Remind Me Please... Why Online?

52 replies
Hi

Alright, so first of all let me get this out of the way... I do not mean to insult or offend anyone. Secondly... I am not being a smartass or judgmental.

That said... I want you to tell me why you want to make money ONLINE? Why do you INSIST on doing it all ONLINE?

What is the fascination with online businesses? My personal observation in the business world has forced me ask this question. Maybe I am just trying to gain perspective... maybe I am trying to understand why I tried it for so many years.

But regardless of why I am asking, I must confess...

I have a pretty strong urge to quench my curiosity on why all the insistance on doing it all online?

-LB
#online #remind
  • Profile picture of the author Robert Michael
    I dont care how I make $ as long as its legal.. It can be on or offline for all I care. lol

    But I think most people just enjoy the idea of being their own boss.

    Many don't realize just how boring it can get working online.
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by Whos That Guru View Post

      I dont care how I make $ as long as its legal.. It can be on or offline for all I care. lol

      But I think most people just enjoy the idea of being their own boss.

      Many don't realize just how boring it can get working online.
      Amen to the last sentence... I just love networking with people. Learning from them... leveraging not only their experiences and lessons, but also their connections AND their unused/unsold assets... it's just wonderful.

      But for being your own boss you don't necessarily have to be online. I mean, sure if you know a really cool strategy or have a great vision (which is what strategy comes from)... it's different. But otherwise... I need someone to explain to me why it ALL absolutely must be online...

      -L
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      • Profile picture of the author Tina Golden
        There's little to no capital needed to start an online business. Most offline businesses require a good amount of start-up capital and overhead.

        An online business is a lot easier to start on a part-time basis, too. Many people want something they can work in around their regular job.
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        • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
          Originally Posted by Tina Golden View Post

          There's little to no capital needed to start an online business. Most offline businesses require a good amount of start-up capital and overhead.

          An online business is a lot easier to start on a part-time basis, too. Many people want something they can work in around their regular job.
          Give me an example.

          Any example... an online business (and I mean business not a freelancing JOB, which isn't demeaning or inferior at all... just different from business) that can be started for little capital.

          Keep in mind we are talking about people who are generally new to this. It still isn't easy for me after 8 years... but newer people... they don't have any skills they need here.

          -Lakshay

          P.S. I am willing to actually open my eyes are learn. I want to be enlightened. Truly.
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          • Profile picture of the author curly sue
            Its the ease of being your own boss, working anywhere on globe whilst travelling and determining your own destiny thats why we strike to make money online.
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    • Profile picture of the author tsdrew
      There are many reasons why people want to make money online but in my personal experience it's because of one of the following

      1. people want to earn a little bit extra on the side
      2. people want to start there own online business or service
      3. people want to get out of there dead end day jobs and start something new
      4. people want to work for themselves rather than working for someone else

      either way it's down to you whether you want to make money online or if you want to carry on making money offline.
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  • Profile picture of the author Cru
    Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

    Hi

    Alright, so first of all let me get this out of the way... I do not mean to insult or offend anyone. Secondly... I am not being a smartass or judgmental.

    That said... I want you to tell me why you want to make money ONLINE? Why do you INSIST on doing it all ONLINE?

    What is the fascination with online businesses? My personal observation in the business world has forced me ask this question. Maybe I am just trying to gain perspective... maybe I am trying to understand why I tried it for so many years.

    But regardless of why I am asking, I must confess...

    I have a pretty strong urge to quench my curiosity on why all the insistance on doing it all online?

    -LB
    Lower barrier to entry, the "set it and forget it" mentality (passive income), online is becoming the norm while brick and mortar businesses are starting to go out of business, low overhead, no need to to cold calls/face to face sales, etc. etc.
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    • Profile picture of the author DavidMoore557
      I would have to say that leverage and low entry point would be the two main factors for me.

      If I'm online, then I'm in my office .... in my house. I'm not at somebody else's building. I can take breaks when I want. I can see and interact with my family.

      These are just a few of the reasons for me.

      -DaveMike
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      • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
        Originally Posted by DavidMoore557 View Post

        I would have to say that leverage and low entry point would be the two main factors for me.

        -DaveMike
        Dave, please explain to me what kind of leverage can be had in the online world that offline businesses can't offer.

        Originally Posted by DavidMoore557 View Post

        If I'm online, then I'm in my office .... in my house. I'm not at somebody else's building. I can take breaks when I want. I can see and interact with my family.

        -DaveMike
        But this can really be said about any business owner who is working ON their business (and not IN it)

        -LB
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by Cru View Post

      Lower barrier to entry,
      Actually, the learning curve is much steeper since they don't teach how to build websites at school. Not to mention copywriting skills and amrketing skills in general are pretty damn difficult to pick up... but most definitely worth it for sure.

      Barrier to entry looks small... but if I am looking to make a comfortable living online (say $10K a month)... and I have none of those skills, what kind of barrier to entry are we looking at?


      Originally Posted by Cru View Post

      the "set it and forget it" mentality (passive income)
      Which model? PPC? Couldn't be. Media buying? Sure!!! SEO? No way... Article writing?

      I don't see ANY online OR offline business that is set and forget. It can't be...

      Secondly, why all this talk about entrepreneurship if work is oh so dreadful?


      Originally Posted by Cru View Post

      online is becoming the norm while brick and mortar businesses are starting to go out of business
      While there is truth to what you say... brick and mortars are still not going anywhere. Heard about Google TV ads? Google too realize that online world is not be-all-and-end-all.

      Some businesses might be going bankrupt, others are banking it hand over fist.

      In both the worlds... online AND offline.

      Think about this... How many people can you bring to the forefront who honestly have a really stable online business that produces any significant profits consistently. What percentage? I am going to bet it's lower than offline.


      Originally Posted by Cru View Post

      low overhead
      That's true... only for info businesses.

      Originally Posted by Cru View Post

      no need to to cold calls/face to face sales, etc. etc.
      So, basically it's about avoiding meeting and talking and helping people. Cause the way I see it... excellent sales people are consultants with a responsibility to serve the best interests of their clients.

      -Lakshay
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      • Profile picture of the author Cru
        Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

        Actually, the learning curve is much steeper since they don't teach how to build websites at school. Not to mention copywriting skills and amrketing skills in general are pretty damn difficult to pick up... but most definitely worth it for sure.

        Barrier to entry looks small... but if I am looking to make a comfortable living online (say $10K a month)... and I have none of those skills, what kind of barrier to entry are we looking at?




        Which model? PPC? Couldn't be. Media buying? Sure!!! SEO? No way... Article writing?

        I don't see ANY online OR offline business that is set and forget. It can't be...

        Secondly, why all this talk about entrepreneurship if work is oh so dreadful?




        While there is truth to what you say... brick and mortars are still not going anywhere. Heard about Google TV ads? Google too realize that online world is not be-all-and-end-all.

        Some businesses might be going bankrupt, others are banking it hand over fist.

        In both the worlds... online AND offline.

        Think about this... How many people can you bring to the forefront who honestly have a really stable online business that produces any significant profits consistently. What percentage? I am going to bet it's lower than offline.




        That's true... only for info businesses.



        So, basically it's about avoiding meeting and talking and helping people. Cause the way I see it... excellent sales people are consultants with a responsibility to serve the best interests of their clients.

        -Lakshay
        I disagree that the learning curve is steeper. If you are a self starter then it isn't very difficult to learn. Also, I think you'd be surprised at the number of people who take major in one thing at a post secondary school and wind up doing something completely differently. I have a friend who took public relations in school and now she works at an oil company doing logistical work. It's all about the ability to learn, not what you've learned at school. If that's what your mindset is, you'll miss out on so many opportunities in your life.

        There are a lot of people out there who have AdSense blogs in micro-niches that pull in more than $10K per month. They have a network of hundreds of these sites each taking in a few bucks a day. If you have 100 sites making $3.34 in adsense per day, there is your $10K per month. All you really have to do to maintain that is keep an eye on your SERPS every now and then and then either do the backlinking yourself with tools like SENuke or you outsource it.

        In terms of online vs brick and mortar you're going to see a big change over the next 30 years. As the internet generation becomes the older generation you're going to see a big shift to online. I purchase 90% of my electronics through Amazon, best buy, etc. because it is convenient. My parents would do this too if they weren't so afraid of using the internet to make purchases.

        Also, you should read up on things like BlockBuster's bankruptcy due to NetFlix to see how incredibility powerful and disruptive online can be. All I am saying is that you never hear about a brick and mortar store causing an online company to go bankrupt, it is always the other way around.

        In terms of the percentage of people being able to make money from an online business, you're talking about the offline business model that has been around for thousands of years vs. online business models that have really only been around for 20. Like I mention above, give it some time.

        As for low overhead, I think we can all agree that if you look at any business that is offline and look at that same business that is online, online will always have a lower overhead. You don't have to worry about stocking shelves, you don't have to worry about personally serving every customer, in the end it is just more automated no matter how you slice it. Automation = lower costs. Period.

        As for sales. If you want to have a sales job you can do that online as well, but many people like the idea of customers coming to them and only needing to work on offline and online SEO.
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        • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          I disagree that the learning curve is steeper. If you are a self starter then it isn't very difficult to learn.
          It doesn't matter that you disagree. If copywriting was easier, there would be a lot of good copy. I don't see it.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          Also, I think you'd be surprised at the number of people who take major in one thing at a post secondary school and wind up doing something completely differently. I have a friend who took public relations in school and now she works at an oil company doing logistical work.
          I don't get the parallel here... maybe you can explain a bit further.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          It's all about the ability to learn, not what you've learned at school. If that's what your mindset is, you'll miss out on so many opportunities in your life.
          Just to remind you... you don't know me.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          There are a lot of people out there who have AdSense blogs in micro-niches that pull in more than $10K per month. They have a network of hundreds of these sites each taking in a few bucks a day. If you have 100 sites making $3.34 in adsense per day, there is your $10K per month. All you really have to do to maintain that is keep an eye on your SERPS every now and then and then either do the backlinking yourself with tools like SENuke or you outsource it.
          Maybe I am not that well connected, but I don't know a single person who's doing this. Maybe there is someone out there... but then, most people aren't achieving it.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          In terms of online vs brick and mortar you're going to see a big change over the next 30 years. As the internet generation becomes the older generation you're going to see a big shift to online. I purchase 90% of my electronics through Amazon, best buy, etc. because it is convenient. My parents would do this too if they weren't so afraid of using the internet to make purchases.
          Let me tell you something... a brick and mortar business creates those electronics. Another brick and mortar ships those electronics. Yet another one creates the packaging materials for those electronics. And then there's another one that provides after sales support. Those businesses aren't going anywhere. Maybe they'll be replaced by another company. But the demand will stay, and the business will stay.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          Also, you should read up on things like BlockBuster's bankruptcy due to NetFlix to see how incredibility powerful and disruptive online can be. All I am saying is that you never hear about a brick and mortar store causing an online company to go bankrupt, it is always the other way around.
          That's just information transfer. Anything that can be digitally delivered shall be digitally delivered.

          But then, how would you like your coffee on your monitor screen. Just because one industry (or several) crumbled (read evolved) does not mean that you will never have to set foot out of your palace ever again.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          In terms of the percentage of people being able to make money from an online business, you're talking about the offline business model that has been around for thousands of years vs. online business models that have really only been around for 20. Like I mention above, give it some time.
          As far as I understand, there is a lower barrier to entry when an industry is new. There is something called product lifecycle... you might want to look it up. Eventually, giants like Google and Amazon start killing David D's and Frank K's.

          HINT: Frank moved on to OFFLINE consultancy himself. And he's not God, I agree. But he ain't no fool either. if you hear what I am saying.


          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          As for low overhead, I think we can all agree that if you look at any business that is offline and look at that same business that is online, online will always have a lower overhead. You don't have to worry about stocking shelves, you don't have to worry about personally serving every customer, in the end it is just more automated no matter how you slice it. Automation = lower costs. Period.

          As for sales. If you want to have a sales job you can do that online as well, but many people like the idea of customers coming to them and only needing to work on offline and online SEO.
          Like I said, you don't have to worry about stocking shelves and burning DVD's because someone else will.

          I really don't get what you said in the last paragraph. Please explain. Try not to make a personal assumption about me this time. I don't appreciate that.

          -LB

          P.S. I do appreciate your long reply, and I thank you for putting your opinion out here in front of us.
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  • Profile picture of the author ArwenTaylor
    I do it because it allows me to work from anywhere. With an online business, I am not limited to one area. If I want to pick up and move to another state I can without having to go through the trouble of finding another job. I work online mostly because of the flexibility.
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by ArwenTaylor View Post

      I do it because it allows me to work from anywhere. With an online business, I am not limited to one area. If I want to pick up and move to another state I can without having to go through the trouble of finding another job. I work online mostly because of the flexibility.
      That's a good reason. Although, you would agree that there are certain offline businesses that would offer similar or even better flexibility.

      Still I agree this is one great reason to work online.

      -LB
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  • Profile picture of the author TopKat22
    All the reason already mentioned are good and valid for most people including me.

    In addition, having ran multiple brick and mortar businesses for years, my personal reason for working online is extremely low overhead, no employees, can work from anywhere in the world I have a computer and internet connection, and the convenience of working when I want.

    Also, the ROI on my online businesses is amazing.
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by TopKat22 View Post

      All the reason already mentioned are good and valid for most people including me.

      In addition, having ran multiple brick and mortar businesses for years, my personal reason for working online is extremely low overhead, no employees, can work from anywhere in the world I have a computer and internet connection, and the convenience of working when I want.

      Also, the ROI on my online businesses is amazing.
      What kind of ROI's are we talking about here?

      Also, would you mind terribly sharing the bird's eye view of your business structure. A lot of people, me included, will be willing to learn from you.

      I am not asking you to spill the beans. I am just humbly requesting you to give us a 2-3 sentence explanation of what you do to produce such high ROI's, and why you think it's only possible online...

      Thanks
      -LB
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      • Profile picture of the author TopKat22
        Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

        What kind of ROI's are we talking about here?

        Also, would you mind terribly sharing the bird's eye view of your business structure. A lot of people, me included, will be willing to learn from you.

        I am not asking you to spill the beans. I am just humbly requesting you to give us a 2-3 sentence explanation of what you do to produce such high ROI's, and why you think it's only possible online...

        Thanks
        -LB
        Certainly. Of course, ROI is return on investment. In my offline businesses, I had to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars and many months setting it up before I could even open and hope to make any money.

        In my online business, the TOTAL amount invested in training, domain, autoresponder, hosting and some incidentals did not EVEN equal to 10% of the first payroll I had to pay in just ONE of my offline businesses BEFORE I EVER EVEN OPENED.

        So as a percentage of what I had invested (ROI), IM is amazing.

        I found a niche, build a landing page, set up an autoresponder, got traffic, gave valuable information to my list, every so often promote something to them of real value for the price. Then do it again with another niche.

        I hope that is short enough.

        Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

        Cru,

        Understand this. I have already said it enough number of times... I am not shooting anyone down. I am just trying to get people to ask themselves why they do it.

        Believe it or not.. I talk to 3-4 warriors everyday. More often than not (actually almost always) they are very frustrated.

        Please do not take this discussion where it's not supposed to be.

        -LB
        So, if I understand you correctly, you are frustrated and there are a lot of other people who are, too.

        Then may I ask, quite sincerely without meaning to be cruel, what exactly are you looking to find out?

        Do you hope to find a good reason to stay in IM?

        I personally believe that the failure rate of most business regardless of what type is quite high. I also think that when you have less invested in it, therefore more people get involved, the number of failures may be higher but the percentage is probably the same.

        I am in no way saying that people who enter lower cost businesses do not work hard. I'm very sure many do.

        However, I might add, that for me, when I started my first offline business for example, I
        HAD to make it work. I had put every dime I had into it and even though it went over time and over budget to get opened, I JUST HAD to make it work. Three days open, paying employees and no business even with all the ads I sent out....I took flyers and went door to door to businesses and told them about it.

        I just HAD to make it work. I HAD to do whatever it takes to make it work.

        And I will close by saying this, which I've said to relatives, friends and even my own employees many, many times----

        If you do not love what you do, do something else. Life is too short to be miserable.

        :-)
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        • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
          Originally Posted by TopKat22 View Post

          Certainly. Of course, ROI is return on investment. In my offline businesses, I had to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars and many months setting it up before I could even open and hope to make any money.

          In my online business, the TOTAL amount invested in training, domain, autoresponder, hosting and some incidentals did not EVEN equal to 10% of the first payroll I had to pay in just ONE of my offline businesses BEFORE I EVER EVEN OPENED.

          So as a percentage of what I had invested (ROI), IM is amazing.

          I found a niche, build a landing page, set up an autoresponder, got traffic, gave valuable information to my list, every so often promote something to them of real value for the price. Then do it again with another niche.

          I hope that is short enough.
          Sure is.

          Thanks.

          Actually, can I be honest with you?

          I have tried that very model umpteen times. I succeeded very few times, to be honest. And I train myself all the time... By actually seeking out and talking to top business executives and leaders over lunch. Almost everyday.

          But it didn't give me enough success. Same model. It's a pretty sound model. But I just didn't get the kind of success I wanted... Most would have called me pretty successful, but I didn't.

          Until I found my calling. My Vision. That I really just wanted to serve a particular kind of clients. A clear vision about how I can really help the, based on what my passion, training and gifts are. Then, not only the income skyrocketed, but my personal satisfaction levels couldn't be better.

          However, there is still scope for improvement. I am looking for the next breakthrough. (Hence, this post)

          I digress.

          To you, many congrats for your success, and wish you all success for all your endeavors.

          -LB
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          • Profile picture of the author TopKat22
            Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

            Sure is.

            Thanks.

            Actually, can I be honest with you?

            I have tried that very model umpteen times. I succeeded very few times, to be honest. And I train myself all the time... By actually seeking out and talking to top business executives and leaders over lunch. Almost everyday.

            But it didn't give me enough success. Same model. It's a pretty sound model. But I just didn't get the kind of success I wanted... Most would have called me pretty successful, but I didn't.

            Until I found my calling. My Vision. That I really just wanted to serve a particular kind of clients. A clear vision about how I can really help the, based on what my passion, training and gifts are. Then, not only the income skyrocketed, but my personal satisfaction levels couldn't be better.

            However, there is still scope for improvement. I am looking for the next breakthrough. (Hence, this post)

            I digress.

            To you, many congrats for your success, and wish you all success for all your endeavors.

            -LB
            True. I'm very happy for your success and I think it is always best to do something that someone has real passion for and if that is also where their gifts lie, then even better.

            Yes, there is always room for improvement. My moto is to always keep growing and learning.

            Thank you and I wish you much success in all your endeavors also.
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        • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
          Originally Posted by TopKat22 View Post


          So, if I understand you correctly, you are frustrated and there are a lot of other people who are, too.

          Then may I ask, quite sincerely without meaning to be cruel, what exactly are you looking to find out?

          Do you hope to find a good reason to stay in IM?
          No, you didn't understand me correctly.

          I am by no means frustrated.

          I am not even looking to find out much... I just hope to help someone find out something that my stubbornness taught me quite cruelly.

          -LB

          P.S. I must say though, mostly people will only choose to see what they want to see. It's OK. It's fine. It's life.

          And mine is good.
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          • Profile picture of the author ArwenTaylor
            Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

            No, you didn't understand me correctly.

            I am by no means frustrated.

            I am not even looking to find out much... I just hope to help someone find out something that my stubbornness taught me quite cruelly.

            -LB

            P.S. I must say though, mostly people will only choose to see what they want to see. It's OK. It's fine. It's life.

            And mine is good.
            So now I'm confused. You're are asking this question in order to get other people to learn a lesson that you had to learn from the school of hard knocks? What lesson is that? To make sure you are starting a business for the right reasons?
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            • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
              Originally Posted by ArwenTaylor View Post

              So now I'm confused. You're are asking this question in order to get other people to learn a lesson that you had to learn from the school of hard knocks? What lesson is that? To make sure you are starting a business for the right reasons?
              Yes, ma'am.

              -LB

              P.S. I like your writing. Although I do sense a distant whiff of sarcasm somewhere in there.

              All good!
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              • Profile picture of the author ArwenTaylor
                Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

                Yes, ma'am.

                -LB

                P.S. I like your writing. Although I do sense a distant whiff of sarcasm somewhere in there.

                All good!
                Maybe a tiny bit Thanks though.

                I guess I was just wondering why you did not simply come out and post an article on your thoughts.
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                • Profile picture of the author kenmichaels
                  for most the internet marketing ( online and off ) is long arduous hours,
                  filled with every explicable problem one can conceive.

                  I think perhaps, its not people wanting a magic button.

                  i think maybe just maybe. everyone has heard these crazy stories
                  of a kid making a fart button for iphone app and making a million dollars over night. Or some teenager striking it crazy rich selling 1 pixel at a time.

                  we all bust our collective asses, not for the money we make, but for the possibilities of what we can make.

                  For most of us what can be accomplished in the real world ( brick and motor style ) is limited.

                  Online you can possibly come up with an idea. and whammo...

                  offline you need bank loans, 5-10 business plans, community support
                  ect...

                  same with jobs, most of us have a cieling that we will never be able to breach if we work for some one else.

                  I personally have more education then i can shake a stick at, and i have been a developer for 30 yrs, and my ceiling working for some one else
                  tops off at 300k a yr , and that's only if i am living in the correct area. ............... screw that

                  and a lot of people making money online aren't even in that good of a position, if they work for some one else

                  So i think the answer to your question is very simply

                  because of the possibilities << -- for me at least
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                  • Profile picture of the author AdwordsMogul
                    Originally Posted by kenmichaels View Post


                    ..

                    i think maybe just maybe. everyone has heard these crazy stories
                    of a kid making a fart button for iphone app and making a million dollars over night. Or some teenager striking it crazy rich selling 1 pixel at a time.
                    ...
                    People really underestimate what it takes to make something like this happen. Yeah, the app is simple, the site may be just a site, but believe me none of these guys had it easy.

                    C'mon selling a million pixels? How many people can sell even 1? How many people can actually make a dollar a day, outside their jobs?

                    However, keep in mind that the economy is built on the people are very unwilling to deal with reality. So, let me eat this fat chicken because I'm a busy person then I'll have a cigarette. But don't you dare make me pay for health care!

                    Internet marketing is not what people think it is. The gurus know this. The IM product buyers DON'T WANT TO KNOW THIS.
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                • Profile picture of the author AdwordsMogul
                  Originally Posted by ArwenTaylor View Post

                  Maybe a tiny bit Thanks though.

                  I guess I was just wondering why you did not simply come out and post an article on your thoughts.
                  Easy -

                  Because there would be a bunch of ignorant posts saying he is just trying to promote his signature.

                  People don't like their beliefs challenged - they see it as a personal attack. So they try to attack back.
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                  "Those who can - DO IT. Those who can't, say it's impossible."
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          • Profile picture of the author Tom B
            Banned
            Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

            No, you didn't understand me correctly.

            I am by no means frustrated.

            I am not even looking to find out much... I just hope to help someone find out something that my stubbornness taught me quite cruelly.

            -LB

            P.S. I must say though, mostly people will only choose to see what they want to see. It's OK. It's fine. It's life.

            And mine is good.
            "The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.. ~William Shakespeare"

            Here is some questions for you...

            What constitutes an online or offline business? Do I need a store front to be an offline business? Do I need walk in customers to be considered an offline business?

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            • Profile picture of the author AdwordsMogul
              Originally Posted by Thomas Belknap View Post

              "The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.. ~William Shakespeare"

              Here is some questions for you...

              What constitutes an online or offline business? Do I need a store front to be an offline business? Do I need walk in customers to be considered an offline business?

              Let's face it - business is business, online, offline whatever. We all know that majority of humans do not try to build a business - they are simply looking for that button to push so the money starts rolling in.

              As far as I know, it's all a myth.

              Yes, you can make money online. But not the way it's preached. However, that's what people want to believe so that's what's being sold.

              The dream is to set it up once, and then it works on its own.

              Well, even if that's possible (for a period of time) it won't set itself up on its own. For instance, if you're into adsense you need to build links, create/maintain/manage content. Loads of effort.

              Talking of ROI... if you say time vs results is working out for you great. Most people find that it;s not the way they imagined.

              It's like a good action movie - it seems the hero makes all the right moves, at the right time. In real life, it's best that you don't try the stuff at home.

              Simply put, the majority believes a lie, and an aberration of the truth. However, they will defend this lie because it's easier than straining their brains, doing some real thinking, and then going to work.
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              Jean Paul a.k.a AdwordsMogul
              PHPDevelopers.net - Top of the range PHP developers

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              • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
                Banned
                Originally Posted by AdwordsMogul View Post

                Let's face it - business is business, online, offline whatever. We all know that majority of humans do not try to build a business - they are simply looking for that button to push so the money starts rolling in.
                There are a lot of people on this forum who don't push magic bullet stuff and have built long term sustainable businesses.
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                • Profile picture of the author AdwordsMogul
                  Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

                  There are a lot of people on this forum who don't push magic bullet stuff and have built long term sustainable businesses.
                  Of course... I didn't say everybody.
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                  "Those who can - DO IT. Those who can't, say it's impossible."
                  Jean Paul a.k.a AdwordsMogul
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  • Profile picture of the author RobKonrad
    Hi LB,

    I've been working "offline" for a long, long time, meaning: I DID sell my products online, but I had a staff of 20 people (not outsourcers) to look after.

    Before that, I've been doing wholesale trading which required close personal contacts to vendors.

    Over the years, I've come to two conclusions:

    - I won't do any business anymore that I cannot leverage
    - I want to get as far away as possible from being "in" the business.

    Doing "online stuff" *can* satisfy those needs.

    Problem is: If you don't regard it as a real business, it's not better or worse than any offline business.... well, in fact it probably IS worse as in offline busineses at least you have a fixed income you can count on.

    Cheers,
    Rob Konrad
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by RobKonrad View Post


      - I won't do any business anymore that I cannot leverage
      - I want to get as far away as possible from being "in" the business.

      Doing "online stuff" *can* satisfy those needs.

      Rob Konrad
      The question, Rob, is whether leverage and "working ON the business instead of IN" can be done with an offline business. Or is it just possible with an online business.

      And why?

      -LB
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  • Profile picture of the author AdwordsMogul
    Here is the thing: people have a certain perception about online business, as has been described above.

    The perception is far from reality, however most people are so sold on it that they are not willing to see things differently.

    The issue is that most people are focused on methods and techniques, therefore they miss out on the big picture.

    A better outlook might be:

    - Who am I selling to?
    - What do I have to present to them so that they buy?
    - How do I reach these people?

    Then you want to find all the means that make sense in order to reach them. However, the vast majority only look at extracting money - and forget all about creating value.
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    "Those who can - DO IT. Those who can't, say it's impossible."
    Jean Paul a.k.a AdwordsMogul
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by AdwordsMogul View Post

      Here is the thing: people have a certain perception about online business, as has been described above.

      The perception is far from reality, however most people are so sold on it that they are not willing to see things differently.

      The issue is that most people are focused on methods and techniques, therefore they miss out on the big picture.

      A better outlook might be:

      - Who am I selling to?
      - What do I have to present to them so that they buy?
      - How do I reach these people?

      Then you want to find all the means that make sense in order to reach them. However, the vast majority only look at extracting money - and forget all about creating value.
      True that. Absolutely agree.

      And if I might...

      The fundamental question that one must ask is this...

      WHY?

      Why am I selling? Just to make a quick buck? Not good enough? Just to get another customer on my list? Still doesn't do it for me...

      Why do I want to sell whatever it is that I am selling? Just because it's a product I found or created? Doesn't cut it. Just because it's a really good product? Still not good enough...

      Why do I want to reach these people?

      For me, personally, I take on just 4 clients a year. Just 4. And I am busy for 4 days a week, 40 weeks a year. And I work a lot. A lot harder than most people can imagine. Non stop 36 hour shifts are pretty commonplace with my staff. They even have their cushions inside our office store.

      The question is WHY...
      -LB
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      • Profile picture of the author Cru
        Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

        True that. Absolutely agree.

        And if I might...

        The fundamental question that one must ask is this...

        WHY?

        Why am I selling? Just to make a quick buck? Not good enough? Just to get another customer on my list? Still doesn't do it for me...

        Why do I want to sell whatever it is that I am selling? Just because it's a product I found or created? Doesn't cut it. Just because it's a really good product? Still not good enough...

        Why do I want to reach these people?

        For me, personally, I take on just 4 clients a year. Just 4. And I am busy for 4 days a week, 40 weeks a year. And I work a lot. A lot harder than most people can imagine. Non stop 36 hour shifts are pretty commonplace with my staff. They even have their cushions inside our office store.

        The question is WHY...
        -LB
        I don't understand you. People have given you lots of reasons why they do it, and you just shoot them down and then continue to ask WHY? Maybe you need to internalize that question and ask yourself WHY you do it. Because the reasons that others are doing it don't seem to please you.
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        • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
          Originally Posted by Cru View Post

          I don't understand you. People have given you lots of reasons why they do it, and you just shoot them down and then continue to ask WHY? Maybe you need to internalize that question and ask yourself WHY you do it. Because the reasons that others are doing it don't seem to please you.
          Cru,

          Understand this. I have already said it enough number of times... I am not shooting anyone down. I am just trying to get people to ask themselves why they do it.

          Believe it or not.. I talk to 3-4 warriors everyday. More often than not (actually almost always) they are very frustrated.

          Please do not take this discussion where it's not supposed to be.

          -LB
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  • Profile picture of the author PatchesDM
    Originally Posted by lakshaybehl View Post

    Hi

    Alright, so first of all let me get this out of the way... I do not mean to insult or offend anyone. Secondly... I am not being a smartass or judgmental.

    That said... I want you to tell me why you want to make money ONLINE? Why do you INSIST on doing it all ONLINE?

    What is the fascination with online businesses? My personal observation in the business world has forced me ask this question. Maybe I am just trying to gain perspective... maybe I am trying to understand why I tried it for so many years.

    But regardless of why I am asking, I must confess...

    I have a pretty strong urge to quench my curiosity on why all the insistance on doing it all online?

    -LB
    Why not? Money is money whether its electric or paper. If its legal and beneficial, take the opportunity to earn an income and have fun while doing it. As well, some people, like myself, get so excited to see a marketing site successful, its a great feeling. Its all about preference mate.
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  • Profile picture of the author theory expert
    Banned
    Why ...


    You save gas money, you work from anywhere anytime of day, no staff....and I think Ron Kinard gave you some great answers.

    If someone has zero business today and they start online they alleviate human contact. They can play with their kids, wear pajamas, take a shower, watch tv....if you did that in front of your employees they may look at you different.

    I will say that when someone sets up a business model it is in that persons light. If you set up a fun eccentric enviroment I suppose you could do all the things I just mentioned offline.
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  • Profile picture of the author Clara H
    * Communicating via the Internet, designing websites, etc is my comfort zone. I guess this is the *biggest* reason for me.
    * Can work anywhere I want, just need a computer and Internet connection
    * No alarm clock waking me up early
    * Flexibility
    * Lower costs (a few hundred versus a few thousand)
    * Laziness I guess? Sure it's a lot of work, but I don't need to leave my office at home to work.
    * And yes to be honest it is a bit about not necessarily having to talk to people face to face or use telephones (for the record, I hate telephones), I like talking via text.
    * The world is my market, not limited to a local area (I know this isn't always the case with offline).

    I think the main reason is it's what I'm comfortable with and what I enjoy. That being said, I realise people need to step outside their comfort zone to get ahead in life and I am doing that too. That's why for me it must be online. If offline gave me the same *personal* benefits, then I would do offline too. I'm not closed to the idea.
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    • Profile picture of the author lakshaybehl
      Originally Posted by Clara H View Post

      * Communicating via the Internet, designing websites, etc is my comfort zone. I guess this is the *biggest* reason for me.
      * Can work anywhere I want, just need a computer and Internet connection
      * No alarm clock waking me up early
      * Flexibility
      * Lower costs (a few hundred versus a few thousand)
      * Laziness I guess? Sure it's a lot of work, but I don't need to leave my office at home to work.
      * And yes to be honest it is a bit about not necessarily having to talk to people face to face or use telephones (for the record, I hate telephones), I like talking via text.
      * The world is my market, not limited to a local area (I know this isn't always the case with offline).

      I think the main reason is it's what I'm comfortable with and what I enjoy. That being said, I realise people need to step outside their comfort zone to get ahead in life and I am doing that too. That's why for me it must be online. If offline gave me the same *personal* benefits, then I would do offline too. I'm not closed to the idea.
      Excellent reasons, fits you perfectly.
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  • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
    Banned
    I've been working online for over 12 years. My jobs prior to working for myself were Internet based.

    I don't care for the offline market. Too much like a J.O.B. I don't want to pound pavements and meet with clients.
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  • Profile picture of the author shireen
    Hi:

    Shireen here :-)

    In my opinion, is about becoming a master on a niche & make good income from it.

    Doesn't really matter online or offline.

    For example, I make good money selling online (from ebay, wso, clickbank...) & I organized offline seminar/workshop to teach people how to do it.

    Hope it helps :-)
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  • Profile picture of the author blittzs
    for me its all about being your own boss, i hate working for people, never i get along with the bosses.
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  • Profile picture of the author ProScribe
    You can reach a global auidence, which is good if you are marketing something which is quite niche.
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  • Profile picture of the author Zaheera
    I personally love to do both online business and offline business... and love to feel myself is a boss.
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  • Profile picture of the author Raja Kamil
    why online?
    I love to be at home
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  • Profile picture of the author PPC-Coach
    It's already been stated, but it's the misconception that you can make millions overnight by doing nothing that attracts so many to the online money making world. It takes most of them YEARS to finally figure out that the truth is the complete opposite of what they thought initially.

    I think the a-hole marketers who lie, cheat and do anything to make a buck are the culprits here by taking advantage of the unknowing masses. Sizzle sells and the emotional triggers are easy to see, so some unscrupulous marketers dive in and take full advantage of that.

    You can't launch an offline business without a business plan, financing, staff, a product or service, contracts and market research. Online people seem to think you can skip all that and somehow it will work out just fine.

    Imagine if all the wannabe millionaires actually took it seriously and applied offline start up principles to their online business? There would be far more online millionaires. I guarantee that.

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  • Profile picture of the author paulpower
    For me, the reason I want to be online, is the idea that my business start up costs are way less than an offline business.

    I know this from bitter experience when I had an internet cafe, that also offered new and used PC's as well as repairs, sadly it still went bust before the first year, but I am glad to say that my online has been generating a small profit each month for the past year and a half, so that enables me to keep running, and slowly upscale.
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