Archive for the ‘Special Internet Marketing Guests’ Category

I just read a recent hiring trend report from Elance.com hiring trends for February and found that article writing is one of the top 5 skills that businesses are outsourcing to freelancers. It’s really no surprise, especially since Elance caters mostly to online businesses. After all, what is the Internet made of? Images and WORDS…and it’s those words that are crucially important.

And believe me, most Internet marketers don’t have either the skill or the time to write – or both – and that means a lucrative opportunity for people like you with some writing skills.

But outside of article writing, there are other in-demand skills for online ghostwriting, such as copywriting, blogs, press releases, email marketing, white papers and more. This means less competition for you and more opportunities to specialize and actually charge MORE for your services.

If you’ve been thinking of breaking into ghostwriting and doing it quickly, I recommend this guide to ghostwriting. It will show you:

- How to market your services without spending on advertising
- Where to find clients with deep pockets
- Why and how to put up a professional website
- Which industries are virtual gold mines for ghostwriters
- How much to charge to actually make profit
- How to set yourself apart from your competition
- How to develop your portfolio especially when you haven’t had a single client yet

…and more!

To have a successful ghostwriting business, you need the right tools and strategies that successful entrepreneurs use. This guide gives you the stories of two successful ghostwriters who earn a full-time income writing from home. Not only are they inspirational, but they give some great tips too.

The best part is, because this guide is written for Moms, the price is just right. In fact, you’ll easily earn back the cost of this guide with your first writing assignment. I better just stop writing about it and let you check it out yourself. Click here to learn more about the Just Add Sweat Home Business Ideas for Women, Get Paid to Write: Become a Ghostwriter.

When it comes to any business, you surely know there will be both ups and downs. Sometimes however it becomes really hard to make it through the rough times and the easy option of giving up entirely comes to mind. The same is possible with direct sales business and you can find yourself slowly losing the drive you used to have. Then you may find yourself wondering why you ever started this in the first place.
Hitting a low is normal with any business at some point. This does not mean there is no way to combat these feelings while empowering yourself to keep the drive rolling. I’m going to share 3 ways to keep the drive in your direct sales business in a positive direction.
1. Set your smaller, weekly goals to help achieve the goal you wish to accomplish as long term goal. Here are some good weekly goals to help you keep up your drive to succeed:

* A good weekly goal for the number of shows to hold a week is three. If for some chance you don’t get your bookings from shows it’s time to start making phone calls. Maybe the timing wasn’t good for them to book when they attended a show before, but that might have changed. You won’t know if you don’t pick up the phone and call them back.

* Fix a dollar amount in sales you wish to reach each week. What amount does your family need to pay the bills, or to treat hubby or the kids with something they have been wishing for? Calculate your commission and set your goal to sell the amount you need every week. Make a decision how many shows you need to do to reach that dollar amount, and set your goals for each demonstration accordingly.

2. When you find your drive slowing down compared to before, and it’s going to happen, take the time to give your business a boost by setting up a block of time to make warm market calls and a few cold market calls. During tough economic times your personal resources such as family and friends may come to a screeching halt. It’s time to find new resources, and warm market calls along with some cold market calls may just be the tune up your direct sales business needs to kick start you business again with a whole new set of people you may never have reached before. Don’t fear or be intimidated by picking up the phone and making those calls.
3.
Maybe your drive is slowing down due to a previous goal not being met, and you suddenly feel like you have failed with your business. This is absolutely not true. The only chance you have of failing is when you give up. In order to get that drive rolling again, pick some new and exciting goals to set. Maybe the company is offering new incentives for sales or recruits, and you can reset your goals to reach these new incentives. Goals can be changed, just don’t stop setting them and striving towards reaching them. You will never stop growing if you always have goals.

Just as with anything in life which is worth doing, you have to keep working at it. It’s possible that things won’t always come naturally, or run as smoothly as you would like when it comes to securing bookings, finding new recruits or even selling products. For those who stick to the task while reassessing their business at regular intervals as keep driving their business forward will be successful in the end. Use the tips mentioned above as part of your action plan and you’re sure to be successful in your direct sales business.
Need More Help? It’s Here:
Get your direct sales guide to make the most of your direct sales business. Whether you’re just thinking of getting started or need some help getting more results, this is the guide for you.

With any business, there are bound to be ups and downs, but sometimes the rough times really make it very easy to consider giving up altogether. With a business in direct sales, sometimes it can seem like the energy is dwindling and it all too possible to find yourself asking “Why did I start this again?”
If you start feeling down and out with your business venture, rest assured it’s a normal occurrence in any business and one time or another. However, there is no need to become discouraged about it, because I’m about to fill you in on 3 ways to keep your energy levels up with direct sales businesses.
1. To assist in reaching your long term goal, set smaller goals you can accomplish every week. Some easy to keep, energy saving goals to keep you going are:

* When you initially set your short term goals, you were probably booking three per week. Keep this as your weekly goal. If people aren’t booking at your presentations, take out your client information from previously held shows and start calling people. You might remember someone who showed an interest but didn’t book at the time of the initial show. Their circumstances may have changed, and calling them might just prove fruitful.

* Give yourself a set dollar amount to reach each week in sales. This could depend on your family’s needs at this time, or just be an amount to buy those little extras you normally aren’t able to treat yourself to. Calculate your commission then set those goals to reach that amount. Calculate how many shows you need to hold to reach this new goal in terms of dollar amounts, and set your show goals accordingly too.

2. When you find your business is lacking in energy a bit, and yes, it will, take the time to do some reenergizing by picking up the phone. In tough economic times like we are living now, your usual resources like friends and family as well and their friends and family may have run dry, and you need to find new resources. This is a great opportunity to make some warm and cold market calls. Warm market and cold market calls may just do the trick to not only reenergize your business with new contacts but also renew your own supply of energy, and all with some simple phone calls. Don’t be shy, it’s all worth it.
3.
Perhaps your energy is dwindling as a result of you feeling you have failed because you didn’t meet a certain goal you had set for yourself. You most certainly have not failed. The only time you can fail is when you stop trying. To get energy flowing into your business again, take the time to set some new goals for yourself. Maybe the company has a fantastic trip you could win with new recruits this quarter, or there are new incentives for sales. If this is the case, set your new goals to relate to these opportunities. A goal can always be changed, just as long as you don’t stop making them. Strive to reach even the smallest of goals, and you as well as your business will never stop growing.

You really have to work at anything in life worth doing. When it comes to selling products, booking shows and finding recruits, it doesn’t always happen naturally. Anyone who sticks to it consistently while doing routine energy checks for their business will be able to push it forward to a successful end. Take the tips provided here and put them into action. Your direct sales business, as well as you personally, will be a great success.
Need More Help? It’s Here:
Get your direct sales guide to make the most of your direct sales business. Whether you’re just thinking of getting started or need some help getting more results, this is the guide for you.

Chances are you’re not a natural born leader if you are reading this. Natural born leaders already know they are leader material, and they have what it takes without needing articles on leadership. It’s already part of who they are.
So, how do you know if you have what it takes to be a fantastic leader if it’s not part of who you are? Leadership is a skill that can be taught and learned. I know this for a fact. I have had to learn what being a leader really means because I am not a natural born leader. There are some areas where I have had to grow so they now come naturally to me. Trust me, if I can do it, so can you.
Let me share with you some things I have done personally to strengthen my leadership skills. These are things that require time, effort and possibly even some money. I believe helping others is the best investment there is. This is what you should be doing in a leadership position, helping others. If your reasons for looking into a leadership position are anything different than this, such as credit, glory or recognition you are doing it for all the wrong reasons. This could also mean that you won’t have this leadership position for long if you are only thinking of yourself.
Let’s start with the first thing you should do. Take the time to examine yourself by asking questions such as:
* What are my strong points? Do I naturally socialize or am I reserved and shy? Being naturally social you shouldn’t have any trouble talking to people at all. If you are naturally shy however, this point is going to take some work. My recommendation in this case is to consider taking classes or reading up on building you self confidence.

* Can I prioritize my time effectively and stay organized? If organization doesn’t come naturally to you this is one area you can practice. How should you accomplish this? Get some DVD’s or watch different shows on the subject of organization. Organization is something you can learn, just like you can learn time management. You could consider classes, or ask for advice and pointers from your up line.

* Can I be an available leader? Will I be able to take time from my own schedule to be there for my clients as well as my recruits? Do I get annoyed if they need me to help with an urgent question or an emergency outside of designated hours? It could happen that your recruit needs an immediate answer to a question whose answer could be what she needs to secure a sale or booking. Is this going to be a problem? As a leader you need to be both patient and understanding. It is entirely possible to learn these qualities as well, although it takes practicing patience to actually learn it.
*
Do I have a good attitude? Am I bordering on snobbish, or have the attitude that I’m superior to others? Can I remember that I, too made mistakes and others are also allowed to make them? Do I learn from my mistakes quickly or drag them out and dwell on them? If you have a defeatist attitude on a regular basis, allowing your own mistakes, as well as those of others to bring you down it will be very difficult for you to be a successful leader. Someone somewhere is going to point out your mistakes, so it’s best to get over them quickly, learning from it as you move on. You can’t let one mistake prevent you from getting to your own goals.

Great leadership takes a good attitude, strength, patience and perseverance. When you can find all of those traits are now combined within your personal being, you have leadership potential. The tips provided here coupled with some reading on the subject of leadership as well as possibly attending leadership workshops will permit you to be a good leader.

Need More Help? It’s Here:
Get your direct sales guide to make the most of your direct sales business. Whether you’re just thinking of getting started or need some help getting more results, this is the guide for you.

When you build your direct sales business, you will see it takes determination, stamina and perseverance, especially if you want to remain strong-standing with a thriving company that is constantly growing for you. The question is how do you build a business once the newness and rush start to dwindle?

Here are 3 things you should do immediately to lay the foundation and create a successful direct sales business.

1. Attend a team meeting right away. By making the mistake of procrastinating on this one, you are possibly missing out on some very valuable information. Don’t put off attending team meetings until after your first show. Also, thinking you will start later will not be of any help to you. Get going to the next available team meeting.

There is so much to learn at team meetings. Not only will you receive positive influences from those who are goal oriented as well, you will have the opportunity to hear how they make their direct sales goals and dreams come true. You will also probably have access to additional information to assist you with your business and personal motivation.

Another good tip: Block meeting nights in your schedule from day one. A common mistake made my new recruits is not taking control of their schedule. If you highlight that block of time in your planner, you will be less likely to schedule during those hours. Team meetings are an important part of your success, so make sure you schedule them in weekly or monthly so you are able to attend.

2. Goal setting. At team meetings usually the company announces any incentives you will learn what incentives are being offered to recruits and for sales. Use this information to set your goals.

Not a prize-oriented person? You can still set your goals according to the monetary amount you wish to achieve. Calculate the amount you need to sell to reach that income bracket. Once this is done, book your shows accordingly.

There comes a time in direct sales when you need to look for people outside of your comfort zone of friends and family. When you build your business by starting with step one above, this should come easily for you. You are often meeting new people, so keep an eye out for those who get excited about a product they love, as well as possibly looking for extra income or a change in career. If they are able to set and meet their own goals, have the drive needed and are goal oriented, they may just be waiting for this opportunity.

3. Keep the momentum going. A few rejections shouldn’t get in the way of your business growing, or leave you with even a thought of giving up. Your business will grow stronger with determinations and perseverance, so keep pushing through the tough times until the good times are found again, providing you with a great feeling of accomplishment.

With your goals set high enough to work, yet low enough to reach, with determination and drive you can attain each one of them. There are bound to be set backs and stumbles along the way, but knowing this from the beginning will leave you the room to readjust your goals while you stick with it. By not giving up when things aren’t going as you planned, you will come out of the storm stronger and more determined because of it.

A fun, exciting and rewarding experience can be found in building a direct sales business. You will meet an abundance of people along this journey; some will become teammates and others your customers. Keep in mind that without them, your business will not reach its full potential so choose wisely and work hard at helping these people fulfill whatever role they may play in your business.

Persevere, stand strong and carry on during the slow periods, instead of letting them get you down. Keep your goals in mind at all times, and consider using visual motivators such as posters with a picture of the car you want, or that dream trip you are working towards. You can even post the dollar amount in view, while you make a plan and work towards it. Before you know it, you will have a successful and prosperous direct sales business at your fingertips.

Need More Help? It’s Here:

Get your direct sales guide to make the most of your direct sales business. Whether you’re just thinking of getting started or need some help getting more results, this is the guide for you.

There can be great advantages to a career in direct sales if you want your own business and the freedom to create your own financial future. If you are your own boss you can set your own timetable, decide how much you want to earn and maybe get yourself some luxury extras like jewelry or a smart car. Before spending money on a direct sales business, do some research, because some companies are better than others and some turn out to be little more than scam operations.

Here are some things you should think about before signing yourself over to a direct sales company.

Test the Product

You’ll be investing your money in what you sign up to sell, so choose wisely. If you like and trust the product, you shouldn’t have a problem. If you don’t like a company’s products or services, that doesn’t bode well for your sales prospects. Remember that your recruiter makes money from your sales, so don’t let yourself be coerced. Helping family and friends also won’t work if you don’t believe in the product.

Is All Well Up Line?

A direct sale uses a chain of up and down line sellers and recruiters to generate profits. Is the product and company working for your recruiter? What about his or her up line? If not, there might be a reason that will also apply to you and your profits. Don’t hesitate to ask for information on profitability in the sales chain.

Do Your Business Homework

It’s a good idea to check whether the company you’re thinking of joining has a track record and isn’t going to be here today and gone tomorrow. Just because a company is new doesn’t mean it’s doomed to failure but you still need to assess how it will hold up under pressure if the going gets tough. You can protect yourself by researching the company, finding out about its credentials, its owners, sales representatives and general reputation.

Make Sure the Product Exists

Some direct sales companies say that they have a product to sell but what they actually market is the idea that people can make money with a business of their own, sometimes with some services thrown in – but these aren’t necessarily something you want to try to sell. Some of these companies are only getting profits from those down line, lower in the sales chain, and are really just looking for gullible people to fleece.

Some direct sales opportunities may be better suited to your needs than others. Shop around to find the direct sales opening that is right for you. Make sure it’s for real and that you’re not just being sucked into a fraudulent scheme that isn’t going to bring you financial reward. Don’t sign up until you’ve done some thorough research into how direct sales should work. These four bits of advice are the main things you need to bear in mind before becoming a direct sales company rep.

Need More Help? It’s Here:

Get your direct sales guide to make the most of your direct sales business. Whether you’re just thinking of getting started or need some help getting more results, this is the guide for you.

Direct sales businesses have many attractions. Setting your own income and being your own boss are two of the appealing features. On the down side is the temptation to acquire the whole product range the company offers. Another problem is that people are tempted to chuck in their day job straight away and go into direct sales full time.

The temptation to sign up can be so hard to resist!

When you’re going the recruiting stage you’ll hear plenty about the wonders of self-employment, controlling your income, flexible working and many other benefits. Everyone would like a new car for nothing and the chance to opt out of the nine to five routine. In spite of these charms, you should be very careful before committing yourself. These are some things to bear in mind:

* Successful businesses don’t happen instantly. You’ll have to put in dedicated, hard work before you get the things you want. A profitable income isn’t going to suddenly appear on the basis of a few hours work a week.

* Finding customers can be harder than you think. You’ll have to advertise, make calls and seek out clients and if that’s not your bag then direct sales might not be your answer.

* You need good administrative skills. If you’re badly organized you’ll either have to change and clean up your act or you’ll need help. You have to keep good records from day one, not start putting things in order at tax time. You’ll find yourself in a living nightmare if you do – trust me.

* Direct sales work is a series of parties. This is a myth. Holding parties is a small part of the job, and you’ll have a bunch of other tasks as well. If you recognize this, you should do okay.

Buying your company’s products for yourself can be a massive temptation. If you’re a rep for a candle company like Mia Bella, you may be tempted to acquire half the range for your self. Make sure you appreciate the difference between knowing your product and wasting your money on nice things just because you’re a candle fan.

You may be able to compromise by making use of the samples that many companies distribute. You can learn and try out the product this way in order to help your selling. It’s a lot more economical than buying the full size product all the time.

Don’t resign just yet because the transition to generating income from direct sales isn’t going to be that simple. Building a business is a process and if you want to keep your income on an even keel while you switch over you’ll need to find some patience. If you can develop your sales business part-time and jump ship when it’s working smoothly, your life will be a lot easier.

Direct sales opportunities can blind you with all their many attractions. In the long run you should be able to achieve them with your flourishing direct sales business. The smart way is to plan carefully and do the right things from the word ‘go’.

Need More Help? It’s Here:

Get your direct sales guide to make the most of your direct sales business. Whether you’re just thinking of getting started or need some help getting more results, this is the guide for you.

If you’re an affiliate marketer and have dabbled with PLR (private label rights) content or have thought about getting started, here are a few strategic ideas to make your job easier.

Use PLR Content to Create A Special Report Or EBook.

An abundance of PLR content is easily organized by topic and used to compile eBooks or special reports. This specialized content can then be branded for product promotion with your own custom graphics and embedded links. Once the product is ready to go you can distribute it to your affiliates which they can then rebrand and use to market their business.

If you’re looking for more website traffic, and profits, then providing PLR eBooks offers a high return on investment. Your affiliates appreciate the tools to build and market their business and your business audience awareness grows with each new person they connect with.

Private Label eBooks.

PLR eBooks are available for purchase and can be used just like a collection of PLR articles to rebrand and distribute to affiliates. A little editing and modification, adding your own links and logo, will make a great product. The benefit is twofold, you benefit by driving traffic and sales to your website and your affiliates gain a very cost effective tool to increase their commissions.

The Ever Flexible PLR Article

PLR content is designed to be ready to use however it’s also a very flexible medium which can be changed with relative ease. A short promotion paragraph, added at the end of the article, is a simple process. A few sentences, scattered throughout the article, can be written to promote a specific product or service. Your modified PLR content can then be provided to your affiliate team who can use the content to build their business in whatever means they choose including but not limited to blog posts and email marketing.

Review for Your Products and Services

As stated earlier, PLR comes in many shapes and forms including software products and the all valuable product reviews. Product reviews are a very strategic resource for affiliate marketers because they’re perceived as an authentic and credible source, much more effective than an article which comes across as a sales piece. Affiliate marketers can use PLR product reviews and brand them with their own affiliate link, thus driving traffic and sales.

PLR content is a valuable resource if you’re looking to boost your search engine traffic, create a product for resale, or simply as a relationship building and marketing tool. Motivated affiliates enjoy the simplicity and effectiveness of PLR content as a savvy business building tool. PLR content, because it comes ready to go and is easily shaped to fit any business needs, saves busy affiliate marketers both time and money.