Q I am thinking about doing something similar to List FX but in another niche. The problem is I don’t have the contacts to do the interviews. Many of the gurus in the field will be at a cruise in November that I will be attending. Should I wait until then to approach them or should I try to contact them now? Also should I build the website first to build credibility or get the contacts first? How did Keith meet you and approach you for List FX?

A: People ask this question frequently. They want to know how to get the interviews. You know what? It’s really not that hard.

Some people may be worried that it’s like trying to get someone to endorse your product with a testimonial or to get them to promote your product but it’s much easier to get a “yes” to an interview.

Most people love publicity and they are more receptive to a request to answer some questions for the greater good of others than they are to send out an email to their list about the product. So, have confidence and don’t be afraid to approach people.

Start by emailing or calling people:

- Tell them about your project and how the information will be used.

- Tell them why you think they’re an ideal person to be interviewed and tell them how their information has already been useful to you and your readers.

- Illustrate how it will be good publicity for them (but don’t overdo it if your project isn’t likely to generate tons of publicity) and that it will help your readers tremendously.

If you’re using the interview on a paid product, many people will still come on board. Just be sure to offer them the full rights to their interview (which means they can give it away, sell it or add it to a package, etc.) and give them a boosted commission if they decide to promote your product.

Of course, you may iron out other deals, but that seems to be a standard acceptable offer. If you’re going to do an audio interview, you might go the extra mile by offering them the transcripts of the audio as well.

Don’t be shy. Email works, but a phone call is probably better.

Now, in this case, this gentleman is likely to meet a lot of his potential interviewees in November. He’ll probably get more yesses then, but there’s no reason to start contacting people now. If you don’t get a response or they say no, you have a chance to warm them up in November. Asking someone for an interview when you don’t know them isn’t likely to burn any bridges for a future partnership.

As far as how Keith contacted me. He simply emailed me. He complimented me on some things he’d observed me do with my email marketing and asked for the interview. I said yes.

See, it was that easy!

You can learn more about the ListFX project by clicking here. While you’re there, be sure to grab the awesome audios on email marketing…the price is unbeatable. Then watch the marketing unfold.

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