thread!

[AP]

Advert Deleted.

[Dexx]

Wow AP, as always you are too much for words to even describe!

Thank you for the great resource links and the clarification on the service, as always you've made it a "no-brainer" and I will definitely be expanding this service offering into my new blueprint of services to blow away a client!

I may have been the first poster of this thread but you definitely OWN this thread Sir!

I would be more than humbled to take the first peek at this list of resources, which I'm sure will basically completely melt my brain with knowledge I never even thought of!

I'm the process of doing a big overhaul of my current marketing funnel to take advantage of all the new knowledge that has been acquired before I attend a Chamber of Commerce meeting later this month.

Oh, and my first book-proof with Amazon should be arriving this week and I plan to drop off a couple copies with Centres of Influence I know to really get the buzz going!

Then there's the new business cards, services, aye carumba!

What a busy start to 2010, but the pay off will be huge! (and hopefully everyone else has already started taking action as well!)

But for sure AP, I'm thinking you PM box is pretty full answering Qs (which is amazing how much time you have dedicated to helping others) so I'll shoot an email to your address above and then I'll provide a review should you happen to find time to compile your bookmark list =)

Cheers,

~Dexx

PS - If any of you are wondering, I'm pretty sure AP stands for Amazing Person...or Awesome Powers...something along those lines! ;-)

[AP]

Originally Posted by Dexx

Wow AP, as always you are too much for words to even describe!

PS - If any of you are wondering, I'm pretty sure AP stands for Amazing Person...or Awesome Powers...something along those lines! ;-)

Those aren't the words my ex-wife used.

[JRG]

AP, I remember you saying in a post to link to our Secretary of State business link?

[Aaron Moser]

AP, I like your style!

Do you brand and market yourself as an internet marketing consultant or a business improvement type of consultant?

Also are any of your books about internet marketing or are they offline business orientated?

Reason I ask is cause I feel that if we brand ourselves as internet marketing services it will just make us into a commodity that has to compete with the zillion other SEO/IM firms out there. By marketing ourselves as profit and ROI specialists we could demand a much higher fee for the same services.

I'm pretty sure this is the general conclusion that's being drawn from this thread. But for some instinctual reason when I went to create my site I immediately branded myself as web marketing solutions. Bought a domain and everything. Now I think it'd be better to re-brand my site to be more of a "profit/ROI specialist".

I can see how that would diffidently separate you from the pack.

Thanks.

[AP]

Originally Posted by JR Griggs

AP, I remember you saying in a post to link to our Secretary of State business link?

Yes, on your "About Us" page.

~AP

Originally Posted by JR Griggs

Are you talking about like a link to articles of incorporation?

Each state is different. But in my state you can do a search at the Sec of State online and they will list the Date of Incorporation, the Owners names, usually the Registered Attorney, etc.. it verifys you are who you say you are.

~AP

Originally Posted by Aaron Moser

AP,

Do you brand and market yourself as an internet marketing consultant or a general business consultant?

Also are your books about internet marketing or business in general?

Thanks.

The Big money is always Business Consultant. Not that there is anything wrong with Internet consultant. You won't get as much respect, referrals, or money as an "Internet guy."

I talk extensively about the power of the Internet with all my clients. They have NO doubt I know about every aspect of IM.

But I always Position myself as a Business Consultant.

Books are mostly Business, but I am completing one now about the Power of the Internet for Small Businesses.

I can tell you what my clients tell me. Oh, he's just some IM guy bugging me. He's calling me about some PPC crap. Some guy called me telling me He could get me #1 on Google. Business owners really don't like IM people, really! They don't understand the Internet. They feel like you're selling them a commodity.

I've actually been in their office when IM people call. It's very funny listening to their pitch.

My clients treat me like they do their attorney, with RESPECT. Not too many owners feel that way about IM people. My clients think that the Internet is just Part of what I do, and they know I do it well. I would personally be embarrassed if they called me their IM guy.

~AP

[JRG]

Originally Posted by AP

Yes, on your "About Us" page.

Are you talking about like a link to articles of incorporation?

[Aaron Moser]

Thanks AP,

Cool... Now I'm going to rebrand myself as the Gorden Ramsi (Kitchen Nightmares) of the business world. Come to think of it. That would make a damn good TV show.

I can imagine going around the office calling the employees morons and idiots like Gordon does. HaHA!

[jacquic]

Originally Posted by sdentrepreneur

Just launched this product for all my offline retail business, Internet Training Education.
Sold several already, will let you all know how it goes.
My BlackBox Marketing - Home

James Hickey

Good luck with this, and it's good to see the taking action. I went to the site and was left a little confused as to where the membership bit comes in. Also, how about a sign-up box so you can keep in contact with prospects?

Originally Posted by raskal

I took the advice about positioning and got a great new client. Drafting up an agreement now.

TAKE ACTION. It can be done.

That is so cool.

Now, I don't know if anyone else who has started repositioning themselves has noticed this but, now I'm a business 'expert', I hold myself and walk and talk differently - no looking apologetic for the 'easy' stuff I know.


DogScout, thank you for the PDFs - my thank you button has gone.

Have I used too many thank yous on the forum? (And is that a problem - I like to thank people who've taken the time to share.)

Originally Posted by Tanner

Today was a $5,000 dollar day.

I just published my first book on Amazon and the box of books I ordered showed up late yesterday. Today I was out, giving away a few books to some of my existing clients and I dropped in on my investment broker who I had done a website for a few years ago.

I really had planned on just dropping a book off as sort of a present, but as soon as he heard that I was now a published author, he cleared his schedule and took me to lunch to pick my brain on how he can get a book published.

Long story short, as soon as lunch was over he wrote me a check for $5,000 and told me he’d have a topic and an outline to me by Friday.

So good! Gives me an incentive to get on - it's not as if I haven't got anything. I think it was dealing with Amazon abroad that was making me drag my heels a bit (OK, no-one was making me...). I hope you get referrals from it too.


And once his book's done, it will be easier to upsell a monthly service to him.

And my thanks to whoever posted the $5k price earlier in this thread!

Originally Posted by AP

Yes, on your "About Us" page.

~AP



Each state is different. But in my state you can do a search at the Sec of State online and they will list the Date of Incorporation, the Owners names, usually the Registered Attorney, etc.. it verifys you are who you say you are.

~AP



But I always Position myself as a Business Consultant.

Amazing what difference it is making. Thank you all of you who have hammered this home. I think part of the problem is that when I know something, I think it's easy and forget I didn't know it once.


I've actually been in their office when IM people call. It's very funny listening to their pitch.

We get sales people calling us along these lines. When I say we do our own marketing and also for our clients, they still carry on with their pitch!

~AP

Have any of you lot held workshops and seminars a) on behalf of clients, and b) as part of your sales funnel? And what prices do you charge?

Jacqui

[reilly3000]

Hey all, what are your feelings on promotional products?

Pens, mugs, notepads, magnets, etc?

Spray and pray waste, or effective local marketing?

My gut reaction is that:
A. it had better be quality stuff
B. it should be usful and have a place in daily life
C. It has far more impact in the hands of a current client/prospect than a cold lead

For example, a couple of years ago I got a mailer from a realtor that included a nice list formated note pad. Very handy. Used the whole thing up, had his name in my house for a year. When I went house shopping, did I call him? NO. I called the lady from Zip Realty that send me e-mails with new homes in my target market and price range each week, and called every other month.

I have a relationship with my bank, and they give me pens all the time. Those pens filter out to my clients, family etc. Do the pens close a sale on a new checking account? NO WAY. But they do remind me about how I'm generally satisfied with them. I do tell my friends/family about how I really like them... Does it have anything to do with the pens?

I really don't know. I have clients ask me about promotional items and I don't have a solid answer. One of my web design clients is a promotional products vendor... so at least I know where to send people if needed.

Anybody using promo items to drive traffic to a website?