Joined the forum 3 years ago. 500k in 2011. Here's how - ask me anything!

155 replies
Hi,

I joined the Warrior Forum in January 2009, exactly 3 years ago and it was quite a journey for me since then.

I went from being brand new, completely overwhelmed and frustrated starting out, to making 500k last year and 'living the dream' so to speak. In this post I want to show you how I did it and invite you to ask me any question that could help you on your Internet Marketing journey.

Here is the exact situation that I was in when I joined in January 2009.

I just learned about Internet Marketing and got completely overwhelmed. I bought a couple of products (high ticket as well as low ticket) and after joining the forum it just got worse with all the information available.

For three month I struggled with paralysis by analysis and I tried like 6 different methods to make money online at that time generating a couple of Clickbank sales almost by coincidence, but nothing big at all.

That was a very frustrating time, to say the least.




Today's situation in 2012.

3 Years later it's a different story. I've built a list of 14,000 people (all buyers), I was able to crank up my revenue to 40-50k per month in the last half of 2011, I have a membership site with 350 members, did my first live event in October 2011 with 60 people attending at $500/ticket, I created the second best selling WSO of all time and had about 15 WSO's of the day together with my partner Brian. I also win about every WSO JV contest that I participate in, even though I don't participate in that many anymore.

In 2010 I also started a successful local marketing business here in Miami, helping lawyers in particular with their Internet Marketing and charging at least $997 per month for my services.

I'm not telling you all this to impress you, but to impress upon you how much you can do if you stay on track and to show you that it doesn't matter in what situation you are in right now.



When I came to the States 4 years ago after backpacking in Ecuador, I hardly spoke any English and had no friends or family in Miami - so if I can do it, you can do it.

Keep in mind, you can actually achieve a LOT more than I did because I made so many mistakes it's not funny.

Best of all, ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING happened thanks to the Warrior Forum, so I'm infinitely grateful for being a member here.

Now let's get to the meat, let me show you how I did it and how you can do the same. Please learn from the mistakes that I made.


------------


After buying Frank Kern's $2,000 Mass Control 2.0 in March of 2009 with money that I didn't have, I was literally forced to take action because my then girlfriend (now wife) told me that if I don't make this work now, then that's it. No more fooling around with Internet Marketing wasting more of our hard earned money.

I went to the live event and after talking to a bunch of millionaires there (for the first time) and realizing that they are just regular people like you and I, something switched in my mind and with the pressure having to pay back money and proving to myself and to my girl that this works, I finally took action.


Creating My First WSO (this is where you start taking notes)


My first plan was to create a WSO. I learned about a cool trick to manipulate the 'most viewed' list in Ezinearticles.com and after implementing it and making it work, I created a short report showing how to do it.

I had no clue how to set up Aweber or how to deliver the product so I just pm'd a lot of people asking if they would help me. One Warrior, fortunately, decided to help me put with all that stuff. I used some of the strategies learned in Mass Control to build some trust in advance, took action and launched my first WSO.

People loved my story and bought the product, within the first 2 days I made 700 bucks and at that time that was a LOT of money for me and I got hooked, I can still remember the day of my first sales as if it was yesterday.

There was a sound every time I received a payment and all we did was sitting in front of the computer getting excited every time we heard that sound. That was the moment I really started believing in Internet Marketing (so did my girlfriend) and I never looked back.

After that, I kept studying Internet Marketing and I kept launching WSO's, basically making a full time living (3-5k) just by launching WSO's and leveraging the list of customers.

The WSO section changed a lot since then and today it's not as simple anymore to create a successful WSO. With hard work, determination and action combined with a bit of luck you might be able to have a success just by putting a WSO up but from my experience working with my students, that plan more often than not only results in 5-10 sales and a lot of frustration.

If you want make a splash, if you want to make thousands with your first WSO while building a massive list of buyers, then you need leverage and you need to get affiliates to promote you.

The best way to do that is to contact successful WSO sellers that are selling products that are similar to yours (e.g. Amazon, Mobile, Facebook, List building etc.) and to let them know about your launch. Best case scenario is if they are willing to team up with you.

Most of them might not get back to you but trust me, you just need 1 or 2 of the right affiliates and it will make ALL the difference - so be persistent!

Just like the big boys did it with their 'syndicate', there are now very powerful small groups of WSO sellers that promote each other and if you can get one of these guys on board, he'll tell his buddies about your offer. (assuming you created a great product of course)

To really kick things off, you should offer 100% commission (yes give it all away) and more importantly you have to keep a couple of unwritten laws in mind:

Have a great product. Have converting Sales Copy in place and make it visual with pictures and videos (My simple formula for converting copy: Tell an engaging story, show a lot of proof and have a lot of testimonials, offer a great bonus & guarantee and have an irresistible offer).

Have an upsell in place. Give away most of your commission to entice affiliates to promote and to tell their buddies. Use a proven affiliate program like WSO Pro, JVzoo or Digiresults. If you have the money, create a JV contest with prizes to further engage affiliates. Starting out, price the product relatively low in order to have great stats and a nice conversion rate. Use Dime Sales!!!

I hope you are taking notes because this is exactly how I launch my WSO's and how I teach my students to launch theirs. If you would ask me what the most critical part is then I'd have to say, honestly, to get affiliates on board. (having a solid product is a given)

If you are overwhelmed with all of the rest, then pay someone to do it BUT make sure you focus most of your time on getting affiliates on board. This is key. No affiliates, most likely no sales, money or list - it's that simple.

Build a massive buyers list fast!

Straight up the fastest and cheapest way to build a massive buyers list is to offer 100% commission for your product on the front-end and on the backend. Period.

If you have a solid product with some decent copy and you offer 100% commission on the Front- and Backend - then I have a very hard time (just as every other affiliate) not to promote your offer.

And that's exactly the goal, if you can make it so enticing for affiliates that they would be stupid to not promote your offer, then you are in a great position!

Case in point, for my last WSO I offered 100% commission on everything and I also created a JV contest with great prizes - so at first sight it looks like I made no money and I actually had to invest money for the prizes and for the copy, which is true.

You are missing the point though - I made the offer so strong for affiliates that they just couldn't say no and that resulted in more than 6 thousand sales, adding 6k people (buyers) to my list, it created the second best selling WSO of all time, it created a lot of buzz and I received a lot of recognition in the market place because of it.

As you can see, it was well worth it to sacrifice short term gratification and after the launch I had a chance to build a relationship with the buyers and to recommend them other products that I believe in, therefore making a lot of money that way with follow ups.

Long story short, if you'd ask me what the fastest way is to a massive buyers list then you have it here. Do it and you'll be amazed and you'll crush others that just don't see the value of giving away the commission.

Creating a membership site from scratch

You just learned that I've made my first money on the Warrior forum and that I've built my list on the Warrior Forum, it shouldn't surprise you then that I also started my membership site here. (now you understand why I'm so grateful for the forum)

Here is exactly what I did:

Once I had a couple of products out and small list in place, I had people asking me if I ever considered a membership site where people could get my products for 'free' or where I'd teach more advanced stuff.

I never really wanted to bother with membership sites because I didn't know how to set them up (I'm completely lost when it comes to technical stuff!) and I didn't understand the power of recurring income.

After starting my local marketing business I decided that I give it a shot because I wanted to create a community of local marketers.

The way I did it, big surprise, was by offering it as a WSO and the strategy that got me started was to offer a $1 trial for a couple of days for people to check it out. It obviously helped that I created solid products in the past and that I always focused on building a relationship and trust with my customers.

Therefore, my customers jumped on it and I picked up a lot of people from the forum by bumping my WSO to the top every other day. Now, 2 years later I have about 350 members and I actually had to stop accepting new members.

The most powerful way to do it is to have some kind of unique software or tools that people can't find elsewhere. No worries if you don't have that yet, you can also offer interviews, advanced training, webinars, PLR stuff or anything else that you believe adds value to the market.

Implement the strategy of offering a very cheap trial, offers something unique and you'll be on your way before you know. Also, and I hope you are seeing the theme here - the fastest way to grow your membership site is to get affiliates to promote it, that's where the true leverage is.

In order to easily set up our membership sites my assistant is using Optimizepress (we love optimizepress) right now but we also successfully used Wishlist Member. To protect it, we've tried Digital Access Pass and Memberchamp and they both work very well.

Local Marketing - Fast Way to the Cash

After a couple of month on the forum I learned about 'Offline Gold' and I was VERY intrigued by the idea of making money from local businesses by simply helping them with their Internet Marketing.

As always, I moved fast and jumped right into it. Here is how I started out finding my first clients:

Firstly, I got me some business cards from Vista Print and I did the 'obvious', I told all my friends and acquaintances about my business and that I was helping local businesses with their Search Engine Optimization and Google Places. When I went to the dentist, farmers market, bakery, jewelry store or any other small business - I told them what I did and left a business card with them.

That's a great way to get started if you are on a low budget. The next step I took was to post free ads on Craigslist in Miami promoting my services and I also contacted the businesses that were on Craigslist asking for SEO help.

Keep in mind, so far I didn't have to spend a single dollar on advertising and after 2 weeks I already had my first client on board at $997/month, from Craigslist.

I then tried direct mail after buying a WSO on that topic and it worked well. I only contacted law firms though that were advertising in the Yellow Pages. That way I knew that they're already having a marketing budget and that they understand the value of leads and marketing - so it was a lot easier to get them on board and I didn't have to educate them as much.


I also hired a call center with some success and I've built 2 websites that now rank on top of the first page for all the SEO terms in Miami and the other site is slowly but surely grabbing all the top rankings for law firm related Internet Marketing terms. I get about 3-5 leads a week through my websites.

The most powerful strategy though is referral marketing, that's by far my best source for new clients. Over-deliver, bring fast results to keep your client happy and don't be afraid to ask for referrals and your business will grow like crazy.

You can buy 50 WSO's about offline marketing not doing anything or you implement the tips that I just shared with you helping me to go from 0 to 10k/month within 4 months in local marketing. It's up to you.

One of the most important things that I learned from Dan Kennedy - which helped me to grow fast - was to focus on only one industry. That way I was able to charge more and to differentiate myself.

Think about it, if I offer SEO for everyone, then I'm just another 'SEO Guy', nothing special about me at all. And that's exactly what I did when I started out.

Then, I actually specialized on law firms and I made all my marketing (website, business cards etc.) talk to lawyers specifically, I used their language and I've built case studies over time with other lawyers.

Now, just like that, I moved from being just another 'SEO Guy' to being a 'Law Firm Internet Marketing Specialist'.

Completely different positioning, allowing me to charge premium and to be the expert. (I hope you get this, it's critical)

-----------------


That's it my friend, this was my exact business model in 2011 helping me to go from 15k in January to 50k in December. (Creating WSO's, Promoting WSO's as affiliate, Membership Site, Offline Clients)

Now it's up to you to pick something that you think that will work for you and to go for it, whatever it takes!

Questions:

So Mario, after this 3 year journey, what did you learn from it that could benefit us?

Laser Focus is key. The IM world is so overwhelming that we all get distracted all the time and we jump from method to method not achieving anything.

Pick ONE method only and run with it! Work at it, study the market leaders, see what they are doing and see if it works for you. Get a coach or accountability partner to make sure you stay on track, we all need a 'kick in the pants' more often than not.




What would you say is your unique secret to success Mario?

It's by far, taking imperfect action!

A lot of people, some of them my friends now, started at the same time as I did and most of them either gave up or they still jump from method to method not being able to make a full time living with IM. Some still haven't made a single dollar online.

The only main difference that there is between me and them, according to their feedback, is that I was and I'm willing to take imperfect action while they try to make everything perfect and they wait until they are 'ready'.

If you look at my products or my marketing you'll realize that basically non of my stuff is perfect, and I mean nothing. My website, fan page, download page, blog - they're all not done and I still have them out there generating business and leads for me.

When I learned about local marketing I just went after it without a website in place going to networking events and telling everyone what I was doing while others where busy buying WSO's about it and telling themselves that they are not ready - so within 3 month I got clients and money while they were still 'planning'.

My first WSO was a disaster when it comes to product delivery and product creation but I still put it up and buyers where patient with me because I made clear that it's my very first WSO. That WSO generated 3k in the first month while my buddies where still reading WSO's about article marketing telling themselves they are not ready yet to launch something.

My first live event was a risk too, I never did one before and I still decided to do it. The marketing was horrible, I only had 1 month to promote it and didn't know how to do it but I just stuck with it and got 60 people to show up at $500 per person.

It's my willingness to take imperfect action - I think that is my secret to success and I encourage you to try the same. 'Good' is often good enough, so don't try to make everything perfect, just go for it and get results!

What are the key lessons that you learned about business?

Always give the customer more than what he expects.

Follow Up !!!

It's all about Leverage! (relationships, affiliates, mastermind, Joint Venture partners)

Finish what you start, laser focus is key!

Do what you do best, hire others to do the rest.

Systemize your business as much as possible, set it up as if you already know that you're going to sell it one day. (meaning don't have it being dependent on you)

There is never enough time to do everything, but there's always enough time to do the most important things. (80/20 rule)

3 books I must read?

Rich Dad Poor Dad (got me stared)

The Go Giver (gave me the right mindset)

The E-Myth (helped me to systemize my business)

Are you going to stick to your successful business model?

Not at all, the only constant thing in life is change

I'm actually moving away from WSO's and my goal in 2012 is to make at least 1 million bucks in revenue but I understand that the things that I did to get my to my current level won't get me to where I want to go.

Right now I'm working hard on my sales funnel going deep in the local marketing niche and I committed to having 80% of my business based on recurring income, so I'm putting things in place to achieve that.

Don't get me wrong though, I'm no fool - so I won't just give up my core (affiliate marketing/product creation), I just have to modify the way I do it, change the pricing, go deeper in the niche and get more leverage.

----------


I hope you got a lot of value out of this post, now it's time for you to pick a method and to run with it.

If you have any question at all, just ask along and I'll answer it to my best knowledge.


Cheers,


Mario Brown
#2011 #500k #ago #forum #joined #years
  • Profile picture of the author J Bold
    Wow, Mario, great thread. That was a lot to read.

    I agree the WSO game has changed and guys like you who got started early and more importantly, kept building on your success, perhaps had it (a bit) easier. There's a lot of WSOs released these days. There may be a bit more traffic to the forum but it mostly comes from affiliates probably. WSO Pro changed the game. To have an uber-successful WSO with so many products in the market, make a killer product and get big affiliates.

    Anyway, good stuff!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525303].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author WikiWarrior
      Really inspiring Mario, thanks for sharing your success. Just shows what can be done with hard work and dedication. I'm trying to make a splash in the offline world this year so no doubt I will use this post and thread as a reference guide. I am also doing things "imperfectly", like you did, but it's starting to pay off now just by getting out there and being prepared to take the knocks.

      Toby
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525442].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author im1217
    Good info and congrats! Just one question..you talk about focusing on ONE industry in the local space (eg., lawyers), but wouldn't you run into a problem when trying to SEO like 20 "lawyer miami" to the top of Google page 1? OR Do you SEO for terms like "miami criminal defense attorney", "miami patent attorney", etc?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525373].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by redicelander View Post

      Wow, Mario, great thread. That was a lot to read.

      I agree the WSO game has changed and guys like you who got started early and more importantly, kept building on your success, perhaps had it (a bit) easier. There's a lot of WSOs released these days. There may be a bit more traffic to the forum but it mostly comes from affiliates probably. WSO Pro changed the game. To have an uber-successful WSO with so many products in the market, make a killer product and get big affiliates.

      Anyway, good stuff!
      Thanks for the feedback. I'm not sure if I had it easier to be honest with you giving that my English wasn't that great and that I had no clue about how to get the WSO up and running but I hear what you are saying.

      Back then there were also a lot of WSO's (the cost was only 20 bucks while today it's 40 bucks plus membership to the War Room) so the competition was still fierce but you are right, the game changed big time and WSO Pro was the reason for that, allowing all of us to get a lot more leverage fast.

      If one focuses on getting affiliates on boards (solid product is a given), he or she has a great chance to have a succesful WSO.

      Originally Posted by im1217 View Post

      Good info and congrats! Just one question..you talk about focusing on ONE industry in the local space (eg., lawyers), but wouldn't you run into a problem when trying to SEO like 20 "lawyer miami" to the top of Google page 1? OR Do you SEO for terms like "miami criminal defense attorney", "miami patent attorney", etc?
      That's a fantastic question.

      You want to pick a niche that has many specializations, e.g. lawyers (criminal defense, bankruptcy etc.) or physicians for example.

      That way you can work with multiple lawyers in the same city.

      Another great solution is to charge per keyword, something that I learned about later on. Let's say you have 2 personal injury lawyers, you could charge them per keyword. For the longest time I was charging $997 for 3 keywords, that allowed me to work with 2-3 injury lawyers in the same city.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525423].message }}
      • Brilliant post!Very inspiring. Thanks for the share. One of those threads I bookmark to read again from time to time.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526250].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Bradley McK
          AWSOME! I think this post has more value than the last 3 WSO's I purchased. (not yours of course)

          Thanks for being so open.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526285].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author ballanrk
          Great info!

          In regard to SEO services for lawyers. Did you optimize their existing sites, recommend new websites, concentrate on off page SEO, or a combination of all three dependent upon the clients needs?

          Or was it a lead generation site or sites you created in order to help with there website and leads.

          Thanks
          Ballanrk
          Signature
          POP the Champagne cork I can PM now!

          Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it......


          -Henry David Thoreau
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526297].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Stevie C
    Thanks for taking the time to share your inspiring story, some great advice especially regarding taking action even if it is imperfect!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525386].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author princecapri
    Silly question, perhaps, but I have to ask. You talk a lot about recruiting affiliates for WSO's, and I am keen to know about the best places to look for these affiliates. The JV forum? Privately PMing them?

    Do I have to give my product for free to affiliates? Or do they have to purchase it before they promote it?

    Thank you!

    And congrats on your success. Hard and smart work pays, and you are a testament to that.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525420].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Bluestarace
    Wow, that's inspiration overload right there! Thank you so much I needed to read something like this
    Signature

    Email me with your content writing needs at awriter4@gmail.comDescramble this word " LPIEKC" and use it as your subject line to earn a 10% discount on your order with me

    Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it, they will want to come back and see you do it again and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do.~ Walt Disney.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525443].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author klb1
      All I can say is WOW!!!

      very inspiring

      on the local SEO, do I gather from what you mention that it was more about taking some action whether than any specific offline wso that helped you get successful in that area?

      or do you have one in particularly that pointed you in the right direction at least

      Thanks again
      Signature

      Kevin

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525635].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Janice Sperry
    Inspiring post. There are many other methods to succeed but your focus and taking action are amazing. Those two things are essential for EVERY successful person. Thanks for outlining the steps you took. Sounds like your future plans will also succeed.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525501].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author FredJones
      Hey Mario, great to see you so successful. I clearly remember those old days when you were new (I was new too) - and that famous video in which you literally screamed "work, take action" - almost making the listeners also wonder why they would not take action - I remember you backlink ninja, German backlink techniques etc whatever you called them - your 4 (or so) initial WSOs plus War Rooms...

      Thanks for this great post - got me remembering about those good old days ...

      All the best to further success in your career !! IM can be EXTREMELY rewarding and great to see that you have started getting your share - something that I thought right back in 2009 that you strongly deserve.

      EDIT: And yes, I do remember yellowboy.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525531].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Raydal
        Quite an inspirational journey. It's interesting how early success
        breeds success. It you hit on something profitable early on then
        that's all the motivation you need to get moving forward.

        This is not the typical story for sure, but there are a lot of lessons
        to learn from how you took action and invested in your education.

        Congrats!

        -Ray Edwards
        Signature
        The most powerful and concentrated copywriting training online today bar none! Autoresponder Writing Email SECRETS
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525621].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author NateRivers
    Thanks for this post man- I actually get your emails and have stayed subscribed to see what you're up to... I quickly realized that you're someone who is killing it and I've learned a lot from your marketing process.

    I'm happy to hear you've done so well- keep it up.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525605].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author noah.whitmore
    That's just awesome! Mario, you are a frackin' rock star man! I can't believe that you took the time to write all of that out. I don't have any real questions for you right now, I might later.

    I usually show appreciation by thank a post with the appropriate button. But, I couldn't just hit the 'Thanks' button for this one. That was really inspiring - I mean, like heart-warming fuzzy feeling stuff.

    Everyone needs to feel that every once in a while!

    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience and to offer your insights - that's 10x better than 95% of the WSO's I've every purchased.

    Wow.
    Signature
    No Pitch For The Moment - Just A Nice Hello.
    So... 'Hello'
    Feel free to PM me if you have any questions about my posts. I'd like to hear from you!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525660].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Osman_M
    Wow Mario! This can be a WSO on its own. Thats some amazing info you shared!

    Question:
    Where and how did you find successful affiliates? You mentioned something along lines of using WSO pro to do that? Could you explain that a bit further? I myself have been trying to recruit affiliates for a product of my own offering them 100% commission but no dice yet.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525669].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Thanks everyone for the feedback !!!

      Originally Posted by princecapri View Post

      Silly question, perhaps, but I have to ask. You talk a lot about recruiting affiliates for WSO's, and I am keen to know about the best places to look for these affiliates. The JV forum? Privately PMing them?

      Do I have to give my product for free to affiliates? Or do they have to purchase it before they promote it?

      Thank you!

      And congrats on your success. Hard and smart work pays, and you are a testament to that.
      Originally Posted by Osman_M View Post

      Wow Mario! This can be a WSO on its own. Thats some amazing info you shared!

      Question:
      Where and how did you find successful affiliates? You mentioned something along lines of using WSO pro to do that? Could you explain that a bit further? I myself have been trying to recruit affiliates for a product of my own offering them 100% commission but no dice yet.
      Great questions!

      In order to successfully get affiliates on board - the best thing you can do is to deliver value first (that goes for everything in life and business), so specifically you should promote for them first to get on their radar.

      Tricky for them to say 'no' if you promoted first and you showed some value - now that's not possible for everyone if you don't have a list yet.

      The second strategy is to get on the 'Radar' of the super affiliate by joining his conversations. Look for their posts in the Warrior Forum and join the conversation, look them up on Facebook, like their page and join the conversation. Look for their websites and specifically for their blog and make comments - if you do that they'll see your name everywhere and now you are somewhat in their consciousness.

      A faster way is to join a site like jvnotifypro.com to get access to affiliats and there are also skype groups where launches are announced but honestly you can only get in there by invite, so you'll have to earn the right to get invited first by either promoting for some of them or by having your own successful launches.

      That's just how it is right now, honestly.

      Anyway, approaching them via pm is also a legit way but make sure you don't overdo it and don't go crazy with it, because you might get banned. Look for the top affiliates in the niche that you want to launch your product and target them specifically. Always keep the 80/20 rule in mind - 20% of the affiliates that you'll get on board will actually do all the damage, the rest is only going to make a handful of sales, if at all.

      I hope I could help.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526000].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author PaulyC
        Originally Posted by Mario Brown View Post

        Thanks everyone for the feedback !!!





        Great questions!

        In order to successfully get affiliates on board - the best thing you can do is to deliver value first (that goes for everything in life and business), so specifically you should promote for them first to get on their radar.

        Tricky for them to say 'no' if you promoted first and you showed some value - now that's not possible for everyone if you don't have a list yet.

        The second strategy is to get on the 'Radar' of the super affiliate by joining his conversations. Look for their posts in the Warrior Forum and join the conversation, look them up on Facebook, like their page and join the conversation. Look for their websites and specifically for their blog and make comments - if you do that they'll see your name everywhere and now you are somewhat in their consciousness.

        A faster way is to join a site like jvnotifypro.com to get access to affiliats and there are also skype groups where launches are announced but honestly you can only get in there by invite, so you'll have to earn the right to get invited first by either promoting for some of them or by having your own successful launches.

        That's just how it is right now, honestly.

        Anyway, approaching them via pm is also a legit way but make sure you don't overdo it and don't go crazy with it, because you might get banned. Look for the top affiliates in the niche that you want to launch your product and target them specifically. Always keep the 80/20 rule in mind - 20% of the affiliates that you'll get on board will actually do all the damage, the rest is only going to make a handful of sales, if at all.

        I hope I could help.

        Cheers,
        Mario
        Thanks for all of this extremely valuable information Mario!

        Congrats on all your success, it's fantastic to see these kinds of success stories rooted from the warrior forum.

        Paul
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531342].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author laurenceh
    Hey Mario,


    I remember that Ezine WSO you mentioned very well!

    I think the most important thing for newbies to take from this, is that what you've done is build a BUSINESS.

    You haven't just picked a bunch of quickfire techniques that work today, but not tomorrow. Too many people come into this game looking for short term gains, and get disappointed real quick!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525796].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by klb1 View Post

      All I can say is WOW!!!

      very inspiring

      on the local SEO, do I gather from what you mention that it was more about taking some action whether than any specific offline wso that helped you get successful in that area?

      or do you have one in particularly that pointed you in the right direction at least

      Thanks again
      Hm no I can't think of one in particular but once I made the decision to go after local businesses, I bought a couple of WSO's to help me on my journey. The key really is to only get new products if they directly relate to your current project, helping you proceed faster or more effectively.

      And yes, it seriously all came down to taking massive imperfect action.

      Originally Posted by laurenceh View Post

      Hey Mario,


      I remember that Ezine WSO you mentioned very well!

      I think the most important thing for newbies to take from this, is that what you've done is build a BUSINESS.

      You haven't just picked a bunch of quickfire techniques that work today, but not tomorrow. Too many people come into this game looking for short term gains, and get disappointed real quick!
      Absolutely right, the biggest change in my business, and the most critical one was when I STOPPED buying stuff and when I STARTED creating and selling stuff.

      I know how it is, buying new products and getting sucked int sales letters can be a serious addiction, I've been there! Only solution is to unsubscribe from all the lists except 2-3 of marketers that you really trust and to realize that the rest is stealing your dreams by keeping you from working on your business!

      Once I realized that I said, screw the rest, I focused on 2-3 marketers and I got going working on MY dreams, life and business.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5538034].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JorgeLuis
    Thank you very much for sharing your story. I totally loved it and you just made my day.

    I think the critical factor I can get from it, it's that you took action and more importantly you worked for LONG TERM in mind.

    That's the most "ah-ha" moments I've had. You need to think LONG TERM. That's how I think one person can become succesful at the end and overcome any challenge.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525809].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author William Fox
    Hey Mario, Your success could not happen to a nicer guy! I had the pleasure of joining you and Brian in Peachtree City a few months ago at your conference and found both of you along with your beautiful wife Maria to be so approachable, friendly and helpful.

    I really enjoy your WSO's and the information you provide.

    Good luck in 2012! Not that you need it!
    Signature

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525872].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author rgrimes
    Right ON Mario, great job and im very happy for your success! Now you are on your way to doing even bigger and better things!

    Congratulations again,
    Richard
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525928].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Bruce NewMedia
    Mario, YOU are the American success story writ large!

    What a great journey you've had, and it's only just begun.

    While I don't know Mario personally, I've never heard anyone on the forum
    not praise him. Of all the attributes and successes he's had, I think his
    best asset is...

    HIS REPUTATION.
    _____
    Bruce
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525958].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Excel Fields
      Awesome post Mario! You are definitely one of my sources of inspiration of those that I've met here at WF! I wish you and Maria much continued success!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5527230].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DougBarger
    Congrats Mario,

    I remember when you first joined the forum years ago. You could tell from your posts
    and positive, ambitious mindset that success was yours.

    I'm not sure how many products down the line it was when you created the wso that offered your notes from one of the "guru" seminars, but you ran it very well and if I remember right, it was also another big success in sales. With the smart, focused action I've seen you take from as long as I can remember, it was no surprise to see this thread this morning.

    Congratulations and may the best be still yet to come for you! It's generous to "give back" and offer insights on what worked for you.

    That's always been the spirit of the community and shows you have solid character with your heart in the right place in addition to sick marketing skills.

    Congrats sir!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525985].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author michaelcorvin
    Great Job Mario!

    How set your sites to hit $1,000,000 this year!

    Michael
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526032].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author RodMacb
    Thanks for sharing. A very inspiring and informative post!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526040].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Michael Fied
    Yo, Mario! I sent you a private message -> Waiting for a response thanks

    -Michael Fied
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526088].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JeremiahSay
    Thank you for such a great post.. This post has knocked me in-between my eye! The reason why I'm not seeing the results i want to see is because I procrastinate and want to be PERFECT in order to launch a successful product/WSO/membership site etc!

    Starting right now (AT THIS VERY MOMENT) I'll plan on launching my first ever WSO 2 weeks from now!

    Really appreciate your time to write such a great post - Just so you know it really helped me, and i believed will help many other warriors as well

    May God bless you always,
    Jeremiah
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526175].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author papamo44
    Thanks for sharing Mario. Great post.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526233].message }}
  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526371].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author SiteMiracle
      Thanks for sharing. You are on your way to your first million this year.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526610].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author richrowley
    Great post and thaks for putting this up. I love reading good success stories like this!

    Rich
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526422].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TopKat22
    This is a great read and should be bookmarked by everyone who wants to succeed at internet marketing or any other business.

    Even if someone wants to use a totally different method than what you did, you hit the basics of every successful business owner I know in your questions and answers above.

    I wonder---other than your IM training, were there any other books on success or other mentors who helped you?
    Signature
    44 days in and we broke the $10K a month recurring bench mark.

    Guaranteed 60% Opt In Rate Traffic-Real People-Fresh Today-High Quality Biz Opp traffic![/URL]
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526431].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author YasirYar
    Your information is overwhelming. I agree anyone can make it big time with hard work. People often are attracted to the lifestyle of the rich and famous and overlook the journey from rags to riches which actually counts a lot. Thanks for writing this post.
    Signature

    >>>Get your websites ACTUALLY ranked by checking these out: Quantum SEO Labs, Home Page Link Building & SERP Ability. Want to get rid of negative listings? Check out Reputation Enhancer.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526434].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author hdavies
    Inspiring thread! A bit of hard work always pays off in the end and you're the proof of that.

    Thanks.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526475].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jere Kuisma
    Holy **** this is the most inspiring thread I've read in ages. This made me almost admire you! You have done awesome job and definately earn your success. I hope I will success as much
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526619].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author eniggma
    THE best and most inspiring post I have read on this forum. Your story is awesome and so genuine. You have no idea how much this fires me up and is a great reminder of the only difference between the little guys and the big hitters is that they want it more and most IM's are jumping from one thing to another and not giving a consistent, confident and educated effort into one method and making it work. Everytime I get a little urge to second guess myself, read negative posts, or be drawn in by the next "QUICK CASH SYSTEM" I quickly flood my brain with focus and motivation remembering that I will not fail because I will make this work and it will work because I have educated myself and I will separate myself from 95% of the others by simple STAYING THE COURSE until I am a success. Congrats to you and thanks!!
    Signature

    "Successful people do the things unsuccessful people won't do" - (Somebody successful) :)

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526623].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Roan
    awesome! thanks for sharing! it's inspirational! I might hit up for a question later on.
    Signature

    Are You Looking For a High Quality Shopify + FB ads Course? PM me. - Only available for ONE person. Be Quick.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526786].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sriram rajan
    Mario .. Awesome post , full of great information and certainly pointing to the key pieces that make or break one's IM journey ... Really thankful that you have taken the time to write this long a post... certainly you are following give now the rest will come philosophy..kudos on that......
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526803].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author anarki450
    Thanks! I'm a total newbie just started building my website. I'm not so much into creating WSO yet, but I found this is a very good read, really inspiring, really motivating! Thanks again
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526869].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author kikocherman
    Mario, do you think the IM world today is just people selling people how to make money by selling people products on making money, etc. etc.?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526874].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by ballanrk View Post

      Great info!

      In regard to SEO services for lawyers. Did you optimize their existing sites, recommend new websites, concentrate on off page SEO, or a combination of all three dependent upon the clients needs?

      Or was it a lead generation site or sites you created in order to help with there website and leads.

      Thanks
      Ballanrk
      Hey Balanrk,

      Thanks for the question. The package that I use is really simple (always keep it simple) - I basically offered Local SEO for 3 keywords for $997 per month and that includes Google Places set up and optimization and SEO optimization (on- and off page) for their main website and a consultation on how to set up their website to actually convert visitors into leads.

      I hate dealing with clients' websites so I always hope that they already have a web designer and I just tell them what to do/implement, if not - I sometimes have to hire a guy from Elance.com or from the Warriors for Hire section.

      That's really how I got started. Nowadays I fortunately have a talented assistant, Jason, that is pretty good ad doing simple website changes.

      Originally Posted by TopKat22 View Post

      This is a great read and should be bookmarked by everyone who wants to succeed at internet marketing or any other business.

      Even if someone wants to use a totally different method than what you did, you hit the basics of every successful business owner I know in your questions and answers above.

      I wonder---other than your IM training, were there any other books on success or other mentors who helped you?
      I'm extremely dedicated to self improvement, I guess you can say I'm addicted.

      Biggest live changing moment was definitely 'Date with Destiny' event with Tony Robbins, I also like everything by Brian Tracy, Les Brown and Jim Rohn.

      Regarding books, there are so many that I like but of the top of my head I'd say in regard to Marketing: The ultimate sales machine, everything by Dan Kennedy, 22 Immutable laws of marketing.

      When it comes to sales psychology: Influence by Cialdini and Cashvertising

      Business in general: E-myth, Built to sell, Work the system

      Originally Posted by Chris Kent View Post

      Leaving aside your offline business, are you only in the IM niche i.e. marketing to marketers by telling them how to market?
      That's right, within the IM niche I focus to 100% on teaching people how to make money online with specific focus on teaching people how to make money helping local businesses with their Internet Marketing.

      When I started out I did a lot of hyper niche-marketing in very different niches but I'm not a big fan of that model anymore, too saturated and profits are too small, also not enough leverage.

      Originally Posted by kikocherman View Post

      Mario, do you think the IM world today is just people selling people how to make money by selling people products on making money, etc. etc.?
      Yes, basically that's how it is - at least in our community. The people that make REAL money, I mean millions, were smart enough to take our IM knowledge (Email marketing, video sales letters, split testing and so forth) to apply it to other huge niches like Fitness, Weightloss, Dating, Gaming, Beauty etc.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5527155].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jbsmith
    Great post - the lesson has always been (and will continue to be) do SOMETHING and then share the results with people.

    Why does this work?

    Because most people are scared to DO something so they want the reassurance from someone else who has before they jump in...there's always big money in taking an action and sharing with people how it turned out.

    Jeff
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526890].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author cwilliams6009
      Mario, will you marry me?

      Oh no, wait, too late. If I didn't already have a DH I'd totally be askin', though. Your advice is priceless.

      I've always heard if you want to do something, find someone else who's doing it and do what they do. I want you to know I took detailed notes of your comments AND all the replies to date.

      All rights guys -- here it is -- THAT'S GONNA BE ME! $500,000 a year is my goal too and I'm gonna haul it in just like Mario.

      I'll bring in $500,000 / year within three years -- by February 1, 2015 -- and I'll post about it on the way as well.

      It's surprisingly hard to write this, put myself out there. But Jeff says:

      Originally Posted by jbsmith View Post


      there's always big money in taking an action and sharing with people how it turned out.

      Jeff
      So I've been taking action for 5 months now and my income so far is -- wait for it -- ZIPPO! That's right folks, I haven't made one red cent. How is that possible?

      I'm over-analytical (yeah, it's true). I'm a slow starter. I'm on a huge learning curve -- unlike lots of you guys, I'm a great "user" but not a techie. I'm working on shoestring (who isn't?).

      Plus I've been learning how to buy a domain (who knew it was different then hosting?), experimenting with web-design systems (weebly no, moodle not really, wordpress finally), designing GREAT content(!) and just all sorts of ssllooww steps.

      I want you guys to know -- esp. you Mario, my sweet man who I've never met but am almost in love with -- that I'll be following your advice and posting a WSO within the next week or so -- and using the affiliate system that my new sweetheart Mario just posted -- to get goin'.

      What a long post! Thanks guys. Mario, hope you totally nail your goals this year. Christine
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5540540].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author johan_malmo
    Im saving this for later, really awesome of you to share your success blueprint with the rest of us!

    Thank you!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5527097].message }}
  • Thanks for the tips! I'm happy for you!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5527106].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author officer_iron
    What a great post. I rarely read something that long, and I read every word. Thanks for sharing!
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5527511].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Claire Koch
      Mario is one of those people you just want to have all of his WSO's. I read a few and they are very good. Got them free in the warroom. I am on his list but I never bought anything lol so no Mario your whole list isn't buyers. Lol I couldn't resist.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529851].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author topgun129
      Awesome post! Thank you for all the insight and golden nuggets you've shared about your journey!
      Signature

      Professional Web Development! - Clients include small businesses to Fortune 500 clients. Web Site Design, Logo, SEO, Internet Marketing, SEO/SEM Services. 100% Guaranteed Services. View our portfolio by clicking here now!

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5532735].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author matus37
      True guide to success. During my internet marketing journey I learn many important things from the best Internet marketers.Mario's story confirm me that is true what I have learned. Here is my BEST GUIDE to internet business success: 1.Learn from succesful peoples 2.Never give up after failures 3.Focus on one method 4.Dont think negative and believe in success 5.TAKE CONSTANT ACTION
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557925].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author wilsonljx
      Great success and inspirational story!!It is really hard to focus if there are no significant results and we will tend to switch business model, believing that there is a better way.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559469].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author WebMarketWiz
      Awesome post. I learned so much. Thanks for sharing. I am going to keep
      my eyes on you in 2012.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5575137].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author mediadeveloped
    Thanks for taking time out to give a great personal story.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5527823].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MaryKathan
    Great info - I am not surprised that you are successful because you seem like a "Giver". All the best, and thanks for the inspiration.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528016].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Brad Kast
    Thanks for sharing your story. I am in the early stages of implementing some of these strategies right now. It's great to see that what I am doing can be effective if I stay diligent and keep active.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528132].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author petemcal
    Absolutely fantastic, I've saved your whole post as a word doc for future reference!

    I just need to ask how you process payments on such a large scale. Do you trust companies like paypal who can strip your business (and funds) overnight? Or do you use a more expensive payment gateway which is linked to a merchant/bank?
    Signature
    Follow Pete on Twitter #SEO #Marketing
    "It's like if Einstein did SEO"
    "Much shorter than Shakespeare"
    "I would follow Pete over Jesus Christ himself"
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528142].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by petemcal View Post

      Absolutely fantastic, I've saved your whole post as a word doc for future reference!

      I just need to ask how you process payments on such a large scale. Do you trust companies like paypal who can strip your business (and funds) overnight? Or do you use a more expensive payment gateway which is linked to a merchant/bank?
      That's a great question indeed!

      I'm actually currently moving away from Paypal or better said I'm trying hard to have my current and future projects set up with different payment processors.

      Having all payments go through one third party is seriously scary and my business would basically be shut down completely if Paypal decided to freeze or close my account so that's not a situation I want to be in.

      Therefore, I've signed up with a Merchant Account and authorize.net and all my current and future projects are processed here and I'm looking for a second third option so that if one of them fail I still have 2 that work.

      But before that, yes I only used Paypal and even though it wasn't ideal for bigger payments, it got the job done, including the 1k/month payments from local clients.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529253].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author petemcal
        Originally Posted by Mario Brown View Post

        That's a great question indeed!

        I'm actually currently moving away from Paypal or better said I'm trying hard to have my current and future projects set up with different payment processors.

        Having all payments go through one third party is seriously scary and my business would basically be shut down completely if Paypal decided to freeze or close my account so that's not a situation I want to be in.

        Therefore, I've signed up with a Merchant Account and authorize.net and all my current and future projects are processed here and I'm looking for a second third option so that if one of them fail I still have 2 that work.

        But before that, yes I only used Paypal and even though it wasn't ideal for bigger payments, it got the job done, including the 1k/month payments from local clients.

        Cheers,
        Mario
        Thanks for your reply, I understand you must be busy and so I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question!
        Signature
        Follow Pete on Twitter #SEO #Marketing
        "It's like if Einstein did SEO"
        "Much shorter than Shakespeare"
        "I would follow Pete over Jesus Christ himself"
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531200].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author jbsmith
        Some seroiusly good advice here - I recently expanded from 1 payment system to 4 including my own merchant account for anything to do with recurring income projects...it is a huge pain to shift a recurring income membership base from one payment processor to another, so you want that (at least) to be on your own merchant account.

        Lots of great advice in this thread for sure.

        Jeff

        Originally Posted by Mario Brown View Post

        That's a great question indeed!

        I'm actually currently moving away from Paypal or better said I'm trying hard to have my current and future projects set up with different payment processors.

        Having all payments go through one third party is seriously scary and my business would basically be shut down completely if Paypal decided to freeze or close my account so that's not a situation I want to be in.

        Therefore, I've signed up with a Merchant Account and authorize.net and all my current and future projects are processed here and I'm looking for a second third option so that if one of them fail I still have 2 that work.

        But before that, yes I only used Paypal and even though it wasn't ideal for bigger payments, it got the job done, including the 1k/month payments from local clients.

        Cheers,
        Mario
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5570165].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MattCatania
    From not understanding English four years ago to writing like this... AMAZING.

    Congratulations on your success.
    Signature

    Logic outweighs all.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528161].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Daniel Evans
      This is really fantastic advice.

      The taking imperfect action suggestion hits the nail on the head for me. Sometimes I strive to be too perfect in all things I do and it often results in getting very little done.

      Wise words indeed! Subscribed for future reference.

      Congratulations!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528179].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Ron Desi
    This was a great post! I'm where you were three years ago...very inspiring!
    Signature



    Ron Desi
    Download my FREE Fiverr Jumpstart Checklist
    Start Building Your Fiverr Business Today!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528195].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mark Bradley
      One of the best posts I've ever read on the WF.

      Thanks Mario.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5528246].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Jeff Lenney
      Originally Posted by WebsiteVideoPresenter View Post

      This was a great post! I'm where you were three years ago...very inspiring!
      Your English seems fine...
      Signature

      Too lazy to write something clever here, so check out my marketing blog and learn from a REAL Super Affiliate at JeffLenney.com

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529309].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jeff Lenney
    Great post Mario and congrats on your success in 2011. Im doing a new wso quite soon at 100% commission. Will look for you to promote it. :-). Jeff
    Signature

    Too lazy to write something clever here, so check out my marketing blog and learn from a REAL Super Affiliate at JeffLenney.com

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529306].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author marketwarrior06
    Banned
    Dreams should be like that bigger.
    i am very happy to hear your success story. at the starting its only struggling but if you can overcome this stage then you will definitely do better. The Newbies should learn from you.
    Building a list is too much hard and having a list of 14k members in 2/3 years is really cool.
    thanks for sharing dude.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529336].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author aireland
    I love these success stories, thanks for the fantastic post
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529370].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author NewParadigm
      Great inspiration and good luck on your goals!

      Yep, as far as WSO, its like during the gold rush, people that made real money sold shovels to the miners. Provide them the tools!

      The only way to get what you want, is first helping enough others get what they want!

      In offline biz its much easier to succeed having narrow customer focus and selling them lots of stuff, rather than having little stuff to sell trying to sell it to everyone. You are more important to a narrow group of customers, knowing their businesses and how to add value rather than a shotgun approach.
      Signature

      In a moment of decision the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing. ~ Theodore Roosevelt

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529467].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bhuff85
    Mario - thanks for the awesome read! I got my start on here roughly around the same time as you did (even though I joined months before '09 - just wasn't very "active" so to speak).

    I'll agree that the WSO section has definitely changed since. Haha. I remember one of my products sold like CRAZY in '09 and I made an absolute killing with zero affiliates! Like you said, things are always changing. I still create from time to time, but have since moved into more web development and SEO.

    It's great to see how much success you have had since you initially started, so congrats on that and your breakout year! Hope you have an even bigger year and post up a year from today to let us know you hit $1,000,000 in 2012!
    Signature
    Want to speed up your writing and save time?
    This book will show you how:
    --> Write Fast: 21 Powerful Ways to Cut Your Writing Time in Half! <--
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529453].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sethczerepak
    Very inspiring story, you nailed it with focusing on one method and one niche...was just reading that in 'Good to Great' today.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529457].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author shaynjordan
    Thank you for this, you truly made my night when I hopped on and saw this.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529521].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Centurian
    Congratulations Mario and thank you for sharing your success!

    Here's to a great 2012!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529642].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author joecarson1
    Congrats Mario and thank you for sharing your story!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529703].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author lerxtjr
    Congrats on your success. I'd be curious if you could address a few more specific issues on the selling of services that I know several are wanting to ask but have not:
    1. How did you overcome competition of outsourcing SEO where India and Philippines charge $50-$150/month and your charge is $995/month?
    2. I simply refuse to EVER work with a law firm. How on earth do you boost their loyalty so that they "continue" to pay your $995/month instead of challenging you with every spam email that comes their way about "why can't you do this work for what THEY charge?"
    3. Are the law firms the ones that are members of your membership website and do they actually use it? Or are you saying you built a member site to teach others how to do/sell internet marketing stuff?

    Thanks in advance and continued the good fortune.
    Signature

    Come practice your public speaking skills with us FREE every week! SpeakersSpeakLIVE.com >>

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529757].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author cashtree
    This thread is just pure win, a true story of coming from nothing to something. Very inspiring my friends, thanks for taking the time to share and I wish you more success in the future.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529805].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author iTowkay
    3 years to where you are and achieved what you got is SOLID! Congrats!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529913].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Randall Magwood
    That's alot to take in. In my mind i think you're a marketing genius in the way you encouraged and lifted yourself up from failure... and turned it around to benefit you in the best, most profitable way. Congrats dude!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5529986].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rukshan
    Hey

    Congrats for your success. I can remember your Ezine WSO which was a good one in those days. You have given some great tips to think outside the box. I also like Rich dad poor dad book to focus my business.

    Best Regards
    Rukshan
    Signature

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5530066].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author onlinebizgiant
    Mario

    All I can say is simply superb. Actually with the information you've provided I can make several WSO's, that much pure content is in your thread. Moreover it is really great inspiration to most of us. Thank you very much once again and I personally wish all the very best to your future projects.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5530268].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Will Edwards
    Great post Mario.

    Here's to an even more successful 2012.

    Will
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5530280].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author onlinebizgiant
    Mario

    All I can say is simply superb. Actually with the information you've provided I can make several WSO's, that much pure content is in your thread. Moreover it is really great inspiration to most of us. Thank you very much once again and I personally wish all the very best to your future projects.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5530282].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Ryan T
    Thanks for sharing your experience and methods on getting to where you are.

    I agree and like the way you give most or all your commission to your affiliates to build up the initial list.

    That are lots of actionable plans beginners can learn here and I fully appreciate that.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5530469].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Tenzho
    Yes, I am now all pumped up to write article!! Oh yeah, very inspiring!!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5530932].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author onlinebizgiant
    Mario

    All I can say is simply superb. Actually with the information you've provided I can make several WSO's, that much pure content is in your thread. Moreover it is really great inspiration to most of us. Thank you very much once again and I personally wish all the very best to your future projects.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531068].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sandebdavid
    Mario I think you should write a book. Your experience is quite inspiring especially to those that are just starting out. Two lessons I have learned from experience are patience and hard work. Many who venture in IM have that 'get rich quick' attitude and they end up failures.
    Signature
    "For everyone somewhere there is a piece of heaven on earth"
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531191].message }}
  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531373].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author gojiberryman
    Holy cow! you have amazing information stated in this post my friend. It's pretty rare to find dedicated marketer like yourself. I will be on the look out for more of your posts. Keep up the good work, I'm rootin for ya.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531571].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Benjam1n
    Hi Mario,

    Truly inspiring post and it just goes to show that you can have more knowledge than anybody, but if you're not going to take action, it means nadda!!

    I'm interested to know though, how do you perform SEO for websites in these areas? Apart from having good content articles and making sure the tags etc on their website are correct.

    What off page SEO do your perform? Do you create blogs for them, post links in forums etc as I wouldn't have thought this would be easy for a law firm??

    Thanks in advance and keep up the great work!!
    Signature

    "You become what you think about most of the time" - Think BIG!!

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531694].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by lerxtjr View Post

      Congrats on your success. I'd be curious if you could address a few more specific issues on the selling of services that I know several are wanting to ask but have not:
      1. How did you overcome competition of outsourcing SEO where India and Philippines charge $50-$150/month and your charge is $995/month?
      2. I simply refuse to EVER work with a law firm. How on earth do you boost their loyalty so that they "continue" to pay your $995/month instead of challenging you with every spam email that comes their way about "why can't you do this work for what THEY charge?"
      3. Are the law firms the ones that are members of your membership website and do they actually use it? Or are you saying you built a member site to teach others how to do/sell internet marketing stuff?

      Thanks in advance and continued the good fortune.
      1) It's all about positioning and being different and unique, please read the books that I recommended and you'll learn about your Unique Selling Proposition and how to be different so that your competition has no chance.

      2) That's easy, over-deliver BIG TIME, bring fast results and have an offer and guarantee that they can't refuse. Only thing they care about is results and ROI, if you deliver that they'll stay with you forever.

      3) The membership site is actually for Internet Marketers that want to learn how to make money with local marketing.

      Originally Posted by precious007 View Post

      Way to go!

      That's some nice cash there ;-)

      I can imagine that a great part of the money you've made in 2011 came from the WSO's.

      I've seen that you've got some kick ass WSO's launched last year, so did you use your lists to promote the WSO's or simply just bumped them for extra traffic on Warrior Forum?

      List building is definitely a gold-mine when it comes to marketing online, yet I have only got my feet wet with list building since it's a tedious, long, costly process to get 14K - 20K subscribers.

      Definitely an inspirational story for most folks here.

      If everyone would be able to change their mindset miraculously they'd all be making similar sums of money by now. I'm not an offline person at all, especially not good when it comes to SELLING off-line services so you've got an ace in your hand if you're able and good at holding seminars and selling offline services to firms.

      Cheers
      I definitely used my list, and the list of affiliates to make these big launches happening - just bumping the thread won't really get you anywhere but that depends on your goals and where you are right now. If it's your first WSO and you really haven't made any money yet, then making it live, bumping it and making sales is the greatest thing in the world

      Originally Posted by sandebdavid View Post

      Mario I think you should write a book. Your experience is quite inspiring especially to those that are just starting out. Two lessons I have learned from experience are patience and hard work. Many who venture in IM have that 'get rich quick' attitude and they end up failures.
      Working on the book

      Originally Posted by Benjam1n View Post

      Hi Mario,

      Truly inspiring post and it just goes to show that you can have more knowledge than anybody, but if you're not going to take action, it means nadda!!

      I'm interested to know though, how do you perform SEO for websites in these areas? Apart from having good content articles and making sure the tags etc on their website are correct.

      What off page SEO do your perform? Do you create blogs for them, post links in forums etc as I wouldn't have thought this would be easy for a law firm??

      Thanks in advance and keep up the great work!!
      My set up is extremely simple to be honest. I perform the initial on page SEO, which is as simple as making sure that the meta tags, meta keywords etc. are in place and that the keywords area spread within the content on the page and then I literally only focus on getting high quality backlinks and I do that by mainly buying Link Packages in the 'Warriors For Hire' section.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531996].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Benjam1n
        Originally Posted by Mario Brown View Post



        My set up is extremely simple to be honest. I perform the initial on page SEO, which is as simple as making sure that the meta tags, meta keywords etc. are in place and that the keywords area spread within the content on the page and then I literally only focus on getting high quality backlinks and I do that by mainly buying Link Packages in the 'Warriors For Hire' section.

        Cheers,
        Mario

        Cool, thanks for the reply but I'm curious, (and I know you said you outsource this process) on what sort of websites could you get quality backlinks that would be useful for a lawyers site??
        Signature

        "You become what you think about most of the time" - Think BIG!!

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5540292].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Vibes
    wow your first venture was actually creating a wso product...haha...awesome!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531787].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author virtualprincipal
    I'm not much for hyperbole, but that was by far the best post I have ever read on this forum.

    Keep up the good work!

    VP
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531821].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jayeye
    Thank you very much for sharing your story, Mario.
    I am a newbie who's head is buzzing from wso overload!
    It was inspirational to read of your beginnings, the human side and of your determination
    to go forward without waiting for perfection.

    Now back to head-scratching and niche-finding!

    Thanks again.

    Jay
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531881].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dave147
    What a great post! Thanks Mario.

    If anyone is looking for inspiration just repeat the words below...





    Mario!
    Mario!
    Mario!

    Signature

    THESE PRODUCTS FREE @ adsense-expert
    When You Get The 300 Logo Templates Here
    $500.00 in FREE Advertising For You Here

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5531907].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Backlinks Guru
    There is no doubt that you've reached the status you are in right now because of your positive outlooks in life. It really inspired me to work even more and to study even more.

    Making a good reputation and money really needs time so I need to be patient and continue the step for success. Thanks for sharing your story of success!


    Dave
    Signature
    =====*Free Backlinks Service in WarriorForum*====
    _Don't buy backlinks if you can get it to me for free!_
    Free SEO Service PM me right away!
    Free SEO Submission Service| Social Bookmarking | Article Directories | Web 2.0 Properties | Forum Profile Creation
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5532083].message }}
  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5532130].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by perfectlovehere View Post

      Fastest way to build a list?
      Create a very solid product and then go to people that already have lists in the market that you target. Offer them 100% commission if they're willing to promote and if you can (depending on the niche), also do a JV Contest with prizes and give all the commission away!

      It's going to be very hard for affiliates or JV partners to say no to such a strong offer and it's by far the fastest way to build your list that I experienced.

      Cheers,
      Mario

      P.S. If you have the money, then my second answer would be massive paid traffic to a converting squeeze page.
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5532169].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author onlineVisions
    Great work, as the saying goes.. hard work & dedication pays of you did very will, u began with the end in mind which is what you wanted and got in the end.. & u got it

    Congratulation & keep up the Hard work...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5538420].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JeremiahSay
    Hi Mario,

    I plan on launching my first ever WSO next week after reading this thread 2 days ago.. I have a question to ask: Is it better to use Warrior pro , JVZoo or Digiresults as payment platform?

    I've read a lot of comment recently about people have problems with Warrior pro..

    Looking forward to your reply,
    Have send you a Pm as well!

    God bless you,
    Jeremiah
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5538765].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author magiclouie
    I commend you for putting this together. Thanks a lot and hopefully I could increase my income despite of my location.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5538792].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by magiclouie View Post

      I commend you for putting this together. Thanks a lot and hopefully I could increase my income despite of my location.
      Hi there,

      Thanks for your comment!

      If you really want to make it in this crazy IM world then there is no room for excuses my friend. Doesn't matter who you are, where you are or where you are coming from - all you need it within you now my friend and you just have to want it strong enough.

      If you are able to be online, to be here on the forum to make a comment on my post - then you have EVERYTHING you need to make money online. Forget your location or other limitations that you've put on yourself in your mind and just go for it, that's the best tip I can give you.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5539403].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author celente
    some good info in here for all levels of marketing.

    But the thing that you did, was take action. That is the single most important element.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5541106].message }}
  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5541230].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DigitalBusker
    One suggestion here is to read "Rich Dad Poor Dad." I wonder if this is just to give IM'ers an idea how to use a style of writing which IM readers could use themselves? In other words something like, "hey! If I write like this author I can be rich too!?"

    Not sure if it bothers anyone else, because we're IM'ers or aspiring IM'ers, but when the detail of the book undergoes a degree of scrutiny it raises some awkward questions. Some even conclude the author is little more than a fraud.

    John T. Reed's analysis of Robert T. Kiyosaki's book Rich Dad, Poor Dad

    Meanwhile hope the future of IM for you goes from strength to strength.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5541566].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author richfit
    Great story bro! How do you plan on taking
    it to the next level $500k per month?
    Signature
    PerfectFunnelSystem.com - Enter to WIN a Brand NEW Kindle Fire + Download My Report titled, "11 Irresistible Money Magnets To Generate More Leads For Your Business!"

    Affiliates earn over $404 per sale + $38 per month recurring cash flow when you share "this experience" See why top marketers are promoting like crazy!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5541585].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ProScribe
    This is one of the best posts I have read in warrior forum recently. It's obviously inspired a lot of warriors and I have to say you have an awesome attitude Mario.

    From nothing to 500K in 3 years, very cool
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5541938].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author gojiberryman
    This is a very inspirational post Mario. 14,000 subscribers? Very impressive. List building is an extremely valuable method in internet marketing. Congratulations Mario.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5541986].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author igordoni
    Thanks so much Mario,

    I really love the reminder about Laser Focus.

    Unbelievable content and it is so appreciated. Here's to generating $1M in 2012.

    Ian
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5543246].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author kbrady
    Thanks so much for the post Mario. Your journey is an inspiration!
    Signature
    *** Check out my Daily WSO Reviews and my own online journey at IMProfitsHub.com ***
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5556674].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author smegal
    Thank You Mario.
    I for one enjoy reading how somebody started as nowadays it can be difficult to decide where to begin with all the various ways to make money on-line. I think for many newbies the taking action is not the problem, it's what to take action on first.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5556745].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author temlawn
    Great Post. Congrats on your success and continued success.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5556847].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Minds Eye
    Thanks Mario - just the kick in the butt I needed this Sunday morning!
    Signature

    A powerful perspective on persuasion

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557029].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Luke Rafferty
    excellent post mario, loved reading it.
    i have one question - what do you think about pinging back links??
    i havce asked this to warriors before and always get mixed responses :-(
    but data is building to one side and would be great to get your opinion
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557231].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author kamalmix
    Oh my God! The best thing I liked is that you got 14,000 of buyers not just list of people.
    And the craziest thing is that you got 60 people on your live event at 500 bucks per ticket! I want it too!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557243].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Wilton White
    Thank you for a very informative, actionable and inspiring post, Mario! This will really help out quite a few people who are just getting started.

    I wish you well in your continued success....
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557337].message }}
  • Great stuff Mario!

    I think I must have bought just about every WSO you ever made (even your wedding one, which I had most of the stuff already!)

    I have learned so much about offline marketing and SEO from you and Brian during 2011 and it is almost entirely due to your stuff that I now have my own successful offline business.

    You are a real inspiration and I really hope you reach your goal of $1 million this year.

    Best

    Neil
    Signature

    Tap into the Video Gold Mine with my Free 4 Part Offline Cash Secrets video course.

    If you want to FINALLY start making money online then check out Instant Internet Lifestyle blog.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557630].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sc21287
    This is so money.

    I just hope more people realize what you just wrote and actually put that into action...

    That's it right there.

    Originally Posted by Mario Brown View Post

    Hi,

    I joined the Warrior Forum in January 2009, exactly 3 years ago and it was quite a journey for me since then.

    I went from being brand new, completely overwhelmed and frustrated starting out, to making 500k last year and 'living the dream' so to speak. In this post I want to show you how I did it and invite you to ask me any question that could help you on your Internet Marketing journey.

    Here is the exact situation that I was in when I joined in January 2009.

    I just learned about Internet Marketing and got completely overwhelmed. I bought a couple of products (high ticket as well as low ticket) and after joining the forum it just got worse with all the information available.

    For three month I struggled with paralysis by analysis and I tried like 6 different methods to make money online at that time generating a couple of Clickbank sales almost by coincidence, but nothing big at all.

    That was a very frustrating time, to say the least.




    Today's situation in 2012.

    3 Years later it's a different story. I've built a list of 14,000 people (all buyers), I was able to crank up my revenue to 40-50k per month in the last half of 2011, I have a membership site with 350 members, did my first live event in October 2011 with 60 people attending at $500/ticket, I created the second best selling WSO of all time and had about 15 WSO's of the day together with my partner Brian. I also win about every WSO JV contest that I participate in, even though I don't participate in that many anymore.

    In 2010 I also started a successful local marketing business here in Miami, helping lawyers in particular with their Internet Marketing and charging at least $997 per month for my services.

    I'm not telling you all this to impress you, but to impress upon you how much you can do if you stay on track and to show you that it doesn't matter in what situation you are in right now.



    When I came to the States 4 years ago after backpacking in Ecuador, I hardly spoke any English and had no friends or family in Miami - so if I can do it, you can do it.

    Keep in mind, you can actually achieve a LOT more than I did because I made so many mistakes it's not funny.

    Best of all, ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING happened thanks to the Warrior Forum, so I'm infinitely grateful for being a member here.

    Now let's get to the meat, let me show you how I did it and how you can do the same. Please learn from the mistakes that I made.


    ------------


    After buying Frank Kern's $2,000 Mass Control 2.0 in March of 2009 with money that I didn't have, I was literally forced to take action because my then girlfriend (now wife) told me that if I don't make this work now, then that's it. No more fooling around with Internet Marketing wasting more of our hard earned money.

    I went to the live event and after talking to a bunch of millionaires there (for the first time) and realizing that they are just regular people like you and I, something switched in my mind and with the pressure having to pay back money and proving to myself and to my girl that this works, I finally took action.


    Creating My First WSO (this is where you start taking notes)


    My first plan was to create a WSO. I learned about a cool trick to manipulate the 'most viewed' list in Ezinearticles.com and after implementing it and making it work, I created a short report showing how to do it.

    I had no clue how to set up Aweber or how to deliver the product so I just pm'd a lot of people asking if they would help me. One Warrior, fortunately, decided to help me put with all that stuff. I used some of the strategies learned in Mass Control to build some trust in advance, took action and launched my first WSO.

    People loved my story and bought the product, within the first 2 days I made 700 bucks and at that time that was a LOT of money for me and I got hooked, I can still remember the day of my first sales as if it was yesterday.

    There was a sound every time I received a payment and all we did was sitting in front of the computer getting excited every time we heard that sound. That was the moment I really started believing in Internet Marketing (so did my girlfriend) and I never looked back.

    After that, I kept studying Internet Marketing and I kept launching WSO's, basically making a full time living (3-5k) just by launching WSO's and leveraging the list of customers.

    The WSO section changed a lot since then and today it's not as simple anymore to create a successful WSO. With hard work, determination and action combined with a bit of luck you might be able to have a success just by putting a WSO up but from my experience working with my students, that plan more often than not only results in 5-10 sales and a lot of frustration.

    If you want make a splash, if you want to make thousands with your first WSO while building a massive list of buyers, then you need leverage and you need to get affiliates to promote you.

    The best way to do that is to contact successful WSO sellers that are selling products that are similar to yours (e.g. Amazon, Mobile, Facebook, List building etc.) and to let them know about your launch. Best case scenario is if they are willing to team up with you.

    Most of them might not get back to you but trust me, you just need 1 or 2 of the right affiliates and it will make ALL the difference - so be persistent!

    Just like the big boys did it with their 'syndicate', there are now very powerful small groups of WSO sellers that promote each other and if you can get one of these guys on board, he'll tell his buddies about your offer. (assuming you created a great product of course)

    To really kick things off, you should offer 100% commission (yes give it all away) and more importantly you have to keep a couple of unwritten laws in mind:

    Have a great product. Have converting Sales Copy in place and make it visual with pictures and videos (My simple formula for converting copy: Tell an engaging story, show a lot of proof and have a lot of testimonials, offer a great bonus & guarantee and have an irresistible offer).

    Have an upsell in place. Give away most of your commission to entice affiliates to promote and to tell their buddies. Use a proven affiliate program like WSO Pro, JVzoo or Digiresults. If you have the money, create a JV contest with prizes to further engage affiliates. Starting out, price the product relatively low in order to have great stats and a nice conversion rate. Use Dime Sales!!!

    I hope you are taking notes because this is exactly how I launch my WSO's and how I teach my students to launch theirs. If you would ask me what the most critical part is then I'd have to say, honestly, to get affiliates on board. (having a solid product is a given)

    If you are overwhelmed with all of the rest, then pay someone to do it BUT make sure you focus most of your time on getting affiliates on board. This is key. No affiliates, most likely no sales, money or list - it's that simple.

    Build a massive buyers list fast!

    Straight up the fastest and cheapest way to build a massive buyers list is to offer 100% commission for your product on the front-end and on the backend. Period.

    If you have a solid product with some decent copy and you offer 100% commission on the Front- and Backend - then I have a very hard time (just as every other affiliate) not to promote your offer.

    And that's exactly the goal, if you can make it so enticing for affiliates that they would be stupid to not promote your offer, then you are in a great position!

    Case in point, for my last WSO I offered 100% commission on everything and I also created a JV contest with great prizes - so at first sight it looks like I made no money and I actually had to invest money for the prizes and for the copy, which is true.

    You are missing the point though - I made the offer so strong for affiliates that they just couldn't say no and that resulted in more than 6 thousand sales, adding 6k people (buyers) to my list, it created the second best selling WSO of all time, it created a lot of buzz and I received a lot of recognition in the market place because of it.

    As you can see, it was well worth it to sacrifice short term gratification and after the launch I had a chance to build a relationship with the buyers and to recommend them other products that I believe in, therefore making a lot of money that way with follow ups.

    Long story short, if you'd ask me what the fastest way is to a massive buyers list then you have it here. Do it and you'll be amazed and you'll crush others that just don't see the value of giving away the commission.

    Creating a membership site from scratch

    You just learned that I've made my first money on the Warrior forum and that I've built my list on the Warrior Forum, it shouldn't surprise you then that I also started my membership site here. (now you understand why I'm so grateful for the forum)

    Here is exactly what I did:

    Once I had a couple of products out and small list in place, I had people asking me if I ever considered a membership site where people could get my products for 'free' or where I'd teach more advanced stuff.

    I never really wanted to bother with membership sites because I didn't know how to set them up (I'm completely lost when it comes to technical stuff!) and I didn't understand the power of recurring income.

    After starting my local marketing business I decided that I give it a shot because I wanted to create a community of local marketers.

    The way I did it, big surprise, was by offering it as a WSO and the strategy that got me started was to offer a $1 trial for a couple of days for people to check it out. It obviously helped that I created solid products in the past and that I always focused on building a relationship and trust with my customers.

    Therefore, my customers jumped on it and I picked up a lot of people from the forum by bumping my WSO to the top every other day. Now, 2 years later I have about 350 members and I actually had to stop accepting new members.

    The most powerful way to do it is to have some kind of unique software or tools that people can't find elsewhere. No worries if you don't have that yet, you can also offer interviews, advanced training, webinars, PLR stuff or anything else that you believe adds value to the market.

    Implement the strategy of offering a very cheap trial, offers something unique and you'll be on your way before you know. Also, and I hope you are seeing the theme here - the fastest way to grow your membership site is to get affiliates to promote it, that's where the true leverage is.

    In order to easily set up our membership sites my assistant is using Optimizepress (we love optimizepress) right now but we also successfully used Wishlist Member. To protect it, we've tried Digital Access Pass and Memberchamp and they both work very well.

    Local Marketing - Fast Way to the Cash

    After a couple of month on the forum I learned about 'Offline Gold' and I was VERY intrigued by the idea of making money from local businesses by simply helping them with their Internet Marketing.

    As always, I moved fast and jumped right into it. Here is how I started out finding my first clients:

    Firstly, I got me some business cards from Vista Print and I did the 'obvious', I told all my friends and acquaintances about my business and that I was helping local businesses with their Search Engine Optimization and Google Places. When I went to the dentist, farmers market, bakery, jewelry store or any other small business - I told them what I did and left a business card with them.

    That's a great way to get started if you are on a low budget. The next step I took was to post free ads on Craigslist in Miami promoting my services and I also contacted the businesses that were on Craigslist asking for SEO help.

    Keep in mind, so far I didn't have to spend a single dollar on advertising and after 2 weeks I already had my first client on board at $997/month, from Craigslist.

    I then tried direct mail after buying a WSO on that topic and it worked well. I only contacted law firms though that were advertising in the Yellow Pages. That way I knew that they're already having a marketing budget and that they understand the value of leads and marketing - so it was a lot easier to get them on board and I didn't have to educate them as much.


    I also hired a call center with some success and I've built 2 websites that now rank on top of the first page for all the SEO terms in Miami and the other site is slowly but surely grabbing all the top rankings for law firm related Internet Marketing terms. I get about 3-5 leads a week through my websites.

    The most powerful strategy though is referral marketing, that's by far my best source for new clients. Over-deliver, bring fast results to keep your client happy and don't be afraid to ask for referrals and your business will grow like crazy.

    You can buy 50 WSO's about offline marketing not doing anything or you implement the tips that I just shared with you helping me to go from 0 to 10k/month within 4 months in local marketing. It's up to you.

    One of the most important things that I learned from Dan Kennedy - which helped me to grow fast - was to focus on only one industry. That way I was able to charge more and to differentiate myself.

    Think about it, if I offer SEO for everyone, then I'm just another 'SEO Guy', nothing special about me at all. And that's exactly what I did when I started out.

    Then, I actually specialized on law firms and I made all my marketing (website, business cards etc.) talk to lawyers specifically, I used their language and I've built case studies over time with other lawyers.

    Now, just like that, I moved from being just another 'SEO Guy' to being a 'Law Firm Internet Marketing Specialist'.

    Completely different positioning, allowing me to charge premium and to be the expert. (I hope you get this, it's critical)

    -----------------


    That's it my friend, this was my exact business model in 2011 helping me to go from 15k in January to 50k in December. (Creating WSO's, Promoting WSO's as affiliate, Membership Site, Offline Clients)

    Now it's up to you to pick something that you think that will work for you and to go for it, whatever it takes!

    Questions:

    So Mario, after this 3 year journey, what did you learn from it that could benefit us?

    Laser Focus is key. The IM world is so overwhelming that we all get distracted all the time and we jump from method to method not achieving anything.

    Pick ONE method only and run with it! Work at it, study the market leaders, see what they are doing and see if it works for you. Get a coach or accountability partner to make sure you stay on track, we all need a 'kick in the pants' more often than not.




    What would you say is your unique secret to success Mario?

    It's by far, taking imperfect action!

    A lot of people, some of them my friends now, started at the same time as I did and most of them either gave up or they still jump from method to method not being able to make a full time living with IM. Some still haven't made a single dollar online.

    The only main difference that there is between me and them, according to their feedback, is that I was and I'm willing to take imperfect action while they try to make everything perfect and they wait until they are 'ready'.

    If you look at my products or my marketing you'll realize that basically non of my stuff is perfect, and I mean nothing. My website, fan page, download page, blog - they're all not done and I still have them out there generating business and leads for me.

    When I learned about local marketing I just went after it without a website in place going to networking events and telling everyone what I was doing while others where busy buying WSO's about it and telling themselves that they are not ready - so within 3 month I got clients and money while they were still 'planning'.

    My first WSO was a disaster when it comes to product delivery and product creation but I still put it up and buyers where patient with me because I made clear that it's my very first WSO. That WSO generated 3k in the first month while my buddies where still reading WSO's about article marketing telling themselves they are not ready yet to launch something.

    My first live event was a risk too, I never did one before and I still decided to do it. The marketing was horrible, I only had 1 month to promote it and didn't know how to do it but I just stuck with it and got 60 people to show up at $500 per person.

    It's my willingness to take imperfect action - I think that is my secret to success and I encourage you to try the same. 'Good' is often good enough, so don't try to make everything perfect, just go for it and get results!

    What are the key lessons that you learned about business?

    Always give the customer more than what he expects.

    Follow Up !!!

    It's all about Leverage! (relationships, affiliates, mastermind, Joint Venture partners)

    Finish what you start, laser focus is key!

    Do what you do best, hire others to do the rest.

    Systemize your business as much as possible, set it up as if you already know that you're going to sell it one day. (meaning don't have it being dependent on you)

    There is never enough time to do everything, but there's always enough time to do the most important things. (80/20 rule)

    3 books I must read?

    Rich Dad Poor Dad (got me stared)

    The Go Giver (gave me the right mindset)

    The E-Myth (helped me to systemize my business)

    Are you going to stick to your successful business model?

    Not at all, the only constant thing in life is change

    I'm actually moving away from WSO's and my goal in 2012 is to make at least 1 million bucks in revenue but I understand that the things that I did to get my to my current level won't get me to where I want to go.

    Right now I'm working hard on my sales funnel going deep in the local marketing niche and I committed to having 80% of my business based on recurring income, so I'm putting things in place to achieve that.

    Don't get me wrong though, I'm no fool - so I won't just give up my core (affiliate marketing/product creation), I just have to modify the way I do it, change the pricing, go deeper in the niche and get more leverage.

    ----------


    I hope you got a lot of value out of this post, now it's time for you to pick a method and to run with it.

    If you have any question at all, just ask along and I'll answer it to my best knowledge.


    Cheers,


    Mario Brown
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557746].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Tessa Holmes
    Good post. Thank you for an additional food for thoughts. 'Razor focus' you are saying. It is interesting. Just concentrating on some high-paying clients, to know their business well and earn their trust by speaking their language (which you can do if you specialize). Thank you for all tips.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557940].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author vic alexander
    HI Mario, I couldnt agree more that this forum and internet marketing in general is not about get rich quick. One book you might want to add to your reading book is Richard Templars ' the rules of wealth' 2nd edition. The point he makes, is that the rich have income streams. Similar to the ideals of Rich dad, poor dad.

    I am delighted with your sucess and hope I can achieve the same level as you.
    Signature

    Vic Alexander

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557978].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author OldDawgNewTricks
    Thanks Mario. Very butt-kicking.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5558089].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author OldDawgNewTricks
      Thanks Mario. This was good for me to see your story. I can do it, too!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5558098].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Christines Dream
        Thanks very much for sharing your success model. I am planning to open my first WSO soon and will definitely be using your advice.

        P.S. Come on back and let us know if you achieved your 2012 goal. I would love to hear more on your success.

        All the best!
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5558449].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sal64
    The Go-Giver is an awesome book. Not as well known as some, but awesome still. A must read.

    An abundance mindset is the key, Mario... and you have obviously learnt that lesson early and learnt it well.

    Congratulations!

    Sal
    Signature
    Internet Marketing: 20% Internet - 80% Marketing!
    You Won't See The Light Until You Open Your Eyes.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5558513].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BarbaraP
    Mario,

    Thanks for the gift of your knowledge, spirit, and advice on this thread.

    You've been making a big, rapid difference for many of us who started following you just weeks ago. Your post that started this thread and your responses throughout it are more valuable than many of the WSOs we've all bought (and "'parked".)

    Thanks for your leadership
    and cheers to you (and Maria) for 2012.

    Barbara
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559256].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author World Marketing
    Interesting read...congrats on your success...Persistence is key!
    Signature

    I make $5,000+ a month online [CLICK HERE] to see how you can do the same starting today!

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559403].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author blueboxer
    Great story! I'm on my way too.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559476].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Daniel22
    I can't thank you enough for creating this topic, you really inspired me!
    This topic is so useful for me so god bless you Mario.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559598].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JDub07
    Inspiring Story!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559726].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Yudhistira Mauris
    Really really stunning story. I bookmarked this so I can take a lesson when I get stuck. Thank you so much
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559858].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DianaHeuser
    Thank you Mario,

    This is just what I needed to read on a Monday morning to kick start me out of my panic mindset that hit me this morning.

    Thank you Sal64, for pointing this thread out to me

    Di
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5560215].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Michael Ten
    What would recommend for someone struggling to earn money online?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5560446].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by Benjam1n View Post

      Cool, thanks for the reply but I'm curious, (and I know you said you outsource this process) on what sort of websites could you get quality backlinks that would be useful for a lawyers site??
      I love to buy backlink packages and if I can I try to support the Warriors by using the Warriors for Hire Section. For local clients in particular I have amazing results with Press Release submissions, that's how I always start out and then my team just buys packages that provide different sources like Article Directory links, profile links, blog commenting and another thing that works really great are the Blog Networks out there.

      A secret weapon that I can recommend is to create your own network of lawyer sites (if that's your niche) that you set up and build links to, slowly building up the authority and page rank and before you know you'll have a super powerful network of sites that you can plug you new client in. Works like a charm.

      Originally Posted by DigitalBusker View Post

      One suggestion here is to read "Rich Dad Poor Dad." I wonder if this is just to give IM'ers an idea how to use a style of writing which IM readers could use themselves? In other words something like, "hey! If I write like this author I can be rich too!?"

      Not sure if it bothers anyone else, because we're IM'ers or aspiring IM'ers, but when the detail of the book undergoes a degree of scrutiny it raises some awkward questions. Some even conclude the author is little more than a fraud.

      John T. Reed's analysis of Robert T. Kiyosaki's book Rich Dad, Poor Dad

      Meanwhile hope the future of IM for you goes from strength to strength.
      Hi, I personally don't care if the Author's story is true or not, all I can say is that that book got me started, after reading that book I got so pumped up with the idea of starting my own business and not working 9-5 anymore helping someone else to get rich - it made the biggest difference to me and definitely helped me realize that Entrepreneurship is the way to go to achieve financial freedom.

      After that, the 4 hour work week had a similar effect on me but I read it 2 years later.

      Originally Posted by richfit View Post

      Great story bro! How do you plan on taking
      it to the next level $500k per month?
      Wow I have a very specific sales funnel and business plan all laid out for 2012 and on my white board but honestly I don't want to share it in detail. Let me put it this way, I'm completely switched my biz model to 'recurring income' and instead of focusing on the 'entrance' of the sales funnel (free stuff, low ticket stuff - I got stuck in there for too long) I'm now focusing on the end of the sales funnel with high end coaching, live events and membership sites.

      But to be honest with you, there is only one thing that I keep in mind every day, and that is just like Zig said: If you help enough people to get what they want, you'll get what you want.

      So with that in mind I ask my customers what they want and then I give it to them, and that's how I'm going to crack the million (at least) this year while providing value and helping my customer.

      I launched a new membership last week for example and had 400 people sign up right away and they were excited like never before to sign up because I gave them what they asked for.

      Originally Posted by Luke Rafferty View Post

      excellent post mario, loved reading it.
      i have one question - what do you think about pinging back links??
      i havce asked this to warriors before and always get mixed responses :-(
      but data is building to one side and would be great to get your opinion
      I try not to bother too much with that type of stuff, if you focus on building good quality links and over-delivering then your time is much better spend than trying to figure out how important pinging is.

      But to answer your question, I niche/project would have to be MEGA COMPETITIVE for me to bother with pinging. In 90% of all cases simple backlinks get the trick done (first page, top position) if these are high quality backlinks (nice variety).

      I heard really fantastic things about linklicious so you might want to check them out, they get great results.

      Originally Posted by Michael55555 View Post

      What would recommend for someone struggling to earn money online?
      Honestly, I'd recommend to read my post again and to take action on it after choosing one method. If no method is appealing, then I'd recommend to start Ed Dale's 30 day challenge.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5567076].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author RioMike
    At first glance, your post looked too long, but I'm glad I started reading it. You've shared lots of great tips for seasoned marketers, as well as newbies. Good for you on just taking action, and not waiting to have everything in place. If you wait for that, as we all know, it will never happen. Thanks for your informative post!

    Mike
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5560500].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author edwinms
    You are AWESOME!!! i admire you.. i like when you says "taking the imperfect to perfect"
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5560849].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jeffreysIM
    Hi Mario,

    You're an inspiration to us. Thanks for sharing.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5561055].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dugu56
    Thank you Mario for sharing everything with all of us!
    Your story is such an inspiration, and an eye opener for sure!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5562115].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TiffanyLambert
    Mario I don't know a thing about you but I LOVE the advice about imperfect action. It's right on - I have always done this and I too believe it's the reason so many fail and quit and I have kept building income.

    I wish more newbies and strugglers would realize this is the ONLY way to go.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5562779].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author areaman
      Tiffany, shared this post with her fans...er, subscribers. I'm sure glad she did because otherwise I would have missed an excellent post and a major boot in the butt for me.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5564499].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author AdrianB
    Thanks for sharing your story, Mario. Really good :-)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5563049].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BillClemens
    Mario,

    I love your stuff, you and I have the same ideas I swear. I have been doing offline IM for the last 4 yrs or so and have a very successful business, and just recently I started launching WSO related to offline video marketing. I have been in IM since 2001, My business partner John and I just joined the Offline Renegades. I hope to be able to bring to the group as much as I learn from the group.
    Signature

    Latest WSO Offline Marketers Tool Box Web Video Domination Vol. 3 Cosmetic Surgeons
    http://goo.gl/5IqqH
    http://www.ClemensMediaGroup.com
    Facebook: http://www.billclemens.com/facebook

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5567437].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author buckeyes09
    What car(s) do you drive?
    Signature

    Christian

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5567971].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Onora Oz
    Hey Mario,
    I loved your story and all the tips you're attaching to your replies. Thanks for sharing. I've read this thread for the first time a few days ago. Then I've reread it yesterday. Today, Tiffany's mail and blog post made me check it again. I think it's that good I wish you a greater success, the greatest and all.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5569812].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author joekoffi
    Hey Mario,
    Thanks for taking off time to go into details and showing us what you did. It's really encouraging
    Signature
    Affiliate Marketing For Bloggers, Revealing unknown killer Affiliate Marketing tricks for Bloggers. Special Discount: WF17
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5570008].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author RealBusy
    Congrats. Keep the flame burning!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5570163].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author AlphaRosa
    Awesome stuff Mario. Simply Awesome!

    Many many thanks to you for writing all that up and giving away that golden information.

    I wish you and your business the best of luck and a profitable 2012. Hit that $1M goal!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5571122].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jivens
    Banned
    I would of paid to see this thread. Wonderful information! Congrats on the second best selling WSO of all time 0.o . That's rockin! How fast was your heart beating when you saw that money rolling in? :p
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5571375].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mario Brown
      Originally Posted by jivens View Post

      I would of paid to see this thread. Wonderful information! Congrats on the second best selling WSO of all time 0.o . That's rockin! How fast was your heart beating when you saw that money rolling in? :p
      It's funny that you ask that

      Actually, I didn't see a single penny, I was out 2-3k instead haha.

      I do what I preach so my goal was to make history with one of the biggest wso launches ever and in order to achieve that I knew that I needed a lot of capable affiliates.

      So I created a rock-solid product and started a big JV contest with 100% commission on the front end as well as the backend, so I didn't see a single cent. In addition to that I have away two IPAD 2 and cash for the top affiliates and I invested 1k in a copywriter, that's why we were out 2-3k.

      Was it worth it?

      No doubt about it

      We had 6k sales (list building), sold more copies than anyone else before within 48 hours, got WSO of the Day, created a real buzz and hit Alexa's #1 in the Movers & Shakers category while creating the second best selling WSO of all time, according to the official WSO Plus stats (in sales). We made affiliates very happy so that they'll keep promoting for us and we instantly bonded with all the new customers because we made sure we over-delivered.

      That launch then enabled us to win 9 JV contests out of 10 since then winning Ipads, tripst to Vegas and other cool stuff let alone the revenue generated when recommending great products to our new customers.

      It comes down to instant gratification vs. long term strategy and in this case I went for long term strategy even though it meant that I didn't see a single cent when I launched the product.

      Cheers,
      Mario
      Signature

      ‎"Success is waking up in the morning, whoever you are, however old or young, and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at -- something that's bigger than you are, and you can't hardly wait to get at it again today." Whit Hobbs

      Visit My Website: http://www.mariobrown.net/

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5571610].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Austin357
    Mario!

    Great job on this thread and breaking down the steps to your success. Thanks for sharing it here for all to see how its done. Good luck killing it this year!!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5571666].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author blackscorpion
    Thanks Mario - I don't think it's any coincidence you sent me the link to this thread. Somehow everything I need to accomplish my dream if I don't possess it already - it will present itself to me.

    Now, time for action. "just do it" ! Nike
    See you at the top !
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5571796].message }}

Trending Topics