A $3 cup of coffee can make you a LOT of money

84 replies
Hey guys,

Theres a big name internet marketer that lives not far from me. Infact, its probably less than 15 minutes drive from here.

I've sent numerous emails and PM's asking if we could meet up for a cup of coffee and a chat.

I'm not going to lie, of course Id love to ask some questions about internet marketing, and I certainly dont expect $5,000 worth of personalised coaching at a cafe - but thats not my reason for asking.

I like to network with successful people. To see how they think. How their minds work, and of course to meet new people and make new friends. Im new to Sydney - I dont know a lot of people here.

Time and time again, I receive no response, or worse, Im told to sign up or register for some offer, or put down money for an upcoming seminar.

Its annoying when you send a personal email - get no response, to which is then followed up by an autoresponder a week later with the wording ..

"John, thanks so much for your interest in my ..."

Dont f*ing call me John, if you cant even have the decency to email me back. Even if it is a "no thanks", or "sorry Im busy..."

Today I unsubscribed from this persons list - all of them.

Its funny - a simple $3 cup of coffee and a 20 minute chat, and I probably would've spent thousands with this person. Infact Im certain I would have.

Instead, they've lost me - big time.
#coffee #cup #lot #make #money
  • Profile picture of the author goneebo
    i agree,

    You can learn something for anyone and i mean everyone. The poor man mopping the floor knows a ton about a subject you know nothing about.

    Most people look at that man mopping the floor and believe more.

    In your case, that marketer sounds arrogant. Who knows what he could have learned from you. Mabey you know of a trend or idea combined with his knowledge could have made him a ton of cashhhhhh
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    • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
      Originally Posted by goneebo View Post


      In your case, that marketer sounds arrogant. Who knows what he could have learned from you. Mabey you know of a trend or idea combined with his knowledge could have made him a ton of cashhhhhh
      It's not arrogant, goneebo, it's practical. One of the reasons they are so successful is their ability to focus on a project, without distractions.

      You don't see Bill Gates having lunch with his janitors to get ideas, do you? Maybe he does - but I've never heard of it.

      When you run a business - and make lots of money - there suddenly is a LOT of people who would love to take advantage of it.


      If you really want to connect with a super successful marketer - you need to do all the things that make good marketing.

      1. Learn and understand their wants, needs and desires. What are they interested in? What do they do? What are their hobbies? What are they going through.

      Do good research on the person - then plan how you are going to...

      2. Get their attention. You can't just send PM's and emails to these people. They get filtered.

      In fact, I bet that your emails never reached a live person. Just automation software.

      So using the info from above, figure out how you get past the gatekeepers.

      3. Once you get their attention, figure out how you are going to get them on board.

      Remember, these are people too - and with successful people, you must be able to present it as "whats in it for them".

      They may not need the money - so pitching it as "make more money" isn't the brightest idea.


      Johnny, based on what you said here:

      I'm not going to lie, of course Id love to ask some questions about internet marketing, and I certainly dont expect $5,000 worth of personalised coaching at a cafe - but thats not my reason for asking.

      I like to network with successful people. To see how they think. How their minds work, and of course to meet new people and make new friends. Im new to Sydney - I dont know a lot of people here.
      It sounds like you were thinking "What can I get out of them..."

      Maybe not - but still - your intentions may have shown up very clear in your emails.

      Just like any good marketer, once you get their attention, be sure you understand them enough to get them on board.

      A lot of times that may mean you have to go to a seminar they host. Or purchasing a product first. Or promoting them first. Or do something for them that makes them happy. Give before you take.

      It's the way it is with any good marketing campaign, wouldn't you say?

      What do we do to win customers? We first provide value, right? Do so with this guy, in a way he appreciates, and he may come around.

      Rob
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      • Profile picture of the author Daniel Evans
        It's always annoying when someone deems themselves either too important or too busy to tend to a simple email, but I can see how he might want to skip on your invite. He might well be busy, he might get many similar offers or he might simply not want a social outing.

        I guess it's a repercussion of taking a stab in the dark. I'd sooner converse with like minded people who are clearly up for such social meetings.
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      • I'm sorry to say this but I think you went about it the wrong way.

        It's possible this guy is just a jerk, but it's also possible you were pushing for something you didn't have the social credentials to demand.

        Because it *is* social.

        I would never say yes to somebody who let me know he's in the area and kept messaging, wanting to meet somewhere and have coffee. That just raises my hackles. It feels stalkerish. I don't know you at all, I don't have any reason to want to meet you in person.

        If only there'd been previous online interaction. Emails exchanged over some topic or any kind of discussion. That would make a difference.

        I was out of town for a week and when I returned there was a business card wedged in my office door from a person who I'd had some online contact because we both participate in the same forum (not WF). Turns out she's local, which I did not know. I emailed her and we'll be getting together for that proverbial cup of joe at some point. No rush.

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        • Profile picture of the author Ram
          Why should he have accepted your invitation? Does he know you? Is there any reason for him to think he wants to know you?
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  • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
    While I understand your frustrations, if they are as big as you say they are, then they probably get these type of requests daily. Yours is slightly different, as you aren't asking for a JV, however.

    I get JV requests weekly from people who I don't have clue who they are and it's rather annoying.

    Now, they could have at least had the decency to tell you "sorry, too busy" or whatnot. Even if it was sent from their secretary.

    But chances are they saw you as someone who wants to "leech" off of their success. When you get to that position, a lot of people DO want to leech.

    Whether you spend X amount of dollars with them later is inconsequential. If they have a successful business, then it one person, who may want to leech (in their eyes anyway) isn't worth the troubles.

    BTW - I know none of that was your intentions - but when you get bombarded with it daily, you start "lumping" it altogether.

    Rob
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    • Profile picture of the author Atef
      Originally Posted by ccmusicman View Post

      While I understand your frustrations, if they are as big as you say they are, then they probably get these type of requests daily. Yours is slightly different, as you aren't asking for a JV, however.

      I get JV requests weekly from people who I don't have clue who they are and it's rather annoying.

      Now, they could have at least had the decency to tell you "sorry, too busy" or whatnot. Even if it was sent from their secretary.

      But chances are they saw you as someone who wants to "leech" off of their success. When you get to that position, a lot of people DO want to leech.

      Whether you spend X amount of dollars with them later is inconsequential. If they have a successful business, then it one person, who may want to leech (in their eyes anyway) isn't worth the troubles.

      BTW - I know none of that was your intentions - but when you get bombarded with it daily, you start "lumping" it altogether.

      Rob
      so about being a JV with some one other , you should knew him personally or you may change your mind if the product worth it ?
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  • Profile picture of the author Ryan David
    Well I see it both ways I guess.

    On the one hand, I've seen the benefit of paying attention to all the inquiries you get. I emailed a relatively big player in my industry when I didn't even have a website and got pricing info from him. I was a nobody. 6 years later, I'm his best customer. I buy more from him than some of the biggest companies in the world. I'd guess I've spent over $1M with his company.

    On the other hand, I've taken the same approach with my business. And honestly, it can be just an incredible waste of time. I suspect that the guy has his channels established for how people he doesn't know communicate with him. I kinda get that since busy people need to set boundaries.

    One thing I remembered Jeff Johnson saying one time was that he understood early on that busy people's time is worth something. And sometimes you just need to respect that. He told the story of having an SEO question and paypal'd Leslie Rohde $300 and asked him a question. Leslie Rohde answered the question and refunded him the money.
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  • Profile picture of the author joekoffi
    That's the case with some of these 'big names' on the IM scene. They are feeling too busy or what?
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  • Profile picture of the author Suthan M
    Here's the thing. I dont think the guy mean slightest harm on you. Most probably:

    1. He is busy.
    If he is mega succesful as he say he is, it must be due to the fact that he is always doing something.

    2. Breaking his focus.
    When you are getting down to work, and someone calls you out for coffee, chances are that will break your mojo. He didnt want that

    3. He dont know you.
    Well, thats the truth. I dont feel comfortable meeting strangers and having a coffee if i have no history with them, no offense of course. Thats normal.

    4. He doesnt owe you anything
    And he wanted to make sure that meeting you has a value for him, just like how you expected to get value out of the "$3 coffee". In his case, there is "nothing' for him.

    5. People could be calling him day in day out
    You might not be the only guy who calls you out for a drink. There might be a lot of people who calls him as well. Sometimes, he might have his own plans at that time, which makes him unavailable.

    Of course he could have handled it more nicely, but sometimes, its hard to say "NO" without people calling you arrogant, snobbish, or out of touch.
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  • Profile picture of the author Don Luis
    Banned
    Maybe he doesn't like talking to strangers. I'm no big-time Internet marketer but if a stranger emails me from nowhere, I'll suspect it's spam. How much more if I'm already a big-shot marketer, I would be wary of people emailing me out of nowhere, thinking they're only interested in my money. LOL

    I could be wrong but you have to give the guy the benefit of the doubt. Just because he doesn't respond to your emails doesn't mean that he's a jerk.
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  • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
    While I feel your pain Ramone_Johnny, I also understand the other side of this coin. If this is a big named marketer, the person is extremely busy, not just with business, family, friends, etc . but they are also going to spend time with people they already know versus people they don't know. You're also assuming that he's not responding to you because he or she doesn't want to. That's a wrong assumption to make.

    I'm not a big named marketer, far from it, because 99% of my income comes from non-MMO markets like dating, weight loss, wedding planning, etc. But because of the sheer volume that I do, my company get's over 2,000 e-mails a day (I'm not including spam) with at least a couple hundred asking for personal guidance, advice, and yes, to meet up. I have 2 full time customer service VAs who sift through that e-mail for me and they have very specific guidelines on what to forward to me.

    Would I like to personally respond to every e-mail from someone who wanted to meet up with me? Absolutely. But it's simply not practical. For the person who thinks this is arrogant of any marketer, you're only looking at it from your sole point of view. You're assuming they are dealing with same logistics that you are.

    I'm a part-time dating coach and my company gets a ton of e-mails from people who want to meet up and pick my brain. All for very different reasons. It's simply not practical for me to meet up with all of them. Though I will say this, they all do get a reply from us from a human being.

    And yes, I've been called an "arrogant jerk" for sending them a nice reply that I am unable to meet with them at this time. If they want coaching, I have a coaching program and refer them to that. Even so, I get called some colorful names sometimes no matter how nice and professional I am with them. I'm being candid here. Would I rather meet up with someone I don't know or someone I already know who I know is going to bring synergy to my business or personal life? It's not even a close call.

    Arrogance is personality trait, a character trait that's measured by a person's consistent behavior and that's what you should base your opinion on, not on their inability to not being able to answer every e-mail they get; which is, in essence, what you're really saying.

    But back to my main point at addressing the OP's frustration. Hey, I feel ya. It sucks not having someone at least acknowledge that they've received your e-mails and your PMs. A simple reply of acknowledgement would have been nice from this marketer when you PMed them. In any event, it sounds like it's time to just find someone else to network with.

    RoD
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  • Profile picture of the author Tom B
    Banned
    Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

    Hey guys,

    Theres a big name internet marketer that lives not far from me. Infact, its probably less than 15 minutes drive from here.

    I've sent numerous emails and PM's asking if we could meet up for a cup of coffee and a chat.

    I'm not going to lie, of course Id love to ask some questions about internet marketing, and I certainly dont expect $5,000 worth of personalised coaching at a cafe - but thats not my reason for asking.

    I like to network with successful people. To see how they think. How their minds work, and of course to meet new people and make new friends. Im new to Sydney - I dont know a lot of people here.

    Time and time again, I receive no response, or worse, Im told to sign up or register for some offer, or put down money for an upcoming seminar.

    Its annoying when you send a personal email - get no response, to which is then followed up by an autoresponder a week later with the wording ..

    "John, thanks so much for your interest in my ..."

    Dont f*ing call me John, if you cant even have the decency to email me back. Even if it is a "no thanks", or "sorry Im busy..."

    Today I unsubscribed from this persons list - all of them.

    Its funny - a simple $3 cup of coffee and a 20 minute chat, and I probably would've spent thousands with this person. Infact Im certain I would have.

    Instead, they've lost me - big time.
    I am pretty shocked that you posted something like this. This entitlement behavior doesn't seem like you by your other posts.

    So, his products are only worth the money if he spends some one on one time with you?

    I am sure there are a lot of IM'ers in Sydney to reach out to, on this forum, to chat with over coffee. Why get hung up on a guru who probably has many people wanting his free time?
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  • Profile picture of the author John Romaine
    Okay guys, I could respond to a lot of comments here but Ill just say this, and I do apologise for not posting it in my OP.

    BUT...

    I have met this person and talked face to face previously, at an internet marketing seminar. And I have purchased from this person and even joined their membership site.

    At the end of the day, Im not a stranger, although Im far from knowing this person overly well Ill admit.

    They know who I am, weve interacted right here on WF via PM - and been emailing back and forth for a few years. Ive even said "Hey, let me know what I can do for you"

    I dont want this to come across in the wrong light.

    I read a great quote the other day by Michael Jordan.

    "To be successful you have to be selfish, or else you never achieve. And once you get to your highest level, then you have to be unselfish. Stay reachable. Stay in touch. Don't isolate. "
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    • Profile picture of the author theory expert
      Banned
      I think some of you totally overlooked what the OP said based on some of the responses I am reading. Therefore, below I quote the OP.

      Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post


      I have met this person and talked face to face previously, at an internet marketing seminar. And I have purchased from this person and even joined their membership site.

      At the end of the day, Im not a stranger, although Im far from knowing this person overly well Ill admit.

      They know who I am, weve interacted right here on WF via PM - and been emailing back and forth for a few years. Ive even said "Hey, let me know what I can do for you"
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  • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
    Hmmmmmm........maybe you're coming on too strong and this person is a little creeped out? You mentioned e-mails and PMs that they didn't respond to. I dunno...... :confused:

    So even with this new divulged information, I'm still sticking with my main points, however, it seems pretty clear to me that this person is not wanting to stay connected to you - for whatever reason. And without actually seeing the interactions between you two it's really hard to say why.

    Lastly, even the great Michael Jordan, as much as he would have liked, could not have interacted with all his fans or people who wanted to meet up with him, for the same reason already mentioned in this thread - even people he may have interacted with before, there were just too many people who wanted some of his time. It just would not have been practical.

    RoD
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  • I'm not sure the additional information changes much. This person still doesn't want to get together with you.

    I also think he may be making it clear that if you want access, you're going to have to spend those thousands first.

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  • Profile picture of the author onSubie
    Damn- and here I thought this thread was going to tell me how my coffee cup was going to fill my PayPal account with cash on autopilot!



    One thing is, if he is near and active he must to seminars you could join or public speaking events you could attend.

    Also, even just being a JV or decent affiliate for him would open the door to, "By the way ... I'm not too far down the road".

    Mahlon
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  • Profile picture of the author garyv
    One of the reasons I love Internet Marketing, is because I'm not real big on offline socializing. It's not a trait I'm proud of, but hey - it's who I am. All of my socializing happens online, or not at all.

    I know this limits me in some ways, but I've found ways around my limitations.

    I have met people off line for marketing purposes, but I'm just not comfortable doing it. And some times it's just plain torturous to me.

    So if it were me, I'd ask myself - Why would I torture myself for a $3 cup of coffee? Especially when the outcome is by no means certain, and I could get the business way easier using a dozen other methods online?
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  • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
    I sort of rushed throught the responses so I don't know if someone has addressed this. Check Whois on this person's site and see if you can get a physical address. If so, send him a personal note making reference to the times you've met and chatted. If you can do that I'd bet it would make all the difference.

    One other thing. I wouldn't take any of the auto-messages or rejections personally. I think almost anyone would do the same thing under the circumstances.
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    • Profile picture of the author RatRaceWatch
      Originally Posted by travlinguy View Post

      I sort of rushed throught the responses so I don't know if someone has addressed this. Check Whois on this person's site and see if you can get a physical address. If so, send him a personal note making reference to the times you've met and chatted. If you can do that I'd bet it would make all the difference.

      One other thing. I wouldn't take any of the auto-messages or rejections personally. I think almost anyone would do the same thing under the circumstances.
      Hmm, I understand your intentions with this advice, but this might come across more creepy. Especially if this person views this thread, sees that someone is upset with him trying to reach him, and now that person is sending messages to his physical address.

      In response to the OP. I completely understand where you're coming from, the same thing happened to me when I tried to get in contact with someone that had some success on fiverr. I saw 4 or 5 things that could have vastly improved his business but because he came across as a jerk, he'll never get to hear it :0.

      But as for seeing both sides of the coin. In the end, you gotta look at it like this. Everyone takes the human experience a little differently. There is always something to lose and/or gain from every experience we have.

      This person might not have seen it as beneficial to have a cup of coffee with you. Think of it like a celebrity with their fans. They can't possibly meet the demands of catering to every fans needs, so with that analogy, it's best to respect it and move on.

      Thats not to say you have the wrong idea, because networking is a great way to go, and the more peoples minds you can pick via offline or online, the better off you will be.

      - Ryan
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  • Profile picture of the author John Romaine
    Okay, I just sent this person another email and attached my photo with it, just to refresh his memory.

    How do you think this will go?

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    • Profile picture of the author Michael Ngo
      Banned
      Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

      Okay, I just sent this person another email and attached my photo with it, just to refresh his memory.

      How do you think this will go?
      at least you have a sense of humour mate!!!
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    • Profile picture of the author FredJones
      Looks like you are ready to go for the kill...

      By the way, I do understand your frustration etc, but how about that guy investing the same time meeting/socializing with another big shot (no offense meant, just trying to "see from that guy's view what makes the best business sense given all thhe real-life limitations") - assuming that he would have access to other big shots since he is a big shot and seemingly in IM in which socializing is not that difficult (look at the easy way that you are approaching to socialize, so why can't he?) - and make a few thousands, possibly in double digit thousands, with the other big shot, in the same time investment, and thus pick up a handful of guaranteed buyers rather than just one potential buyer...?

      Don't want to break your high hopes, I was just trying to put myself in his boots and see how it would go with him. I do hope you guys get togerhet, and eventually you end up doing all the business that you want to do with him and anything else that he wants to do with you.

      Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

      Okay, I just sent this person another email and attached my photo with it, just to refresh his memory.

      How do you think this will go?

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    • Profile picture of the author ameenmk
      I'd had plenty of people ask me for a free consult. ( I am well known in my niche). My secretary tells them all that my fee is $300 an hour and she would be happy to schedule an appointment. They don't call back. I've only met for coffee with one person and he was a client.

      So if you do want to meet this guy, become a client and email him back and forth. Eventually he will reply no matter how big he is and then you can ask for a physical meeting. Unless you can meet him in person at a seminar and buy him a drink.
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  • Profile picture of the author webcare
    Interesting conversation. i was reading something recently, I think it was by @jamesaltucher (but I could well be wrong), that if you want to find amentor then identify the 10 people in that field that could possibly mentor you. Then send them all a personal email/letter that includes some info that is of value to them. Something like, "i saw this the other day and then though of you and how this might impact on your business.....". In other words, give to them first! But dont stalk them! Altucher (or whoever it was that wrote this) said to expect about 1 person in ten to reply. Then you can build a relationship with that one person.

    For all you know this IM champion may be donating 50% of their time and resources to some worthwhile charitable cause - and so may be contributing to the world in many different ways. So it is unreasonable to conclude that the person is selfish just on the basis of their response to you alone.

    And BTW, a 20 min meeting is never just 20 mins! It takes time to get ready (in my case, I work from home so i have to have a shower and get dressed in a grown up way before I go out and face the world!), then to drive/walk to the mtg place (for me it is usually at least half an hour to any meeting - in sydney it may be longer!), then 5 mins ordering coffee, then really will the meeting only be 20 mins? For me, a 20 minute meeting would require an all up time commitment of about 2 hours and 10 minutes (may be different for other people of course). Because I work for myself that just means it is 2 hours and 10 mins that I have to add to the end of my workday - as everything else still needs to get done!
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  • Profile picture of the author art72
    Maybe you should've offered up a bottle of scotch!

    Simply Scotches: Top 10 most expensive Scotch in the world

    What amazes me is in my search for a scotch worthy of a super successful marketer, I learned you can out-rank Forbes (#2) position "G" and 7 million other results with a FREE blogspot.com (in a #1 position) for the keywords "expensive scotch" :confused:

    WOW... learn something new everyday. Like the World Record of $460,000 was paid for a Lalique bottle of scotch sold at Sotheby's auction in New York on November, 2010

    On a serious note, I think it would be a rare occasion that a successful marketer (I'm thinking 7-figures?) would meet with an up and comer, unless you had something he/she wanted, needed, or could benefit from, aside from the 1000's you may or may not spent on his/her products.

    However, when I was 17 years old, I had the pleasure to speak regularly with a "Black-Diamond" Amway Executive every Saturday afternoon at 1PM - 4PM at a place called Peter Pan's Diner, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

    This guy was in the 3rd tier in the chain of command of Amway, and although he was worth millions, he drove a 12 year old station wagon, and lived humbly in a small 2 bedroom single family home with his wife.

    My point is, there are few people who reach that earning level, and yet, can remain so humble.

    In fact, I remember blatantly asking him; "Why aren't you driving a Ferrari or something?"

    His response; "I don't need an expensive car, or a big house, I've put my kids through college, married the woman I love, made more money then I could ever spend, and did most of it by sitting in a cheap diner meeting people like yourself!"

    While I cannot remember the guys name for the life of me, I remember his white hair, and the fact he always wore blue-jean overalls and a t-shirt to the diner, but at seminars he looked like Santa Claus in a 3-piece suit!

    It blew me away man!

    Meanwhile, I gave up on Amway shortly thereafter, and bought my own ice cream truck by age 18, thanks to hearing Zig Ziglar speak to an Amway crowd of 80k people at The Charlotte Coliseum in North Carolina back in 1990. He spoke about working for yourself, and of being disciplined and obedient of your dreams, not trying to live somebody else's life.

    In my opinion, it was Napoleon Hill's approach of scratching together the funds for a nice suit, and putting himself in the way of a "big time publisher" to strike a writing deal, that amazed me. It always impressed upon me his masterful act(s) of persuasion to get himself recognized by what could be in similar interest as the OP's desire to crawl inside the mind of this successful marketer.

    Maybe, if you put something together of mutual benefit, put yourself in his way (inconspicuously) and know; exactly what you can offer him, you may just land that meeting.

    It worked for Edwin C. Barnes who approached Thomas Edison looking like a homeless person claiming; he wanted to be business partners.

    Eventually, Barnes did exactly what he set out to do, despite everyone saying he was crazy!

    Ask yourself; "What might I bring to this man's table, while NOT inviting myself to dinner."

    While, he may not know your reason to invite him for coffee, if you set your mind to think at his level; how would you have reacted?

    If you think like him, or better still, want to think like him, write up a unique marketing plan (eBook or a fresh product idea) and email it to him exclusively, and ask him to review or endorse it... while giving his teachings credit for the idea, if it flies, you might have better odds of cracking open that vault of information you seek, and land yourself a JV deal to boot.

    Then again, what the hell do I know; I quit Amway... and probably would've been retired by now.

    Good Luck Bro!

    Art

    PS - The chick in the pic (with the pic) very well may be one of my ex-girlfriends!
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    • Profile picture of the author RatRaceWatch
      @art72
      Nice pitch there for what I'm assuming is your site.... :/
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      • Profile picture of the author J Bold
        Originally Posted by RatRaceWatch View Post

        @art72
        Nice pitch there for what I'm assuming is your site.... :/
        Man, I think you're feeling a bit jaded.

        I did not assume it was his site, but on second thought it's an odd mention.

        Otherwise, it was a great post, don't you agree?
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      • Profile picture of the author art72
        Originally Posted by RatRaceWatch View Post

        @art72
        Nice pitch there for what I'm assuming is your site.... :/
        Actually, I am perfectly incapable of out-ranking Forbes with a free blog... at least at the moment.

        But no, was totally a random search, and I thought it was quite enlightening that it can be done.

        Art
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        • Profile picture of the author RatRaceWatch
          Originally Posted by art72 View Post

          Actually, I am perfectly incapable of out-ranking Forbes with a free blog... at least at the moment.

          But no, was totally a random search, and I thought it was quite enlightening that it can be done.

          Art
          My mistake then, it seemed rather random in the context of this conversation, and I found it rather odd to direct to (fill in the blank) - insert any website you'd like, when it added little value to the OP.

          @redicelander

          I don't think I was being jaded at all. I'm glad you enjoyed his story, but there are too many people that hijack threads to self-promote, and at first-look, it seemed like that was a reasonable implication of what he was doing.

          I could of told a story about internet marketing and hinted at a fine delicacy, but I don't believe I would of linked to a delicacy blog as that could be reasonably assumed as a tied link to myself and unnecessary self-promotion.
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          • Profile picture of the author art72
            Originally Posted by RatRaceWatch View Post

            My mistake then, it seemed rather random in the context of this conversation, and I found it rather odd to direct to (fill in the blank) - insert any website you'd like, when it added little value to the OP.
            Rat,

            I appreciate the clarification that I was not self-promoting!

            Indeed it was "out of context" - but after reading the title of the thread to find the OP's complaint was referencing "rejection" - I felt it was worthy of something a bit more potent then coffee... like maintaining one's sense of humor.

            Basically, it was nothing more than a "foreplay" of words leading to my advice, which clearly stated; there are more effective ways to get ones attention, then through an random email invite for a cup of coffee, tea, or scotch for that matter. (*especially, knowing the odds of the email ever being seen by said guru was in all likelihood, dismal at best.)

            Besides, how many of us stop pursuing relationships after one rejection?

            The girl of my dreams punched me in the face 19 years ago after her initial rejection led me to say something ignorant in a drunken stupor, and here today, 3 teenagers and a ton of fun later, we're still going strong!

            So "F" rejection, that's every marketers middle name, NEVER take "NO" for an answer.

            While I personally think it was harmless to ask someone to have coffee in an email, "if" the OP wants to 'publicly air' his distaste for this guru's less than generous (autoresponder) response, or the implied rejection, perhaps a more persuasive call to action will need to be devised.

            There's always blackmail, kidnapping, or perhaps organizing an interview with the guru, by which the OP could "pick his brain" while recording the session, and offering to 'share' (via: video, audio, etc...) any insight acquired with others who may also like to have their questions answered... as opposed to the initial approach taken here.

            Obviously, the OP knows he lives "just down the street" - why not put himself in the path of the guru in such a way that offers something to the guru, the OP himself, and more importantly; the common interest they both share as marketers to reach a larger audience.

            As opposed to this; "Hey You, I personally want to have coffee with you." - then bashing the nameless guru here.

            Now, I am really curious at this point just to know; if this particular Aussie guru has the initials J.S.?

            In the 'random' possibility it is him (J.S.), I have bought several of his products, and I'd bet money 'if' he were approached to do a 30 minute to 1 hour video interview with Johnny, the outcome could possibly serve tens of 1000's of marketers with the insight Johnny seeks, and in-turn could be of benefit to all who share a similar "intrigue" as the OP.

            The difference being, Johnny is in arms reach, and obviously by post count alone is NOT new to this game, so, "If" he were to successfully create such an event (interview) - it would certainly be an opportunity to get his answers, share those answers with those "inquiring minds who want to know" - and serve a multitude of benefits to everyone involved.

            Personally, I think it was a bit selfish to assume the guru would meet with him (the OP) exclusively, at random, through an email coffee invite, let alone; the implications posting his grief to this thread, as that could have some adverse effects should said guru stumble upon it!

            My suggestion, break out a pad and paper. Write down every question you think could be of significant benefit to the marketing community at large (like me in the US) and devise a plan to arrange an 'interview' with your neighbor by whatever creative means you deem fit.

            The possibilities are endless. You could sell the video, use it to promote an offer, split any proceeds with the guru, which means; free promotion and money for him, and you could reach out to those of us not so privileged to be in such close proximity of this 'expert' marketer.

            Heck, I'd likely opt-in to watch a 'raw' interview with a guru, and respect Johnny as the guy who made it happen. Instantly building his credibility, and elevating his status as someone who as John McCabe and myob mentioned above; has both the "stick and balls" to "just do it" and make it a reality!

            And... if he still declines, find a bigger guru, interview him/her, and remember you were doing him a favor!

            Just my 2 cents.

            All the Best,

            Art
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  • Profile picture of the author Dennis Gaskill
    Johnny, I understand your frustration, but...

    What you did is no different than what probably a few dozen others do each month. You have to do something different to get his attention.

    PM me your email address, I've got something for you that may help.
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    • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
      Johnny,

      I didn't know you were new to Sydney.

      Now look, when I come over in January, if you think we're having a "coffee", we have a problem....and 20 minutes is absolutely no amount of time to seriously consider drinking beer.

      Set aside a day and we'll go and pay the internet marketing chap a visit.

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      • Profile picture of the author ExRat
        Hi ramone_johnny,

        Three different perspectives for you to chew on -

        a) the 'universe' is telling you that you should believe in yourself more - you don't need anyone else and don't need to 'get inside their head.' Ask your gut. You might find that with a different approach, people come to you.

        b) these type of threads are probably coming from a place of frustration - 'I know, I'll make a post like this and the person will see it and that will make them feel bad/make them contact me/make me feel better....' If so, go back to a) above, I think it's a better approach. This approach (b) will probably only make a meet-up less likely to ever occur, along with any kind of joint venture.

        (This one's a bit blunt, but Aussies appreciate that, right?)

        c) You said in your OP -

        Theres a big name internet marketer
        and...

        I like to network with successful people
        With the last quote, did you really mean - 'I like to network with those above my level, because it is likely to elevate me to their level'?

        Are you a 'big name internet marketer' too? Or hoping to be one by punching above your weight?

        Then why don't you understand that the person in question may have the same philosophy as yourself and is preferring to spend their time with those above themself, rather than networking downwards?

        Again, if this is the case and this plan has failed, don't make yourself sound like a whingeing pom, suck it up and believe in yourself. Make them come to you.
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        • Profile picture of the author mrdomains
          Unsolicited meeting request by e-mail to someone you "met" at a seminar? I don´t get it. What did you expect?

          Unless he gave you his real e-mail and/or phone number and invitation to get in touch then you have no connection.

          If you really want to get in touch with people in the biz, go to seminars like you did and schedule a appointment.
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          • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
            Originally Posted by mrdomains View Post

            Unsolicited meeting request by e-mail to someone you "met" at a seminar? I don´t get it. What did you expect?
            Kind of rude for the marketer to stuff Johnny on his mailing list without being asked and sending him "Unsolicited" offers to spend cash with him.

            Johnny asked to meet him for coffee not get pitched offers.

            If the marketer had time to add Johnny to his list, I'm sure he/she would have had time to send a quick email saying he's too busy to meet right now.
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        • Profile picture of the author Steadyon
          Originally Posted by ExRat View Post

          Hi ramone_johnny,

          Three different perspectives for you to chew on -

          a) the 'universe' is telling you that you should believe in yourself more - you don't need anyone else and don't need to 'get inside their head.' Ask your gut. You might find that with a different approach, people come to you.

          b) these type of threads are probably coming from a place of frustration - 'I know, I'll make a post like this and the person will see it and that will make them feel bad/make them contact me/make me feel better....' If so, go back to a) above, I think it's a better approach. This approach (b) will probably only make a meet-up less likely to ever occur, along with any kind of joint venture.

          (This one's a bit blunt, but Aussies appreciate that, right?)

          c) You said in your OP -

          and...

          With the last quote, did you really mean - 'I like to network with those above my level, because it is likely to elevate me to their level'?

          Are you a 'big name internet marketer' too? Or hoping to be one by punching above your weight?

          Then why don't you understand that the person in question may have the same philosophy as yourself and is preferring to spend their time with those above themself, rather than networking downwards?

          Again, if this is the case and this plan has failed, don't make yourself sound like a whingeing pom, suck it up and believe in yourself. Make them come to you.


          A good reply.

          Do you want to meet for a coffee :-)

          Seriously though, you often seem to come up with some very level headed replies.

          Respect,

          Sam
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          • Profile picture of the author ExRat
            Hi Sam,

            Cheers. I'm a tea man though.

            you often seem to come up with some very level headed replies
            It's a thankless task, but someone's gotta do it .

            You're pretty steady yourself.

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      • Profile picture of the author Aussie_Al
        Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

        Johnny,

        I didn't know you were new to Sydney.
        yeah for some reason I thought he had been in Sydney for some time now as well...:confused::confused::confused:
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  • Profile picture of the author Will Edwards
    Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

    Its funny - a simple $3 cup of coffee and a 20 minute chat, and I probably would've spent thousands with this person. Infact Im certain I would have.
    If ever you're over this way, I'll buy you a coffee

    Will
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  • Profile picture of the author John Taylor
    Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post


    Theres a big name internet marketer that lives not far from me. Infact, its probably less than 15 minutes drive from here.
    And you've emailed him?

    Anyone from around the world can email him...

    I can't believe you haven't taken advantage of your
    local knowledge?

    How about some out-of-the-box thinking?

    Have a pizza delivered with a note saying something
    along the lines of... "We met at XYZ seminar and as
    I only live 15 minutes away I'd love to let you know
    how much your advice/presentation helped me. How
    about we meet for lunch on me?"


    Man, the possibilities are endless!

    John
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  • Profile picture of the author Mark Hess
    I learned this from watching a few Clickbank sales page videos...

    Send him a stripper or hooker... "gurus" love them and they will apparently tell the stripper all their secrets for making money. Then all you have to do is ask the stripper (or hooker) what they talked about.
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    • Profile picture of the author The 13th Warrior
      Originally Posted by Mark Hess View Post


      I learned this from watching a few Clickbank sales page videos...

      Send him a stripper or hooker... "gurus" love them and they will apparently tell the stripper all their secrets for making money. Then all you have to do is ask the stripper (or hooker) what they talked about.

      Probably should check to see if he was married or has a significant other or something, that act would be way to presumptuous.

      Then you would definitely be on his crap list.

      The 13th Warrior
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      • Profile picture of the author Suthan M
        Originally Posted by The 13th Warrior View Post

        Probably should check to see if he was married or has a significant other or something, that act would be way to presumptuous.

        Then you would definitely be on his crap list.

        The 13th Warrior
        Chill.. He said that in jest..

        He is making a joke about a CB launch that became a industry laughing stock for the week
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    • Profile picture of the author rackemup
      Originally Posted by Mark Hess View Post

      I learned this from watching a few Clickbank sales page videos...

      Send him a stripper or hooker... "gurus" love them and they will apparently tell the stripper all their secrets for making money. Then all you have to do is ask the stripper (or hooker) what they talked about.
      This is the worst advice I have ever read. It's also the best advice from a non serious point of view. You made me laugh sir, and I thank you for that. Do they offer Groupons for that?
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  • Profile picture of the author Terry Hatfield
    I think it is pretty unrealistic to expect a big name to take time out of their schedule to get together with a complete stranger and answer their questions.

    The Guru may be mentoring dozens of people who pay thousands of dollars for their advice and even then they don't get to meet with the guru one on one most of the time.
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  • Profile picture of the author steven sanderson
    You would think though if these gurus have all the time in the world to sit on a beech with a laptop or go golfing and only work 4 hrs per week that they may be able to find time to have a quick coffee for half hour with someone, especially when it's very clear to me that you are certainly not a newbie, and someone who they should get to know in the local area.

    We have met a couple of people who have given there time to us and do you know, we will not be forgetting that and we will without a shadow of doubt be giving back to them
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  • Profile picture of the author Michael Meaney
    Regardless of how much potential money I could make, or where I live, or how great the coffee is, there's simply a few Warriors who I just don't want to do business with or give my time to. I ignore meeting requests from strangers, and am selective about which Warriors I agree to meet, only ever refused to meet one in person.. everyone else has been very cool.

    The great thing about working for yourself is that you're under no obligation to deal with people that you don't want to. Being selective is essential for success. And chances are he isn't personally managing the emails himself.

    Complaining about it on a public forum isn't likely to do you any favors if you're trying to present yourself as a professional to this person.
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    • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
      I'm hardly a big name, unless you count "Anonymous", but I'd have had the same reaction this marketer did. He may be another cat that sat on a hot stove*.

      The last time I agreed to meet someone I barely knew (met at a local event for small business people), we met at a local diner. About the time I was putting some cream and sugar in my cuppa, his 'business associate' slid into the booth next to me, effectively pinning me to the wall.

      That "half hour brainstorming session" turned into an hour and a half dog and pony show, or should I say "sticks and balls" show, during which I was pitched on the idea of joining three MLM companies at the same time (under them of course) and two leads companies (also under them).

      This was over ten years ago, and I have not accepted a similar invitation since then.

      * "A cat who sits once on a hot stove will never do it again, nor will she sit on a cold one." - Ben Franklin
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  • Profile picture of the author Brad Gosse
    I get emails like that WAY too often. My assistant responds with my paid coaching options.

    I used to meet people for coffee. Then I realized that people don't listen to free advice. Now I charge for the meeting because it defines the outcome and ensures the person takes action.

    If you want to get someones attention be more than a casual subscriber considering a spend.

    Offer to pay them for the time. You would be surprised how far the offer to pay will get you. I have spoken to some very well known people by offering to pay for the hour. Most of the time they chat with me unpaid.
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    • Profile picture of the author The 13th Warrior
      Originally Posted by Brad Gosse View Post


      I get emails like that WAY too often. My assistant responds with my paid coaching options.

      I used to meet people for coffee. Then I realized that people don't listen to free advice. Now I charge for the meeting because it defines the outcome and ensures the person takes action.

      If you want to get someones attention be more than a casual subscriber considering a spend.

      Offer to pay them for the time. You would be surprised how far the offer to pay will get you. I have spoken to some very well known people by offering to pay for the hour. Most of the time they chat with me unpaid.

      This is more practical advice.

      Some people want to meet just to be social, a person who is about business does not have time to ferret out who is serious and who just wants to chat.

      If a person has to pony up money per meeting or at a seminar or coaching fee, then it's their dime and if they want to waste it talking about idle chat, they are paying for it.

      Just because someone met you and chatted does not mean they know you, he probably done that with hundreds of people, why should he remember you?

      Meet for a $3.00 cup of coffee?

      You are taking too much for granted.

      He have figured consciously or subconsciously that every personal contact he makes in person is equal to some dollar figure to his time and bottom line, are you ready to PAY that rate?

      Maybe he also figured a while ago that it is not worth meeting people personally unless there are certain prerequisites, have you deemed or have enough respect for this person to deem WHAT those prerequisites are or would be?

      His time might be worth $500.00 per meeting, so he would lose there, not you, do you think that is fair?

      You may hear what he has to say and have a change of heart and decide NOT to invest further or purchase something or other business deal by his stated terms, so then he just lost time he CAN'T get back , cost him REAL money he could've earned somewhere else in addition to the lost $3.00 for a cup of coffee, looks to be you viewing things one-sided here.

      Looks like you are practicing what you are accusing him of..., looking out for his own BEST interest.

      For you to assume a person of that stature should take his time out for coffee JUST for YOU simply because of an email is drastically erroneous thinking, for the many reasons stated by others in this thread.

      You viewed things the way YOU would do or think it should be done, NOT the reality of the situation.

      Because if YOU got to be of his stature, everything you are thinking of how you would handle things would change to some extent, it would NOT be the same as you are thinking now; once you get that kind of money and demands on your time, something will HAVE to change and you not realizing that only illustrates the amount of growth a marketer has yet to attain.

      First, you would have to appropriately get that persons attention on their terms and then offer to pay them their price for their time for them to consider you serious and not some stalker, creep, some crazed fan, some lonely chap seeking attention or a buddy, some person looking for a shoulder to cry on, a type of person who is going to force someone to be his friend or somebody with a love crush on them.

      A person being charged per hour or a couple of hundred at a seminar is most LESS likely to be wasting time asking non related questions or talking about anything else except how to make money so as to RECOVER their fee and then some.


      The 13th Warrior
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  • Profile picture of the author KatieWilliams
    I don't think he was in the wrong to not want to meet up for coffee - you are, after all, a stranger to him.

    But to ignore your emails and at the same time add you to his autoresponder is just rude. If he can spare the time to add you to aweber he can send a quick "thanks but no thanks" email.
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  • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
    I've already said what I think - but I have to add one more comment.

    For those of you who think he was rude for sending pitches, I don't think HE was the one sending it.


    His software was.

    There is software that will automatically add anyone who contacts you via email to a list. It's actually a smart approach - if done correctly.

    People who contact you are more likely to purchase something from you. I've seen this used extremely well in many situations and can increase sales for bigger ticket items.

    So - what happened to Johnny was a simple act of marketing automation.

    Rob
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    • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
      Originally Posted by ccmusicman View Post


      For those of you who think he was rude for sending pitches, I don't think HE was the one sending it.


      So - what happened to Johnny was a simple act of marketing automation.

      Rob
      Hello Rob,

      I wasn't saying the guy was rude to send pitches, I said that if he had time to put Johnny on his list, he had time to say "No thanks".

      If he was using software to add people, that explains it.

      I'm curious though, under the Can Spam Act, does emailing someone and asking them for coffee mean you want to go on their list to be sold stuff?...And if I hit the spam button, would the sender be protected (as he may with a double opt in)...as Johnny sure as hell never signed up to his list or was even told he was on it, he just asked him if he'd like coffee.

      I'm not arguing Rob, I'm just curious how that works with the law.
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      • Profile picture of the author myob
        Question. If this "big name internet marketer" lives less than a 15 minute drive away from you , why are you only sending him emails? :rolleyes:
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        • Profile picture of the author jimmel196
          Originally Posted by myob View Post

          Question. If this "big name internet marketer" lives less than a 15 minute drive away from you , why are you only sending him emails? :rolleyes:
          I agree. There are a lot of "big name" marketers out there. I guess it just seems convenient when they live so close.

          Take me for instance. I have been following MYOB posts regarding article marketing and would really like to get a good blueprint for article marketing from him, however as busy as he is I doubt it will ever happen. I definitely can't fault you for trying. If you don't ask the answer will always be no.
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          • Profile picture of the author myob
            Originally Posted by jimmel196 View Post

            I agree. There are a lot of "big name" marketers out there. I guess it just seems convenient when they live so close.

            Take me for instance. I have been following MYOB posts regarding article marketing and would really like to get a good blueprint for article marketing from him, however as busy as he is I doubt it will ever happen. I definitely can't fault you for trying. If you don't ask the answer will always be no.
            This "blueprint" is in my posts here on the forum (ie "article syndication"), as well as in the second line of my sig. Let me spell it out for you; j u s t .d o . i t.
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        • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
          Originally Posted by myob View Post

          Question. If this "big name internet marketer" lives less than a 15 minute drive away from you , why are you only sending him emails? :rolleyes:
          If I wasn't aware of your AWESOME sense of humor, Paul, I may have went into the whole spiel of how bad of an idea this is.



          All the best,
          Michael
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          • I probably already mentioned a few months ago I reviewed a copy of James Clear's "How to Email Important People" ebook. It had some good information.

            But it seems to me that when it comes to contacting important and influential people, IMers are in a group of their own because email is one of the means by which they earn their bread and butter.

            For example, in the book James contacted some well-known people like Guy Kawasaki. But Guy Kawasaki is not -- as far as I know -- in the business of selling personal coaching. (I'm sure he makes plenty from his books and personal appearances.) He is, apparently, gracious. He has noblesse oblige.

            fLufF
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      • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
        Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post


        I'm not arguing Rob, I'm just curious how that works with the law.
        I'm no lawyer, but i believe that if they contact you (a person), it means you can put them on a list. Sorta like if you contact a company, they can market to you for so many days.

        I could be wrong though.

        Where is Brian Kindsvater? lol

        Rob
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  • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
    Originally Posted by UKGeorge View Post

    is it that simple to make money
    Not half as simple as it is to write lots of one liners
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  • Profile picture of the author TianaBanana
    OP, when I think of meeting someone successful to learn about what they do, I can't help but think of how it was done in the Wallstreet movies (which I've watched recently, I'm such a nerd).

    You gotta get their attention. In the first Wallstreet movie Charlie Sheen had to hustle his way into Michael Douglas's office by going up there in person on his birthday with a birthday gift and convince the receptionist, only after he called all day and made his name known. In the second, all it took was Shia LeBouf saying he was gonna marry Michael Douglas's daughter. While this kind of demeanor kind of lame when we sit here in real life, or pretentious or whatever... it's still raw persistence. I think it really takes underhand ways like that to get someone's attention who's constantly busy, especially when other people are trying to do the same.

    Social Engineering!
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    • Profile picture of the author Bekah Howard
      Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

      Kind of rude for the marketer to stuff Johnny on his mailing list without being asked and sending him "Unsolicited" offers to spend cash with him.

      Johnny asked to meet him for coffee not get pitched offers.

      If the marketer had time to add Johnny to his list, I'm sure he/she would have had time to send a quick email saying he's too busy to meet right now.
      Originally Posted by KatieWilliams View Post

      But to ignore your emails and at the same time add you to his autoresponder is just rude. If he can spare the time to add you to aweber he can send a quick "thanks but no thanks" email.
      Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

      I wasn't saying the guy was rude to send pitches, I said that if he had time to put Johnny on his list, he had time to say "No thanks".
      Ok, I think you all are missing one important fact:

      Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

      I have met this person and talked face to face previously, at an internet marketing seminar. And I have purchased from this person and even joined their membership site.
      To me, this most likely means that he Already Was on the List. Yes, the pitch was most likely an auto-response (either by software or support personnel). However, that does not mean he was just added to the list. If he has purchased before, he is probably already on it.

      Also, the OP has never once said that he is emailing a personal email address (as in one given to him by the person). I've done support work in the IM niche and let me tell you one thing. Support emails are NOT a direct route to the businessman. If you address the email to the person, and get an unsigned response chances are you were responded to by support personnel (though I believe that support personnel should always have a support sig, some do not follow that belief).

      If it was not a support email address or a personal email address that you've been given, chances are that it is an unmonitored email address hooked up to an auto-responder. For example, most email accounts used to send out "newsletters" or other offers are usually minimally monitored at best.
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      • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
        Originally Posted by Bekah Howard View Post

        Ok, I think you all are missing one important fact:

        To me, this most likely means that he Already Was on the List. Yes, the pitch was most likely an auto-response (either by software or support personnel). However, that does not mean he was just added to the list. If he has purchased before, he is probably already on it.
        Hello Bekah,

        Yes I agree I missed that bit but my second post was in response to Robs....

        His software was.

        There is software that will automatically add anyone who contacts you via email to a list. It's actually a smart approach - if done correctly.
        My point now is, if you have software that adds you to a list when someone emails you, how does that sit with the Can Spam Act?

        For example, if I wasn't on the said marketers list and I asked him for a coffee and then I got pitches from him, how will it sit if I reported the marketer for spam as I'd never signed up to receive anything?

        That seems to me to be unsolicited mail.

        I may be wrong and I quite well could be and I'm not arguing it's wrong. All I'm asking is how does that sit with what we can and cannot do? The reason I ask is because if it's ok, I should be able to add anyone that ever emails me to my mailing list and even if someone phones me and leaves a message, surely I can add them too?

        Sorry that doesn't seem right to me.

        So if anyone can just put me in the right so I can stand corrected, please do. Like I say, I'm not arguing, I'm curious how that works.

        Originally Posted by ccmusicman View Post

        I'm no lawyer, but i believe that if they contact you (a person), it means you can put them on a list. Sorta like if you contact a company, they can market to you for so many days.

        I could be wrong though.

        Where is Brian Kindsvater? lol

        Rob
        Thanks Rob and like I said, I'm not saying your wrong or challenging what you said, I'd just like to see how that works. I think perhaps I've misinterpreted the law on this.

        So I'll join you on that chorus...

        Where the hell is Brian?
        Signature

        Wibble, bark, my old man's a mushroom etc...

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  • Profile picture of the author Vlad Romanov
    By not wasting time on coaching you over coffee, that person probably made much more money hahhaha...
    Signature
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  • Profile picture of the author Mary Wilhite
    There's so many reasons why the fellow wasn't able to
    have that social contact with you.

    From the possibility that he just doesn't see the
    benefit in meeting with you or he's just too busy.

    However, you got a point when you said that he
    didn't even said "no thanks". There are also
    several possible reasons why he wasn't able
    to do that but it shows one thing, customer
    support is not one of his strength.

    The result of that, like what you mentioned -
    he lost thousands in potential sale.
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    • Profile picture of the author davezan
      Originally Posted by Mary Wilhite View Post

      The result of that, like what you mentioned -
      he lost thousands in potential sale.
      And likely made up for that thousands more with others anyway.

      Sorry to read it didn't work for you, OP. But at least you can learn from this, and
      then move on to others who might spend that $3 cup of coffee with you.
      Signature

      David

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      • Profile picture of the author Karen Blundell
        Johnny, it's no loss. Why would you want to "rub elbows" with someone who obviously has no manners?

        You deserve to be treated better, don't you agree?
        Signature
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  • Profile picture of the author Robert Brauer
    Wow. This is solid advice. It's easy to forget that on the other side of that computer is a HUMAN BEING.

    You've illustrated this well.

    The truth is, the more human you can be, the more people will stick around (and buy from you)....

    Even if all you do is share a $3 cup of coffee and 20 minutes of your time!
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  • Profile picture of the author AdwordsMogul
    In short:

    - you want something from the guy
    - in exchange you'll buy him $3 cup of coffee
    - since he said no, you won't buy anything from him again

    Correct?
    Signature
    "Those who can - DO IT. Those who can't, say it's impossible."
    Jean Paul a.k.a AdwordsMogul
    PHPDevelopers.net - Top of the range PHP developers

    Easy Link Saver - Are you tired of the pain of constantly searching for your affiliate links? ( Chrome extension - FREE )
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  • Profile picture of the author jasonl70
    my gut reaction is the same as others.. you may have used an email address that isn't his actual personal email. Or one that got spread around so much that he quit monitoring it.

    I also know that with a list as small as 12,000 , I was buried in requests for free help, etc. It was a HUGE time drain, and I quickly realized why such people are often called "energy vampires". My business did much better when I used unmonitored email addresses, customer support addresses, etc., for everything.

    "Nobody get's to see the wizard! Not nobody, not no how!"
    Signature

    -Jason

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  • Profile picture of the author Scott Ames
    I am very guarded with my time and I even hate family pinning me down to a commitment. If I got this invitation I would try to wiggle out of it in a way that didn't hurt the other person's feelings.
    Signature

    Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm. -Winston Churchill

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  • Profile picture of the author Sarevok
    For every one person like you, there's 100 insolent whelps who expect everything to be handed to them.
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  • Profile picture of the author jaiganeshv
    This is one way to test if your list owner is listening to you or he only fills up his AR with loads of sh*t last year and never checks the email/replies from his list members...
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  • Profile picture of the author Brad Spencer
    Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

    Hey guys,

    Theres a big name internet marketer that lives not far from me. Infact, its probably less than 15 minutes drive from here.

    I've sent numerous emails and PM's asking if we could meet up for a cup of coffee and a chat.

    I'm not going to lie, of course Id love to ask some questions about internet marketing, and I certainly dont expect $5,000 worth of personalised coaching at a cafe - but thats not my reason for asking.

    I like to network with successful people. To see how they think. How their minds work, and of course to meet new people and make new friends. Im new to Sydney - I dont know a lot of people here.

    Time and time again, I receive no response, or worse, Im told to sign up or register for some offer, or put down money for an upcoming seminar.

    Its annoying when you send a personal email - get no response, to which is then followed up by an autoresponder a week later with the wording ..

    "John, thanks so much for your interest in my ..."

    Dont f*ing call me John, if you cant even have the decency to email me back. Even if it is a "no thanks", or "sorry Im busy..."

    Today I unsubscribed from this persons list - all of them.

    Its funny - a simple $3 cup of coffee and a 20 minute chat, and I probably would've spent thousands with this person. Infact Im certain I would have.

    Instead, they've lost me - big time.
    Bro,

    Sorry to hear about your experience. I literally spend 1/3 of my day offering free consulting to people of all levels and my "most fun" deals all come out of this work.

    Amazing what doing some troubleshooting for 15 minutes will do for your bottom line after scoring a friend for life and a 5 figure JV deal...

    "Make Friends, Not Affiliates" Was one of the best pieces of business advice I've ever gotten.

    Sorry this guy doesn't get that.

    Good luck and feel free to hit me up if you're ever in Florida in the US.

    Cheers,

    Brad
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  • Profile picture of the author Ash R
    First off, I want to sympathize with the OP because he:

    1. Paid the marketer money for a membership site
    2. Has had previous personal contact via PMs and emails
    3. Has met the marketer face-to-face personally

    So it's not like he contacted a stranger!

    However, I think anyone with even a tiny list in IM/MMO/DebtRelief or anything to do with earning money is used to being OVERWHELMED with requests for help.

    So, I guess your email either did not reach the marketer or he didn't remember who you are. Yes, a lot of people, myself included, have bad memories. So I suppose - don't take it personally?

    However, if I were in the marketer's place, I wouldn't meet you for a "social coffee". Simply because:
    1. It's not really social, it's work
    2. The photo of yourself with the knife kind of sums it up
    3. I'm busy and have other social commitments

    Still, since you & he have met previously and seem to know each other from before, he should've replied and said, sorry I'm busy and can't meet up. That's common courtesy.

    The fact that he didn't do so indicates that he most likely never received your emails.
    Signature
    Don't sweat the small stuff :)
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    • Profile picture of the author Dennis Gaskill
      Most of the comments in this thread are logical and reasonable, but perhaps the view looks different from the marketer's perspective.

      I have over 600 people in just one of my membeship sites, plus I have several other membership sites. I'm not smart enough to remember them all by name. Just being a member in someone's site doesn't mean they know your name.

      As for meeting him at a seminar, while I don't know the circumstances of that, I do know it's easy to meet dozens of people at a seminar just as a guest. If you're a speaker you might meet more than a hundred people. Again, pretty hard to remember everyone -- it would be for me anyway.

      As for emails and PM's, I get hundreds of PM each year; and I can get hundreds of emails in one day. Again, hard to remember them all. Hard to even reply to everyone.

      I'm not making excuses for the marketer or passing judgment on Johnny, but Johnny's perspective only reveals his thinking. The view from the marketer's perspective could be very different.
      Signature

      Just when you think you've got it all figured out, someone changes the rules.

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  • Profile picture of the author TimCastleman
    Originally Posted by ramone_johnny View Post

    Hey guys,

    Theres a big name internet marketer that lives not far from me. Infact, its probably less than 15 minutes drive from here.

    I've sent numerous emails and PM's asking if we could meet up for a cup of coffee and a chat.

    I'm not going to lie, of course Id love to ask some questions about internet marketing, and I certainly dont expect $5,000 worth of personalised coaching at a cafe - but thats not my reason for asking.

    I like to network with successful people. To see how they think. How their minds work, and of course to meet new people and make new friends. Im new to Sydney - I dont know a lot of people here.

    Time and time again, I receive no response, or worse, Im told to sign up or register for some offer, or put down money for an upcoming seminar.

    Its annoying when you send a personal email - get no response, to which is then followed up by an autoresponder a week later with the wording ..

    "John, thanks so much for your interest in my ..."

    Dont f*ing call me John, if you cant even have the decency to email me back. Even if it is a "no thanks", or "sorry Im busy..."

    Today I unsubscribed from this persons list - all of them.

    Its funny - a simple $3 cup of coffee and a 20 minute chat, and I probably would've spent thousands with this person. Infact Im certain I would have.

    Instead, they've lost me - big time.
    So I'm suppose to stop what I'm doing and spill my guts to you ... for free no less ... on the hope that one day you'll buy something?

    Why not spend some money with the guy first and then ask for his help?

    Or better yet why not BUY an hour or a half hour of their time and then mention on the call - hey we live so close I'd love to talk some more over a nice meal - my treat of course.

    This person has no reason to give you their time for free.

    I have a simple rule - if you gave birth to me or spend your nights laying next to me - my time is free ... everyone else pays.

    And there is a bigger reason than that - you want to know what 99.999% of people do with FREE advice - not a damn thing.

    Why would they - it cost them nothing but a little time.

    But if you want my time - you need to have some skin in the game (aka money, exchange of services, etc).

    Offer to help them first and then ask for some in return - not the other way around.

    That's how I do it and multi 6 figure years tells me it paid off.

    Tim
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    • Profile picture of the author ExRat
      Hi TimCastleman,

      Originally Posted by TimCastleman View Post

      So I'm suppose to stop what I'm doing and spill my guts to you ... for free no less ... on the hope that one day you'll buy something?
      He wasn't referring to you, he was referring to someone completely different -

      a big name internet marketer

      Originally Posted by TimCastleman View Post

      Why not spend some money with the guy first and then ask for his help?
      Why not read the thread before sounding off?

      I have purchased from this person and even joined their membership site
      Signature


      Roger Davis

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      • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
        Originally Posted by TimCastleman View Post

        So I'm suppose to stop what I'm doing and spill my guts to you ... for free no less ... on the hope that one day you'll buy something?

        Why not spend some money with the guy first and then ask for his help?
        Tim,

        Roger beat me to it but read the bolded bit of post #73, just 2 posts above yours.

        Signature

        Wibble, bark, my old man's a mushroom etc...

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  • Profile picture of the author cashtree
    My opinion is maybe he didn't want to spend time with you. Let's be real how many of us would rather spend time with some random guy talking about business when it could be spent with family etc...? Isn't the goal of working for ourselves not having to cater to every person face to face who feel entitled? At restaurants, as a waiter, you have no choice, you have to serve the customer, have to make them laugh, listen to their stories, even if you don't agree with them, even though they don't care about you, they just want people to listen to them, and they know you have to because otherwise they won't give you a tip. Sorry but I can't support this thread, as other have stated this man has no obligation to do 1on1 with you, he sound succesful and doesn't need your money, the fact you made this thread calling him out, angry and feeling entitled, it wouldn't suprise me if he picked up on that. My advice to you is focus on positive things, be humble, yet determined, trying to rally people to negative causes is not the way.
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  • Profile picture of the author trishacupra911
    There are so many reasons which have already been covered.

    My small suggestion is to try and find out if you both have an interest in common, like a type of sport or other hobby or passion. For all you know, he may not like caffeine.

    But if you sent him a card in the post saying that you admire his work (with specifics) and thanks for something you learned from him, and a humble invitation to join you for a game of badminton, or origami, or stalking, or watching stand-up comedy, you might have much more luck.

    If you do manage to meet him socially, just don't go picking his brain (like the old ladies who find out the young man is a doctor and show him their various warts and growths).
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  • Profile picture of the author JeanneLynn
    I wouldn't go for coffee with a stranger either, but he should have sent a personal email with a polite excuse.
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