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I'm unemployed. I have the time now... Need advice

by altitudemarketer
102 replies
I am now unemployed... but really don't want to be employed. Eventually, I plan on building up an online business, and I found the niches that I am passionate about and will succeed at... but that will take time, and I will be out of money in 2 months... so I think the best choice for me is to sell services online and offline... that should be better than some part time or minimum wage job... right?

I really hate cold calling and tried it for a couple of days to find website customers... and I just don't seem to have the stomach for it, nor can I do the hard sale. I know how to build wordpress sites and know I could help business with setting up websites, mobile sites, email campaigns, setting up their social media accounts... and most importantly, I can consult and explain marketing in user friendly terms. I also was able to find a decent helper for website work on odesk.

The big problem for me is... how to I find clients offline and (and online as well) without cold calling, and with a small budget of $200.

If you all can help me with this, it would probably be life changing for me... I really don't want to go find another job I hate... and in this current job climate, I think employers will see right through me.

I don't mind calling leads that I've emailed or that have responded to ads... I'm very good with people one on one and did customer support in the past... I just clam up and can't be myself, or deal with the rejection of mass cold calling or in many cases cold visits to businesses... plus, I don't have the money to pay for gas to drive all over town just to prospect... I could make visits if I had made some sort of contact by phone or email and had a chance to earn some money...

I read a suggestion on this forum and in a WSO to create videos and then email businesses with bad websites or no mobile site... that sounds like something I could do... but I was wondering if anyone had any real success with that tactic, given that many businesses are getting hammered with emails and calls from marketers. My local population is around 400k people.

Thanks,
Mark
#advice #cold calling #offline #time #unemployed #wordpress
  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    Oh.

    Damn. I might as well close down my business because people who don't know how to call are saying it doesn't work. So should the small, medium and large business who make money through sales calls.

    Well I spent thousands on facebook ads and it didn't work. I lost my money. So facebook ads don't work.

    Postcards haven't worked for me either. So I guess direct mail is out too.

    Or maybe *I* didn't work. My approach, my knowledge and my execution didn't work.

    @the OP: How much research on calling methods did you do? Why do you feel you have to do some kind of "hard sell"?

    Anyway why not just post ads and talk to those who respond? If you post an ad, how many people respond in the following week?
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    • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
      Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

      Oh.

      Damn. I might as well close down my business because people who don't know how to call are saying it doesn't work. So should the small, medium and large business who make money through sales calls.

      Well I spent thousands on facebook ads and it didn't work. I lost my money. So facebook ads don't work.

      Postcards haven't worked for me either. So I guess direct mail is out too.

      Or maybe *I* didn't work. My approach, my knowledge and my execution didn't work.

      @the OP: How much research on calling methods did you do? Why do you feel you have to do some kind of "hard sell"?

      Anyway why not just post ads and talk to those who respond? If you post an ad, how many people respond in the following week?

      If you saw my post, I compared "cold-calling" to a bow&Arrow

      ... YES, it does still work..... but not as effectively.

      As time progresses, tactics MUST change.

      How Successful do you think I'd be if I placed an AD for my website on the back of a Milk carton?

      Do you think the Traffic would Flood in?

      I don't.

      There was once a time where that was THE BEST way to promote
      ( missing children, logos )

      But that time is looooong gone.

      Everything is going Digital now.

      "Cold Calling" is annoying and Intrusive.

      The only thing you can EXPECT when cold-calling is to hear the "Dial-tone" quite often.... and maybe a few Expletives here and there.

      We are in the digital age...

      So newspaper ads, milk-carton promotions, direct mail...... they MAY work a little... but not enough to justify repetition

      (Unless you are a fortune 500 company)
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      • Profile picture of the author digichik
        Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

        If you saw my post, I compared "cold-calling" to a bow&Arrow

        ... YES, it does still work..... but not as effectively.

        As time progresses, tactics MUST change.

        How Successful do you think I'd be if I placed an AD for my website on the back of a Milk carton?

        Do you think the Traffic would Flood in?

        I don't.

        There was once a time where that was THE BEST way to promote
        ( missing children, logos )

        But that time is looooong gone.

        Everything is going Digital now.

        "Cold Calling" is annoying and Intrusive.

        The only thing you can EXPECT when cold-calling is to hear the "Dial-tone" quite often.... and maybe a few Expletives here and there.

        We are in the digital age...

        So newspaper ads, milk-carton promotions, direct mail...... they MAY work a little... but not enough to justify repetition

        (Unless you are a fortune 500 company)
        I guess you've never heard the saying--"The more things change, the more they stay the same."

        Yep, we are in the digital age, in case you haven't notice phone calls are transmitted digitally, no longer analog.:rolleyes:

        For someone who has little or no marketing budget, the quickest most effective way for them to make some fast cash is to pick up the phone and call businesses to offer their services, either get an appointment or close the sale on the phone. After they have made some money they can then begin to employ other marketing methods, that cost more money the implement.

        It will take a mixture of marketing tactics to make any business successful -
        Cold calling by phone
        Email marketing
        Direct Mail
        Walk-in cold calling
        PPC
        Print ads
        Solo ads
        Radio ads
        Seminars
        And so on....

        All of these methods are extremely effective when used correctly, and it doesn't matter what "age" were in. A person with real marketing experience knows this.

        The key is knowing how to uses the various methods effectively, to get paid.$$$
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      • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
        Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

        If you saw my post, I compared "cold-calling" to a bow&Arrow

        ... YES, it does still work..... but not as effectively.

        As time progresses, tactics MUST change.

        How Successful do you think I'd be if I placed an AD for my website on the back of a Milk carton?

        Do you think the Traffic would Flood in?

        I don't.

        There was once a time where that was THE BEST way to promote
        ( missing children, logos )

        But that time is looooong gone.

        Everything is going Digital now.

        "Cold Calling" is annoying and Intrusive.

        The only thing you can EXPECT when cold-calling is to hear the "Dial-tone" quite often.... and maybe a few Expletives here and there.

        We are in the digital age...

        So newspaper ads, milk-carton promotions, direct mail...... they MAY work a little... but not enough to justify repetition

        (Unless you are a fortune 500 company)
        Well, I'd say you don't know much about calling. You might know a lot about those other methods. It does not have to be "intrusive and annoying."

        Hiding behind a computer is not going to make you well off. You have to talk to people eventually.
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        >> Kindle books on Sales by Jason Kanigan
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        • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
          Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

          Well, I'd say you don't know much about calling. You might know a lot about those other methods. It does not have to be "intrusive and annoying."

          Hiding behind a computer is not going to make you well off. You have to talk to people eventually.
          Calling someone who doesn't know you, and who didn't give you their telephone #, and trying to sell them something ... that isn't intrusive??

          So If I buy email contacts, Send unsolicited emails trying to sell something to people who did not opt-in my list... is that NOT spamming?

          Its the same difference.

          But "Cold Calling" is a 9-5 JOB....

          and it defeats the purpose of Internet marketing.

          Internet Marketing is about using the Internet as a means to make sales... not the phone.

          But "Cold-calling" is a useful tactic... when you are on the Clock.

          But the money you generate from it will DEFINITELY be offset by the hard hours you put in to earn it.

          And I agree that you can't hide behind the computer, but that is what a Social Life is for
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

      Oh.

      Damn. I might as well close down my business because people who don't know how to call are saying it doesn't work. So should the small, medium and large business who make money through sales calls.

      Well I spent thousands on facebook ads and it didn't work. I lost my money. So facebook ads don't work.

      Or maybe *I* didn't work. My approach, my knowledge and my execution didn't work.

      @the OP: How much research on calling methods did you do? Why do you feel you have to do some kind of "hard sell"?

      Anyway why not just post ads and talk to those who respond? If you post an ad, how many people respond in the following week?
      Hi Jason,

      I actually purchased your Sales on fire WSO, and it did help... at least in my approach. Before I read your approach, I felt pretty silly... but then I made some calls and didn't really get anyone upset at me, and felt like I was at least offering some helpful info. However, the folks I called just were not interest in spending money on a website... they made that clear on the phone and by email... they mentioned maybe looking into next year or at the end of the year... so I saw some potential... but no sales... and I was burned out of making cold calls pretty quickly.

      Unfortunately, with my introverted personality... I've always struggled with rejection, and take it too personally, even though I know it isn't personal. I actually get sick to my stomach after making cold calls. I once did telemarketing to try and build an MLM business... I actually recruited a few folks... But... the big difference, was that we generated leads with an autodialer system, and had people calling us or emailing us... so the call backs were to warm leads... that seemed to make all the difference in the world to me.

      To me, when I cold call I feel and sound desperate... and honestly... I am. I can't hide that from potential customers... Despite reading those books on influence, I am just not a salesman and am not persuasive. I sold cars for 6 months... and when I started, we only had so many salesman, so there were plenty of customers... I actually made decent money. I just had to be friendly, show some cars, show that I actually cared about them and there purchase... and they bought a car... but customers were coming to me... I hated follow up and networking and hunting people down... so I didn't do that stuff... but when they hired a dozen more salesman, and changed the pay plan to minis and no one quit... there weren't enough customers to go around, and I got into desperate mode... and it all went down hill. I quit because my paycheck went down to minimum wage for 2 months, and I felt I could do better selling garage sale stuff on ebay...

      Anyway, sorry for my negative sounding story... I can only sell when I believe in what I am selling and people are interested... I often have been sold by my customers, when what I am selling is overpriced or of average quality... because I agree with them... and I refuse to deceive people to get a paycheck.

      I can sell stuff I like all day on ebay... and I've done well with that. I can write so much better than I can talk. If we were on the phone right now, I wouldn't be able to open up, and I wouldn't have been able to says half of this stuff.

      Thanks for your input,
      Mark
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  • Profile picture of the author digichik
    Since you don't want to cold call by phone and your marketing budget is small, the first thing I would suggest you do is make a list of everyone you know. Get the word out to these people and let them know you are starting your own web design and marketing firm and ask them for referrals, and keep asking and asking.

    Classified Ads--I would place an ad on Craigslist and Backpage, etc., you may not get much from there, but it's good to cover your bases. Write five completely different ads so that you can post at least on ad each day, rotating them.

    Snail Mail & Email -- Since you don't have much money you are going to have to invest a whole lot of time. Get online and find at least 100 business in your area who need a website re-design. Write them a short sales letter about how having an out dated website is causing the to lose business to their local competition and you offer a solution to the problem. Snail mail is effective, but it costs money -- postage, stationery and envelopes(you want decent quality). Email is free, but cost you time and you have to send lots of them. Make sure the letter or email is personalized to the business owner(or decision maker). You'll get a better response by doing this.

    You problem is, any method you use is going to entail follow-up by telephone. If you wait for the business owner to call you after receiving your letter or email, you'll starve to death. You have to be proactive to prosper at this. Sure you'll get sales, but you'll make a whole lot more money if you learn how to use the phone as the money making instrument it is.

    I am a fan of using the phone, because when you don't have much money to market your business, it is the fastest, cheapest, most effective way to get money in your pocket immediately.

    Please note, I am a shy introvert. I'd just rather make lots of money by talking to strangers on the phone, than continue to be broke and shy, by not using the phone to make money.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by digichik View Post

      Since you don't want to cold call by phone and your marketing budget is small, the first thing I would suggest you do is make a list of everyone you know. Get the word out to these people and let them know you are starting your own web design and marketing firm and ask them for referrals, and keep asking and asking.

      Classified Ads--I would place an ad on Craigslist and Backpage, etc., you may not get much from there, but it's good to cover your bases. Write five completely different ads so that you can post at least on ad each day, rotating them.

      Snail Mail & Email -- Since you don't have much money you are going to have to invest a whole lot of time. Get online and find at least 100 business in your area who need a website re-design. Write them a short sales letter about how having an out dated website is causing the to lose business to their local competition and you offer a solution to the problem. Snail mail is effective, but it costs money -- postage, stationery and envelopes(you want decent quality). Email is free, but cost you time and you have to send lots of them. Make sure the letter or email is personalized to the business owner(or decision maker). You'll get a better response by doing this.

      You problem is, any method you use is going to entail follow-up by telephone. If you wait for the business owner to call you after receiving your letter or email, you'll starve to death. You have to be proactive to prosper at this. Sure you'll get sales, but you'll make a whole lot more money if you learn how to use the phone as the money making instrument it is.

      I am a fan of using the phone, because when you don't have much money to market your business, it is the fastest, cheapest, most effective way to get money in your pocket immediately.

      Please note, I am a shy introvert. I'd just rather make lots of money by talking to strangers on the phone, than continue to be broke and shy, by not using the phone to make money.
      I've been meaning to try Craigslist... but my market seems so small... I take it you mean nationally... I probably should find someone on odesk to run the ads for me as people have recommended.

      Asking friends is one thing... but I'm new in town and don't have that many local connections. So the word hasn't gotten out too much... Two of my local friends are much more experienced web designers and they have hit the local market and my circle of influence pretty hard already. They are young too, and people seem to want to help them more than a washed up old guy like me.

      I did email several hundred businesses (got the leads from Mobile Renegade) with a personalized bulk mail for their category of business... but I see the merit now in sending individual emails with even more personalization. I only got a few responses, but I bet a more individual email would get better response. I have the time, so I'm willing to do that.

      I think if I make contact by email first, I might be able to make better calls and not sound so desperate... at least that's what I hope.

      Thanks,
      Mark
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      • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
        Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

        I've been meaning to try Craigslist... but my market seems so small... I take it you mean nationally... I probably should find someone on odesk to run the ads for me as people have recommended.

        Asking friends is one thing... but I'm new in town and don't have that many local connections. So the word hasn't gotten out too much... Two of my local friends are much more experienced web designers and they have hit the local market and my circle of influence pretty hard already. They are young too, and people seem to want to help them more than a washed up old guy like me.

        I did email several hundred businesses (got the leads from Mobile Renegade) with a personalized bulk mail for their category of business... but I see the merit now in sending individual emails with even more personalization. I only got a few responses, but I bet a more individual email would get better response. I have the time, so I'm willing to do that.

        I think if I make contact by email first, I might be able to make better calls and not sound so desperate... at least that's what I hope.

        Thanks,
        Mark
        Mark, I get the feeling you didn't really listen to my material.

        Why are you desperate? Because you're focusing on the sale.

        Are you supposed to be doing that? No. You're supposed to be qualifying.

        You bought a $7 intro course called Under The Gun, not Sales On Fire.
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        • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
          Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

          Mark, I get the feeling you didn't really listen to my material.

          Why are you desperate? Because you're focusing on the sale.

          Are you supposed to be doing that? No. You're supposed to be qualifying.

          You bought a $7 intro course called Under The Gun, not Sales On Fire.
          Thank you Jason...

          So for those of us that are just naturally timid and have to force ourselves to make calls... how to we NOT sound desperate.

          I probably don't understand enough about qualifying... but in doing a bunch of quick qualifying calls, I could see how that was certainly better than "pitching" ... no way I would have done that.

          Even qualifying calls are tough though when people are naturally defensive about calls from strangers. I certainly am. I'm so sick of cold/blind sales calls myself. If someone doesn't give me their name and what business there with, I cut the call short pretty quickly. I know a lot of people who feel the same way I do... maybe it's just our generation. I'm a gen-x.

          Appreciate your help,
          Mark
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          • Profile picture of the author lareynolds
            Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

            So for those of us that are just naturally timid and have to force ourselves to make calls... how to we NOT sound desperate.
            How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.

            There isn't a magical solution to make cold calling easy or less intimidating, other than just doing it more often. And it's not just you -- I think everyone has to '"force" themselves to make calls at some point. Sales calls are like any skill set -- learning good strategies and techniques will help you make progress faster, but to get more comfortable you have to suck it up and just do it. Pick up the phone, dial, have your conversation. Then do it again. The more you do it, the easier it will get (even if you are an introvert).

            While you're working on your calling skills though, try the suggestion of networking and getting referrals from people you know. Or sign up for job boards like Guru.com or Elance as a service provider and submit proposals that way.

            Keep your chin up...
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        • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
          Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

          Mark, I get the feeling you didn't really listen to my material.

          Why are you desperate? Because you're focusing on the sale.

          Are you supposed to be doing that? No. You're supposed to be qualifying.

          You bought a $7 intro course called Under The Gun, not Sales On Fire.
          Ah yes... "Under the Gun" ... that's all I could afford. No more WSOs or courses for me right now... I have to buy groceries and probably some ads at some point.
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  • Profile picture of the author bob ross
    If you don't want to talk to anyone until they've responded via email, consider selling print/design services like logo design, brochures, rack cards, business cards, stationery, etc.

    Outsource it all out just like you would for any web/seo/mobile service. If you get a sales tax ID (if you're state requires it), you can start selling them the printing as well.
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    • Profile picture of the author OnlineStoreHelp
      If you truly don't want to do cold calls, then don't, leave it to the people that are comfortable with it. I have built my business (slowly mind you) just by meeting people one on one. I also have a couple super connectors who introduce me to people all over the place, it is just my job to close the sale.

      In Hawaii, cold calling does not work so well since everything here is based on relationships, sometimes to the detriment to the business but you have to adjust based on where you live. I find walking into a business much more effective than calling but again, create your sales channel, based on what works for you. I found craigslist does not work for me here in Hawaii since the people that post on there are looking for the cheapest work they can get, forget quality or how it will help the business.

      Some people do very well with cold calls, others through networking, others through walk ins, others through post cards, etc. It all depends on what works best for your personality, and then you test it.
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      • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
        Originally Posted by OnlineStoreHelp View Post

        If you truly don't want to do cold calls, then don't, leave it to the people that are comfortable with it. I have built my business (slowly mind you) just by meeting people one on one. I also have a couple super connectors who introduce me to people all over the place, it is just my job to close the sale.

        In Hawaii, cold calling does not work so well since everything here is based on relationships, sometimes to the detriment to the business but you have to adjust based on where you live. I find walking into a business much more effective than calling but again, create your sales channel, based on what works for you. I found craigslist does not work for me here in Hawaii since the people that post on there are looking for the cheapest work they can get, forget quality or how it will help the business.

        Some people do very well with cold calls, others through networking, others through walk ins, others through post cards, etc. It all depends on what works best for your personality, and then you test it.
        You said it! I do want to do what works for me. Capital and time are definitely the problem, which is the ONLY reason I'm even entertaining cold calling...

        If I had more capital... I wouldn't waste a second on the cold calling... but then again, if I had more capital, I'd probably focus on building my online businesses I want to work on... In the long run, I don't really want to sell services offline... it's just a better option than getting a J.O.B. that doesn't pay much and takes me away from home. I'm just going to have to toughen up and do what it takes to pay the bills. That's what I've always done, I've never enjoyed any of the many jobs I've done... cause it was always a horrible fit, and was built on things that I am not naturally good at.

        Thanks.
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    • Profile picture of the author cshilling22
      One option is to contact local youth organizations and non-profits in your area and see if you can partner with them for a fundraiser. They sell a certificate for your consulting services and keep all of the money they generate and you have the opportunity to consult with business owners, prove your value, and sell them additional services. You turn the non-profit partner into your sales force and everyone wins.

      Also start attending business mixers and Chamber of Commerce events and networking.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by bob ross View Post

      If you don't want to talk to anyone until they've responded via email, consider selling print/design services like logo design, brochures, rack cards, business cards, stationery, etc.

      Outsource it all out just like you would for any web/seo/mobile service. If you get a sales tax ID (if you're state requires it), you can start selling them the printing as well.
      Hmmm... hadn't thought of that... I'll look into it.

      Thanks,
      Mark
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  • Profile picture of the author digichik
    You may want to consider advertising your web design services here on WF in the warriors for hire section. If you can get some work as an outsource vendor(subcontractor) that will get some money in your pocket; thus, you won't be so desperate and you won't sound desperate.

    Remember in cold calling, the conversion numbers are high, when first starting out. It may take you 100-150 calls to get that first sale or appointment. As you gain experience, those numbers will go down, you could expect 50-75 calls to get a sale/appt. on average.

    Get over the old guy feeling. If you look around here it's the "older guys" who are making the most money. Youth doesn't trump experience and wisdom, well only in the minds of Madison Ave. In the real world, most knowledgeable business owners want the person who can solve their problem and help them make more money. Age is not the issue, profit is.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by digichik View Post

      You may want to consider advertising your web design services here on WF in the warriors for hire section. If you can get some work as an outsource vendor(subcontractor) that will get some money in your pocket; thus, you won't be so desperate and you won't sound desperate.

      Remember in cold calling, the conversion numbers are high, when first starting out. It may take you 100-150 calls to get that first sale or appointment. As you gain experience, those numbers will go down, you could expect 50-75 calls to get a sale/appt. on average.

      Get over the old guy feeling. If you look around here it's the "older guys" who are making the most money. Youth doesn't trump experience and wisdom, well only in the minds of Madison Ave. In the real world, most knowledgeable business owners want the person who can solve their problem and help them make more money. Age is not the issue, profit is.
      Thanks for the encouragement.
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  • Profile picture of the author Eddie Spangler



    Man up and quit your freaking crying and excuse making.
    You dont just sound desperate you sound pathetic.

    For a man in your position you sure seem to have a lot of things that
    you DONT want to do.

    I guess when you finally get put into the decision of either talking to people or not eating then maybe things will click for you.

    In the meantime, I suggest sharpening up your sales skills because even if you get them to call you it still takes skill to close them.
    also take a look in this thread for some good advice regarding rejection
    http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...rejection.html

    Best of success to you.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by Eddie Spangler View Post




      Man up and quit your freaking crying and excuse making.
      You dont just sound desperate you sound pathetic.

      For a man in your position you sure seem to have a lot of things that
      you DONT want to do.

      I guess when you finally get put into the decision of either talking to people or not eating then maybe things will click for you.

      In the meantime, I suggest sharpening up your sales skills because even if you get them to call you it still takes skill to close them.
      also take a look in this thread for some good advice regarding rejection
      http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...rejection.html

      Best of success to you.
      Thanks for the thread...

      I wouldn't go into coaching... that reality slap stuff to me is just the easy way out of not wanting to do the work to deal with the hard details... I know, because I've done that too.

      Life is often more complicated than we want it to be... when kids get diseases, and people lose their spouses, or their house burns down, or a thief steals everything or people abuse you, there are not always simple answers. Sometimes it's a long road with lots of struggle.

      I wouldn't have made it this far, if I hadn't been willing to go through some hard times that were out of my control, depending on other people and trusting God.

      I could have shared a lot more, but this isn't the forum for that. I will quit complaining in this post... I agree... I shouldn't do that... I too want to just man up and move forward...

      Mark
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  • Profile picture of the author Eddie Spangler
    What is it that you really want to do? I know you said online biz but can you be more specific.

    Also now that I see that its money that you need moreso than trying to build a long term offline biz let me suggest the greatest thread in the history of this forum. http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...th-hero-3.html

    Yes you will have to talk to people but if you really understand how to offer this then you will have the upper hand in the conversation with small biz owners.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by Eddie Spangler View Post

      What is it that you really want to do? I know you said online biz but can you be more specific.

      Also now that I see that its money that you need moreso than trying to build a long term offline biz let me suggest the greatest thread in the history of this forum. http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...th-hero-3.html

      Yes you will have to talk to people but if you really understand how to offer this then you will have the upper hand in the conversation with small biz owners.
      Thanks Eddie,

      That looks like a good thread... I'll go read it, along with the one about rejection that was suggested.

      Mark
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by Eddie Spangler View Post

      What is it that you really want to do? I know you said online biz but can you be more specific.

      Also now that I see that its money that you need moreso than trying to build a long term offline biz let me suggest the greatest thread in the history of this forum. http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...th-hero-3.html

      Yes you will have to talk to people but if you really understand how to offer this then you will have the upper hand in the conversation with small biz owners.
      As far as what I want to do... I definitely would rather spend my time doing affiliate marketing in my areas of interest, or creating solutions and info products, doing how-to videos, etc... but those with experience have shown that you have to give those things time.
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  • Profile picture of the author ProSeomCo
    Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post


    The big problem for me is... how to I find clients offline and (and online as well) without cold calling, and with a small budget of $200.

    Thanks,
    Mark
    @Mark Hopkins

    Assuming you are going to offer some sort of service...

    I would recommend that you invest in joining the Colorado Springs Business Alliance which has around 1300 members/businesses I know you have mentioned you are working with a limited budget but this method would allow for you to call and speak with other members/business owners directly when you call to introduce yourself as a member of the Colorado Springs Business Alliance.

    Here is a link to their directory separated by business category.

    The membership fee is $355

    Don't look at it as a cost but as investment in which your are paying less than 30 cents to be able to talk directly to the owner of the business directly.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by ProSeomCo View Post

      @Mark Hopkins

      Assuming you are going to offer some sort of service...

      I would recommend that you invest in joining the Colorado Springs Business Alliance which has around 1300 members/businesses I know you have mentioned you are working with a limited budget but this method would allow for you to call and speak with other members/business owners directly when you call to introduce yourself as a member of the Colorado Springs Business Alliance.

      Here is a link to their directory separated by business category.

      The membership fee is $355

      Don't look at it as a cost but as investment in which your are paying less than 30 cents to be able to talk directly to the owner of the business directly.
      That sounds like a great idea... if I hadn't maxed out my credit and weren't down to my last dollars... I would invest in that. It will just have to wait until I raise a little capital.

      Thanks.
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  • Profile picture of the author 55sadhikar
    You guys are all making mountain out of a moehole, get your butt into action, when the desire to succeed is greater than anything else in the world, nobody can stop you ...period. It really depends, how badly do you want it, figure out your "why".

    -why do I want to work online? What is my reason to work online? (often making money isn't the simple answer, obviously everyone wants to make money...but there is more to it than making money. For some it might be giving the best life for their children, family. For some it might be "the laptop lifestyle, time freedom or having numerous vactions, living on the beach and surfing and still making lots of money." Figure out your "why" and once you've got it, recall to your imagination everyday. Wake up everyday with "new zest and vigour" and work on your life goals; remember your goals have to pull you forward not push you. Willpower last only few days, and than you're back on the same track, but when you have a vision, it will create a lasting change in your life. Things don't just happen, if you want to "see a change in your life" you better start doing things with a different approach and mindset.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by 55sadhikar View Post

      You guys are all making mountain out of a moehole, get your butt into action, when the desire to succeed is greater than anything else in the world, nobody can stop you ...period. It really depends, how badly do you want it, figure out your "why".

      -why do I want to work online? What is my reason to work online? (often making money isn't the simple answer, obviously everyone wants to make money...but there is more to it than making money. For some it might be giving the best life for their children, family. For some it might be "the laptop lifestyle, time freedom or having numerous vactions, living on the beach and surfing and still making lots of money." Figure out your "why" and once you've got it, recall to your imagination everyday. Wake up everyday with "new zest and vigour" and work on your life goals; remember your goals have to pull you forward not push you. Willpower last only few days, and than you're back on the same track, but when you have a vision, it will create a lasting change in your life. Things don't just happen, if you want to "see a change in your life" you better start doing things with a different approach and mindset.
      As I said earlier... and many people on this forum will say this... going "offline" is a quicker way to an income than "online". Online is what we want because of the lifestyle and because we can focus on our passions. Offline to me is just a stepping stone between a horrible JOB and eventually going online. The "why" in this case is not necessarily going to bring vigor... but like many I have the vision to push through to the eventual goal, because the alternative of doing a crappy job is worse...

      Some of us just cannot afford to go after the things we want... Again, if I had the capital... I wouldn't be trying to do this and I would take the time to build the business I care about and know I could succeed at online... for me, what gives me vigor and brings out my passions is music, guitar, helping the little guy and entrepreneur succeed, putting together solutions, helping, coaching, encouraging, doing demonstrations and presentations using digital media... but to do those things on my terms for a living takes time and money I don't have... so they'll have to wait...

      It took me a few years to figure out what gets me excited... if only I had figured this out when I was young, single, and had money, and wasn't buried in debt... I did what a lot of folks did and went out and got a job just to pay bills... oh well, hind-site is 20/20.
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  • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
    You can do it. It is not likely you will replace your income in two months. Even though it is VERY possible - most people dont make it happen. That has more to do with personal shortcomings than a tough market. In reality - the market isn't tough. There is a lot of money. So, starting right now take full responsibility.

    I can already see you lining up reasons to explain a possible failure. Market is too small. I only have 400k in the area. I don't have enough capital. I don't have gas money. I don't like rejection.

    Look man forget all that. That's all your head trash and it will keep you from being the person you want to be. I hate to tell you that no matter what you try to succeed at in life will always evade you as long as there are reasons why.

    As humans - we are subconsciously afraid to put it all on the line because if we fail we think we have less value. So - we start coming up with these types of excuses IN ADVANCE.

    Its hard for everyone. We've all had to do it. You can do it too. But not until you take away ALL excuses and determine that you will make it happen no matter what. Take responsibility for your possible future failure. When my next failure comes (and it will) - I already know that it is ALL my fault and I didn't prepare my mind well enough.

    I don't see a specific product mentioned. You say "I can do" and then you list a bunch of services. My advice - figure out EXACTLY what you want to sell. Just pick something.

    You want to do online marketing? Well, that means you are probably going to have to write a lot of email campaigns.

    Great - go sell some business owners on a profit pulling 6-week customer reactivation email campaign. It's easy to come up with a product.

    Once you have the product - go tell everyone about it. Jump on Meetup and start meeting people. Tell everyone you are a small business email specialist and can use their current contacts to create more long-term cash for them.

    Take $495 deposit and $495 upon completing and setting up the service.

    Go sell 10 of these a month and you never work for someone else again.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by Dan McCoy View Post

      You can do it....

      ...

      You want to do online marketing? Well, that means you are probably going to have to write a lot of email campaigns.

      Great - go sell some business owners on a profit pulling 6-week customer reactivation email campaign. It's easy to come up with a product.

      Once you have the product - go tell everyone about it. Jump on Meetup and start meeting people. Tell everyone you are a small business email specialist and can use their current contacts to create more long-term cash for them.

      Take $495 deposit and $495 upon completing and setting up the service.

      Go sell 10 of these a month and you never work for someone else again.
      Thanks Dan... yes, my head is full of trash and brainwashing... That's one of the reasons my wife and I decided to move to a smaller city in an area that is a better fit and full of people with a different mindset... it has really helped. I have always been a dreamer, but after having kids and lots of responsibilities, it has been a challenge to resurrect those dreams.

      Yes, email list building will be a key to my future success online... so I definitely want to work on that. So your idea sounds like a great solution. I also like that you mentioned meetup... that has always intrigued me as a way to reach out and connect with people... I sort of forgot about it until you mentioned it.

      Thanks,
      Mark
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      • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
        Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

        Thanks Dan... yes, my head is full of trash and brainwashing... That's one of the reasons my wife and I decided to move to a smaller city in an area that is a better fit and full of people with a different mindset... it has really helped. I have always been a dreamer, but after having kids and lots of responsibilities, it has been a challenge to resurrect those dreams.

        Yes, email list building will be a key to my future success online... so I definitely want to work on that. So your idea sounds like a great solution. I also like that you mentioned meetup... that has always intrigued me as a way to reach out and connect with people... I sort of forgot about it until you mentioned it.

        Thanks,
        Mark
        You can do it Mark. And marketing skills are valuable to business owners.

        Buy a copy of Email Marketing for Dummies - and then sell the service. Seriously it can be that easy.
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        • Profile picture of the author midasman09
          Banned
          Here's what I told one of my sons to do when he lost a great job (due to Obama-Crap)

          1) Purchase one of Dave Cisneros PLR programs (I bought all of his PLRs but chose the Day Care PLR recently)
          2) Choose a Niche to target (just in the last few days I chose "Day Care Centers")
          3) Phone the "Target-Market" biznesses and tell the owners; "Hello! My name is Joe Blow and I've made a Video for your business that can help you get more clients. If you will give me your Email Address I'll send you the link."

          4) Make a Video (windows Live Movie-Maker) using existing "Day Care" businesses Names in the Titles.
          5) UpLoad to your YT Channel.

          6) I use "SpyPig" (a free emai thingee that will tell you when or if your prospect has "clicked on your email". Phone prospect giving them specifics of your program. (Many will phone YOU once they see your Video wth THEIR Name & Contact)

          Granted....nothing is 100%! However....this is the closest thing to it and.... sure....some won't want it BUT....enough will to make your Time and Effort well worth it!

          This is an "EGO" thingee! When they see their NAME on the Video....they "can't help themselves"!

          Plus.....the Videos HELP them get more business.

          Don Alm
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          • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
            Originally Posted by midasman09 View Post

            Here's what I told one of my sons to do when he lost a great job (due to Obama-Crap)

            1) Purchase one of Dave Cisneros PLR programs (I bought all of his PLRs but chose the Day Care PLR recently)
            2) Choose a Niche to target (just in the last few days I chose "Day Care Centers")
            3) Phone the "Target-Market" biznesses and tell the owners; "Hello! My name is Joe Blow and I've made a Video for your business that can help you get more clients. If you will give me your Email Address I'll send you the link."

            4) Make a Video (windows Live Movie-Maker) using existing "Day Care" businesses Names in the Titles.
            5) UpLoad to your YT Channel.

            6) I use "SpyPig" (a free emai thingee that will tell you when or if your prospect has "clicked on your email". Phone prospect giving them specifics of your program. (Many will phone YOU once they see your Video wth THEIR Name & Contact)

            Granted....nothing is 100%! However....this is the closest thing to it and.... sure....some won't want it BUT....enough will to make your Time and Effort well worth it!

            This is an "EGO" thingee! When they see their NAME on the Video....they "can't help themselves"!

            Plus.....the Videos HELP them get more business.

            Don Alm
            Cool idea Don... I have to at least look into this method... sounds like it would work pretty well.

            You always seems to have another idea up your sleeve.

            Thanks,
            Mark
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    • Profile picture of the author kenmichaels
      Originally Posted by Dan McCoy View Post

      You can do it. It is not likely you will replace your income in two months. Even though it is VERY possible - most people dont make it happen. That has more to do with personal shortcomings than a tough market. In reality - the market isn't tough. There is a lot of money. So, starting right now take full responsibility.

      I can already see you lining up reasons to explain a possible failure. Market is too small. I only have 400k in the area. I don't have enough capital. I don't have gas money. I don't like rejection.

      Look man forget all that. That's all your head trash and it will keep you from being the person you want to be      . I hate to tell you that no matter what you try to succeed at in life will always evade you as long as there are reasons why.
      That right there is why i always read your posts brotha.


      To the guy who is bashing phone sales ... " your an idiot, get a grip fool"
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      • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
        Originally Posted by kenmichaels View Post

        That right there is why i always read your posts brotha.


        To the guy who is bashing phone sales ... " your an idiot, get a grip fool"

        Phone sales and "Cold calls" are TOTALLY different...

        "Genius"
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        • Profile picture of the author kenmichaels
          Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

          Phone sales and "Cold calls" are TOTALLY different...

          "Genius"
          but they aren't. I do both. All sales have a beginning and an end.

          cold, warm, hot.
          The process is the same.

          I am sorry for calling you an idiot, it was overly dramatic.
          You talk like a very smart, educated person, not an idiot.
          I spologize ... sincerely.

          however .... you are wrong about cold calling ... and phone sales.
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          • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
            Originally Posted by kenmichaels View Post

            but they aren't. I do both. All sales have a beginning and an end.

            cold, warm, hot.
            The process is the same.

            I am sorry for calling you an idiot, it was overly dramatic.
            You talk like a very smart, educated person, not an idiot.

            but you are wrong about cold calling ... and phone sales.

            "Cold sales" are usually made by telemarketers. they are used to take a prospect who ISN'T thinking about buying, and convince them to buy.

            "Phone sales" could be solicited. It could very well be a "Follow-up" phone call which is perfectly fine as well.

            But What negative comment did I make regarding Phone sales?

            It is a legitimate Tactic, as Email Marketing.

            But similar to email Marketing, there is a way TO and NOT TO promote.

            It would be unethical for me to scower the web in search of email addresses and then BLAST them.... according to CAN-SPAM that is "spamming".

            the same way... If I pick up a phone book, steal someone's address book, and start randomly calling, it is "Technically" spam as well.

            I don't bash Phone Sales, I bash SPAM sales.
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            • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
              Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

              It would be unethical for me to scower the web in search of email addresses and then BLAST them.... according to CAN-SPAM that is "spamming".

              the same way... If I pick up a phone book, steal someone's address book, and start randomly calling, it is "Technically" spam as well.
              It may be illegal - but I do not know that you can clearly say it is unethical. They are not the same thing.

              Why is it not ethical to cold-call someone to tell them about your service?

              I have developed some very strong business relationships that began as cold-calls. These people will tell you, without question, they are glad I called them. I have had that conversation with them.

              All marketing is cold when it starts. Do you think cold-walking is wrong? Do you think cold-mailing is wrong?
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              • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
                Originally Posted by Dan McCoy View Post

                It may be illegal - but I do not know that you can clearly say it is unethical. They are not the same thing.

                Why is it not ethical to cold-call someone to tell them about your service?

                I have developed some very strong business relationships that began as cold-calls. These people will tell you, without question, they are glad I called them. I have had that conversation with them.

                All marketing is cold when it starts. Do you think cold-walking is wrong? Do you think cold-mailing is wrong?
                That may be true friend.

                But for every ONE person that is glad you called you...
                There are 99 people (on Average) who are not!

                ( AVG conversion rate is 1% )

                Its the Law of NUMBERS,

                The same way You can send 1,000 visitors to a poorly developed landing page and STILL get a conversion, the same concept goes with cold calling.

                Its like getting 1,000 people in a room.... isn't it likely that at least ONE of them will have a birthday in January?

                So If I call 1,000 people... isn't it likely that ONE person will be glad that I called?

                In order to get 1 Customer to say "Yes, I'll Buy"......

                99people will say "No thanks, not interested".

                "Cold Marketing" is only wrong WHEN and only WHEN you don't obtain "Permission" to market to the individual.

                ** Check out Seth Godin's book "Permission Marketing" **
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                • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
                  Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

                  That may be true friend.

                  But for every ONE person that is glad you called you...
                  There are 99 people (on Average) who are not!

                  ( AVG conversion rate is 1% )

                  Its the Law of NUMBERS,

                  The same way You can send 1,000 visitors to a poorly developed landing page and STILL get a conversion, the same concept goes with cold calling.

                  Its like getting 1,000 people in a room.... isn't it likely that at least ONE of them will have a birthday in January?

                  So If I call 1,000 people... isn't it likely that ONE person will be glad that I called?

                  In order to get 1 Customer to say "Yes, I'll Buy"......

                  99people will say "No thanks, not interested".

                  "Cold Marketing" is only wrong WHEN and only WHEN you don't obtain "Permission" to market to the individual.

                  ** Check out Seth Godin's book "Permission Marketing" **
                  Are you saying people should NOT market using postcards or letters? 1-2% response rate.

                  Are you saying it is wrong to cold-walk into a business? Higher response rate - but still uninvited.

                  Just want to be clear about your position.
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                  • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
                    Originally Posted by Dan McCoy View Post

                    Are you saying people should NOT market using postcards or letters? 1-2% response rate.

                    Are you saying it is wrong to cold-walk into a business? Higher response rate - but still uninvited.

                    Just want to be clear about your position.

                    where did they get the address from? Was it given to them by the owner? then yes.

                    If the person walks into the business then they are giving IMPLIED consent. If I walk into a shoe store, of course... I am considering buying shoes.

                    But If some random guy walks up to my front porch trying to sell me shoes, my first question would be "How did you find this address".

                    Retrieving information without permission is a BIG no-no.

                    Why do you think the NSA is in so much trouble?

                    Edward Snowden agrees with me
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                    • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
                      Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

                      where did they get the address from? Was it given to them by the owner? then yes.

                      If the person walks into the business then they are giving IMPLIED consent. If I walk into a shoe store, of course... I am considering buying shoes.

                      But If some random guy walks up to my front porch trying to sell me shoes, my first question would be "How did you find this address".

                      Retrieving information without permission is a BIG no-no.

                      Why do you think the NSA is in so much trouble?

                      Edward Snowden agrees with me
                      I'm not sure I follow you because what you might be saying is so outrageous. LOL.

                      I buy a database of targeted businesses in my niche and mail letters to them. That is wrong?

                      I use that same list to drive to the business, walk in, and try to get an appointment to make a sale. That is wrong?

                      If you say that is wrong - then you lose ALL, 100% of your credibility as a source of reliable sales and marketing advice. As a matter of fact, you should just hand over your sales-man card and cancel your membership to WF. :rolleyes:

                      EDIT - Don't cancel here man. However, you shouldn't be attempting to teach people things you don't know. It's not good for them and pretending is not good for you. I looked a little deeper and deduced that you really haven't walked the road we are talking about. Listen - there are a LOT of great people here who can teach you how to make it.
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                      • Profile picture of the author dlundy1
                        Originally Posted by Dan McCoy View Post

                        I'm not sure I follow you because what you might be saying is so outrageous. LOL.

                        I buy a database of targeted businesses in my niche and mail letters to them. That is wrong?

                        I use that same list to drive to the business, walk in, and try to get an appointment to make a sale. That is wrong?

                        If you say that is wrong - then you lose ALL, 100% of your credibility as a source of reliable sales and marketing advice. As a matter of fact, you should just hand over your sales-man card and cancel your membership to WF. :rolleyes:

                        EDIT - Don't cancel here man. However, you shouldn't be attempting to teach people things you don't know. It's not good for them and pretending is not good for you. I looked a little deeper and deduced that you really haven't walked the road we are talking about. Listen - there are a LOT of great people here who can teach you how to make it.

                        I am trying my best to present this information in a way that you can understand. But it is harder that I was expecting.

                        But again... as I implied earlier in the posts.

                        most Businesses are "Public" organizations, People can enter FREELY without permission simply because of this FACT.

                        But...

                        1. My Front-Door is NOT a public organization
                        2. My Mail-box is NOT an organization
                        3. my INBOX is not a Public organization
                        4. My Cell Phone is NOT a public Organization
                        PUBLIC things surrender their right to PRIVACY by being public.


                        And the WF is an INTERNET-marketing forum.... Not a


                        "spend gas, drive to a company, and try to sell them Paper- site"



                        So you are right. I have NEVER walked that road...


                        and also, I DON'T work at Dunder-Mifflin,


                        and I may not be a better door-to-door salesman than YOU Michael Scott :rolleyes:


                        But pertaining to the ONLINE process, I understand the business.


                        But Deductions are GREAT. they are a vital part to our survival as a RACE!


                        But Deductions are another word for "Assumptions"


                        and you know what they say about Assumptions


                        .... you end up looking Dumber after you have made one.


                        Kind regards,


                        -Deon
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                        • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
                          Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post

                          I am trying my best to present this information in a way that you can understand. But it is harder that I was expecting.


                          .... you end up looking Dumber after you have made one.
                          OK Deon. Nice to meet you.

                          Please take the time to educate yourself before you give advice to a struggling person. Your advice is bad and I hope he doesn't listen to you. He is hurting financially.

                          It's OK to pretend to be something you are not on the internet - but when real people are asking for real help - you need to know what you are talking about.

                          I'm not going to dig further into why it is clear you are pretending because I don't roll that way. I wish you a lot of success and keep learning and trying.
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                          • Profile picture of the author umc
                            Permission marketing is only one way of marketing, much like online marketing is only one way of marketing. This is the offline forum; not sure why the surprise that people are discussing offline methods and disagree with the negativity espoused by you Deon.
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                        • Profile picture of the author ProSeomCo
                          Originally Posted by dlundy1 View Post


                          And the WF is an INTERNET-marketing forum.... Not a


                          "spend gas, drive to a company, and try to sell them Paper- site"
                          @dlundy1

                          Yes you are correct the Warrior Forum is an INTERNET-marketing forum...

                          But, I would have to disagree thats all it is...

                          This is a forum that is made up many different people and businesses (both online & offline) that share free and/or paid information, tools and strategies between each member.

                          The information, tools and strategies shared is meant to help other warriors learn and grow to better themselves and their businesses.

                          Now as an individual person(s) running our own business we all have the choice to choose what strategies, tools and resources we all use in each of our business models.

                          For you... you may believe that its not worth spending/investing money on gas to drive around town to cold walk to grow your business but for many this strategy works and worth the investment.
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                          • Profile picture of the author midasman09
                            Banned
                            OK Mark...back to how you can pick up some bux QUICKLY....WITHOUT an investment in products or time.

                            Perform a Service! 2 ideas;

                            1) Real estate agents NEED a clean vehicle to chauffer house-hunters. OFFER A MOBILE "SPRITSING" to agents. DO the "Spritsing" right there, in their office parking lot.
                            Go to your local Auto Parts store. Pick up some materials to clean the body and hubcaps. Ask the clerk. This is NOT a "detailing" job....just a "Spritsing" which is a quick-clean inside and out.
                            Garden Hose and portable vac. plus a nice scent.

                            You could make up a flyer saying what you will do....on the spot. Start out by charging $20 per car. then up the fee as you go.
                            10 cars a day = $200

                            2) Used Car Lots - used cars sell faster and for more money IF the headlights are CLEAR and IF the "black-plastic" is "new-looking"...AND....if the Interior "Smells Nice".

                            I showed some buddies who were desperate for bux how to do this by just walking onto a used car lot....tell the owner you'd like to show him how he can get MORE money for his cars AND...sell them faster by performing a "3-Step" renewing;
                            1-Clear Headlights ($35 for both using the stuff I tell you. No buffer...just wipe on wipe off)
                            2-Re-newed black plastic ($5 per mirror, $5 per door handle, $20 for both bumpers.
                            3-Remove Odors from inside...especially cig smell ($20...$30 if vac also)

                            Offer to do Part of 1 car as a sample. He WILL pay you to do the rest of the car AND others...when he sees the difference.

                            Now....because finding the RIGHT chemicals took me much trial and error, send me a PM and I'll tell you what to buy and where.

                            Don Alm....
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                            • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
                              Originally Posted by midasman09 View Post

                              OK Mark...back to how you can pick up some bux QUICKLY....WITHOUT an investment in products or time.

                              Perform a Service! 2 ideas;

                              1) Real estate agents NEED a clean vehicle to chauffer house-hunters. OFFER A MOBILE "SPRITSING" to agents. DO the "Spritsing" right there, in their office parking lot.
                              Go to your local Auto Parts store. Pick up some materials to clean the body and hubcaps. Ask the clerk. This is NOT a "detailing" job....just a "Spritsing" which is a quick-clean inside and out.
                              Garden Hose and portable vac. plus a nice scent.

                              You could make up a flyer saying what you will do....on the spot. Start out by charging $20 per car. then up the fee as you go.
                              10 cars a day = $200

                              2) Used Car Lots - used cars sell faster and for more money IF the headlights are CLEAR and IF the "black-plastic" is "new-looking"...AND....if the Interior "Smells Nice".

                              I showed some buddies who were desperate for bux how to do this by just walking onto a used car lot....tell the owner you'd like to show him how he can get MORE money for his cars AND...sell them faster by performing a "3-Step" renewing;
                              1-Clear Headlights ($35 for both using the stuff I tell you. No buffer...just wipe on wipe off)
                              2-Re-newed black plastic ($5 per mirror, $5 per door handle, $20 for both bumpers.
                              3-Remove Odors from inside...especially cig smell ($20...$30 if vac also)

                              Offer to do Part of 1 car as a sample. He WILL pay you to do the rest of the car AND others...when he sees the difference.

                              Now....because finding the RIGHT chemicals took me much trial and error, send me a PM and I'll tell you what to buy and where.

                              Don Alm....
                              Hi Don,

                              I appreciate the time you took to write this... however, I worked at a car dealership as a salesman until the end of May. All of the dealerships in this area are in two mini "motor cities" ... there was some stiff competition... and two or three big businesses with low paid staff got all the business because all the dealerships are lined up in a row. I asked the lot manager about it... I was actually thinking about mobile car washing... it's definitely not the track for me. In about a month or two, it will be a bit cold here at elevation to wash cars.

                              I read some ideas on the "What to do if you're desperate" post and got some ideas that sounded better than that if I go offline.

                              Thanks for the suggestions though,

                              Mark
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  • Profile picture of the author AndrewCavanagh
    There are a huge variety of ways to get prospects
    contacting you first or to get face to face with prospects
    without cold calling.

    In fact something that's rarely mentioned here is that
    you're likely to have higher quality prospects if you use
    a lead generation system that pre-educates them on
    the value of your service and gets them to contact
    you first.


    Avenues you might consider include:

    # Asking people you know to introduce you to the
    business owners they know.

    # Talking to business owners you already know (you
    could also email them or contact them by mail).

    # Going to business networking meetings and other
    groups where business owners congregate.

    # Use direct mail to selected prospects.

    # Use email to selected prospects.

    # Do a joint venture with a salesperson who is already in
    contact with business owners every day and give him a
    generous percentage of your first fee for introducing you
    to business owners you can help.


    There are many, many other strategies. Just scratching
    the surface here.

    Kindest regards,
    Andrew Cavanagh
    Signature
    Old School Copy Like This Is BACK & Converting Like Crazy!
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by AndrewCavanagh View Post

      There are a huge variety of ways to get prospects
      contacting you first or to get face to face with prospects
      without cold calling.

      In fact something that's rarely mentioned here is that
      you're likely to have higher quality prospects if you use
      a lead generation system that pre-educates them on
      the value of your service and gets them to contact
      you first.


      Avenues you might consider include:

      # Asking people you know to introduce you to the
      business owners they know.

      # Talking to business owners you already know (you
      could also email them or contact them by mail).

      # Going to business networking meetings and other
      groups where business owners congregate.

      # Use direct mail to selected prospects.

      # Use email to selected prospects.

      # Do a joint venture with a salesperson who is already in
      contact with business owners every day and give him a
      generous percentage of your first fee for introducing you
      to business owners you can help.


      There are many, many other strategies. Just scratching
      the surface here.

      Kindest regards,
      Andrew Cavanagh
      Thanks Andrew... appreciate the ideas.
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      • Profile picture of the author serryjw
        Mark...I have to disagree with my fellow Warriors. Rome was NOT built in a day. You sound like a nice guy that has great skills. Go make money on Fiverr/CraigsList. When you have earned money with your skills, it makes it a lot easier to market in person. You KNOW that people will pay you to do their work, it gives you the confidence to learn a new skill set..sounds like you are beating yourself up for no reason...A vital lesson in life is SUCCESS BREEDS SUCCESS.
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      • Profile picture of the author Leonid88
        hi, there
        The perfect solution for you
        a)set up your own site
        b)hire someone to cold calling for you
        Signature

        i can show you 3 ways to increase your profits free of charge. pm me if you are intrested

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  • Profile picture of the author webrankingseoservices2000
    Banned
    I can feel the pain , Perhaps you have landed a right place, Make some money online.
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  • Profile picture of the author PR Wizard
    Cold calling is really hard for some people, myself included. I can write copy that sells but I'm just not good at one on one sales. That being said, why not try providing services via a few freelancing sites? Get your feet wet and make some money part time while you study and figure out the best way to sell yourself. That's what I did while building my business. You will be less desperate if you are making money and let's face it, your desperation is probably obvious to your potential clients.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by PR Wizard View Post

      Cold calling is really hard for some people, myself included. I can write copy that sells but I'm just not good at one on one sales. That being said, why not try providing services via a few freelancing sites? Get your feet wet and make some money part time while you study and figure out the best way to sell yourself. That's what I did while building my business. You will be less desperate if you are making money and let's face it, your desperation is probably obvious to your potential clients.
      Yes, that's petty much how I feel... I've been writing all my life, when I have anything important say... I really clam up in person... I was surprised at how well I did at selling cars... but my dealership made it pretty easy when I started my having plenty of customers and the lowest prices in our area.

      I have been considering the freelance route to get my feet wet. And then using that to have something to show for better clients.

      Thanks for the advice,

      Mark
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    • Profile picture of the author grant writer
      First post. Be gentle on me. I have been a freelance writer/consultant for 18 months. Thus, I am only one step ahead of you, but here are my tips.

      1) Find your motivation. Starting your own business is hard work. You need to focus on why you want this. And remind yourself every day.

      2) Be an animal in looking for work. 24/7 is about finding clients and work. You should not be picky about whether it is a job or freelance. You need employment. Apply for jobs as well as freelance opps. Lots of people freelance part-time.

      3) Build your portfolio now. Build your own website as a showpiece of your talent. Consider doing pro bono work for a well-respected nonprofit. You can get a great portfolio piece and great recommendations. Nonprofits are inherently social.

      4) Talk with, not sell prospective clients. Dialogue with businesses and gather data about their needs and frustrations with existing website/marketing solutions. Attend events where your target audience gathers, which may include bars and parties.

      5) Pitch businesses that you patronize such as your favorite restaurant or bar. Perhaps, you can do a trade with them.

      6) Join a local web developer co-op or group. Often freelancers love to hire each other. You can also learn the tricks of the trade.

      Okay, I'll stop here. Try to enjoy this new adventure.
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      • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
        Originally Posted by grant writer View Post

        First post. Be gentle on me. I have been a freelance writer/consultant for 18 months. Thus, I am only one step ahead of you, but here are my tips.

        1) Find your motivation. Starting your own business is hard work. You need to focus on why you want this. And remind yourself every day.

        2) Be an animal in looking for work. 24/7 is about finding clients and work. You should not be picky about whether it is a job or freelance. You need employment. Apply for jobs as well as freelance opps. Lots of people freelance part-time.

        3) Build your portfolio now. Build your own website as a showpiece of your talent. Consider doing pro bono work for a well-respected nonprofit. You can get a great portfolio piece and great recommendations. Nonprofits are inherently social.

        4) Talk with, not sell prospective clients. Dialogue with businesses and gather data about their needs and frustrations with existing website/marketing solutions. Attend events where your target audience gathers, which may include bars and parties.

        5) Pitch businesses that you patronize such as your favorite restaurant or bar. Perhaps, you can do a trade with them.

        6) Join a local web developer co-op or group. Often freelancers love to hire each other. You can also learn the tricks of the trade.

        Okay, I'll stop here. Try to enjoy this new adventure.
        Appreciate it... that is a good list to help stay focused.
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  • Profile picture of the author vne5
    "I sold cars for 6 months... and when I started, we only had so many salesman, so there were plenty of customers... I actually made decent money. I just had to be friendly, show some cars, show that I actually cared about them and there purchase... and they bought a car... but customers were coming to me..."

    Bro you just told yourself how to sell!!!

    1) you sold cars!
    2) You talked to people
    3) You convinced them buy form you.

    You mentioned that the customers came to you. Well how many advertisements form the dealership do you think got thrown away, forgotten about, ripped up, laughed at..etc?

    I'm going to venture to say A LOT! It took that dealership hundred, perhaps thousands of flyers, radio ads, t.v. ads, etc. to get one person to buy from them.

    You "cold calling" for your business is no different. You are advertising your services.
    I hate to hearing it called "cold calling" because it sends a nasty shiver up my spine. Change the name in your brain to "fun calling". Have fun with potential clients. Act like a consultant rather than a salesperson.

    And the most important of them all, DO NOT SHOW MONEY SIGNS IN YOUR EYES (commonly referred to as desperation)!!! An experienced business owner can spot that within the first 10 seconds of your meeting or call.

    Genuinely believe in your services and try to help them. Good luck!
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    • Profile picture of the author Eddie Spangler
      Originally Posted by vne5 View Post




      I hate to hearing it called "cold calling" because it sends a nasty shiver up my spine. Change the name in your brain to "fun calling". Have fun with potential clients.
      Sorry but this comment make me crack up. Lets just change the name of it to fun calling and that will make it easy. Should we tell them jokes and do comedy impressions.

      Lets change paying taxes to contributing to the govt fun account.WEEEEEEE!!, this is awesome, how much fun should I pay to have this year.

      Going to the dentist is now playtime with teeth.
      Dont worry about that drilling sound kids , the doctor is just pretending your mouth is an oil field and if he strikes a vein then we are rich!
      Signature
      Promise Big.
      Deliver Bigger.
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      • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
        Originally Posted by Eddie Spangler View Post

        Sorry but this comment make me crack up. Lets just change the name of it to fun calling and that will make it easy. Should we tell them jokes and do comedy impressions.

        Lets change paying taxes to contributing to the govt fun account.WEEEEEEE!!, this is awesome, how much fun should I pay to have this year.

        Going to the dentist is now playtime with teeth.
        Dont worry about that drilling sound kids , the doctor is just pretending your mouth is an oil field and if he strikes a vein then we are rich!
        Thanks for the laugh this morning
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      • Profile picture of the author socialentry
        Originally Posted by Eddie Spangler View Post


        Lets change paying taxes to contributing to the govt fun account.WEEEEEEE!!, this is awesome, how much fun should I pay to have this year.

        Going to the dentist is now playtime with teeth.
        Dont worry about that drilling sound kids , the doctor is just pretending your mouth is an oil field and if he strikes a vein then we are rich!
        In Canada, we have a "welcome tax" and a "contribution" to parking tickets.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by vne5 View Post

      "I sold cars for 6 months... and when I started, we only had so many salesman, so there were plenty of customers... I actually made decent money. I just had to be friendly, show some cars, show that I actually cared about them and there purchase... and they bought a car... but customers were coming to me..."

      Bro you just told yourself how to sell!!!

      1) you sold cars!
      2) You talked to people
      3) You convinced them buy form you.

      You mentioned that the customers came to you. Well how many advertisements form the dealership do you think got thrown away, forgotten about, ripped up, laughed at..etc?

      I'm going to venture to say A LOT! It took that dealership hundred, perhaps thousands of flyers, radio ads, t.v. ads, etc. to get one person to buy from them.

      You "cold calling" for your business is no different. You are advertising your services.
      I hate to hearing it called "cold calling" because it sends a nasty shiver up my spine. Change the name in your brain to "fun calling". Have fun with potential clients. Act like a consultant rather than a salesperson.

      And the most important of them all, DO NOT SHOW MONEY SIGNS IN YOUR EYES (commonly referred to as desperation)!!! An experienced business owner can spot that within the first 10 seconds of your meeting or call.

      Genuinely believe in your services and try to help them. Good luck!
      Appreciate the encouragement... unfortunately... I don't have that ability to see something like cold calling as something that it's not... it's cold calling to me, not fun...

      However, I understand the power of being positive. If I were to believe in what I am selling, that helps... It's funny you mentioned dealership ads... I was thinking of working in their internet department, because our dealership got a lot of business off the internet... I could run ads all day... but cold calling is so different to me... I wish it weren't.

      Thanks,
      Mark
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      • Profile picture of the author trader909
        Banned
        Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

        Appreciate the encouragement... unfortunately... I don't have that ability to see something like cold calling as something that it's not... it's cold calling to me, not fun...

        However, I understand the power of being positive. If I were to believe in what I am selling, that helps... It's funny you mentioned dealership ads... I was thinking of working in their internet department, because our dealership got a lot of business off the internet... I could run ads all day... but cold calling is so different to me... I wish it weren't.

        Thanks,
        Mark
        yeah agreed there's a reason you get so much abuse ad phone slamming.
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  • Profile picture of the author bizgrower
    You don't have to be "salesman" to be a good salesman - just help people ascertain what they want or really need and help them get it. If you can sell cars as you did, you can network with people at functions and MeetUp groups and probably speak to groups in a Q and A fashion.

    Network with the friends you mentioned, but don't compete with them. Offer services your friends are not offering that compliment what your friends are offering. Provide written content for your friends' clients. If you do offer what your friends offer, do it in niches they are not in and locations they are not in. You can easily serve Pueblo, Castle Rock, Denver, Fort Collins and points off the front range. There's at least one fellow here who operates internationally without meeting clients face to face. I imagine he gets leads through his web/blog content and youtube, etc.

    Dan
    Signature

    "If you think you're the smartest person in the room, then you're probably in the wrong room."

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  • Profile picture of the author MrCake420
    All sales boils down to one basic thing - Law of Average

    You need the no's to get the yes's. The more people you show, the more sales. Your goal should be to show and talk to as many people as you can about what your selling. Sales automatically come, and in more masses once you get better.

    Proven system. You must remain consistent, and have excitement over what your selling. Attitudes are contagious.

    The number one enemy of success is the fear of criticism. Do not let that bog you down. If you truly want what your looking for ( your own business, freedom etc) you need that desire to out weigh all fears.

    Nothing is easy thats worth having. Guys who have been willing to transform thoughts in action, have turned out to be the guys that those with no action, work for.

    A thought is just a thought, without the plan of action, its useless.

    Stop reading warrior forum, stop thinking about more ideas, stop wondering how to make money. JUST GET UP TODAY AND GO TRY SOMETHING.

    Remember, the fear you have is normal, the skepticism you have is normal. Thats why many people don't succeed, because those fears out weigh their own desires.

    Too many people sit and think and think and think without every putting forward any action. You could have already come across the million dollar idea, but without the action, its worthless.

    I hope this helps at least one person reading.

    2 weeks ago I was fired from a high paying job. Today, Im already making more money then that job has ever paid. I owe it to one thing : Taking Action.

    My business is nothing to do with anything on this forum, and I haven't even been on here in months but I just know there's someone out there missing this key of information.

    TAKE ACTION NOW ON WHAT YOU WANT!
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by MrCake420 View Post

      ... You must remain consistent, and have excitement over what your selling. Attitudes are contagious...

      ...you need that desire to out weigh all fears...

      ...Stop reading warrior forum, stop thinking about more ideas, stop wondering how to make money. JUST GET UP TODAY AND GO TRY SOMETHING.

      ...2 weeks ago I was fired from a high paying job. Today, Im already making more money then that job has ever paid. I owe it to one thing : Taking Action.

      ...TAKE ACTION NOW ON WHAT YOU WANT!
      Excellent!

      I found this article today: How to Make a Living Doing What You Love

      I really identified with what he was saying, along with what you are saying.

      Thanks,
      Mark
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      • Profile picture of the author Cashstacking
        Hey mark,

        Thanks for posting this thread. It resonates with me. I am in a similar situation and am also not a cold caller type.

        I was irritated by some of the tough love talk in given responses but I guess most of what was said was true.

        Here is my cut on it. If I was about to be living on the street or my son was about to go hungry, I am guessing I would be able to start cold calling. While I am uncomfortable in my present situation, I am not THAT uncomfortable. I guess I am not THAT hungry, yet.

        However, I am uncomfortable enough to know I want to make a big change in life/lifestyle and am also looking to do it online.

        I am that dog...
        The dog in the story about a guy walking down a street and sees a dog on a porch moaning and groaning like he is in some kind of pain.

        The guy asks the dog owner,"why is your dog moaning and groaning?"

        Owner replies,"Dog's layin' on a nail."

        The guy asks the owner,"Well, why doesn't he get up and move?"

        Owner says,"It's not hurting him enough to get up and move, so he just lays there moaning and groaning."

        Personally, I feel like that dog. Life has me moaning and groaning(wanting a major change) but it isn't yet bad enough for me to get up and move off the nail(cold call).

        I found your thread because I was searching for specific thoughts on what living the internet lifestyle is like. I need to clarify this in my head. Make it vivid, where I can feel it, hear the sounds that come with it, the smells etc.

        I need it to be so vivid and clear that this is what I want above everything else, that I will do it no matter what. If I can make it that vivid, I know I will get there. I have done one of the hardest things possible in life and it took a couple years of daily dedication to do it. But at the time, I had a clear goal and it was demonstrated to me everyday, talked about everyday.

        I also would like to thank Midas and the other contributors to this thread. It has helped me out a lot.

        Hopefully, Mark and others get something out of my post. It seems I may have veered a little off topic somewhere :-)
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        • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
          Originally Posted by Cashstacking View Post

          Hey mark,

          Thanks for posting this thread. It resonates with me. I am in a similar situation and am also not a cold caller type.

          I was irritated by some of the tough love talk in given responses but I guess most of what was said was true.

          Here is my cut on it. If I was about to be living on the street or my son was about to go hungry, I am guessing I would be able to start cold calling. While I am uncomfortable in my present situation, I am not THAT uncomfortable. I guess I am not THAT hungry, yet.

          However, I am uncomfortable enough to know I want to make a big change in life/lifestyle and am also looking to do it online.

          I am that dog...
          The dog in the story about a guy walking down a street and sees a dog on a porch moaning and groaning like he is in some kind of pain.

          The guy asks the dog owner,"why is your dog moaning and groaning?"

          Owner replies,"Dog's layin' on a nail."

          The guy asks the owner,"Well, why doesn't he get up and move?"

          Owner says,"It's not hurting him enough to get up and move, so he just lays there moaning and groaning."

          Personally, I feel like that dog. Life has me moaning and groaning(wanting a major change) but it isn't yet bad enough for me to get up and move off the nail(cold call).

          I found your thread because I was searching for specific thoughts on what living the internet lifestyle is like. I need to clarify this in my head. Make it vivid, where I can feel it, hear the sounds that come with it, the smells etc.

          I need it to be so vivid and clear that this is what I want above everything else, that I will do it no matter what. If I can make it that vivid, I know I will get there. I have done one of the hardest things possible in life and it took a couple years of daily dedication to do it. But at the time, I had a clear goal and it was demonstrated to me everyday, talked about everyday.

          I also would like to thank Midas and the other contributors to this thread. It has helped me out a lot.

          Hopefully, Mark and others get something out of my post. It seems I may have veered a little off topic somewhere :-)
          I understand what your saying... I'm probably a dog too. Yes clarity and focus and motivation are what we need. I'm close, but just not quite there, but taking action and trying things out should get us all the way there.

          Thanks,
          Mark
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          • Profile picture of the author Ron Lafuddy
            Mark,

            So you have been unemployed since May from the car dealership?

            And you have a wife and kids?

            Are any of those people dependent on you?

            "Yes clarity and focus and motivation are what we need. I'm close, but just not quite there...."

            Not quite there???

            Wow!

            Nothing I can add here except I wish you well. I really do.

            For your family's sake.
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        • Profile picture of the author umc
          Originally Posted by Cashstacking View Post

          While I am uncomfortable in my present situation, I am not THAT uncomfortable. I guess I am not THAT hungry, yet.

          However, I am uncomfortable enough to know I want to make a big change in life/lifestyle and am also looking to do it online.

          I am that dog...
          The dog in the story about a guy walking down a street and sees a dog on a porch moaning and groaning like he is in some kind of pain.

          The guy asks the dog owner,"why is your dog moaning and groaning?"

          Owner replies,"Dog's layin' on a nail."

          The guy asks the owner,"Well, why doesn't he get up and move?"

          Owner says,"It's not hurting him enough to get up and move, so he just lays there moaning and groaning."

          Personally, I feel like that dog. Life has me moaning and groaning(wanting a major change) but it isn't yet bad enough for me to get up and move off the nail(cold call).
          Boy do I identify with this. I think that people are motivated in different ways. What works for one doesn't work for another. Some have internal drive, some need external drive. Some love competition and crave companions on their journey, others love solitude and flourish alone.

          Me, I have a business already. My wife and I work together daily, we make decent money, have relative "job security" so to speak, and a fairly comfortable life. With that said, there are things I hate about it. They just aren't daily occurrences, and it is easy to forget the pain. No business or job is perfect anyway, they all have pain. But I do want to shift into marketing and consulting. It just isn't something I HAVE to do right now, so that makes it harder to find the motivation for me. Some days I have it, and I start to do things in that vein, but because my other work keeps me so busy, it is hard to get any momentum.

          I listen to a lot of business podcasts, and some of the most successful marketers and business owners resulted from some of the most down and out circumstances. A steady paycheck and relative security is like crack. It is addictive, and it holds you back. Those that started with nothing and had to make a go of marketing or whatever business they started because the alternative was homelessness or that their drug addiction would kill them or whatever their dire circumstances were ended up becoming wildly successful. Not that it is necessary for all to have motivation come from such hardships, but maybe some of us do need that.

          If nothing else, something that works for some may be competition. Cold calling isn't fun, but I did it for years and ran a department of people doing it. Sometimes I'd run competitions and pit one group of telemarketers against another. Suddenly a day with few leads turned into a great day, and the only thing that changed was what was at stake. It brought them energy that they needed to overcome their dread of calling that day. The fact that it was their job and they were being paid for it wasn't enough sometimes. We all have those days. Maybe there is something you could find to change the energy around it for you. Some people can work out alone and kill it, and others find that a personal trainer that kicks their butt is necessary. Maybe you just need a coach in your corner. I don't know what it is for you, maybe a mantra or a reward or something that will hit that spot in you. As for me, I just need to have someone in my corner, and my wife is slowly coming around to that. It is hard to do things alone, in a vacuum, for me. There's too much resistance otherwise. I'm making progress, slowly but surely. Hopefully you can find yours too.
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  • Profile picture of the author vndnbrgj
    Considering the cold calling mindset and law of averages....

    Let's look at some numbers.
    Let's say you are selling websites for $750.
    Your outsourcing costs are $250, leaving you $500.

    Now, let's say you get a 1% conversion rate.
    For every 100 calls you make you get 1 sale.
    If you divide your $500 profit by the 100 calls needed to make a sale, you get...
    $5 per call. Don't call is "fun calling"... it's "calls for cash"

    How many calls would you make if you knew you got paid $5 every time?
    Plus, the majority will say no and last 30 - 45 seconds, if that.

    Okay... Let's say you suck worse than average....
    Now it takes 200 calls to make a sale.
    That's still $2.50 a call as long as you call 200 people.
    Call 600 a week. 125 a day. You will make 3 sales for the week.
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    Life Begins At The End Of Your Comfort Zone
    - Neale Donald Wilson -
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  • Profile picture of the author Eddie Spangler
    I like 'Dialing for Dollars'

    Very conservative and doable numbers vberg.

    Even if you totally suck and only call 200 people per day ( only 25 per hr based on 8 hrs of calling) you can make one sale per week ( 1 out of 1000 people called) just by accident and
    net $500, thats not a lot but enough for most people to survive as their skills improve.
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    Promise Big.
    Deliver Bigger.
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  • Profile picture of the author The Offline Oracle
    Hey Mark,

    It's tough I have to admit. I'd prefer chew my own arm off rather then cold call. I'm in the websites business myself and have written a guide about what I do and how I do it. One of the chapters is about finding business (link here) and I suggest a few methods.

    There's one other method that I'm testing at the minute that also might work for you and it's using Slideshare. Drop me a PM if you was to know more about it. Not fully tested yet but at the moment I've gotten a very competitive keyword up to #35 in Google. I might give it another "shot in the arm" next week which hopefully will send it onto the first page. From there, you you can get the views, it should generate some leads.

    Good luck and keep the head up.....
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by The Offline Oracle View Post

      Hey Mark,

      It's tough I have to admit. I'd prefer chew my own arm off rather then cold call. I'm in the websites business myself and have written a guide about what I do and how I do it. One of the chapters is about finding business (link here) and I suggest a few methods.

      There's one other method that I'm testing at the minute that also might work for you and it's using Slideshare. Drop me a PM if you was to know more about it. Not fully tested yet but at the moment I've gotten a very competitive keyword up to #35 in Google. I might give it another "shot in the arm" next week which hopefully will send it onto the first page. From there, you you can get the views, it should generate some leads.

      Good luck and keep the head up.....
      Thanks for the help.

      Mark
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  • Profile picture of the author ronrule
    Cold calling now is more effective than ever, I don't understand why people are so afraid of it. Fewer companies are doing it, which makes the typical user experience with fielding calls less than it used to be, and the younger generation- likely the ones answering the phones now- have no social skills what so ever due to having more online interaction vs human and don't know how to say no or deflect.

    You have nothing but time right now. Why waste one cent on marketing when you can pick up the phone and make a human connection for free? Even if 99 out of 100 hang up on you, you could still be getting 2 or 3 sales a day. If you can't pick up the phone and sell your own product, you shouldn't be running a business.
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    Ron Rule
    http://ronrule.com
    As Seen On TV, Inc.

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    • Profile picture of the author trader909
      Banned
      Originally Posted by ronrule View Post

      Cold calling now is more effective than ever, I don't understand why people are so afraid of it. Fewer companies are doing it, which makes the typical user experience with fielding calls less than it used to be, and the younger generation- likely the ones answering the phones now- have no social skills what so ever due to having more online interaction vs human and don't know how to say no or deflect.

      You have nothing but time right now. Why waste one cent on marketing when you can pick up the phone and make a human connection for free? Even if 99 out of 100 hang up on you, you could still be getting 2 or 3 sales a day. If you can't pick up the phone and sell your own product, you shouldn't be running a business.
      so 1:100 agree..and that takes you all day? Some lifestyle there you have.

      IM'rs..cold calling for bis..The irony.
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      • Profile picture of the author ronrule
        Originally Posted by trader909 View Post

        so 1:100 agree..and that takes you all day? Some lifestyle there you have.

        IM'rs..cold calling for bis..The irony.
        Lets keep things in context, I'm not the one making any calls or in need of cash, just pointing out the law of averages. If your back is against the wall and you need an income, it's the easiest way to do it. No need to spend money on marketing, no need to waste time on SEO and wait for results, etc. If I was at rock bottom, I would pick up the phone and start making calls and turn it around.
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        Ron Rule
        http://ronrule.com
        As Seen On TV, Inc.

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  • Profile picture of the author DavidAllenNeron
    @Mark Hopkins

    I've browsed through the responses and I think something that could really help boost your profitability and give you a rock solid plan of attack is Richard Bandlers' Persuasion Engineering course.
    You can check out a few of the DVDs and get an idea of what it's all about here
    It's probably the best training on the subject, it's certainly the best training on the subject that I've come across.
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  • Profile picture of the author 102beano
    Food for thought:
    1. do you know anyone that has their own business that has been around a while? LIke a friend that has a restaurant, or a lawn service or a CPA or a dentist or an owner of a retail business? Talk to him and tell him that you will joint venture with him... you will offer new customers a 20% discount off of your normal pricing... and give him an example. He sends the offer out to his customers and you are overwhelmed. Of course, you will have to offer him something in return... LIKE BUILDING A NEW WEBSITE.
    2. Craigslist... put ads in, several a day at different times. Offer something free to get them to respond. Then followup either on the phone or with another email. I have read on this forum about guys getting a phenomenal response this way. Find something to offer them for free that has value... you also build up your own mailing list this way.

    Gotta start somewhere... go do it!
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  • Profile picture of the author Andra el
    Mr Mark can i PM you ... i think i need a personal discussion, i'm a newbie .. here.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Hey folks,

      Thanks for all the replies. At this point, it's clear to me that I do not have the motivation for an offline biz, despite the upside of the easy to reach market and profitability.

      I am developing a business that I am more motivated to do... if it doesn't pay the bills in time... I'll look for a job or gig or something to supplement... but if I stay focused on what interests me and where I have some strengths, I believe I will succeed.

      I will share more in the near future.

      Thanks,
      Mark
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      • Profile picture of the author hipeopo02
        Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

        At this point, it's clear to me that I do not have the motivation for an offline biz
        I hope this isn't your lead in to why you feel an online biz is right for you...:rolleyes:
        Signature
        A crappy product or service by people that disappear from the forum for a long period of time to make it look like they were working on something so when they come back you will want to click on their crappy product or service link

        CLICK HERE! LOL
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        • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
          Originally Posted by hipeopo02 View Post

          I hope this isn't your lead in to why you feel an online biz is right for you...:rolleyes:
          Actually, I was starting online businesses and got side tracked, due to my lack of funds... I only went after offline because it seemed like quicker money... and it probably is...but chasing money is not going to work for me. I need to work on stuff I feel confident in and motivated to do.

          I think I may have a way to reach out to offline businesses or even some online startups that could use my wordpress and other skills while I am building my online businesses... so I may yet find some freelance work so I don't have to get a job... we'll see.

          At some point, you all will probably see a WSO or free offer on the forum somewhere.
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          • Profile picture of the author IvoryPulse
            Just my two cents...

            When I was starting my business I didn't have a clue where to begin. After only a few calls and rejections I've realized I could use some references and positive feedbacks. So I've come up with an idea - I've created one simple web page for myself that should represent my (hopefully future) job and my offer. (I didn't use WP but Joomla, but that doesn't really matter). The offer was free Joomla website with just the cost of the hosting and domain. It was just a simple site with only basic menu items such as About us, Contact and short story about the client offer. Also, I came up with a lovely email letter with my offer that was sent over some time to every company I could think of.

            I've advertised my offer in local newsletters and in the local classifieds. All of that didn't cost me more than $10.

            Some people rejected my offer. Some were interested. Some accepted it. Some asked for additional, chargeable features and some stayed my long term clients. After only a few months I had references that I needed so much, happy clients and waiting list of future project.
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            • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
              Originally Posted by IvoryPulse View Post

              Just my two cents...

              When I was starting my business I didn't have a clue where to begin. After only a few calls and rejections I've realized I could use some references and positive feedbacks. So I've come up with an idea - I've created one simple web page for myself that should represent my (hopefully future) job and my offer. (I didn't use WP but Joomla, but that doesn't really matter). The offer was free Joomla website with just the cost of the hosting and domain. It was just a simple site with only basic menu items such as About us, Contact and short story about the client offer. Also, I came up with a lovely email letter with my offer that was sent over some time to every company I could think of.

              I've advertised my offer in local newsletters and in the local classifieds. All of that didn't cost me more than $10.

              Some people rejected my offer. Some were interested. Some accepted it. Some asked for additional, chargeable features and some stayed my long term clients. After only a few months I had references that I needed so much, happy clients and waiting list of future project.
              Sounds like a great way to do it. Thanks for the tips. I'll keep this in mind if I do end up looking for some offline clients.

              Right now I am excitedly working on my online project.

              Take care.
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      • Profile picture of the author trader909
        Banned
        Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

        Hey folks,

        Thanks for all the replies. At this point, it's clear to me that I do not have the motivation for an offline biz, despite the upside of the easy to reach market and profitability.

        I am developing a business that I am more motivated to do... if it doesn't pay the bills in time... I'll look for a job or gig or something to supplement... but if I stay focused on what interests me and where I have some strengths, I believe I will succeed.

        I will share more in the near future.

        Thanks,
        Mark
        That's good. If that's what you have decided on is best for you..good for you.
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  • Profile picture of the author dchestnut
    Hi. I can tell you what I did in a similar situation -- broke, no job and no money;

    I wrote a simple e-book that had to do with educating kids.

    I printed the e-book;

    I went to a cheap printer and use the few dollars I had and printed 10 copies at $1 each for a total expense of $10;

    I didn't even have a car at the time, so I took the public bus to a local middle class neighborhood.

    I then when door to door, found people at home, presented the booklet and sold it for $5 each, for a totally of $50.

    I then re-invest $10 dollars, purchased another 10 books and repeated the same process. I did this each day until I had enough funds to move on

    Door knocking sucks, but it works. Some people are A-holes, but you will find many who a quite hospitable and willing to listen to what you got to say.
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  • Profile picture of the author trader909
    Banned
    Cold calling. Phone spam.Should be illegal.

    Out of principal I avoid any bis with a cold caller!

    Get out there and meet bis owners.
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  • Profile picture of the author trader909
    Banned
    Correct if i am wrong but isn't cold calling illegal in the UK?

    I presume it isn't in the U.S.A.? Can't be.

    That would drive me nuts...every 10 min's some ****** trying to sell me some "marketing plan". Your phones mustn't stop ringing with this stuff? No wonder everyone hates it.

    put your-self in the "busy" owns shoes for moment.
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    • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
      Originally Posted by trader909 View Post

      Correct if i am wrong but isn't cold calling illegal in the UK?

      I presume it isn't in the U.S.A.? Can't be.

      That would drive me nuts...every 10 min's some ****** trying to sell me some "marketing plan". Your phones mustn't stop ringing with this stuff? No wonder everyone hates it.

      put your-self in the "busy" owns shoes for moment.
      I am a VERY busy multi-business owner - I get calls, most don't bother me. I have found some to be very useful. People who go around getting irritated at other for hustling and working hard probably go around life getting irritated at everything else too.

      When I do cold-call, I'm GLAD when someone is rude or hangs up - I'm glad they let me know they aren't someone I want to do business with.
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      Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.
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  • Profile picture of the author reboot38
    Great thread, awesome advice:

    I can already see you lining up reasons to explain a possible failure. Market is too small. I only have 400k in the area. I don't have enough capital. I don't have gas money. I don't like rejection.

    Look man forget all that. That's all your head trash and it will keep you from being the person you want to be. I hate to tell you that no matter what you try to succeed at in life will always evade you as long as there are reasons why.

    As humans - we are subconsciously afraid to put it all on the line because if we fail we think we have less value. So - we start coming up with these types of excuses IN ADVANCE.

    Its hard for everyone. We've all had to do it. You can do it too. But not until you take away ALL excuses and determine that you will make it happen no matter what. Take responsibility for your possible future failure. When my next failure comes (and it will) - I already know that it is ALL my fault and I didn't prepare my mind well enough.
    Thanks for that one Dan!
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    Snoop on your competitors, research keywords, run seo audits, monitor keywords, includes powerful PPC tools.
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  • Profile picture of the author jeffsolochek
    Originally Posted by Mark Hopkins View Post

    I am now unemployed... but really don't want to be employed. Eventually, I plan on building up an online business, and I found the niches that I am passionate about and will succeed at... but that will take time, and I will be out of money in 2 months... so I think the best choice for me is to sell services online and offline... that should be better than some part time or minimum wage job... right?

    I really hate cold calling and tried it for a couple of days to find website customers... and I just don't seem to have the stomach for it, nor can I do the hard sale. I know how to build wordpress sites and know I could help business with setting up websites, mobile sites, email campaigns, setting up their social media accounts... and most importantly, I can consult and explain marketing in user friendly terms. I also was able to find a decent helper for website work on odesk.

    The big problem for me is... how to I find clients offline and (and online as well) without cold calling, and with a small budget of $200.

    If you all can help me with this, it would probably be life changing for me... I really don't want to go find another job I hate... and in this current job climate, I think employers will see right through me.

    I don't mind calling leads that I've emailed or that have responded to ads... I'm very good with people one on one and did customer support in the past... I just clam up and can't be myself, or deal with the rejection of mass cold calling or in many cases cold visits to businesses... plus, I don't have the money to pay for gas to drive all over town just to prospect... I could make visits if I had made some sort of contact by phone or email and had a chance to earn some money...

    I read a suggestion on this forum and in a WSO to create videos and then email businesses with bad websites or no mobile site... that sounds like something I could do... but I was wondering if anyone had any real success with that tactic, given that many businesses are getting hammered with emails and calls from marketers. My local population is around 400k people.

    Thanks,
    Mark
    Put an ad on Craigslist in the customer service section in Jobs looking for commissioned telemarketers. Pay them when they actually get you a client. If you go to Craigslist and look in the Customer Service section under Jobs, you will see others that are doing this as well.
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    Jeff Solochek
    http://www.jeffreysolochek.com/blog
    http://www.networkcelebrity.com

    I also build blogs for companies and individuals

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  • Profile picture of the author royalgalaxy
    Pm me your email id... we can help you
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  • Profile picture of the author ATAC
    Hey Mark,
    I would suggest getting into selling leads to local business.
    You can make a lot of cash fairly easy and quick, along with being in high demand.

    Everyone wants leads and you can co reg them until you get your own website set up and ranking then sell the leads to multiple different business in the same niche. Also I like to use FB ads to a squeeze pages when I first get started to attract some leads but be sure to use tracking phone numbers you will get a better conversion rate if you have a phone number and you can even use a company like whispers to send it right to the buyers..

    What I mean by co reg is use other company's to buy the leads and if you set your ads up right can attract buyer leads and only pay for the buyer leads.

    Do a Google search online to find reputable co reg company's.
    I do not want anyone t think I am promoting any business is why I didn't give a name of the ones I use...

    I agree with Ron also.. Cold calling is key and one of my best skills but you are right it will get the best of you if you let it..
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  • Profile picture of the author AnneE
    Mark, I'm in a similar situation. I'm not unemployed YET, but soon will be and I have 6 months instead of 2, but really I only have about 2 months to try and prove I can earn money independently. If I fail during that time, I feel obligated to my husband to at least look for a 'real job'.

    Someone above said:
    Get the word out to these people and let them know you are starting your own web design and marketing firm and ask them for referrals, and keep asking and asking.
    So far, I mentioned to one friend that I was thinking of offering very simple websites -- the kind that solo or small business owners -- a personal trainer who works from home, a career counselor, a new haircutting place, etc -- might want, for a low cost. So far he has given me 3 names and numbers. I only called one so far and they didn't pan out, but the call was remarkably easy to make. If you can say, "I'm a friend of blah-blah and they suggested I call you.... they thought you might be interested in getting a website."

    It's amazing what being able to say 'so-and-so suggested I call you' does, both for your confidence and for people's willingness to listen. Suddenly they no longer feel like you are a stranger. You don't feel like a stranger.

    The quote above has made me realize that when I've exhausted my one friend's leads, that I should post on Facebook. Everyone loves the idea of helping someone else escape the Rat Race.

    Also, you mentioned you are new locally, and that a couple of the friends you do have are also web designers. Is either of them doing well enough that they can provide you work? Or are they scrounging?

    I guess the thing is, if you post on Facebook and people respond back and it is with out-of-town businesses, does that really matter? I mean you can do a web design for someone on the other side of the country.

    Also, to save gas, if you do decide you are going to just enter businesses in person, find a place to park where you can walk to several businesses.

    Keep going and good luck!!!
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  • Profile picture of the author Rearden
    Just walk in and see people in person.

    I swear I used to be afraid to call Pizza Hut as a kid.

    I absolutely hate walking through the local crowded yuppy organic grocery store.

    I am downright awkward at times.

    But I can walk through any door, any business, anytime.

    ...But I was first completely afraid to do so.

    What happened? I found out I was 5 cold knocks away from being totally comfortable with the process.

    That's it. Only 5.

    The key to success is to "see the people." You don't need direct mail, postcards, flyers, some kid flipping a sign around in circles, or spam-a-geddon campaigns.

    You really don't even need a phone.

    I challenge you to walk into 20 doors. Starting tomorrow.

    Ask for the owner. If the secretary punts you, leave and go right to the next prospect.

    When you speak with the owner, put your hand out to shake his, introduce yourself, and ask him for a 5-minute appointment to show him what you have to offer.

    Don't worry -- he won't mind the appointment going longer than 5 if he's interested.

    Odds are you'll set a handful of appointments, get to speak to about 1/3 to 1/2 of small business owners, and get good, rock solid information you can act on over the next months and years.

    *There is no way you WON'T make money, just by walking into 30 doors, even 20 doors, a day, 5 days a week.*
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    David Duford -- Providing On-Going, Personalized Mentorship And Training From A Real Final Expense Producer To Agents New To The Final Expense Life Insurance Business.
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    • Profile picture of the author IvoryPulse
      Originally Posted by Rearden View Post

      Just walk in and see people in person.
      ...
      *There is no way you WON'T make money, just by walking into 30 doors, even 20 doors, a day, 5 days a week.*
      I really, truly envy people who have enough self confidence and nerves to do this.
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      • Profile picture of the author DaniMc
        Originally Posted by IvoryPulse View Post

        I really, truly envy people who have enough self confidence and nerves to do this.
        Don't envy - emulate.

        Do you think people get good at something before they do it? Nope.

        Everybody sucks at everything when they start. You just gotta do it anyway. Eventually, the self confidence comes.

        Don't fall into the trap of thinking confidence comes first. It does not.

        I guarantee you Rearden felt just like everyone else when he got started. Pulling up in the parking lot, finding any and every reason not to go inside. Making up excuses. Getting "busy" at the coffee shop or book store. Being disgusted with himself that he didn't go in when he knew he should have.

        Only time, and practice, overcomes those nerves.

        Don't do it for the money - do it because you have to overcome some personal weakness. Do it because it scares you. Until you overcome it, your life will be controlled by it.
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        Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.
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      • Profile picture of the author Rearden
        Trust me. I've just learned to mute the big puss reaction to prospecting 95 percent of the time.

        Even the best still have butterflies doing it.

        They just learn to deal with it.

        Originally Posted by IvoryPulse View Post

        I really, truly envy people who have enough self confidence and nerves to do this.
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        David Duford -- Providing On-Going, Personalized Mentorship And Training From A Real Final Expense Producer To Agents New To The Final Expense Life Insurance Business.
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    • Profile picture of the author altitudemarketer
      Originally Posted by Rearden View Post

      Just walk in and see people in person.

      I swear I used to be afraid to call Pizza Hut as a kid.

      I absolutely hate walking through the local crowded yuppy organic grocery store.

      I am downright awkward at times.

      But I can walk through any door, any business, anytime.

      ...But I was first completely afraid to do so.

      What happened? I found out I was 5 cold knocks away from being totally comfortable with the process.

      That's it. Only 5.

      The key to success is to "see the people." You don't need direct mail, postcards, flyers, some kid flipping a sign around in circles, or spam-a-geddon campaigns.

      You really don't even need a phone.

      I challenge you to walk into 20 doors. Starting tomorrow.

      Ask for the owner. If the secretary punts you, leave and go right to the next prospect.

      When you speak with the owner, put your hand out to shake his, introduce yourself, and ask him for a 5-minute appointment to show him what you have to offer.

      Don't worry -- he won't mind the appointment going longer than 5 if he's interested.

      Odds are you'll set a handful of appointments, get to speak to about 1/3 to 1/2 of small business owners, and get good, rock solid information you can act on over the next months and years.

      *There is no way you WON'T make money, just by walking into 30 doors, even 20 doors, a day, 5 days a week.*
      Yes, this does seem like the absolute, most effective way to get to interested prospects the fastest.
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  • Profile picture of the author ronrule
    It's kind of like asking out a girl.

    As teenagers we created barriers for ourselves due to a lack of confidence - fear of rejection, fear of being laughed at, whatever. But then you get a little older and more comfortable talking to women, and you realize how stupid your fears were and kick yourself for not making a move more often back then when you were in way better shape and probably could have scooped up a few, lol. I don't know about you guys, but dude if I had the personal confidence then that I have now, I could have had a different girl every week.

    The sales process works the same way in a lot of respects. If you know you're good at what do, and you know your product is going to solve their problem, you have everything you need. If you know that you could close the sale if they called you, then the process will work the other way too.

    So what if someone hangs up the phone or shuts the door in your face? I'd prefer that over being "politely" allowed to finish my pitch, then told they weren't interested or couldn't afford it. The sooner they shoot you down, the more time you have free'd up to find someone else.
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    Ron Rule
    http://ronrule.com
    As Seen On TV, Inc.

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    • Profile picture of the author thriftgirl62
      I don't know what date this is but if you haven't found anything to do with your time, give me a call at 209-487-0309 anytime day or night. That line only rings when I'm online so don't worry about time zones. I have no calendar, clock or schedule and I like it like that.

      I can get you started doing just about anything for no upfront expenes. NONE. When you start making money, you pay me 10% of the gross for as long as you stay in business. I've got so many programs, lifetime memberships, hosting, domains, etc.. alraedy paid for, you don't need to spend a dime. That goes for anyone who happens to read this.

      WHY? I'm a bit eccentric, have no bills and like to buy new stuff and need help implementing all these programs. No catches or hidden agendas. My main websites are: cez1.net and my son's jahda.com which still needs to be finished and so does this one: productioncarcare.com Name your niche and I bet I've got the research already done for you!
      Signature

      I retired in 2005 at 43 and now I give away websites like these for FREE [hosting excluded]

      When you make at least $100+ per month, we split the profit 80/20 and YOU get the 80% Until then, you keep 100% and I'll help you drive traffic, get backlinks and put the domain in your name too!
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