I got a little tip for the noobies thinking about doing offline.

Tsnyder

17 years ago

I wish you the best, Matt. Let us know how that goes for you.

Tsnyder

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Hackbridge

17 years ago

Matt,

thanks for the tip.

Can I ask how it's going with regard to your offline efforts? I know that I've been asked to stop marketing as I've not made any money but I know that it IS possible, so I can't say I want to stop. I'd also like to market to offline businesses.

Thanks

Brian

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

Well I went around my town today writing down a lot of small business names, came home and Googled each one, I was thinking of offering a service like, setting up a website, e-mail responder, getting them on the local directories for Google search if there not there, and maybe even doing a few web 2.0's if they wanted, for like 4k start up and $1,500 a month after that to keep there responder updated with sales or events. Anyways here is my tip to you, Don't talk to your family about doing something like this. Unless they already support you, because my family tells me no one will pay this, no small business will pay this crazy amount of money, but I believe they will, and im going to try it anyways! Don't let your family or anyone talk you out of your dreams. Well anyways thanks for listening I appreciate it!

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Hackbridge

Matt,

thanks for the tip.

Can I ask how it's going with regard to your offline efforts? I know that I've been asked to stop marketing as I've not made any money but I know that it IS possible, so I can't say I want to stop. I'd also like to market to offline businesses.

Thanks

Brian

As of right now I have not started yet, I plan on sending out letters this week to each business that does not have a website, and hope i get some responses back, then I will go meet with each client, I plan to outsource the website design, but do the responder, and other things myself. I will let you know how it works out for me though.

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Achilles1963

17 years ago

I gotta tell anybody who's thinking that being a succesful IM'er makes you a salesman it doesn't, it never will (its 2 completely different skills) , Internet Marketing is the same as oldschool marketing (no different), you find a niche and advertise (and rely on the strength of your ad copy), real sales is very personal, you have to rely on your personality, not your pitch, you're trying to form a relationship, you're trying to sell yourself, don't talk stats and tech data (who cares), talk about your kids, your car...their kids, their car, when you talk about product (any product it doesn't matter...its all just consumer goods), talk offhandedly about it, as if it's a triviality,the sale is a forgone conclusion. Now i know a lot of guys are gonna respond to this post disagreeing with me, but who cares...as a PRO i know what works. :p

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Maria Gudelis

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Achilles1963

I gotta tell anybody who's thinking that being a succesful IM'er makes you a salesman it doesn't, it never will (its 2 completely different skills) , Internet Marketing is the same as oldschool marketing (no different), you find a niche and advertise (and rely on the strength of your ad copy), real sales is very personal, you have to rely on your personality, not your pitch, you're trying to form a relationship, you're trying to sell yourself, don't talk stats and tech data (who cares), talk about your kids, your car...their kids, their car, when you talk about product (any product it doesn't matter...its all just consumer goods), talk offhandedly about it, as if it's a triviality,the sale is a forgone conclusion. Now i know a lot of guys are gonna respond to this post disagreeing with me, but who cares...as a PRO i know what works. :p

Don't think you'd be dissed here...

Anyone doing consulting to 'offline businesses' is not in the internet marketing biz...

...we are in the "Relationship Business" - asking the prospect about their passions, their family, their life....and you become the most interesting person in the room even though all you are doing is listening and asking probing questions.

Matt - kudos to you for going for it and yes - keep negative energy out of it as your mindset is what makes or breaks you.

It took me 6 months before I told my family what I was doing when I became a full time entrepreneur (even telling them I had a J (ust) O (over) B (broke) to appease them whilst I was full time chasing deals!)

...and when I did tell them what I was really doing...it was when the bank account shut them up about any 'you're crazy' type of statements.

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TimCastleman 17 years ago

Matt -

I am sorry to hear that. I told my wife tonight I wanted to spend $3k on a business idea.

Her response - sure honey, we have the money and you're always successful.

It is a good thing we are married already because if we weren't I'd have to do it all over again.

When you're ready and want some help getting started let me know.

Tim
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Andy LaPointe

17 years ago

As an offline business owner, this post is right on target. It's all about the relationship and not the pitch. Small business owners have a family envirnoment at work and they want to keep it that way. Many won't work with the smartest guy in town because the smartest jerk is probably the biggest turkey in to town.

They would rather would rather work with the 2nd best in town and have a relationship than the person with the biggest brain.

Originally Posted by Achilles1963

I gotta tell anybody who's thinking that being a succesful IM'er makes you a salesman it doesn't, it never will (its 2 completely different skills) , Internet Marketing is the same as oldschool marketing (no different), you find a niche and advertise (and rely on the strength of your ad copy), real sales is very personal, you have to rely on your personality, not your pitch, you're trying to form a relationship, you're trying to sell yourself, don't talk stats and tech data (who cares), talk about your kids, your car...their kids, their car, when you talk about product (any product it doesn't matter...its all just consumer goods), talk offhandedly about it, as if it's a triviality,the sale is a forgone conclusion. Now i know a lot of guys are gonna respond to this post disagreeing with me, but who cares...as a PRO i know what works. :p

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Loren Woirhaye

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Achilles1963

I gotta tell anybody who's thinking that being a succesful IM'er makes you a salesman it doesn't, it never will (its 2 completely different skills) , Internet Marketing is the same as oldschool marketing (no different), you find a niche and advertise (and rely on the strength of your ad copy), real sales is very personal, you have to rely on your personality, not your pitch, you're trying to form a relationship, you're trying to sell yourself, don't talk stats and tech data (who cares), talk about your kids, your car...their kids, their car, when you talk about product (any product it doesn't matter...its all just consumer goods), talk offhandedly about it, as if it's a triviality,the sale is a forgone conclusion. Now i know a lot of guys are gonna respond to this post disagreeing with me, but who cares...as a PRO i know what works. :p

This is just one approach to selling. Engaging in talk about trivialities
can actually waste a lot of your time as a salesperson and annoy the
prospect. On a case-by-case basis this sort of thing can and does
work - however if used ineffectively it can really hurt you because
your prospects will like you a bit, but see you as a brown-noser
and won't buy.

Every question you ask in sales should have a purpose - in the case
of personal questions I would recommend you try to find the PAIN
in the prospect's life.

What is true of business-people is they are generally starved for
conversation where they can really talk about problems in their
business they would like to solve. While these problems preoccupy
their minds a lot of the time, their families and most friends are
bored by hearing about them and in many cases don't understand
the issues at all.

I'm not trying to be a sales authority, but I've done it and studied
several methods. I highly recommend you pick up:
The Secret of Selling ~ Anything
and,

Amazon.com: The Closers: Ben Gay III: Books
... two of the best books I've ever read about reality in sales.

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BaldShark

17 years ago

I think those sound like very reasonable rates. I'm a Creative Director with almost 25 years of professional design experience...web2.0, mobile, print...and I think it's great you're going for it. It's also great there is a place like this where you can share with people that understand what you want. You dont want to let negative people get you down. It's not their fault, they can't always help it...it's not easy to watch someone go out and take risks and go for it...it's much easier to sit and judge.

Good luck!

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Richard Tunnah

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

Well I went around my town today writing down a lot of small business names, came home and Google each one, I was thinking of offering a service like, setting up a website, e-mail responder, getting them on the local directories for Google search if there not there, and maybe even doing a few web 2.0's if they wanted, for like 4k start up and $1,500 a month after that to keep there responder updated with sales or events. Anyways here is my tip to you, Don't talk to your family about doing something like this. Unless they already support you, because my family tells me no one will pay this, no small business will pay this crazy amount of money, but I believe they will, and im going to try it anyways! Don't let your family or anyone talk you out of your dreams. Well anyways thanks for listening I appreciate it!

Matt,
I think unfortunately this is a common problem! I too had this issue with my father who is old school (as we say in the uk) were you get your degrees and start working your way through a company for the next 40 odd years even if you hate it! However his attitude after seeing me be happier and do financially better off since working for myself has changed...although I've been doing it (working for myself) a long time now. He recently admitted he wishes he'd done something else particularly in later years (he was a success lawyer for 40 odd years but it came with huge time pressures for most of that!).
I'd advise to stick with it...believe in yourself...work hard and ultimately the results should follow. Then your family and friends will change their views! Oh and then they'll start to bother you to help them do what you do as well! Good luck.

Rich

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

They just don't understand because they have been doing a 9 - 5 job their entire lives. I want to prove to them that it can be done.

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chrisnegro 17 years ago

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

They just don't understand because they have been doing a 9 - 5 job their entire lives. I want to prove to them that it can be done.

Hey Satan can use well intentioned family members to put you on a trajectory of life that wasn't God's purpose. Word to wise....your family members are not GOD....and they are limited people. They have no problem to vision kill your dreams.

I've learned LONG AGO...people have no problem telling you how to live your life, what'you need to do...who you should marry, what you should where, how to spend your money, what type of job you should get. People are predictable sheep for the most part. I'm sure I'm predictable too (God I hope not but I'm limited too because I'm human).

I have a fear of letting people's (so called wisdom) dictate my destiny. However...there is wisdom out there...that you should take into consideration. You just need to discern for yourself the difference between mans foolish advice versus their wisdom.

Keep your chin up - reach for the stars and don't look back.

Success to you Matt,

Chris Negro
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- AndrewCavanagh 17 years ago
  
  If you're really serious you can use your motivation to physically talk to business owners which is the quickest way to get hired (while you wait for your letters to get delivered).
  
  I've helped a lot of people make money with this business model and I don't know of anyone who's done it consistently for 2 or 3 months...actually contacting business owners intelligently...doing some real work instead of just thinking about it...and hasn't made good money.
  
  But you do have to put in some effort and as was already mentioned your success is going to hinge on the skill you develop talking to business owners regardless of the lead generating method you use.
  
  The best way to develop that skill is to spend a lot of time talking to business owners...asking intelligent questions and listening to them.
  
  Kindest regards,
  Andrew Cavanagh
  
  P.S. As far as telling your family goes...if you talk to people who've been employees all their lives some will be positive for you, some will be negative. You shouldn't expect any different.
  
  If you talk to people who've been business owners they're whole lives most will tell you it can be done but they won't necessarily be positive about you doing it.
  
  They'll kind of wonder why you're telling them about it instead of just going out and DOING it.
  
  My advice would be...don't waste time talking to anyone who's not a potential prospect or can give you referrals to a potential prospect.
  
  If you're going to do this they're the only people who can help you.
  
  And if you think that you sucess will hinge on other people's opinion of what you're doing then you're not going to do very well.
  
  Just get on with it and take ACTION.
  
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Al Andrews

17 years ago

Keep the faith... The hardest part is taking that first step, once you do that and get your first client things will begin to fall into place.

Good luck
Al

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Matt Gannon 17 years ago

Originally Posted by Al Andrews

Keep the faith... The hardest part is taking that first step, once you do that and get your first client things will begin to fall into place.

Good luck
Al

That's what I am thinking, should be easy after the first client is landed.
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chrisnkay

17 years ago

I am currently in the process of doing something similar to you Matt!

Best of luck to you. If you want it bad enough, you can make anything happen for yourself.

Stay positive and just do it!

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billyboy

Banned 17 years ago

[DELETED]

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by billyboy

hmmm...that seems a bit steep to me...i mean you can do this for about 10% of that price. nothing wrong with profit (that's biz) but that seems a little too high to me... Hey maybe I am wrong. Tell me.

I hear about people charging 7k or more upfront,and like $1,500/mo after that, so I don't think 4k is bad, what does everyone else think?

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Irishman 17 years ago

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

I hear about people charging 7k or more upfront,and like $1,500/mo after that, so I don't think 4k is bad, what does everyone else think?

Matt,
I can only share my experience here, but it works very well for me. I have a FREE consultation that helps me understand what I would need to do for each client specifically.

In my opinion, you really have to understand what NEEDS to be done, and what CAN be done to make an offer of work. A cookie cutter approach will most often lead to a dissatisfied customer or a burnt reputation. What I mean is you will come across customers that need different approaches, customized to them in your offline offering. Setting proper expectations is where customer loyalty is made or broken.

What's more - you can charge more or less based on the value you know for sure you're able to create and bring with that very customized solution.

So to your price question - what work gets done for that price, and will that bring the business owner the success THEY expect?

Here's what I do...

In order to not lose your shirt in this game, my free consultation sells a "Current Site Analysis Report (if they have one)"
"A Competitive Intelligence Report"
"A Premium Keyword List"
"A customized Online Marketing Strategy - action plan"

I get it binded at Kinkos, and its very professional.

This is basically a custom prescription or work order for their business.
I sell this for $497. It's in a nutshell - a "market research" report if you will so I can speak intelligently to what they need and what I can deliver.

That way I've made money on the consult, I've not promised a customer I can deliver something I can't based on a market I've not explored, and I create a 90% or better upsell opportunity based on the credibility I've created/demonstrated.

At worse case, you've gained a contact, honed your presentation skills, and earned some starter money. At best case and most often, you've build your business, reputation, portfolio, confidence and opened to more referrals.

Yesterday, based on a $497 "investigation" report, I met with a business owner at a local Cosi shop and came away with check for $1497 for set up fees, and then a monthly continuity/marketing plan based on what I can do for his market.

I would not have known what I can and can't do for him had I not researched his market, and what value/price/work I should offer.

All that to say - the price you quote may work for one, and not for another. I've found it much better to leverage your skills in a customized strategy.

Hope some of that helps in moving forward.

Best,

Will

PS - in regards to your thoughts about family - I do think that's a specific one based on your reputation for being an opportunity junkie. I've found my wife to be my biggest fan and supporter who even invoices my clients.

I also know that there was a stage in my life when my sister said to me after requesting a meeting... "oh no, what are you into now?" Since then, my equity has grown with her, but I totally get what you're advising here.
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digigo 16 years ago

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

I hear about people charging 7k or more upfront,and like $1,500/mo after that, so I don't think 4k is bad, what does everyone else think?

it depends on what kind of business you are talking about... a lot of mom and pop businesses rely on foot traffic and word of mouth marketing.. their customers are not more than 5-10 miles radius any way.. you have a tough time selling the package to them..

But do give it a try and share the result with us...
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ppbiz 16 years ago

Matt, those fees are MORE than reasonable. What you are proposing is about my average price and most business owners don't even think twice.

The key is though, to target business owners with a decent turnover (think $5 mil plus). This is because they are small enough that they don't have someone in house- yet large enough that they have a marketing budget. Makes things A LOT easier!

Good luck, I think if you stick with it you'll see success.

Rhiannon

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

I hear about people charging 7k or more upfront,and like $1,500/mo after that, so I don't think 4k is bad, what does everyone else think?
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POTPOLITICS.COM

17 years ago

Sometimes your worse Haters are in your own house
Man I been there and my wife and kids still talk smack
but now they mostly have their hand out LOL

Also another problem I have is freezing up when it comes to saying a price and come out with some crazy LOW price and this cost me everytime

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k8spy8

17 years ago

That's a good idea to start with. Besides you cannot think of earning with out IM. Though offline will pay you but notmore than in IM. IMis the best way to earn money.

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Charles Washington

17 years ago

LOL. My family totally didnt support me. My wife pretty much thought I was nuts!

Anyway, there is an easier way to search out offline businesses in your area. Save your gas. I like to use google maps to find my local leads.

What I do is enter an industry in google with a city. Then, I have a whole list of businesses. And, I know whether they have a website or not. You can cal them on the phone on the spot if you wanted too.

ex. cafe Orlando,Fl or what ever. In the map that pops up, when you click a business - if it has a website it will be listed. If not, their phone number will be listed. Then, you can compare the listings in the Map to thew listings in your local phone book - and offer the businesses that are not on the Map a service to get them on the map for an extra $400-$600. 1st page of google right there

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Preben Frenning

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

Well I went around my town today writing down a lot of small business names, came home and Google each one, I was thinking of offering a service like, setting up a website, e-mail responder, getting them on the local directories for Google search if there not there, and maybe even doing a few web 2.0's if they wanted, for like 4k start up and $1,500 a month after that to keep there responder updated with sales or events. Anyways here is my tip to you, Don't talk to your family about doing something like this. Unless they already support you, because my family tells me no one will pay this, no small business will pay this crazy amount of money, but I believe they will, and im going to try it anyways! Don't let your family or anyone talk you out of your dreams. Well anyways thanks for listening I appreciate it!

My family knows, and are sceptical. Too bad for them I'm so stubborn

I have gotten a business partner, a website, a business name, etc. And I KNOW it will work. Why shouldn't it? After all, I made the plan myself

Believe in yourself, and think BIG. Great tip

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chrisnegro

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Preben Frenning

My family knows, and are sceptical. Too bad for them I'm so stubborn

Believe it or not...THERE IS A GOOD STUBBORNESS....the stubborness to succeed while others get the vision down the road.

Just know that people have predictable patterns. When things don't "bare witness" in their spirit or the predictable sheep don't want you to succeed because it never worked for them attitude --- just take it with a grain of salt.

My problem....is that these people have no idea that they are VISION KILLERS -- trying to destroy your dreams ....and everyone they come in contact with. If anything ...I have to hold back resentment in my heart and judge them for their lack of knowledge and awareness of what they are actually doing.

Prophetically....people have no idea what seeds they are planting everywhere they go in other people (when they are negative and have a vision killing spirit)....and the GENERALAL IMPACT OF THEIR WORDS. Because I see this....till this day I struggle with these type of personality types. In fact...I'll buy someone a $7 beer if they can PM the revelation I still need

(I'm serious too....lol... as I know I need to change in how I respond to these peronsality types).

Chris Negro

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Preben Frenning 17 years ago

@Irishman - That is some great tips! - I personally use the "Free analysis" myself. And that's not just a preselling analysis, it's a pretty deep, 6-8 page long analysis, focusing on most aspects of their website etc.

If you give value first, it's like planting a seed - And the pick the fruits from the tree. You'll need to give it plenty water though, meaning it's just a waste of time if you don't follow up. You'll usually need to call them to get anything back.

@M4UNow - Great tips! However, there are many good seller's tricks
to know when doing this.

For example when you try to get an appointment. NEVER ask them when
it's appropriate for them to have a meeting.

Instead, ask "Is Tuesday or Wednesday best for you?"
They will always say one of them And if they ARE interested before
you ask so, they might say another date that is even better for them.

- I wrote a blog post about selling offline here: The Easy Way To Offline Riches | The iMarketing Blog

@Domenick King and others - Check out Mason's blogpost here if you want an actionable, easy business plan:
Thai Food and eMail Marketing In The Offline World | MasonWorld Internet Marketing Strategy | Mark Mason | Internet Based Marketing Blog

It's really one of the easiest business models out there, and I bet
it works like a charm, as well as you get to eat out way more often

However, I have a few tweaks for this model:

1. If they are insecure about the service, offer them 1 month for free. Maybe
even 2.
2. Send them an attractive "offline opt-in form" with your watermark in
the mail. - This is for them so hand out to their customers along with
the bill.
3. Use hard selling if they are hard customers, as this WILL make them
more money, whether they like it or not.
4. After they're signed up for free, and have build a list of at least 10,
they CAN'T stop using your service, as they would be idiots for letting
10 potential customers away.

@Chris Endres - Lol...

@Leanne King - Great tips! You could also target companies who's already
spending money on adwords. They know the power of Google as well, but are
pretty often bidding on WAY too broad keywords!

@FlightGuy - You're right. If I had listened to my parents, I'd be working a "safe job"
on a gas station now, instead of building my own company at the age
of 19 =)

@Loren Woirhaye - Great tips! If you can get THEM to talk about something THEY like to talk about, and you listen, it does not only build credibility, it helps you find the best solution.

@chrisnegro - I know it's good
I could use another beer, so I'll think about this for a little while. Keep your wallet ready

A few other notes for this thread...

If you get your family to listen to you, and you manage to explain
why it works, and they understand - Then you are REALLY set for success,
as they are obviously the ones who's least likely to believe in this! :rolleyes:

And another thing, YOU are hanging around the warriorforum right now,
reading this, so you obviously haven't given up yet

To sum up a bit here, you should NOT act as a salesperson when selling this.
However, when SHOULD you act as a salesperson? Answer: NEVER! People
usually hate salespeople :p

Listen, plan, act - Or multi-task the last 2.

The best sellers are good listeners as well, and when you are selling your
own services, you can customize your services after their needs, and
give them exactly what they want. - For a good price of course.
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AndrewCavanagh

17 years ago

Originally Posted by chrisnegro

these people have no idea that they are VISION KILLERS -- trying to destroy your dreams ....and everyone they come in contact with. If anything ...I have to hold back resentment in my heart and judge them for their lack of knowledge and awareness of what they are actually doing.

You know as I get older and find that I'm really enjoying the laid back lifestyle I lead with a nice income and not too much work...

I find it difficult to see anyone as a vision killer.

In fact most of them kind of envy me when they find out how I live which I also find kind of funny.

I can remember years ago being so broke that every now and then I'd envy ANYONE who had a full time paying job and money to spend...and that feeling would last for about 3 seconds...

Then I'd remember how crappy it is working a full time job, how much I hated it and how I'd prefer to be struggling but walking my own path.

Some of these people are genuinely concerned for you, some are just ignorant.

Think about it.

How many people do they know who make an income of over $100,000 a year or over $1,000,000 a year.

I know quite a few but I can remember one guy who really helped me out many years ago simply by telling me how he was making over $100,000 a year working one or two days a week.

He was encouraging, told me exactly what he was doing.

And it didn't matter so much what he was doing...it's not the path I ended up going down anyway.

But the fact that he was doing it...someone I knew personally had the income and lifestyle I wanted at the time...I could see it was possible...a genuine reality.

Now I know many, many people like that....some work a whole lot harder than others...some make a WHOLE lot more money.

But these people whose opinions you're worried about have probably never personally known ANYONE like that.

Their view of life is based on working their arses off to make a living and often getting beat down in life.

Or doing enough to get by and having a reasonably peaceful...if somewhat downtrodden...life.

These aren't people you should be taking business advice from.

But they're not people you should be angry at either.

They have enough problems as it is.

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh

P.S. If you read that post closely you'll notice that I shared a big secret...get to know some people who have the kind of success and lifestyle you want personally.

A huge part of business success is simple belief that you can get the things you want...that it's really possible.

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FlightGuy

17 years ago

Originally Posted by AndrewCavanagh

You know as I get older and find that I'm really enjoying the laid back lifestyle I lead with a nice income and not too much work...

I find it difficult to see anyone as a vision killer.

In fact most of them kind of envy me when they find out how I live which I also find kind of funny.

I can remember years ago being so broke that every now and then I'd envy ANYONE who had a full time paying job and money to spend...and that feeling would last for about 3 seconds...

Then I'd remember how crappy it is working a full time job, how much I hated it and how I'd prefer to be struggling but walking my own path.

Some of these people are genuinely concerned for you, some are just ignorant.

Think about it.

How many people do they know who make an income of over $100,000 a year or over $1,000,000 a year.

I know quite a few but I can remember one guy who really helped me out many years ago simply by telling me how he was making over $100,000 a year working one or two days a week.

He was encouraging, told me exactly what he was doing.

And it didn't matter so much what he was doing...it's not the path I ended up going down anyway.

But the fact that he was doing it...someone I knew personally had the income and lifestyle I wanted at the time...I could see it was possible...a genuine reality.

Now I know many, many people like that....some work a whole lot harder than others...some make a WHOLE lot more money.

But these people whose opinions you're worried about have probably never personally known ANYONE like that.

Their view of life is based on working their arses off to make a living and often getting beat down in life.

Or doing enough to get by and having a reasonably peaceful...if somewhat downtrodden...life.

These aren't people you should be taking business advice from.

But they're not people you should be angry at either.

They have enough problems as it is.

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh

P.S. If you read that post closely you'll notice that I shared a big secret...get to know some people who have the kind of success and lifestyle you want personally.

A huge part of business success is simple belief that you can get the things you want...that it's really possible.

You are so damn spot on about this.

Surround yourself with positive and successful people. Soak it in, reap the rewards. I learned this the hard way too.

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deanfz

17 years ago

I don't talk to anybody about my online activities because most people, not just your family, recognises the power of the internet and how it can make you money. I once tried to talk about it to one of my friends and he was like: ,,Ohh yeah make millions overnight whatever man." I directly stopped talking about it and changed topic. Same thing with my family.

I will tell them about my online activities when I get one of those big checks (:

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jjbalagosa

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Matt Gannon

Well I went around my town today writing down a lot of small business names, came home and Google each one, I was thinking of offering a service like, setting up a website, e-mail responder, getting them on the local directories for Google search if there not there, and maybe even doing a few web 2.0's if they wanted, for like 4k start up and $1,500 a month after that to keep there responder updated with sales or events. Anyways here is my tip to you, Don't talk to your family about doing something like this. Unless they already support you, because my family tells me no one will pay this, no small business will pay this crazy amount of money, but I believe they will, and im going to try it anyways! Don't let your family or anyone talk you out of your dreams. Well anyways thanks for listening I appreciate it!

Ain't it sad that, more often than not, the one's closest to you are your biggest dream killers!? They say stuff like, "Nobody makes money doing that." or "You're just a dreamer." or my personal fav "Get a real job."

Then once you start becomming successful it's like, "I always believed in you." or "I wish I had done what you did in my younger days." or another personal fav "Can I borrow some money?" :p

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monitorit

17 years ago

same with me buts its harder as i have nothing to show as of yet but when i get the taste of money it will not stop me.

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Lightlysalted

17 years ago

all the best, I hope it works out for you and you are able to get some repeat business from these clients.

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Tyrus Antas

17 years ago

I still remember the days where I had to put off with my parents telling me everyday to stop playing around with the computer and just get a "regular job"...

What can I say about families? Sometimes they suck...

Tyrus

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JRG

17 years ago

I've heard all kinds of stuff about what I do. Not really from family but friends mostly. :-/ But I told my wife when we buy our first boat we'll name it "Told You So" lol

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Steve Peters Benn

17 years ago

Hi Matt,

Is it ok if I include a few quotes from you in my Warrior War Room offline series?

Cheers

Steve

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Irishman

Matt,
I can only share my experience here, but it works very well for me. I have a FREE consultation that helps me understand what I would need to do for each client specifically.

In my opinion, you really have to understand what NEEDS to be done, and what CAN be done to make an offer of work. A cookie cutter approach will most often lead to a dissatisfied customer or a burnt reputation. What I mean is you will come across customers that need different approaches, customized to them in your offline offering. Setting proper expectations is where customer loyalty is made or broken.

What's more - you can charge more or less based on the value you know for sure you're able to create and bring with that very customized solution.

So to your price question - what work gets done for that price, and will that bring the business owner the success THEY expect?

Here's what I do...

In order to not lose your shirt in this game, my free consultation sells a "Current Site Analysis Report (if they have one)"
"A Competitive Intelligence Report"
"A Premium Keyword List"
"A customized Online Marketing Strategy - action plan"

I get it binded at Kinkos, and its very professional.

This is basically a custom prescription or work order for their business.
I sell this for $497. It's in a nutshell - a "market research" report if you will so I can speak intelligently to what they need and what I can deliver.

That way I've made money on the consult, I've not promised a customer I can deliver something I can't based on a market I've not explored, and I create a 90% or better upsell opportunity based on the credibility I've created/demonstrated.

At worse case, you've gained a contact, honed your presentation skills, and earned some starter money. At best case and most often, you've build your business, reputation, portfolio, confidence and opened to more referrals.

Yesterday, based on a $497 "investigation" report, I met with a business owner at a local Cosi shop and came away with check for $1497 for set up fees, and then a monthly continuity/marketing plan based on what I can do for his market.

I would not have known what I can and can't do for him had I not researched his market, and what value/price/work I should offer.

All that to say - the price you quote may work for one, and not for another. I've found it much better to leverage your skills in a customized strategy.

Hope some of that helps in moving forward.

Best,

Will

PS - in regards to your thoughts about family - I do think that's a specific one based on your reputation for being an opportunity junkie. I've found my wife to be my biggest fan and supporter who even invoices my clients.

I also know that there was a stage in my life when my sister said to me after requesting a meeting... "oh no, what are you into now?" Since then, my equity has grown with her, but I totally get what you're advising here.

Thanks for the tips, that sounds a lot better then trying to go with one flat rate thanks for the tips it will help me greatly!

Originally Posted by Steve Peters Benn

Hi Matt,

Is it ok if I include a few quotes from you in my Warrior War Room offline series?

Cheers

Steve

Yes you may use anything you want from my post!

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traian29

17 years ago

I agree, never let anyone tell you that what you think will not work. Being happy means that you do what you want, not what others want. Failure means nothing, the experience of living matters.

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washoutinc 17 years ago

@ Irishman... those are killer tips and something I have never thought about. Thanks!

Also just another tips of lead gen... get involved in your Chamber of Commerce and other town meetings. That is an insane way to network and get to know the people that know the people.

You can start a word of mouth wild fire that way. I've done it locally with Realtors by going to their real estate investing meetings.

Cool deal though and go kick some butt and make some money!
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MichaelHiles

17 years ago

Many years ago, when I was still creating my first success story, I used to tell the family members who hit me with negative stuff to explain how they're such experts with their dead end jobs, barely scraping by mortgage payments, and fat credit card balances, where they pay interest on depreciating trinkets and trash to try to present some facade of wealth to the rest of the world that is quagmired in exactly in the same thought patterns.

Now, they don't say so much (unless they're asking for something).

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Domenick King

17 years ago

Best of luck brotha, I'm sure it will work out. I've been thinking about taking what I know to provide a service for offline businesses, I know the information we all have learned can benefit other businesses, some of them would be better off putting there money towards online advertising anyway.

Family members and friends are just ignorant to the whole internet marketing world, don't hold it against them, they don't know any better. They'll be asking to help you once you start landing those clients. Best of luck.

Peace, Prosperity and Internet Marketing

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zulu24

17 years ago

I hope you don't let those who don't believe stop you. I know it's possible - it just takes action. Like some others have said the first step is the most difficult. It sounds like you have a plan and I can't wait to hear how things are going.

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Chris Endres

17 years ago

Ok, Matt you need a balance where it comes to motivating outside influences. So,.. you have a bunch of non believers who are shooting holes in your belief in success,..

Well..

How's this...

If you give up on this before you have really talked to any business owners I am going to come find you and poke you in the eye!

See? Now there is balance! You may hear what those belief shooters have to say but you certainly don't want to get poked in the eye so now all is AWESOMESAUCE!

Live it large bro...

PeeCe Ah-ight!

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Chris Endres

Ok, Matt you need a balance where it comes to motivating outside influences. So,.. you have a bunch of non believers who are shooting holes in your belief in success,..

Well..

How's this...

If you give up on this before you have really talked to any business owners I am going to come find you and poke you in the eye!

See? Now there is balance! You may hear what those belief shooters have to say but you certainly don't want to get poked in the eye so now all is AWESOMESAUCE!

Live it large bro...

PeeCe Ah-ight!

Yes I definitely don't want to be poked in the eye

.

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Steve888

17 years ago

Matt,

Great tip and great post. Thanks! This comes at a perfect time for me : )

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Leanne King

17 years ago

@Matt when you are doing your research look at the businesses that already pay for white pages/yellow pages advertising and start with them. These guys are already proving they are happy to spend money on advertising for their business so your job is easier.

All the best

Leanne

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Leanne King

@Matt when you are doing your research look at the businesses that already pay for white pages/yellow pages advertising and start with them. These guys are already proving they are happy to spend money on advertising for their business so your job is easier.

All the best

Leanne

How can I find out if they are advertising in yellow pages/white pages, can I just go to yellow and white pages website to find out?

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FlightGuy

17 years ago

I'm late, again!

Matt,

It sounds like you have no problem with ignoring the naysayers. Man, if I listened to everyone who told me that I "couldn't do it" or "didn't have a chance," well... I wouldn't be here telling you any of this and I certainly wouldn't have most of the luxury's that exist in my life. One of them being my passion, which is being a pilot and being able to fly a number of planes to wherever the hell I want.

I think IrishMan made some great points in his post. I know you read it already, but do yourself a favor and go ahead and read it again, along with a couple others that you felt, "ah... thats a great point" with.

I see TOO MANY WSO's spelling out prices and price sheets for "students" to use. To be honest, each and every one of them is selling themselves short. Having a marketing plan is an absolute MUST and your prices need to fluctuate according to the value you're able to provide to each and every one of your clients. They will all be unique, and will deserve attention as such.

As Gina says, follow up is very important as well. Establish rapport and trust, and just as the others have said, make sure you form a good relationship. Be yourself, be sincere, be honest, and REALLY want to help each and every business owner you do business with.

I'd say good luck, but that's just so cliche and with all this support here on WF, you won't need luck.

Best to you,
John Dennis

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Matt Gannon 17 years ago

Thanks for all the tips, I will be making my plan of action and bringing my plan of action to use soon, I will keep everyone updated on my success or failures. If I have any questions I will ask you my fellow warriors whom I trust! I have never had so much support before it feels good! I will share what I learn and I will help people, when I know more... thanks again warriors much appreciated!
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eidoan

17 years ago

If you have trouble finding someone willing to pay, maybe try offering to do it for cost for a few months. Work hard and show them how much your efforts are benefiting them. Then ask for money when they get to the point that they wouldn't want to be without you. Then have them write letters of recommendation or testimonials you can show to potential customers after that.

Remember to put yourself in their place. If they're going to be paying you $1,500/month or whatever it is, they'll want to see well more than that in profits for their business from your efforts. Make sure most of the stuff you do has trackable results.

Consider asking for compensation based on how much extra business you generate for them. That way you'll have basically limitless earning potential and they'll be much less likely to drop you after slow months.

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robingbg

17 years ago

lol Thanks

I personally was able to go to my family and share my ideas with them, however, I believe they thought I was going to fail and it was just going to be one of those life lessons.

Man were they surprised when I started pulling in 3k a month from a membership site xD

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PrettyJenny

17 years ago

I love this thread! I'm planning to do something exactly the same! I haven't told my parents that I'm thinking of quiting my job to do this yet. Because they are REALLY old-fashioned and traditional thinking. Hey however how do you make yourself look like an expert? I have experience doing SEO and Web 2.0 marketing... but as you know IM is freelancing. So how do you convince the local businesses? Thanks a lot, please keep this thread alive!

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ShellySamuel

17 years ago

I just started my offline marketing, and i got lot of attentions from offline businesses, because everytime i go into their businesses, i never act as a sales person, i usually engage them in conversation on what i can provide that will help their business, i give them examples. At first i try to understand what they want i.e the result they want for their businesses, this way i offer them something free, like free website, if they take up my marketing services: like email marketing, youtube marketing etc and tell them how other competitors are using to get more customers than them. One advice i will give is to start with one niche and examine what marketing will be good for that niche, that way you provide a bespoke solution to them.

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RickV

17 years ago

I was thinking of offering a service like, setting up a website, e-mail responder, getting them on the local directories for Google search if there not there, and maybe even doing a few web 2.0's if they wanted, for like 4k start up and $1,500 a month after that to keep there responder updated with sales or events.

"What's in it for me (for that price)?!"

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Matt Gannon 17 years ago

Originally Posted by RickV

"What's in it for me (for that price)?!"

More business and repeat customers. :p front page in Google, website, ill run the auto responder, do back linking for them on a constant basis to keep them in the top spot, anyways i am not going with hat price now, as others said each will be unique and may want more or less services, i will charge them based on how much work I will have to do, and make some kind of deal with them, but make sure they don't try to talk me down to low for what I am doing for them...
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- MarketingHuddle 17 years ago
  
  Matt
  Offline is where it's at. I'm finishing my MBA in marketing and launched a Marketing Coaching firm specializing in small businesses and because of David Preston, I called my local SBDC to see if I could speak at a meeting of theirs....the Director ended up emailing me asking if I'd help them as a contract Marketing Consultant 2 mornings a month! the money is not huge....but it's an amazing resume builder and I see from the FRONT lines all the pain SBO have! (plus it's enough to pay for my Daughter's braces!)
  
  Anyway plug in to everything Maria Gudelis has to offer, she's got it together!
  
  Good luck!
  
  Thanks
  
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- Robert_Rand 17 years ago
  
  Back when I was 19 and about to get into Direct Sales my Dad was extremely negative... But in the end proving him wrong drove me to much greater success than I probably would have achieved otherwise.
  
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Popstar

17 years ago

I know everyone has their own way of approaching this.

But Matt, I strongly urge you NOT to follow the freebie method of sales. Otherwise, you'll waste all your time working for nothing.

There wasn't anything wrong with the original prices you quoted. Yes, it's probably best to customize according to what the customer wants. But honestly, most offline business owners don't really know what they want, so you can guide them however you think best.

But you need to be confident when you quote prices... as though you expect to get those numbers... and you will.

I believe too many people start caving on price the minute a business owner hesitates to pay.

Also, not every prospect will turn into a customer. Sometimes, you just have to walk away if the business owner is too cheap.

There are so many businesses out there that there's no need to undercut yourself. With this business model, you're trading time for money, so make it worth your while. Your prices shouldn't be based on your cost, they should be based on what the market will pay.

There are a lot of web design companies out there that are charging thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, for 5 to 7 page sites with no SEO and lousy sales design. Play up the benefits you have to offer.

As for your family, I'm sure they mean well but they clearly don't understand business. Ignore their misguided opinions.

Believe in yourself, believe in your prices. Don't justify your prices or act apologetic. Act as though that's what you routinely charge... and receive... and you'll get it.

If they ask to see other companies' sites, tell them you keep all customer information confidential. But you can show them a sample site, if necessary (if you have one).

Allow yourself some time to learn and gain confidence. So if there's a company you really want to work with, practice on another company first.

This is mostly about having self-confidence and approaching businesses that have enough money to pay you.

Good luck,
Debbie

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by Popstar

I know everyone has their own way of approaching this.

But Matt, I strongly urge you NOT to follow the freebie method of sales. Otherwise, you'll waste all your time working for nothing.

There wasn't anything wrong with the original prices you quoted. Yes, it's probably best to customize according to what the customer wants. But honestly, most offline business owners don't really know what they want, so you can guide them however you think best.

But you need to be confident when you quote prices... as though you expect to get those numbers... and you will.

I believe too many people start caving on price the minute a business owner hesitates to pay.

Also, not every prospect will turn into a customer. Sometimes, you just have to walk away if the business owner is too cheap.

There are so many businesses out there that there's no need to undercut yourself. With this business model, you're trading time for money, so make it worth your while. Your prices shouldn't be based on your cost, they should be based on what the market will pay.

There are a lot of web design companies out there that are charging thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, for 5 to 7 page sites with no SEO and lousy sales design. Play up the benefits you have to offer.

As for your family, I'm sure they mean well but they clearly don't understand business. Ignore their misguided opinions.

Believe in yourself, believe in your prices. Don't justify your prices or act apologetic. Act as though that's what you routinely charge... and receive... and you'll get it.

If they ask to see other companies' sites, tell them you keep all customer information confidential. But you can show them a sample site, if necessary (if you have one).

Allow yourself some time to learn and gain confidence. So if there's a company you really want to work with, practice on another company first.

This is mostly about having self-confidence and approaching businesses that have enough money to pay you.

Good luck,
Debbie

Yes if i get good I can probably guide a business owner into buying whatever I say would help them out, of course id make sure it would help them out. I wont overprice but I will charge what I think is fair for me, the time i have to work on the project. I plan on trying to get them to buy some kind of service that I keep working on so I get paid every month. Thanks for the tips too they all help a lot!

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clashctyrokr

17 years ago

Just hope they don't know anything about the internet...because that's incredibly overpriced.

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Popstar

17 years ago

The 4K upfront isn't.

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John Durham

17 years ago

My ex wife complained everynight that I was not getting to bed early...told me I was pipe dreaming and that my internet related telemarketing business wasn't gonna work... said I was "all talk"...blah, blah. blah... we finally split up (this was back around 2001...)...6 months later I had made like 300k, had a new car, a beautiful blond bombshell on my arm... and she was blowin my phone up begging me to come back home!

Stupidly I did...and we ended up divorcing anyway, bummer is that the blond really loved me. I just should have stayed with her, but she's married now.

Point is, don't let anybody tell you you're just a dreamer. amazing things "CAN" happen if you stay passionate.

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by kadensnga

My ex wife complained everynight that I was not getting to bed early...told me I was pipe dreaming and that my internet related telemarketing business wasn't gonna work... said I was "all talk"...blah, blah. blah... we finally split up (this was back around 2001...)...6 months later I had made like 300k, had a new car, a beautiful blond bombshell on my arm... and she was blowin my phone up begging me to come back home!

Stupidly I did...and we ended up divorcing anyway, bummer is that the blond really loved me. I just should have stayed with her, but she's married now.

Point is, don't let anybody tell you you're just a dreamer. amazing things "CAN" happen if you stay passionate.

Yes, I will never give up my dreams, it's too bad about that blond bombshell, I also agree with not letting business owners try talking you into some low price, I think a little saying comes to mind. "You get what you pay for!"

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AndrewCavanagh

17 years ago

Originally Posted by kadensnga

My ex wife complained everynight that I was not getting to bed early...told me I was pipe dreaming and that my internet related telemarketing business wasn't gonna work... said I was "all talk"...blah, blah. blah... we finally split up (this was back around 2001...)...6 months later I had made like 300k, had a new car, a beautiful blond bombshell on my arm... and she was blowin my phone up begging me to come back home!

Stupidly I did...and we ended up divorcing anyway, bummer is that the blond really loved me. I just should have stayed with her, but she's married now.

Point is, don't let anybody tell you you're just a dreamer. amazing things "CAN" happen if you stay passionate.

I think the REAL moral of the story is if you're an internet marketer you should ALWAYS stay with the beautiful blonde bombshell...it's good for those 'this is my lifestyle' type photos in your sales letters.

I thought that was a given...but apparently not!

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh

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elle56

17 years ago

My family couldn't grasp what I am doing online. They keep reminding me that I might get myself scammed in the future for transacting business on the internet. If I listen to them, I would have forgone opportunities that wasn't available to me offline. The bottomline is to listen to yourself and believe that you can do it no matter how others think that you're crazy doing IM. They'll shut up when they see your bank account.

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MNicholas

17 years ago

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Mark McClure

17 years ago

Originally Posted by MNicholas

Well... if you don't mind going face to face setting up appointments with people
who don't really understand the online world and need to be convinced and you
have the time and energy to handle all their objections (and they will have them)
then give it a shot. When I was doing local web master jobs it was all like going
against a strong current in the wrong direction.

That can be true!
The 'easiest' client to 'hook' often understands a lot of the marketing ideas but doesn't have the time or patience to implement them properly. They're prepared to spend money on someone who can.

However, they can have very high expectations - so it's important to be clear what you can do for them from the start (after you've better understood their marketplace and what they're doing right/wrong.)
Under promise, over deliver...

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altos 17 years ago

Matt,

Hang tough! I am walking the same road as you right now in the offline world and my wife is not a big believer but she will come around!!!! I have faith!!
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Preben Frenning

17 years ago

@Popstar - You're right. You WILL NOT be able to get paid this good if
you don't personally believe it's worth it.

You will need to seem confident all the time, the price shouldn't be
your selling point.

Don't sell yourself based on price, sell your services based on
the customers desire to get a performing website and more customers.

If you manage to do so, and make them realize that "This IS the price", they
will be willing to pay it too.

If you don't believe it's a fair price to pay, then they definately won't.
So that is something you might want to work on first, if needed.

Now if you have a hard time getting started with this, I would say try
out the free analysis method.

There are many different ways to do it, and some of them don't work at all,
but if you find a good way, it will be fun and profitable.
- It's easier to approach someone when you are going to give them something
for free anyways. And people might even approach you to get it.
Just remember to be a master at follow-up, or I can guarantee it won't
work. - They're not going to throw their money after you if you don't ask.

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bigdollarsnow

17 years ago

Matt,

Good for you, go for it, Matt. I am 58 years old I have an offline consulting business. Just have faith in God and keep you head up.

As far as the price, ask for the $4k and negotiate. It worked for me. One client paid me $6600 when I asked for $7600. I had already place negotiating room into the contract. And please get a contract. Your actions says you are doing it right nor

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Matt Gannon

17 years ago

Originally Posted by bigdollarsnow

Matt,

Good for you, go for it, Matt. I am 58 years old I have an offline consulting business. Just have faith in God and keep you head up.

As far as the price, ask for the $4k and negotiate. It worked for me. One client paid me $6600 when I asked for $7600. I had already place negotiating room into the contract. And please get a contract. Your actions says you are doing it right nor

That's a good idea to leave some negotiating room in the contract, I have never written a contract before, any tips on doing that?

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Preben Frenning

17 years ago

Back when I was 17 (I'm 19 now :p), I started with direct, commission-based sales, and I have loved it ever since - Except I'm selling my own services now.

I really believe direct selling have made me strong, and have had a major impact in my life, as for personal development, social life etc.

Direct sales are hard, but if you never give it up, it will be worth it in the end.

Proving negative people wrong never goes out of fashion! I can't wait for my business to get launched! (Just 1-2 weeks left now...)

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Preben Frenning

17 years ago

If you are persistent and stubborn enough, so-called "vision killers" don't exist.

Anyways, great tips andrew. You are definately right about successboost by hanging out with other successful people. I'll be that motivator for other people in a few months

P.S. I'm going to purchase your wso when I get the time to read and implement it all

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oleskool

17 years ago

Stick to your guns and develop your dream.

I heard on a show Wayne Dyer was on say "The only regrets I have are about the things I didn't do." Live your life with no regrets.

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joshril

17 years ago

Any updates? Hope you've got some solid deals working!

I started in the insurance business when I was 18 years old... My parents and almost everyone else I knew thought it was insane. I ended up earning almost 6 figures my first year, and I was only working about 2 days per week. Felt pretty good... All of the people saying is was a bad idea and I should get a steady job were making much less than I was and working a lot harder at it. Put your mind to anything and follow it up with action... you'll be unstoppable!

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Preben Frenning

17 years ago

Yeah, beautiful, blonde bombshells converts MUCH better than a "standard wife" in salesletters. Especially in the newbie market!

Lol, I guess I'm not the only one who stays up late to work and hang around the WF.
I'm hoping for a launch of my offline biz this week, so we'll see how it goes. Hopefully, my late nights will pay off, and I will be able to live that kind of lifestyle.

I wouldn't say it's completely necessary though,if getting a beautiful blonde was my main goal

Anyways, I hope people have success with this, please keep me posted!

- Prebz

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RentItNow

17 years ago

I thought of doing this as well. The problem I see is I think very few local bizes would spend that kind of cash off the bat. I would use some kind of funnel. A $100 service, or even free to begin with. I could probably sign up stores all day long with that deal. BUT, as I am learning, you may only attract opportunistic customers and BURN through too much cash and more importantly time before getting to core customers. I'm still working on the model myself. Let me know how you do.

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Sheila

17 years ago

How much a business will pay depends a lot on how much additional business they will be getting from having a website that actually generates leads for them, and providing them with a follow-up autoresponder system to stay in contact with their clients/customers/patients. You can't control their product, their pricing, or their offer, but you can get an idea of what their current conversions are and price yourself accordingly.

Look at the numbers. By having a good idea of the traffic they'll be getting, the lifetime value of each of their customers, and their current conversion rate - you'll have a good idea of how much you'll be increasing their overall profits - if you come up with an amount under $4K, then you're charging too much - but, in most cases, I don't think charging $4K will be an issue, once you show them the value you're giving them. It's all about the value.

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Victor Edson

16 years ago

Matt,

I've had my fair share of sales jobs, and I'd just like to say it's extremely possible, and it may take 1 or it may take 100, but you'll hear a yes and more after that.

A good tip for selling to businesses is to get involved in your local small business organizations, and get yourself known locally.

Also go to as many Home Shows, and gadget conventions as you can and see which companies are already out there spending money on advertising, and talk to them. A lot of times you'll find small business owners right there in their own booth selling their services.

And if you're talking to an employee, treat them the same, ask them the same questions, and if they think the owner would be interested, offer them a commission if they can help you get a deal. For $50 or $100, you might have just closed the deal without even selling it.

When I was about 15 or 16 years old my sister in law came over and showed me something she almost couldn't believe was so cool, a business card! Yes a business card that was so catchy that she was showing everyone she knew. Think of the extra exposure Bill Sanders Carpentry was getting by having his business card on a piece of red transparent plastic. All she wanted to know was, have you ever seen anything like that? And she probably only asked 50 people.

The last person I talked to about working online who wasn't a close friend or family member was a small business owner who spent 4,000 euro to someone to set up a website, and get them ranked for a keyword. He and his wife were excited about being ranked for the keyword, but they weren't really getting the traffic they wanted.

And they would have happily kept that same guy on the books every month to build their website into a more profitable part of their business. He left money on the money, and didn't get any referrals from a happy customer, don't be that guy!

Even if the muffler shop, cookie company and flower shop weren't interested today, doesn't mean the travel agency, tomb stone maker, and bath renovators tomorrow won't.

A lot of businesses are starting to look at the internet as the new window shop, and if they aren't already online they know they should be, and they're feeling left behind. Someone needs to help these small businesses brand themselves to the new generation of internet buyers who go on google and find the services they need, and then buy. Too much money is being left on the table.

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sandy

16 years ago

Matt,
You are absolutely right not to tell your family about your plans. It is important to surround yourself with positive support and energy. Until you can show them that you are moving in the right direction their attitude will drag you down.

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brucemcc

16 years ago

Matt, For a minute there I thought you were writing my story for me! I am heading in the exact same direction as you. I have 3 clients that I did websites for. Charged about $500 each. I am also hosting their sites for $39.00 per month. Recently however I found a dentist in my area, put together a custom video just for him showing him what is wrong with his current site and online marketing. Showed him what I could do for him. I signed him at $500 per month without any problem. I am currently working on trying some direct mail postcard marketing to see what that does. My biggest problem is working the full time job doesn't give me anytime to go out and meet one on one with business owners. Not sure how to get enough biz going to make the leap to working for myself fulltime. It is coming though. I can't wait!

BruceMcc

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goliathseo

16 years ago

I have had success marketing to small businesses in my small town though the rates are not quite as large as $4k as most of these businesses are fighting to stay open with the current state of the economy. I offer them a wordpress site set up with the graphics they want and any plugins for around $300 and then a one month deal on seo for $300 extra.

I feel as though I get a better response by making the face to face contact as opposed to sending out letters. Just my two cents.

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