The First $1,000 Per Month Was Hard

63 replies
I did an interview with a guy and he did a great job of asking me questions about the beginning... about going from zero (just getting started online) and growing to around 1k per month.

He was mostly interested in that first 1k per month or so. I had to really think back to 2005 or so, and after the interview I kept thinking about it. Most are not interested or thinking about making a million... or even six figures.

They are thinking... 1k per month (if that).

So, times have changed a bit since 2004 and 2005, but the way I did it, still freaking works today! Here's to this hopefully helping one or two:

Stage One:
I spent a long time just reading people's posts here. I would follow people very closely and read everything I could find by Allen Says, John Reese, Mike Filsaime, Willie Crawford, Dr. Mani, Puddy, Keith Baxter, Dr Mike, many others.

I took no action though. I felt I was not ready yet. I felt like I needed to pay the price or put in the time, learn more about copywriting, be better at traffic, etc. Boy was I freaking wrong.

It was not until I realized that others were taking action without even knowing much (like teenagers) that i decided to just dive in and see what happens. Looking back, I wasted a lot of time "learning" instead of just doing stuff to try and earn money. Cash flow generation.

Lesson: Do things that bring in cash, dont spend all your time focused on learning, or installing stuff, or wasting time on distractions... generate cash. Just sell!

Stage Two:
ClickBank.com
I started there pretty much. I started out promoting offers found on CB. I would drive traffic through my affiliate link straight to the CB offers. I paid for traffic. I made some money, lost some money, made some profits, nothing much to write home about. Did not hit 1k per month from just doing that.

Stage Three:
Great idea I got. I decided to spend a weekend learning MS Frontpage, so I could create my own squeeze pages. I wanted to send traffic to my squeeze page first, to get them on a list, then I could promote to them over and over, including other offers.

Genius stuff huh? lol

Well, this was a huge step forward for me. Looking back, it was THE STEP. You see, I noticed that when I paid for a click, that click went to a salesletter. On that CB salesletters, there were almost always opt in forms. That product owner was getting my leads and would sell them over and over. For me, I had only one shot and that was it.

So, I created my first squeeze page. i wrote the copy. i set the entire thing up myself. And then, everything changed for me. Looking back, it was everything that happened BEFORE that first squeeze page and everything that happened AFTER that first squeeze page.

Billions and trillions of dollars later... that stands out as a major breakthrough for me. I went from crap earnings to... well... earning zillions over the years since.

Here's why:

I built lists. Yep, the money IS in the lists and in how you manage those lists. I drove traffic to niche squeeze pages, then promoted to those people different offers. I easily hit the 1k per month after that. I mean, the first month or so after that first SP I was hovering around 1k per month ------ on AUTOPILOT!

It was auto-piolot because I set up about 30+ sequenced emails ahead of time. So, 12 weeks after someone opted in, they were still getting pitched automatically. (just sell baby!)

Next Stage:
I realized that if I could increase the conversions on my AR emails, I'd make more money. heck, what if I could double the conversions on my emails? I'd double my money! I learned what became the absolute key to marketing in my mind:

Tweaking!

I now say this to customers: "often you are but 50 tweaks away from very high conversions. Unfortunately, most never reach tweak number 2 or 3... much less 50!"

I tweaked my emails. I tweaked my squeeze pages, I tweaked my ads, I tweaked everything. It was taking one step backwards, to take one step forwards. Sometimes I'd take huge steps forward. Other times, I'd screw everything up.

But I learned something very valuable. It's easier to increase conversions on squeeze pages and AR emails than it is to increase conversions on a salesletter (especially someone else's salesletter -- as an affiliate).

So imagine... you have a squeeze page... and you are driving traffic to it via paid traffic... and it's converting at 30%. Right after they opt in, they get hit with an offer. The next day they get hit with the same offer again. The third day, they get something free... and then get hit with an offer again on the 4th day.

that produced.............. residual income. over 1k per month.

Rocket Science? hardly

Magic Gizmo software that spits out money? not a chance

Pie in the sky? funny

some ebook method I learned? nope.

Trying things and learning on the way?? ABSOLUTELY! YES!

Next Stage
One time, I was not in a good mood for some reason. I decided to send a broadcast email to my niche list of diet people. I hit them with "tough love". I just let it rip. Dont ask me why I did that... but I did.

the next day, I had people emailing me and chastising me for my attitude. I was upset with myself for letting my personal emotions out on an email. But, something else happened too. Something BIG!

I noticed a lot of people also emailed me thanking me. Yes, they thanked me and said they did not really pay attention to me before, but would start paying attention now. HUH? What?

That's when I learned....................... Branding! Standing out, being different, engaging people, ruffling feathers, creating a stir, etc. I started changing my emails to have a more "tough love" tone. Besides, it was more like me anyway... instead of warm and fuzzy, I liked being me... "to the point and direct".

My sales more than tripled.

next stage
I wanted to get in the IM market and sell stuff here. However, I was a bit intimidated at first. After talking with Paul Short and Terry Crim, I decided to write copy for marketers. I started out and wrote for FREE!

I picked people, like Dr. Mike and others. I said I'd write copy for them for free (or super cheap) to get testimonials or referrals in return. My main reason was for building relationships. Boy did that ever work. then, I stared making huge income from that too.

It was very uncomfortable at first. Dr Mike invited me to LA to his event. I went. At the end of the event, he asked me to do an interview with him. I was nervous... but said yes. Then, he said, it's going to be on camera. WHAT? I was really nervous then... but said yes.

I did the interview. I felt like an idiot. I felt like I bombed it. He said it was good. I watched it later when it came out and it was not bad.

fast forward to today... and about 1 zillion interviews later... no biggie... no nervousness... easy as pie. I do them all the time now.

Lesson: I escaped comfort zones

Final Stage
I reached out to Mike Filsaime, who was one of my top idols. I was nervous, but contacted him anyway and asked him to partner with me. He agreed. I did an event and asked big marketers, legends, like Willie Crawford, Marlon Sanders... studs like Gauher Chaudry... Matt Bacak... Keith Baxter... many others to speak there. They agreed. Only one turned me down (John Reese). lol

I went on to ask Mike to partner with me on other things. Some he agreed, others he was not too big on. I asked anyway. In fact, I even once asked Allen Says himself to partner with me on something... and HE DID!

Lesson: I asked, A LOT

in conclusion
I am not sure if this post helps you. Probably not a lot for most people. For most, maybe it's seen as bragging or self promotion. Heck, who knows. All that matters to me is A) I accomplished a lot and others had a ton to do with it (people that is) and B) I love the idea of being able to help others like many did for me. C) I'm in a great mood because it's baseball season!!

Respectfully,

Eric Louviere

PS - Bonus breakthrough: I asked people to promote for me. 2nd bonus breakthrough: I'm still learning a lot and it seems the more I learn about myself, the better I do in all aspects of my life. I've learned I'm not perfect and have a ton to work on.
#hard #month
  • Profile picture of the author Damz
    Awesome post Eric...I've been a fan of yours for long time and love your stuff a lot...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629582].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bretski
    I don't know you from a hole in the wall, Eric, but I enjoyed your post. Sincere thanks...
    Signature
    ***Affordable Quality Content Written For You!***
    Experience Content Writer - PM Bretski!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629667].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author celente
      Originally Posted by bretski View Post

      I don't know you from a hole in the wall, Eric, but I enjoyed your post. Sincere thanks...
      yes very cool. I am starting to like this guys.

      I thought he was just another white collar, buy from me and no one else.

      But as you can see, those steps laid out are priceless.

      That is how I have created at 5 figure a month business myself. But i must say it is not easy work. But eric has used the power of leverage.

      awesome,, just awesome.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3631329].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author theory expert
    Banned
    Originally Posted by Eric Louviere View Post

    I wasted a lot of time "learning" instead of just doing

    Lesson: Do things that bring in cash, dont spend all your time focused on learning, or installing stuff, or wasting time on distractions... generate cash. Just sell!
    Amen....BTW how fast do you type per minute?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629687].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author shuvo
    Your ideas are great and it was a long journey and hard work for you to make a good amount of money with clickbank.However thanks for this useful share.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629689].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Ben Armstrong
      I really enjoyed that post.

      I think for a lot of people starting out, there is this huge gap in their mind between where they are, and where the big guys are. And that gap often feels like a gaping chasm that we simply can't cross.

      It's posts like yours that really put things in perspective, remind us all to just step outside our comfort zones, and try new things.

      I know that personally, far too often I tell myself "I can't do that yet, I need to learn or perfect this before I can start doing that". I think what I'm really telling myself is that deep down I'm afraid to take a big step because I'm sure I'll fail.

      That's something I definitely need to overcome.

      Thank you.
      Signature

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629748].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author feedtherightwolf
    Thanks, it was great read. I am still working on my first $1000 , but at least I get consistent $100+ months now.
    Signature

    I am not a guru, nor do I pretend to be one. I am here to learn and to share my experience. Everything that I say, I say from my heart.
    Porn Addiction Stop Porn with Candeo ; Overcoming Pornography Addiction. Sex Addiction Rehabs Porn Addicted Husband

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629732].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author theory expert
      Banned
      Originally Posted by feedtherightwolf View Post

      Thanks, it was great read. I am still working on my first $1000 , but at least I get consistent $100+ months now.
      Now if we could only get you to change your avatar to wile e. coyote.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629764].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Eric Louviere
      Did you offer a free report or any other kind of inducement to help win the opt-in?
      You might find this interesting...

      I was in my own little world... so I often just tried things. I was in the paid traffic world, spending money on traffic, which would show up almost instantly when I'd run an ad. So, I often came up with ideas and tried them out FAST.

      With my first squeeze page, I thought the CB merchant probably had a solid idea what he/she was doing on their salesletter, so I swiped his/her sales copy and tweaked it. I know, I know... just being honest.

      I took their salesletter and altered it just a bit for my squeeze page. For example, if their letter had 3 bullet points (like this

      -- 7 steps to dropping 9 pounds this week easily and effortlessly

      -- Tightly designed recipes for zapping fat quickly

      -- Step by steps on how to detox and evaporate fat overnight

      I'd take those same ideas and put them on my squeeze page. What the visitor would see next, after they opt in, is the CB salesletter. The visitor would opt in and then go to the CB salesletter through my aff link.

      In other words, I'd swipe their copy (not steal, just tweak it in my own words) and put the "benefits" on my squeeze page. i would not say "free" anywhere, but I am sure many thought it was free... and then they'd see the long salesletter and realize it was for sale.

      Other times, yes, I'd give away a short report... a teaser report. Here's a big secret I did:

      I'd go to article directories and copy articles in full, including resource box and links. I'd copy/paste the articles in a word doc. I'd then convert to a PDF. In a matter of 30 min, i'd have a report to give them free............with resources, links and all!

      At first, I'd ask the article authors permission, but stopped asking after so many of them answered with "Are you crazy, of course! distribute it everywhere. Use the snot out of it! That's what I wrote it for"

      I'd recommend asking them permission still, to be safe, but that's what I did and it worked like a charm. In fact, many thanked me for all the links and resources.

      Eric Louviere
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629787].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author virtualprincipal
    Originally Posted by Eric Louviere View Post

    They are thinking... 1k per month (if that).

    Hey Eric, I must admit I have never heard of you, but I really enjoyed that inspirational post. And this is coming from someone who has finally broken the $1000 dollar a month mark, believe me, it IS a big deal!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629766].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author John Romaine
    Its a compound effect.

    Once you make the first 1K, then 2, 3, 5k comes easier.
    Signature

    BS free SEO services, training and advice - SEO Point

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629812].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author theplugindude
      Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

      Its a compound effect.

      Once you make the first 1K, then 2, 3, 5k comes easier.
      You are absolutely right!

      Once I started having my 1K month,the next month was a 5K month because it was simply rinse and repeat!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629899].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author steven90210
      Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

      Its a compound effect.

      Once you make the first 1K, then 2, 3, 5k comes easier.
      Yes the same goes here. Once I made the first 1k, which was though, the rest was just rinse, repeat and upscale.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3841458].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author GAVROCHE
    Interesting information, Eric. Please keep posting about your way to success.
    WARRIOR FORUM is a great source for people interested in learning more, in finding new ideas, new products.
    I'm glad I found this forum.
    Thanks to all people posting here for helping.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629844].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author brik2500
    Awesome testimonial Eric...your learning curve was full of

    peaks and valleys...but yet in still you moved ahead.

    Onward and upward

    BEST
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629883].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ZerosToHero
    This thread is gold. Lately I've asked myself why I even come to this forum anymore. Well, now I know why. Thanks Eric!


    Now, I have a few of my own questions.

    How do you feel about promoting an offer right after someone opts in to your squeeze page?

    The general consensus seems to be that you shouldn't promote something right away because you won't gain their trust.

    Then, the other school of thought is that most of those people will never open your emails so you better promote right away because that is valuable virtual real estate on the "thank you" page.

    Question #2, 3, etc...

    How do you set up a 7-10 day autoresponder course?

    Do you give a tip then promote your product at the end?
    Do you use story copy to sell?
    Is it best to use hot buttons in your email copy and play on emotions and talk about the dream? "Look sexy this summer at the beach with your new bikini body"

    Or, is it best to do something like "5 tips to a flat, sexy stomach"? So in that example you'd be giving out pure content with a pitch in the end. Whereas the former is more talking about the good life and hitting the hot buttons.

    Which approach works better for emails?

    Also, what is the best way to write email subject lines that get clicked?

    Thanks!

    P.S.

    Right now I convert 3-4% of the people on my list to a $10 product. My life would drastically change if I could double that conversion rate.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3629990].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author jan roos
      Originally Posted by JamesAggie View Post

      This thread is gold. Lately I've asked myself why I even come to this forum anymore. Well, now I know why. Thanks Eric!


      Now, I have a few of my own questions.

      How do you feel about promoting an offer right after someone opts in to your squeeze page?

      The general consensus seems to be that you shouldn't promote something right away because you won't gain their trust.

      Then, the other school of thought is that most of those people will never open your emails so you better promote right away because that is valuable virtual real estate on the "thank you" page.

      Question #2, 3, etc...

      How do you set up a 7-10 day autoresponder course?

      Do you give a tip then promote your product at the end?
      Do you use story copy to sell?
      Is it best to use hot buttons in your email copy and play on emotions and talk about the dream? "Look sexy this summer at the beach with your new bikini body"

      Or, is it best to do something like "5 tips to a flat, sexy stomach"? So in that example you'd be giving out pure content with a pitch in the end. Whereas the former is more talking about the good life and hitting the hot buttons.

      Which approach works better for emails?

      Also, what is the best way to write email subject lines that get clicked?

      Thanks!

      P.S.

      Right now I convert 3-4% of the people on my list to a $10 product. My life would drastically change if I could double that conversion rate.
      Offer them a $27 product and your income could double. Just saying..

      Cheers
      Signature

      I'll teach you how to make money like a Mamba.

      Sign up for the free money mambas newsletter!

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630025].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Eric Louviere
      Originally Posted by JamesAggie View Post

      This thread is gold. Lately I've asked myself why I even come to this forum anymore. Well, now I know why. Thanks Eric!


      Now, I have a few of my own questions.
      First of all, great last name... "Aggie". I'm a huge Texas A&M Aggie.

      Second, good questions... now this is what I'm talking about... good questions. Thanks.

      How do you feel about promoting an offer right after someone opts in to your squeeze page?

      The general consensus seems to be that you shouldn't promote something right away because you won't gain their trust.

      Then, the other school of thought is that most of those people will never open your emails so you better promote right away because that is valuable virtual real estate on the "thank you" page.
      Well, nobody knows that answer. You have to try it and tweak it as you go. However, solid copywriting can certainly help in all aspects. With cold traffic (paid traffic), sales conversions might not be as high... because they dont believe you yet. Therefore, continuing to "brand" yourself to your list... and build credibility (believability) and authority can increase conversions.

      The rule of thought here is through your list, you get multiple opportunities to pitch them on the same offer. They say someone buys after they've seen your message about 7 times. So, although you may not get huge conversions the second they opt in, the conversions can be high over time (as they see your emails, etc).

      In other words, if you get 1,000 people to opt in and only 2% buy instantly... perhaps 10% end up buying eventually, which brings up your conversions. Unfortunately, most people marketers dont think long term at all, and expect instant gratification, and would only focus on the 2% instant conversions instead of the LTV (lifetime value)

      Depending on the niche and offer, etc I'd go for blood and sell them right away. Hard. Then, come back and give, give, give! You can give and sell in the same email btw. I call them transitional emails... where you first give a tip in your email, then transition into a pitch... like this:

      To make money online, you need to focus on one business instead of jumping around from one thing to the next. You have to laser focus in on ONE business... one model... one formula... one way to make money... FIRST. Then, you can diversify and try other things.

      In fact, one of the best formulas you could ever follow is creating your own info product. It's proven to work many times and still works great today. It'll probably always work. I've created a step by step program that teaches you exactly how to do that. You can get all the details of that, if you're interested, right here:

      <your link>


      See how I first gave info (tips) then transitioned into a pitch. Look at the words "in fact" above. That's where the transition started. what this does is gives goodwill to the reader and they actually feel like they are buying instead of being sold. It works great.

      One thing you could do is shoot a screencam video and put it on a page. Then, on that page, or in the video, give tips and then pitch your offer (or affiliate offer). This works sort of the same as a transitional email pitch. Goodwill and pitch. Goodwill and pitch.

      All in all, nobody knows. Not even the gurus. lol You have to try it and see. That happens to be the lesson of this thread too. Having resourcefulness is a key to success IMO.

      How do you set up a 7-10 day autoresponder course?
      I hit them all first 7 days usually. Not always, depends on the niche. If it's a loud niche, like ours here the IM niche, I might not hit them 7 days straight, because they get hit hard on several other lists. But, for niche markets out there that are not so loud, I hit them 7 days straight.

      I hit them with a mixture of giving and selling and transitional emails. There's no rule. Just have "personality". Have a character to yourself and stand out. Have a presence about you. Some will not resonate, but others will resonate MORE.

      Tweaking is the answer. Tweak, tweak and tweak. Then, tweak. After that, tweak. When it's done, tweak. Then, finally when it's all said and done, tweak some more. Then keep tweaking. And ultimately, tweak. Then tweak again.

      Nobody knows. so tweak.

      then tweak.

      Do you use story copy to sell?
      I do, but also I think this is hard for most people, even copywriters. I think storytelling when done right can severely boost your conversions, but it's not easy to pull off. Heck, I have trouble with story copy, but it does work when it works. It can be a grand slam. tweak.

      Is it best to use hot buttons in your email copy and play on emotions and talk about the dream? "Look sexy this summer at the beach with your new bikini body"

      Or, is it best to do something like "5 tips to a flat, sexy stomach"? So in that example you'd be giving out pure content with a pitch in the end. Whereas the former is more talking about the good life and hitting the hot buttons.

      Which approach works better for emails?
      Good question. I think sell the dream. People buy the dream. They buy opportunity and hope. They buy sizzle. Why do you think all those crap products that are full of s### sell so well in our market? hype and sizzle. Although everyone hates them, buyers are liars and often they want the magic pill. sell the dream. People buy more of what they "want" than what they "need".

      What's the thing that Dan Kennedy says..."most poor people have big screen TV's and the latest cell phone, but cannot afford their gas bill". People buy on desire... and pain. Hit on the pain and spark the desire.

      I know, people get all fussy when I say "buyers are liars" but they are. Just look at all the people here who buy WSO's that say, "Make $500 per day in the next 7 days". case closed.

      Also, what is the best way to write email subject lines that get clicked?
      The best way is to build the "from name" as much as possible. Brand that "from" name by giving them great value, by being personable, by being someone, by being inspiring, or by embellishing "personality" in your emails. Give, give and give. Then, your emails will get clicked on like crazy -- because of the "from" name. YOU. That beats the best email subject copy in the world.

      The highest form of conversions is: Branding!

      Which is kinda pissing me off that so many are saying, "I've never heard of you Eric". hahaha, only kidding.

      P.S.

      Right now I convert 3-4% of the people on my list to a $10 product. My life would drastically change if I could double that conversion rate.
      Double the price.

      Later,

      Eric Louviere
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630085].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author mygold
    Thanks for your precious post where you share your personal information, how you start your working life as freshmen and progressing stage to stage, it is very helpful for readers, and can be motivate the freshmen employee for progressing in their job field.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630074].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bruceimer
    Wow! The magic is in the list!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630124].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Eric Louviere
      Originally Posted by bruceimer View Post

      Wow! The magic is in the list!
      nope, it's in magic buttons. keep searching
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630131].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author ZerosToHero
        Eric,

        I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions.

        I am going to try and be a little greedy to see if you'll answer a few more.

        Do you write long e-mail copy? Or do you write a teaser of a paragraph or two and have them read the rest on your blog or site?

        I worry about writing long copy and not having them read it. It seems like a lot of people zip through their e-mails.

        Next question if you don't mind.

        I've thought about putting the teaser in my emails so I can get more click throughs to my site. Then on the site I direct them to I give the content on the top part of the page.

        Then right below I put the salesletter. So they're getting the lesson (tip) on the page but right below it is the salesletter too.

        This way I'd have more people clicking to the site to read the content and more people would see the salesletter too.

        So maybe I'll get a 30% ctr to my site so people can read the content. Then most of the 30% will get to see my salesletter too.

        Whereas if I write long e-mail copy I might only get 10% that click to my salesletter.

        Hopefully that makes sense. Have you tried something like this? What works the best? Have you tried images in your email to increase ctr?

        Thanks a million and no more questions from me.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630204].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Eric Louviere
          Originally Posted by JamesAggie View Post

          Eric,

          I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions.

          I am going to try and be a little greedy to see if you'll answer a few more.

          Do you write long e-mail copy? Or do you write a teaser of a paragraph or two and have them read the rest on your blog or site?

          I worry about writing long copy and not having them read it. It seems like a lot of people zip through their e-mails.
          Another great question!

          I like to be unpredictable via emails when I can. Sometimes, I go long and other times I go short. I remember when John Reese used to send long emails and I'd read every word. Those emails got me to send long emails and model him.

          Before that, I sent short emails to get them to click the link in the email... and spark curiosity. Both worked sometimes, and other times didnt. Can you say tweak and try and just do it?

          The questions you ask are not answerable. Which is good, because it means you are thinking about the things we all think about -- who are out there trying things. there's no way I can say "long email copy is the best" because maybe it's not best for YOU or your style of writing.

          Who knows?

          I've had people say... "I love it when you send long emails"... and I've had others say "I like how you are short and to the point". We're dealing with people here, who the hell knows what they prefer?

          However, my theory is to be a bit unpredictable. If I send 10 short emails to them over time, then all of a sudden send a long one, they may be like... "whoa, this must be important because it's long".

          I like the idea of taking them away from email and onto your site/blog. That's smart because their email account is loaded with distractions. If they leave their email account and go to your page, you've got more of their attention and an opportunity to really capture their time.

          In essence, you are battling other things, for their time. This is why copywriting is so critical. You usually have but an instance to capture their attention. To brand yourself over time with them, helps to capture attention because they are looking forward to your emails... (like I read all of JR's emails word by word). same thing you want to create within your list or market.


          Next question if you don't mind.

          I've thought about putting the teaser in my emails so I can get more click throughs to my site. Then on the site I direct them to I give the content on the top part of the page.

          Then right below I put the salesletter. So they're getting the lesson (tip) on the page but right below it is the salesletter too.

          This way I'd have more people clicking to the site to read the content and more people would see the salesletter too.

          So maybe I'll get a 30% ctr to my site so people can read the content. Then most of the 30% will get to see my salesletter too.

          Whereas if I write long e-mail copy I might only get 10% that click to my salesletter.

          Hopefully that makes sense. Have you tried something like this? What works the best? Have you tried images in your email to increase ctr?

          Thanks a million and no more questions from me.
          Well, that's certainly a smart way of looking at it. I think I learned from you here. Hey, who's teaching who?!?

          jk

          But yeah, that's makes sense to me. Hmm... I like that. You seem sharp doode. Must be the Aggie name.

          Eric Louviere
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3635017].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Bill Farnham
        Eric,

        Great post. I was getting ready to call it a night and just had to read all you put into this thread.

        Good good stuff.

        For those of you who don't know Eric, he is the real deal. He's also a very nice person, which is sometimes hard to find in aggressive marketers these days.

        The man knows his stuff.

        (He also coined the term Crusher that you see used in so many products, but don't hold that against him...)

        Again, great thread, Eric.

        ~Bill
        Signature
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630218].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author profitsforall
          Originally Posted by Bill Farnham View Post

          For those of you who don't know Eric, he is the real deal.
          Does anyone know Eric?

          I've read a lot of his posts and he seems to change personalities more than I change my underwear ( And before anyone questions my hygiene I change them every month, whether they need it or not )

          Half the time I agree with him the other half I think he's in severe need of medicating

          Really enjoyed this post. I've been teetering on the edge of pushing my comfort zone, this post may just have tipped me over.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630589].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author warrior4life
            Great and very inspiring post! thanks for sharing your thoughts. I am sure that people, above all newbies will find some cool strategies here. Simply awsome Man!
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630831].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author nnr21
              Nice post! Lot to learn for me..
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630871].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author Eric Louviere
            Originally Posted by profitsforall View Post

            Does anyone know Eric?

            I've read a lot of his posts and he seems to change personalities more than I change my underwear ( And before anyone questions my hygiene I change them every month, whether they need it or not )

            Half the time I agree with him the other half I think he's in severe need of medicating

            Really enjoyed this post. I've been teetering on the edge of pushing my comfort zone, this post may just have tipped me over.
            Ouch...

            Maybe I do need medication, but I'm usually just playing around here for my own entertainment purposes... But sometimes I actually try to give a little.
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3633203].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author aheil
    Very informative man. I'm kind of glad you posted this. Takes some of back to the basics that we sometimes forget.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630223].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Apollo-Articles
    Interesting, I have always heard the "money is in the list" and did once build a squeeze page like yourself and promote it with 20 articles or so.

    Unfortunately I didn't have a website to back it up, and generally left it there, I have about 80 subs (not including those unsubscribed ect) and managed 2 sales from that, so it always came across to me as a bit of a waste of time, when I can advertise product links direct on a website rather than an opt in and get more conversions (just my thoughts with little backed up evidence) since less clicks and time is involved.

    What do you think? Should I change my ways?

    Sam
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3630733].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Andrea Wilson
    The post is long but is worth the read! $1000 is really hard to achieve but its enough motivation to be persevere in reaching for more. Being different has its advantages, now that is really cool of you. Now if all list builders can be like you.

    Andrea
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3631420].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author morninjoi
    thanks Eric for giving out so much. I've bookmarked this page.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3631438].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author celente
    I think the first $1 you make online is the hardest.

    After that you just worked out how to make money.

    Then it is a series of hard work, and testing to make things work even more.

    But you are waisting your time if you are not building a list.

    I have about 7 ways people will join a list just from looking at my blog.

    End of the post, side bard, top banner, exit pop ups, text links on my blog posts.

    There are easy ways to get people on your list. Once they are there, treat them like you do your best freind or wife (if you like your wife of course LOL)

    If you do this, people will start to listen to you and even email you if you stop sending emails.

    I had this happen with one of my food niches, and i was quite amazed. Just mean I did my job i guess.

    Builiding up lists of people in my niches is singlehandly responsible for allowing me to quit my crappy 9-5 job and do this whole online stuff. Do i work today? or do I screw around today and play with the dog?

    Doesnt matter to me, if I am getting people on my list like eric says, you can make money any day of the week and anytime.

    This thread is great, i recommend all newbies read it twice
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3631448].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dsbusiness23
    Thanks so much for your post Eric. Very inspirational to anyone just starting out, or trying to increase their monthly sales and conversions. Sounds like you have had a lot of success over the years. Again thanks so much for sharing your story. I had just woken up for the day and this will motivate me even more than I already was.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3631473].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Gavin Abeyratne
    Cool post Eric, I like your attitude.

    I can definitely agree that list building is THE difference between spinning the wheels and a healthy business.

    Smart idea with the auto responders, thats not something I do a lot of!

    Gavin
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3631486].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Richard Green
    Great post Eric, thanks for sharing.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3633653].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author fusionfitnesstv
      I need to read stuff like this. Still working on getting the first squeeze page, etc going. Getting close though. My problem comes because I am strapped for money and have debts staring me in the face so it feels like I need to know it all and get it all done now before worse disaster strikes. Making mistakes, learning as I go are tough to swallow. Like many I just want to get it done, but obviously it don't happen that way!

      So I am going to sit down and write out a day to day get done list to help me watch it all get done one step at a time. At least I won't become as overwhelmed that way!

      Robert
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3633734].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author WD Mino
    Big E,

    Love it man great share. It I guess can be mentioned as well that you were persistent. You didn't give up when one thing didn't work you just persisted.

    Persistence is being the bulldozer to go through the problem. One thing that could be mentioned is the mindset that you could do it and you found a way to do so. One thing that is a commonality is that mindset of I know I can do this. I think of it like this.

    You are sittin on the exit ramp waiting for the traffic to open enough for you to get in cars are whizzin bye and whizzin by and suddenly there is an opening and you floor it and get in there. You waited for the opportunity while in the vehicle and taking action and the opportunity came and because you were in position you got in there and woohoo now you are cruisin.

    This is a characteristic of those who are successful granted you are on a different level than I but not for long bro

    I appreciate your transparentness as usual. you are a great guy and I am proud to know ya.
    Keep it real Stud
    -Will
    Signature

    "As a man thinks in his heart so is he-Proverbs 23:7"

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3633961].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
    I can pin-point exactly when I made my first $1,000 month:

    It was last year February-March.

    It was the HARDEST money I've ever tried to earn. It didn't
    happen easily and, I had to learn and apply new skills I was
    not comfortable with.

    Strangest thing happened: It became "easy" to make $1,000
    every month on the dime. And, the STRANGEST thing usually
    happens...

    when you THINK you will stop aiming hire when you hit a tar-
    get (financially), you'll naturally want to reach higher...

    ...and higher

    ...and higher

    Some people do have a limit on how high they want to go,
    and depends on your personal goals. But, you start seeing
    pretty soon how "small" $1,000 is -- even for a single guy
    with NO kids or major responsibilities.

    It's not because you're "ungrateful". I think it's because you
    know you can achieve more, so why not?

    This was an enlightening thread for us all, Eric...

    I still remember when I was in high-school purchasing one of
    your many "how to IM products" (with the red and blue covers).
    Signature
    **How I FLIPPED $80 into $690 Pure Profit With ONE EASY Method...2 to 3x Per Week...Only 30 Minutes Per Day (and how YOU can COPY my RESULTS, too!) **CLICK HERE FOR VERIFIED VIDEO PROOF**
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3633990].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ara67
    yep I heard about you through Liz Tomey and now I'm dealing with Mike Flisaime and you are right on man, keep up the good stuff...........
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3634064].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author evelyng
    I'm still working up to $1,000/month after a year full-time - stuck at $500 but I keep trying. It's good to know (sort of), that others are in my same boat.
    Signature

    Get Brandable PLR EBooks that You can Brand with YOUR Affiliate Link and Keep ALL the profits!
    http://www.brandableplr.com/

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3634142].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author whland
      That's a great inspiring post. Congrats on making it in the online world.

      Originally Posted by evelyng View Post

      I'm still working up to $1,000/month after a year full-time - stuck at $500 but I keep trying. It's good to know (sort of), that others are in my same boat.
      I'm sure you'll get there too. I wish you the best. Can't wait to hear of your story when you hit the $1,000.00 a month mark.

      Chad
      Signature
      WebMasterBabble.com Webmaster Forum
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7287781].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
    You have come a long way, young grasshopper.

    RoD
    Signature
    "Your personal philosophy is the greatest determining factor in how your life works out."
    - Jim Rohn
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3634220].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author pertree
      Yes, it's baseball season..............!!!!

      Great post, just the inspiration I needed to finally get to work. My first $1K month will come be the All Star break.

      Steve
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3634293].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author techservice
        I been on WF for 6 months and have made about a bit over $1000 and this is by far the best post I've read. It has great content, inspiration and above all else it's real and honest.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3841581].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author onintks
    Just getting into internet marketing after going down the adsense route and got to admit Eric your post is inspirational to me and hopefully others starting out. Now just finding out what niche to go into and having the guts to put it into practice.

    Thanks again
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3841236].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author 2033
    enjoyed that some what inspiring mate
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3841372].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Elsoft
    Great Post.Im at a those initial stages now.Your post about your experiences and how you went ahead with "go get it" attitude was inspiring.Thank you.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3841453].message }}
  • Eric ! Thanks for the super great post ! This is really turned the mind up with a light bulb on brain. Absolutely nice.

    I didn't know that before , since just now you mentioned about squeeze page, so that's the affiliate marketing works out for in total AUTOPILOT. With squeeze page, and email subscriber list, it is totally a final weapon to do any method of promotion. Finally, you wake me up !

    Thank you !
    Signature
    TOTAL NEWBIE NEED FOR SUPPORT FROM EVERYONE.

    Visit my site at www.alancwl.com
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3841665].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Will Edwards
    Great story Eric - more power to your elbow!

    Will
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7287634].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author tjaysen70
    Dude yeah this is an awesome post, even if it's over a year old (like 5 yrs old in IM time) but yeah you hit the nail on the head with regard to what is being hammered over and over again, and that is to build a list.

    It's funny, cuz as I was reading this post, I found myself going yeah, I did that too. Like sending ppc traffic directly to a cb sales page where that vendor would capture all the leads I was generating, for free. So not only was he getting paid when someone bought through my link, I was also building his list for him for free. Ugh.

    That was a turning point for me as well. Yeah the money is in the list, if you have a good rapport with them. Otherwise folks will unsubscribe in droves if you spam out offers to them daily.
    Signature

    Tired of the grind? Wait. PM me to see a better way.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7287645].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author esuresh
    Wow. Good one. Really a motivating thread. I am also going to be one like you. Earning Zillions.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7287683].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author LukasSEO
    Great! Inspiring post.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7287724].message }}

Trending Topics