What Online Business Help Do You Need?
[Due to the huge response to this post, I have cut off comments at this time. I’ve approved or responded to everybody’s questions as best I could over the last two days. Thank you very much for your questions. I hope this was helpful.]
I get massive amounts of email, way too much to answer even one percent of it every day.
Most of the people who send me emails need help with their online business in one way or another. They’re confused, or stuck, or don’t even know where to start.
What’s probably surprising to a lot of people, maybe even you, is that I really DO understand where you’re coming from…because I came from there myself.
Most of you know that I’ve been running a successful Internet business for six years now, since 2002. But successful today doesn’t mean I started that way. Let me tell you a bit of my story so you’ll understand why it makes sense to listen to the advice I’m going to offer you.
I started from scratch, with no money, no JV partners, no list, no advantages at all, really. In that sense, I can relate to anybody out there who’s starting from scratch and feels kind of lost and overwhelmed. I’ve been there!
As I learned what worked and what didn’t, I made a ton of mistakes. I had to spend (and waste) a bunch of money on trial and error. I got frustrated. There were many times I want to dump it all. Sound familiar?
Now I have a business that gives me financial freedom I could only dream of six years ago. Here’s what I mean…
I’m the top affiliate for most product launches I JV for, and I have raked in big profits from product launches, firesales, giveaways, resale rights, you name it.
My email promos regularly bring in five figures, and I’m earning more in passive income in a month than many people make in a year slaving at a desk.
I have an opt-in list of active readers who buy like crazy when I promote something, which I only do when I’m really behind it. That kind of list performance is probably why I get dozens of JV proposals every week.
And my products get endorsements from respected online experts like Allan Gardyne, Paul Myers, Jimmy D. Brown, Jim Daniels and others.
Absolutely none of that is to boast about how good I am. I told you that story so you’ll know that the advice I give is based on a level of success I bet most of you want. I’m no genius, but I’m not just “lucky” either. I’ve learned how to do this, and I want to teach you. I get all sorts of invitations to speak at big IM events, but I choose to teach only through my products, newsletter and blog. Today is an example of that.
If I had more time, I could answer emails and blog comments all day, but I’m one guy with a business to run. That said, I’m going to take a little time to teach this week. So consider this post an open invitation to ask me anything you want to.
You can ask about getting your business going, success factors, how to build a list, or anything else you want. I’ll hang out for the next two days to answer questions (not with a response time of seconds, but pretty quick during the day).
I really do care about helping all of you, but I have to manage how I do it. Posts like this are one simple way I can balance helping people and running my own business.
Be sure to bookmark this post and come back regularly to comment and read my answers to other people’s questions.
Have you always wanted to ask questions about your business, but you didn’t want to pay thousands of dollars for a few hours of a business coach’s time? Here’s your chance.
Go ahead and ask away!
About the Author
Michael Rasmussen is a successful Internet Marketing Consultant and author of many top-selling eBooks. Michael has been marketing online since the early days and he knows what it takes to make money and succeed online. Stop by his Web site and subscribe to his Free monthly newsletter full strategies and techniques for successful web site promotions that can help YOU! Go to http://www.MichaelRasmussen.com
From Marina Currie
Hi, I need help with getting paid for taking surveys online.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Will
Hi Michael,
Ok, if you lost it all and needed to start again from scratch with just $100 in your pocket what would you do and why ?
Look forward to your reply.
Will
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Meshullam Williamson
My biggest problem is operating an autoresponer and finding html code on certain ones’s such as aweber………thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Laura
What are the top 5 mistakes you made in the beginning, that you wished you could’ve avoided?
Thanks!
Laura
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Eugene
Hi, I have the following questions:
1)Is purchasing lists (email lists from list brokers ) a good way to get started?
2)If we were to purchase a list (of emails ) to get started, what is the best way to email them?
3)Any list brokers to recommend?
Best Regards,
Eugene
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Diane Corriette
Hi Michael
I have a question but not so much in need of help. Hope its ok to include it.
With so many people wanting to achieve online business success how many years would you say it honestly takes.
For you by your second year your income had obviously increased substantially. What do you think makes the difference between someone who makes alot of money after only 2 years and one that takes 5 years? Is there something you did in particular?
I’ve been online for 3 years and feel like I am only now finding my feet. The first 18 months I moved from one thing to another! It also took a while to get out of being “marketed to” and deciding to be the “marketer” - that’s when things changed for me.
Did you just decide to focus on one thing in your second year and stick to it?
Most people take 3-5 years. Mike Filsaime and all the others. Dr Mani says it takes 7 years. The average seems to be 5 years but you broke the average so it would be great if you could share what you think it might have been.
best wishes
Diane
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Marina,
I’m sorry that I can’t recommend taking surveys online as a way to generate income. It sure sounds great, doesn’t it? That’s part of the problem.
I’ve actually looked into this, and I can say that almost every survey “opportunity” I’ve seen charges you a fee to get their database of survey companies (typically $30-40). That’s not necessarily bad, but the problem is with the survey companies they recommend.
Most survey companies tell you you’ll get paid with cash OR points for products at certain retailers. You might very well get some cash, but I suspect you’ll get points 99% of the time. Points are great for shopping, but unfortunately, they don’t pay the rent.
If you want to investigate this for yourself, you’re welcome to, but I can’t recommend it. There are better options out there that can put real cash in your pocket reliably.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From stanley
where to start to get real internet income.
1. creating minisites for adsense
2. affiliate sites
3. BANS
4. ecommerce sites.
or all the above. what percentage each business should one have.
others: membership sites, niche blog.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Femi
Any suggestion on writing great content for sites?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Nazrul
Hi. I’m new in this internet marketing. Where can i find information about profitable niche?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Pam-ella
How do you go about setting a plan and goals to start an online business. I have no ideas. I just don’t know where and how to start.
Pamella
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bruce
What is the fastest, least expensive way/place that I can have a ebook produced for me. There is a ebook that I have been selling as an affiliate that seems to do very well. I would like to create my own version of it and get all the money instead of half the money. Problem is I don;t have time or patience to do the re-write myself.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Colin Klinkert
Heya Mike,
No qs. at this stage, just want to say you are an inspiration to many in our niche. Keep up the good work!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Angie
Newb “What Next” Help Needed!
1. I have a product I believe in;
2. I have a squeeze page, with call to action button above the fold, bullets left, constantly optimizing, (and links to your info!);
3. I have an auto-response program but not sure I need to keep paying for it with a list of less than 50;
4. I had paid Google ads but at $400 a month I had to stop, so now I have zero new traffic coming in;
5. I have a blog, with articles I update several times a week;
6. Now I’m trying to write articles (with my contact box) so I can get backlinks to my blog, and hence traffic to the blog & squeeze page??
Write articles… about my product? Or about… what? My thoughts? I have no expertise yet so how can I write about anything useful. I know you guys are big on outsourching the writing, but I’d really like to write things myself - but I’m stuck on content. HELP! I’m getting no traffic!!
Thanks in advance,
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Will,
Good question.
If I had to start again from scratch with just $100, I would start by looking for desperate buyers in a given niche market. Who has a problem they REALLY want to fix?
There’s no real science to it–it’s more art. But you can Google “[niche] forum” and find active forums with people who are desperate for solutions.
Then I would do some online research and write a short, simple report about solving the problem. I’d write it myself, since I only have $100 in my pocket, right?
Once I have that, I’d spend just a little bit of money.
First, I’d buy a domain for my niche market. It would cost me $9 for a year at NameCheap.
I’d buy a month of hosting. There are lots of options out there, including HostGator, which comes highly recommended by lots of marketers. Their middle package will cost me $7.95 a month. In round figures, I’m up to $17 spent.
Then I’d sign up for an autoresponder to build a list, which is where you’ll make most of your money. I can actually save you some serious time and money there. Lots of people face a real challenge with the “tech stuff”, and they don’t have a lot of money to spend for writers. That’s why I set up this offer:
http://www.michaelrasmussen.com/video/killer-emails/
The offer lets you sign up for my own autoresponder service for a FREE for a month to try it. I throw in 30 free email promos that I wrote (people offer me $500 to write just one), and a free video tutorial on how to create a squeeze page to capture subscribers. My running total cost is still $17.
That’s the last “tech” thing I would do–set up a squeeze page at my domain. The tutorial should help make that easy. Since I’m doing it myself, my running total cost is still $17.
Then I would write articles to drive traffic to my site, and submit them to EzineArticles.com and GoArticles.com at least. They’re both free, so my cost is still $17.
Then I would create a Squidoo lens to help drive traffic to my site. It’s easy to set up a lens (they have a wizard to walk you through it–no tech skills required), and it’s free, so my cost is still $17.
Then I would set up a Blogger blog to drive even more traffic to my site. Yep, it’s free, so my cost is still $17.
That’s a solid start…and I spent $17 to do it. If I have to spend a little more to get things going, I have $83 in my budget.
Will it work? There are no guarantees, but it’s certainly worked for plenty of other people, and the odds are good. What it boils down to is picking a good niche, and that’s up to you and your brain.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Paul Guzman
What are the most important factors in starting an online business.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tim Mershon
Michael,
First all, thanks for this opportunity to pick your brain.
My question is “all of the above”.
However, marketing to get real results without breaking the bank is my biggest challenge.
Whats the best way to get your marketing efforts to generate leads, sales etc?
Thanks again,
Tim Mershon
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Meshullam,
You said:
“My biggest problem is operating an autoresponer and finding html code on certain ones’s such as aweber………thanks”
I’m not quite sure what you mean. My autoresponder system (http://www.AutomateYourList.com) lets you generate HTML code for your sign-up form. It’s a snap, and AWeber is the same (try the List Settings-Web Form menu).
Hope that helps.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From owen
I know all about how internet marketing works-the right mindset, the right keywords(get these 2 wrong and forget making money on the net)build a seo friendly site or blog, have relevant lsi fresh content,have relevant affiliate offers, correctly implement list building tactics, and so on. But all I have is the theoretical knowledge. My frustration is the practical knowledge. I don’t know how to do all this stuff. I can outsource, but I want don’t want to all of it. I want to know how to do all or at least some of the basics. THAT IS MY FRUSTRATION.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Doug
If you had a new site, what is the first thing you would do to start generating traffic. Write some articles (how many?)? Create Squidoo lenses? Link exchange?????
Thanks for doing this.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Barry
Hi Michael
I have heared that lists today in Im are far less responsive than they once were.
For newbies starting out, it might be better to use social media marketing to geerate loyal customers.
What is your opinion-do you see that things have changed and that marketers need to change according to the new realties online.
You are one of the most qualified people to answer this and hope you an be candid with your thoughts.
Thanks,
Barry
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Trevor Sadowski
Hi
I would like to ask a question about home pages for affiliate marketing sites etc.
Essentially I build content sites targeting different keywords with plr articles but always wonder what I should do with the home page.
Do I just put another article on it like the other pages or do you have a special technique for crafting the home page?
At the end of the day I just want to get people to the affiliate’s page, after trying to capture their name and email.
So I am wondering if you have developed an effective layout for the home page?
Thanks
Trevor Sadowski
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Osman
Hi Michael,
Like to ask a few questions here.
(1) How can i build a big list fast? What offer should I give to get people interested in opting-in to my list?
(2) Which traffic generation should i use to get lots of people to my site? Do you recommend me using Adwords?
(3) I noticed most salesletter offer bonuses from other marketers’ products. How to request other marketer to give away a product that we can use as a bonus?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Pam
Hi,
I need help with finding places to advertise.
I seem to have a hard time getting signups,or even getting people to my site.
Thank you!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Eugene,
Let me take your questions one at a time…
1)Is purchasing lists (email lists from list brokers ) a good way to get started?
I wouldn’t. Take a look at my answer to Will’s question. You can build a list for free, and it doesn’t take all that long. Pick a good niche, drive traffic for free, build a list.
2)If we were to purchase a list (of emails ) to get started, what is the best way to email them?
Like I said, I wouldn’t, and this is one reason why. You bought the list. Now, what do you say to them? They don’t know you, they don’t really know why they’re on “your” list, and when you email them they’ll probably unsubscribe.
3)Any list brokers to recommend?
Nope…but I bet you saw that coming
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dennis Grubbs
I have a question. I know you are big on email promos. What would be the best way to approach marketing to email recipients like that of the “listdotcom” service?
Dennis Grubbs
JJP Marketing
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Alex Zhuravlev
Hi, Michael,
I`m started to make blogs with instructions how to do it, but I`m stuck at few things-I don`t no how to fully work with Wordpress blogs(create pages,archives), and in the BTTB 2.0 are nothing about that. Perhaps, you could tell me where i can find tutoirals or so.
P.S.-Sorry for my english.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rich Lauro
Hi Michael, I have been sitting on the fence about starting a internet business for one reason only. I look at all the other site or competition and wonder can I compete with them.
So my question is does it matter that there is so much competition in the market I want to enter. My market is fat loss and muscle building I have 18 years experience as a trainer.
Thanks For Your Time
Rich
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dave Weber
The biggest problem for me is to cut through the Sea of Gurus that are working the Net these days in order to choose one that is not only affordable but can deliver real results based training.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Laura,
Great question, but I don’t think I’ll make it to five mistakes. There are two HUGE ones everybody needs to avoid, and I had to learn this the hard way:
1) Not focusing on a market with a known, urgent need. It’s MARKETING, so focus on your market first, not your product/idea. If you pick a hungry market, they’ll buy the food you offer them.
2) Not building a list from the get-go. Start your list building activities right away. That’s what will build your income stream. Front-end sales are great, but back-end sales are generally more profitable over time.
If people would avoid those two mistakes, they’d be much better off. And here’s one more to avoid:
3) Focusing on the technical details. It doesn’t matter if your site is all that pretty, or if it’s the fanciest technical wonder around. Just get it up and selling!
So there’s three mistakes for you. I’d call those the “big three”, but I bet somebody else can come up with others that are equally important. It’s hard to rank mistakes sometimes
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jim
I am in the Process of starting a Membership Site!What Membership Site Script would you recommend?
Also can you provide any “tips” on building a Membership Site for Digital Products?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark Gray
Hi Michael,
I would like to know where i can get good free squeeze page templates, there doesnt seem to be a lot of them online and they are the final thing i need to get everythign into place.
thanks
Mark
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Herbey
I am currently getting leads from a splash page, but with no auto responder tied in for follow-up. What do you believe to be the most user-friendly auto responder I could use to import my leads. And how do you import leads into an auto responder?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Julie
Hi Michael,
I’ve been interested in internet marketing for several years now and have put together a website on my favourite topic, organic gardening. It’s a niche I’m comfortable with and I’m creating a few hundred dollars a month in sales of my own products.
My question is about Google. Even though I add content to my blog every three or four days and I add content to my site every month, I think I’ve been de-indexed. Is there somewhere you can check if your site’s been de-indexed? And if it has, what can I do to get back in the good books with Google? I have a PR of 3 and Alexa ranking of around 350,000.
Even when I was in Google, I was on the 5th or 6th page of Google for my prime search term “organic gardening”. Any clues how to get higher in the Google index? I write articles and submit them to major article directories and occassionally post on forums and other related blogs.
Love to hear your opinion.
Kind regards,
Julie
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Maharudrayya
sir ,
i have been tried so many times to join a team of you and each time i set back due to only my card and bank who are not linking to access so i have a intiative problem imust overcome to i need your push up with a alternate for this please being idian poor will you lift and help me once who is in very critical position due to his huge joint family.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Brynton
Hi Michael
For years now have i looked into Internet Marketing Business and Honestly, I get more confused.
If you have your own IM Business…what exactly do you offer to people.
I’ve paid to get into the business, online-survey’s aswell, Data Entry and it all just did not work for me. I actually lost more money than making any. Infact didn’t even make one cent.
How can I set up my own IM Business and grow from there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From stuart gold
need help in advertising oversea in Asia, Africa, Australasia & scandinavian countries. Everyone we seem to approach have their hands out for payment in advance but very little aftersales service, if any at all
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Sandy
Hi, I actually have two questions that I have not seen too much on. I have two websites both using dropshippers. I don’t have an autoresponder on either and have no idea how to do this. My one website is waldropenterprises.com there the dropshipper handles everything for me. I have had over 11,000 people come to my teddy bear site but I have only sold three bears. My questions are how do you get a lists going using dropshipers sites and how to I drive prospects to my sites? Being brand new at this I could use some help. Thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mathias
Hi Michael!
My name is Mathias and i wonder what CMS or websystem you are using today. Wich one do you prefer?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Chris
Hey Michael,
Based on your experience of online marketing,what would you recommend to a newbie,as the best method(s)of generating website traffic?
Thanks,
Chris
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Pete
I joined a company that said I could process rebates.
then when I loged in I found out I needed to join clickbank an create hop links ect.after all that I still havent made any money .Do you have a affilite program and if so can I get help to get it up and working? Thanks Pete
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bruce Colbert
Hi Michael-
I have a website that I’ve worked two years on (www.bible-guide-online.com) getting about 250 visitors a day, that’s just not monetizing hardly anything for me. I have an idea for a website that would monetize better. Would recommend leaving the one alone to start the other? Any other recommendations?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Diane,
You’ve asked one of the questions almost everybody wants an answer to:
“With so many people wanting to achieve online business success how many years would you say it honestly takes.”
Now I’ll give you the honest answer I’m sure you expected…
It depends.
I think the biggest factors are picking a good market and giving people in that market exactly what they want. That’s why building a list is so important. You have to get to know your market, and a list gives you a way to keep in contact with them.
Think about it…you guys are my market. You’re on my list, or you probably wouldn’t be reading this. How do I get to know you? I ask questions!
Your follow-up question gets to the heart of the matter:
“What do you think makes the difference between someone who makes alot of money after only 2 years and one that takes 5 years? Is there something you did in particular?”
Yep, I got to know my market. I won’t share my niches (hey, self-defense), but for the IM market in particular, it’s vital to know what people want, what the real needs are. Then create products, services and offers that meet those needs. That’s how people get successful in two years instead of five. But sometimes, it just takes five (or more).
You said:
“I’ve been online for 3 years and feel like I am only now finding my feet. The first 18 months I moved from one thing to another! It also took a while to get out of being “marketed to” and deciding to be the “marketer” - that’s when things changed for me.”
Good observation. Lack of focus is a killer. Focus on one market until you make your efforts profitable, or determine there’s no profit to be had. Only then should you move on.
That’s what I had to do. Focus, focus, focus. That’s true regardless of your market. Then add one more thing–multiple streams of income from the same market. That means your own products (even just simple reports), affiliate products, etc.
There’s no magical timeframe for success, and taking five or more years isn’t “wrong”. Everybody learns the necessary lessons at different speeds. Almost everybody wants success in 1-2 years, and there’s no reason you can’t do that…unless it takes you longer.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From adetunji mosadioluwa
thanks somuch for your guidelines.please,howcan I go about having one of the internet biz.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ernie
Hey Michael!
I’m ultra green and not tech savvy either, but want to learn. Although I’ve been looking into this for at least a year now, I’ve experienced info-overload and it just put a damper on my taking action. What would be your best recommendation to get me to take action? If I were a relative who needed quick financial help what pond would you chose to teach me how to fish? I absorb and learn best from video tutorials. Feel free to contact me personally(though I know you’re busy)I really need help!
Thanks,
Ernie
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Stanley,
I don’t recognize the term “BANS” off the top of my head, but all of the others can work. Where you start is up to you.
I suggest you start with a simple mini-site selling one product and building a related list in a niche market with a known need you can satisfy. Get that profitable. Then move on to the next thing, whether that’s a product in your existing market, another mini-site in another market, a membership site addition to your mini-site, etc.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Joe Leighton
Hi Michael,
What is the most effective free process for identifying relevant high traffic keywords with attainable SE ranking for my marketing videos?
Thanks & regards, Joe
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Chris Thomas
Hi Michael,
I am launching a new site/blog myself soon and have a couple of questions.
1. To get postings distributed and ranked in the search engines, I have been told to use socialmarker.com and stumbleupon.com to distribute the postings through the various social networing organisations. Would you recomend this or is there another alternative solution.
2. What marketing steps/actions should I sequentially follow in making sure the blog gets high rankings quickly. Eg - inbound links to the site?
Cheers Michael.
All the best,
Chris
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From keith roberts
hi Micheal
I have 3 product review sites up and running all with cloaked links, autoresponders and popup lead capture boxes etc. the problem I have now is traffic. I need lots of it and fast. I have run out of money now doing all this and I need some fast sales. how do I go about getting free traffic, a lot of it fast, (if there is such a thing). Thanks for your help - if you can
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Femi,
Great content isn’t really what you need. Solid, helpful content will do the trick.
The key is focusing on your market and talking to them like you know them. Cold, impersonal articles aren’t going to help you much. Write like you talk and you should be able to draw a crowd.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jaz Lai
Hi Michael,
Have been your affiliate, subscribers and customers for the past 2 years.
I have a question:
What is your top 3 traffic methods to building a huge list?
Hear from ya.
Jaz
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
I liked the tips and ive benefited coz ive been making similar mistakes
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Hamilton Grainger
Hi Michael,
I, like, I think, many people out there know the technical details of how to set up a website, autoresponder, generate a list, operate as an affiliate, etc. The thing which is missing is the scale of things (how much of different promotional things) that scale up an online business.
My question is, therefore, what do you regard as the biggest factor (or factors) that have been responsible for the majority of your online income generation. Is it through your list? or through PPC promotion? I am very interested in understanding what is the best route to accelerating my own income.
Thanks very much in anticipation of your response!
Hamilton
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From JAG
Hi Michael,
I have bought most books on Adwords and have really tried “all suggestions” just to sell at least a few products through clickbank. (Even bought some stuff through you)
I have aslo used all “resommended” techniques but really can’t get any sales.
My questions are:
1) Is there some other hidden “thing/technique” that all TOP marketers are not telling us to get the sale?
2) What would you recommend I do next?
I am using clickbank with Adwords just to get of the mark (money wise) so I can spend more time/money on my own website.
Best regards,
Jaun-Andre
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Beau
Hello Michael,
Thank you for this opportunity. I would have to say focus is what I need the most. After that, a good game plan. I am a professional sculptor, and I have a site for that, beautifulfrog.com. It has helped me a lot. But for making money online, I have a pet project -hasn’t made any money yet - called Tutorialjoe.com. I offer a complete set of video tutorials I created to teach Frontpage. This is free for the opt-in. I have about 100 subscribers. Not much, but then I didn’t do much to get that, some articles, some youtube. I don’t want to bombard people with emails, but I do want to help them. I’ve got some affiliate links for stuff that I really believe will help. I suggest Bluehost, the host I use… I think I can do something with this site. I teach through video tutorials the nuts and bolts of building a site. I can move on from there, expand with tutorials about blogging - all that. I have yet to monetize the site. I am reluctant to start selling because I don’t want to turn people off, quite frankly, and because when I sell something, it needs to be something that works for me. I could go on about this project, as I imagine others could do about theirs. I’ll wrap this up here. What I want to offer are tools to help someone get started on his or her own - not with someone else’s project, but with one’s own project. A good place to start, the way I started, was with a site that promotes something I already make money on, my sculpture. I offer and want to offer do-it-yourself tools. I need to monetize and get more traffic - without spending a lot of money.
That was not necessarily specific. Let me ask you something specific. Currently I submit articles to Ezinearticles.com and vids to Youtube. I’m putting pictures on Flickr. I’ve got blogs. I produce relevant tags for the search engines. How do I optimize this process? When I make a vid, should I put it on other sites as well as Youtube? And how much of this placing my content all around should I do? Another example: Facebook allows me to take a feed of my blog and put that up, which I have done. How much of this should I do? Given that I am only one person, how should I optimize my syndicating my own material, that is, spreading it around and trying to get it seen? I guess that’s my main question.
Thanks, Beau
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Cheryl
Hello.
I have been looking at options to make income on line and subscibed to receiving information from you. I am from South Africa and I have been told yes I can join most internet programs that are on sale to generate an income which I need to make. Also that the programs are used not only in the USA but all over the world. The question I have is how do South Africans get paid as I have been told that some of the places such as paypal for e.g. do not do wire transfers of money to South Africa. Have you worked with anyone from South Africa before and, if so perhaps you can help me with the question I am asking. Thanks so much for your time and your offer to allow us to submit questions to which we know we will get a response.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Nazrul,
Finding a profitable niche (like lots of marketing stuff) is more art than science. Here’s what you might try:
1) Use a site like EzineArticles.com or 43Things.com to get some ideas. Gotta start somewhere.
2) Make a list of possible keywords and use Google’s free keyword tool to get even more suggestions…and to see how much traffic they get
3) Google some keywords with 3+ words in them to see if there are affiliates advertising products in positions 3-5 or so (in the list of AdWords ads to the right of your search results), especially if there are three or more affiliates on the first page of AdWords ads
4) Download a browser plugin called SEOQuake and see if the pages in the organic search results (the ones in the middle of the page) have Google PR of 5 or less
If you find a niche with manageable competition and a big affiliate presence like that, odds are good it’s profitable.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Victoria Ipri
Hi Michael,
It’s so great that you are offering this help and advice. And to my surprise, you’re offering real advice with real steps to success, so unlike many other marketers who say they’re going to help, but the help is just another sales pitch. I’ll tell you honestly, your credibility in my eyes has just shot up 1000%. I’ve already learned a lot of things I always wanted to know(but was afraid to ask). As an SEO analyst and copywriter, I give advice for free everyday. People tell me I’m crazy, but I have learned that sharing knowledge is another great way to make lifelong friends with your clients. I offer a free SEO analysis for anyone’s website, and it’s very comprehensive too. I’ve helped many people this way and it almost always results in additional business from that individual, so it’s a win/win for everyone. So I don’t really have a question for you, but just wanted to thank you for taking the time to help us all be better, more effective marketers. I’ve already got a million new ideas!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Steve
Hi Michael,
Thanks for taking couple of days out to answer questions, this type of payback is highly valued - thanks!
My question is to do with click throughs vs. clickbank sales conversions.
I have a sales page that is a product review page. I have reviewed 5 products (short reviews), ranked them and included multiple links to each relevant merchant page (5 in total).
In just under 3 weeks I have had 200+ clicks from the links on my sales/review page to the merchants sales page. This I’m quite please with this but here’s the catch - NO SALES in ClickBank.
So i am wondering what is a good benchmark sales conversion for this? If I had just 1% that would be 2 sales - definitely not retirement time but a good incentive nonetheless!!
Hope you can help with this - thanks in advance!
Steve
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Julie
Hi Michael,
Thank you so much for this opportunity. I am currently interviewing website companies to redesign/revise my site. There are so many choses out there…. What should a good website company be able to offer me? What is standard in this industry?
All the best,
Julie
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Vitaly
Well, Michael! A problem that I do not have even these $17! To me they need to be earned in the beginning from zero. You can advise, where it is possible to earn a seed capital (At least the same $100) on the Internet? Creation of the list for me too the big problem. I participate in several projects, but in the absence of the list yet have not earned cent.
Vitaly.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Paul Gallion
Hey Michael,
I am curious how big your list was your first year in business and exactly what did you do to build it?
I know you mentioned article writing, setting up a Squidoo lens and Blogging but there has to be more ways to build a list faster for FREE?
Thanks,
Paul Gallion
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Danny Scahill
Hi Michael,
I can totally relate to what you said about being overwhelmed etc… I have been trying the IM game since Nov 07 and have bought loads of products that promise you the world and deliver Sweet FA! I’ve thought about giving up many times in the past 7-8 mths but I really wanna make a go of this coz if there are so many ppl makin loadsa $$$’s at this game then I dont see why I cant! I just havent found the combination yet! I’m a Chiropractor so the 1st niche I was in was Health as I am passionate about that but got nowhere with that then started in the IM niche and haven’t got anywhere yet but will keep trying until I make that 1st sale! I am gonna concentrate on Affiliate Marketing for the next few months now. Any particular products you would recommend me to market? Are there any of your products I can promote?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Pamella,
Everybody’s different, but here’s what I suggest for folks just starting out (and answers to other questions can help you fill in more detail):
1) Have a goal of getting ONE mini-site up within a month.
2) Pick a market for your site.
3) Choose what you’ll sell. It could be an affiliate product or your own simple/short “report”.
4) Focus on getting a SIMPLE site up and running, and getting free traffic to it.
5) Your financial goal is up to you, but pick a number like $250-1,000 profit in month one. If you don’t make that, you have your goal for month two.
I’m sure you’ve heard people scream, “Take action!” This is what they mean. It may take you a little time to find a market with a known need you think you can meet, but the process begins there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
Michael,
Appreciate you taking time to offer your insight on success. For most people success is always the intent but very few get there.
Time is either spent do training, research & learning with out taking action which leads to nothing. Or, taking lots of action and little training/educating which leads to frustration or completely overwhelmed.
You’ve laid out some good basic steps from Will’s post. Identifying the niche will be key, I’ll try your google suggestion.
Driving traffic to your squeeze page.
Should your squeeze page capture list information by offering more information or are you offering a solution to solve their problem?
What makes a good squeeze page?
How many articles, squidoo lenses, blog post should one be doing on a consistent basis to drive traffic?
Just trying to get a little more at the how.
thanks,
Mike
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Bruce,
I would try posting a job at Elance.com or maybe seeing if somebody at the Warrior Forum can help. There’s no guarantee you’ll find an inexpensive writer there (good writing does cost money), but you might find somebody willing to fit within your budget.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Peter
Hi Michael,
I wanted to know if you know how come sometimes, when I create an adwords campaign, or ad group, and everything is COMPLETELY RELEVANT, adwords says the my ad is not showing, but my quality score is GREAT, and I raise the bid, wait, and try everything, and certain keywords will just not show, even though my ad, and the destination url is more relevant than Any other adwords ad showing on google (if there are any ads showing)? This happens on a lot of keywords for somereason, do you know why, or how to get around it?
Thanks.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Sara
Hi Michael
Thank you for your time and I really appreciate you wanting to share your experience and expertise with others.
Its all about giving back and paying it forward i believe.
So my question is, when can I speak with you about a JV please? Im keen to speak with you about making some serious cash together, actually some more serious cash together
Lets talk soon please.
Take care and kind regards
Sara
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
Hi Michael,
I looking at beginning to make products using Camtasia. I saw Mike Filsiame’s recent ‘Review Crusher’ video series and would like to duplicate his ‘horizontal’ type presentation format. What software is he using to do that? Is it just Powerpoint and Camtasia or is there some other tool?
Thanks for any help!
Mike
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From david tapp
we started with adword google it was costing $1000@year, we look did adv with yahoo before the court case but it did work for me, google is the only one that i can what my money go on, we cut spending on google back to $20 @ month sales went up, this is the only advesting we can do world wide,as for google aword 1 in 100 clicks but @product. we do magazine add in Austrailia we spend$3500 last summer, we tried sell wholesale oversea, beause we a Australia manufacter and cost of labour is high, all they want was product at Chinese price. With U.S.A market this summer as is up 20% which thought would be down.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
Hello Michael,
I have only one question. being completely new to all of this, I have no idea what to do where to start or anything like that. I was offered a 6 day training camp that would give me all the tools and information that I needed to start a sucessful business online but at the small cost of $9000.00 plus. You have to be kidding. Anyway how do i get started? I dont have a lot of money but I have a mind full of great ideas. any suggestions? Thank You Mike L
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kris
Hi Michael,
I have seen many tutorials with various training subjects, i.g. Keyword Elite. The problem is that they are only showing how to use the software and find proper keywords, but never comment the results, why and when certain numbers are acceptable, and others are not. I would need some comments what is good and what is not.
Best REgards
Kris
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark
Hello Michael,
I am really amazed at your insight, success and willingness to help others. I purchased AutomateYourlist recently and , if you checkout my site, I’ve implemented a webform, tried different forms and the one I’m using seems to get the best results so far. I’ve been in business for 2 years. A complete flop so far… little or no sales. Anyway, how do I get things rolling FAST! Writing newsletter is a real struggle for me and do you have any other products/info/ebooks I could market like you do that I can get up and running FAST that won’t cost a fortune? Please give me your opinion of my site too.
Thanks,
Mark
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Angie,
You’ve got a product, a squeeze page, an autoresponder, and a blog. You’re posting to your blog and writing your articles. You stopped paying $400 a month for AdWords I assume because it wasn’t getting you sales (good move).
Now what?
I recommend focus on three things:
1) Targeting keywords well in your articles. Use Google’s keyword tool to find keywords that get decent traffic but have manageable competition. Put one those keywords in each of your article titles, use it reasonably (no stuffing) in your article body, and put it in your resource box link back to your site.
2) Don’t include all the info in your published articles. For example, write an article about 10 tips, and only include five. Make a reader visit your site for the rest. And include the keyword in your title tag for the page you link to from your article.
3) Research your subject to find content. Find 3+ sources for each article, then write your own article (no plagiarizing) to summarize the key points.
That should get you started.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dave
Michael,
What criteria do you use in judging whether a product/program is worth investing your money in? I’ve found that testimonials are NOT a good indication of how good the product is. Marketers whose names everyone would recognize routinely endorse each other’s programs, and 9 times out of 10 the results fall far short of the hype.
(BTW, thanks for this blog post. Terrific idea, and lots of good information here.)
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Paul,
You asked:
“What are the most important factors in starting an online business.”
I’m now going to beat a dead horse…market, market, market. In that order.
You can have a fantastic product, a beautiful website, wonderful ideas…and zero sales. It all depends on finding a market with a need you can satisfy at a profit. When you find one, all you need is some determination and perseverance. Of course, if you find your chosen market is a dry hole, you have to use your brain and move on, but don’t give up until you’re pretty sure it’s dead.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Tim,
You asked:
“However, marketing to get real results without breaking the bank is my biggest challenge. Whats the best way to get your marketing efforts to generate leads, sales etc?”
Two quick things:
1) Don’t spend money where you don’t have to. AdWords is a great tool, but you can also get targeted traffic for free. Give that a try first.
2) Your copy. Really, that’s a huge factor. If your squeeze page doesn’t convert, all the great traffic in the world won’t help. And if your sales page doesn’t sell, traffic won’t matter. If you’re getting lots of traffic but no sign-ups or sales, you have a copy problem. It could be that you’re not offering what your hungry crowd wants, or that your sales pitch isn’t cutting it. Try changing it and see what happens.
Neither of those two things costs money necessarily. The time to ramp up spending is when you KNOW you have a profitable product. Sometimes you can find that out through free efforts first.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jack P.
Hi Michael,
Thanks for your time….hard to believe, a businessman giving back to the customer….a rare commodity these days….Brick and Mortar or Internet Marketing and Research.
OK, enough blowing sunshine up your dress……
1.Do you offer coaching? If you don’t, who would you recommend? I ask because I learn REAL fast if I’m shown versus reading, videos (a little better), or a site (Forum?) visited occasionally by the author.
2.There are literally thousands of marketers out there that will give an overview of starting a niche business model or any of tons of other approaches to marketing….affiliate, Ebay, public domain, etc.
But not one of them EVER tells you how to structure the business form as in “Sole Proprietorship”, “C” Corporation, LLC, etc. I’m not asking you to give legal advice, just a sequence of structure. IE; start out as a sole proprietorship then gravitate to a more formal Corp or LCC upon advice of attorney and accountant? A generic description would be great. Given your fast rise in the business you must have faced similar circumstances.
3. Last one. Call me a dullard….but I’m having a real hard time understand how “Hosting Multiple Domains” works…..does one hosting account house these with bandwidth sharing? If so, do you think that is a good idea or would you set a hosting account for each registered URL? I ask because I have several ideas I think might be descent….but I’m having one helluva time trying to understand and sort out the interrelationship with auto responders, websites, driving traffic, links, social sites, article authoring, etc. I guess I’m asking what framework is best to manage all of the above.
4. One more “Last one”…it’s brief.
Do you have an opinion on xsitepro?
Thanks Michael
Jack
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jayendra Kulkarni.
Hi,
Your replies are very much helpful. However I would like to know
1. How to find a hungry market.
2. How to build the email list.
3. Can you recommend any book which will teach us step by step online business.
4. Is there any authetic online training institute.
I fail to understand why universities are not starting such short courses.
Thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Linda
Hi Mike ~
I’ve been exploring the internet marketing since Oct. 2007. It appears to be that unless you have your own site/product, you will not be successful. It is hard to gain success being an affiliate marketer since there is so much competition.
Am I right and what can I do?
You’re the best!
Linda
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From betty
Hi Michael, very helpful tips so far!!! I am confused about hosting. If I want to develop let’s say 5 minisites each in a different niche (over time, not all at once), do I host each domain name separately for the $7.95 or whatever per month, say on HostGator? I have read subdomains are not a good idea (plus that doesn’t really work in different niches because each name has the original domain name in it right?) Then there’s the option of a “reseller” account where you get “X” amount of domains hosted for a higher per month fee, but you can then just keep adding new domain names under that hosting umbrella. There is probably a simple answer I’m just missing somehow. Please help with my confusion!
Thanks, Betty
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Owen,
I hear you. Don’t get so frustrated that you give up. I suggest you sign up for my free course on mini-sites here:
http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
That’s not just a shameless plug. The course is designed for frustrated people like you. It really does cover the basics of getting things up and running so you can focus on building your profit. It gives a 30-day plan of action that helps you apply what you’re learning. Sounds like that’s what you’ve been missing.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Danny Scahill
Also what do you think of product review sites as a way to do affiliate marketing? And using adwords to drive traffic to them?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Doug,
You asked:
“If you had a new site, what is the first thing you would do to start generating traffic. Write some articles (how many?)? Create Squidoo lenses? Link exchange?????”
I would do the first two. They’re free! You might also add some forum marketing in there, where you link to your site in your forum signature (if that’s allowed at a given forum).
Don’t start with AdWords unless you know what you’re doing. Start with free methods that tend to work well, then ramp up.
Article marketing is a great place to start, and Google (and lots of people) loves Squidoo. Give those a shot and see what happens.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Karl Pemberton
Hers’s a question for ya.
Every big guru knows it’s hard work to get in the IM market, even with the most amazing product out there.
The best way is to ask the other big guys to help you out. Some do and some just flat out tell you NO.
So how do you handle those that say no, even though they can see you have a great product?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Colin
Hi,
I’m looking to get into marketing consulting for local small businesses..
… doing SEO work and web design for them.
I plan to do most of the SEO work myself, but will outsource article creation and web design.
Where are some of the places you’d recommend to outsource these things –
apart from the obvious ones like elance, etc?
I realise you wouldn’t want to give out your own personal ones, but are you aware of any others?
I know it’s possible to get quality articles done for less than 10 bucks each and webdesign for $10/hour, but can’t find them.
Thank you for your time Michael.
Colin.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Des
Hi Michael,
Well you asked for it !
Let me first say that out of all the IM email’s I get (which is a lot!), I always save yours, mainly because I like your style of writing, and that you’re successful at what you do.
A bit about me… I’m English, based in the UK, am fairly successful at my current business, which is a mortgage adviser, but I am suffering from the downturn in income as a result of the credit crunch.
I am fairly PC literate, I can edit websites (but have never started one from scratch!) and I KNOW that it’s possible to make an income online.
What I am struggling with is that fact that my online business (i.e. mortgage advising) is not bringing in the results I want, and I REALLY want to start another online business, but I don’t know what niche to concentrate on. I am not an expert on anything except mortgages and related matters and so I don’t have the confidence to write about any other subject, and that’s what’s holding me back.
You also have to bear in mind that the UK market doesn’t really go for all the American razzmattaz style that IM’s usually write in. We prefer a ’softly,softly’ approach, and don’t like that we’re being ’sold’ to. If you know Richard Legg, his style is ‘our’ style. (BTW, I wrote to Richard Legg but never got any reply!)
In a nutshell, I am looking for inspiration on what niche I could get into, knowing I don’t know about anything else! In fact, I would prefer more than a ‘niche’, I’d prefer a whole market-place.
Are you feeling brave enough to provide that inspiration, guidance, and prodding I need to get started?
Looking forward to hearing back from you (not in seconds, I know!)
Kind regards,
Des Tourick
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Shane
Hey Michael,
As a real estate investor/ private money lender (both commercial and residential) I have set up a website which is more or less pure information.
My goal is to help other investors in Calgary, AB learn how to avoid real estate scams and actually make money investing in real estate. Either through active real estate investing or passive.
Problem- I end up spending about 2 hours a day answering emails and speaking to people on the phone trying to help them with their problems without making a dime. I do pretty good in my off-line business but would like to generate a nice passive income online from the knowledge and experience I can share with visitors.
Question- How do I monetize an informational site (I don’t have a course or ebook- maybe I should?) and would you recommend charging potential callers a consulting fee (maybe developing a strategic plan for investing?)
I look forward to hearing from you Michael,
Shane
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Barry,
You asked:
“What is your opinion-do you see that things have changed and that marketers need to change according to the new realties online.
You are one of the most qualified people to answer this and hope you an be candid with your thoughts.”
Thanks for the compliment
Yes, I think things have a changed a little bit, but there hasn’t been an earthquake. Here are the two biggest changes:
1) Affiliate marketing is more difficult in the IM niche because of “bonus inflation”, where people are offering extremely valuable bonuses to get referral sales. It’s tougher for new marketers to compete in that environment.
2) Most people who aren’t getting response from their lists either burn their lists by promoting too much, or don’t bother to build relationships with their list. It’s all promo all the time.
If people focus on building relationships with their lists (yes, I do that with mine), lists are still a great tool. Nothing wrong with adding social marketing the mix, but lists aren’t dead.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Gary Dunsford
Hi Michael,
I am very new to the IM experience. I have managed to obtain over 100 ebooks with resell rights, that I would like to market. Now, I know you said find the market first….but now I have these books; what sort of methods would you use to see if there are any niche markets that I could sell to; and what would you say is a fare price to market an ebook at ? Finally, can your autoresponder service be setup to automatically send an ebook to a customer, after they pay ?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Steve
Hi Michael,
I think the biggest problem I face (and I’ve read about many others with this same problem) is that I don’t know what niche to pick or what affiliate program to target. Many gurus write about finding your niche and going for it. I know a little about a lot of different things but everytime a pick something, I research it to find that there are tons of people already doing things in these areas probably much better than I could.
Electronics seem to be big. I own a PC, laptop, digital camera, video camera, iphone, etc and use them all but I’m no expert in any of them.
How do a find a niche where people are really seeking needs to problems that I can learn about and start digging into?
I already have a website about my biggest passion (fly fishing) but it’s not a real money maker. I need to find something that’s going to bring in some serious cash.
Thanks,
Steve
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Sherri
Hi Michael,
Even tho I do not have a question, I wanted to tell you that I really enjoy reading your articles. I have learned alot from you and I know that some day I will be as successful as you cuz your a great teacher!
Best wishes on your continued sucess!
Sherri
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ken
How do you put list building together with opt-in software and auto responder software? It is very confusing.
Thanks,
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ophir Prusak
Hi Michael,
I’ve been a computer programmer for 9 years building dynamic web sites. I’ve also been following the IM “scene” for the past 3 years.
While I’m great with ideas, I find myself lacking in pragmatic experience of actually making money for myself.
My question is:
How can I find a mentor/partner that can guide me as well as be an integral part of my efforts. I’m extremely strong on the technical side of things but need help with the “rest” of the stuff.
Thanks
Ophir
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark
Hi Michael
I don’t have a website and I don’t know how to build one so what advice would you give to me
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Steven
Michael,
I am starting with building a website with hopes that it’ll be my retirement income soon. I am currently working with a group called Vianet coaching. I am just beginning to work with wordpress to build my site, thats why it isn’t listed here.I am open to all help and resources that I can find, so any and all suggestions you have for me will be greatly appreciated.I will stay tuned to your blogs and anywhere else you direct me to.
I do how ever have a site that was free to me when I became an affiliate and I do use some of the products, very good products that I believe in, but the site has not made me any money to date, not sure what to do for it but here is the domain name: [url removed]
Thanks for your blog and have a great day.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Trevor,
If you’re targeting one affiliate product, put a review on the home page and ask for an email address before you send them to the affiliate sales page.
If you’re promoting multiple affiliate products, you have to decide what to do on your home page. Two options:
1) Promote a single good seller there.
2) Treat your home page as sort of an online store, with little teaser blurbs for various products. Link each one to the review article that links to the affiliate sales page.
That’s a start.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Elaine
Hello Michael,
Thanks for your generous offer!
I still need clarification and specific explanation on what - and why - email addresses to use in autoresponders. Currentlly, am subscribing to your AutomateYourSystem. Tried others - and literature - but cannot find any description of the “philosophy” behind using different email addresses for A/R Lists. Am also wary of putting in current email addresses in the event of a flood of replies and/or questions. Can you help?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Pat
Hello Michael,
First off thanks for the question and answer session. You have already answered a few of my questions with other post here.
I have been reading and have purchased ebooks, software, articles ect…with master resale rights and private label rights too. I find some of the information not useful but others I have found very useful for me and possibly others.
Some you can re-write and claim it as your own others of course you cannot.
Would you recommend creating a website by using PLR articles, books, software ect? There are a couple that I feel are just great for newbies like myself pertaining to a particular niches that may help someone and I can possibly find enough information to write about also adding my own content. I do understand the niche part of it and I believe there are some niches within these products.
What do you think about using these products? Is this a good place to start for those of us who have no products or skill in writing articles yet?
Thanks,
Pat
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Guy Siverson
Okay, Michael
You said any related question, and while I don’t see you using the technology on your own blog this is something I’m having trouble with on my ViralMarketing4U.com blog.
“READ MORE”
Basically, you put a code into your blogger.com template infomation that gives readers a snippet of what the post is about and then when they select “read more” they are taken to a seperate page that has the full article.
When I do this on the above blog the articles completely disappear from the blog instead of being in desired snippets. To my knowledge I’m entering everything correctly. Any ideas what I might be doing wrong?
Thanks for your help… I’m thinking you’ve got your hands full over the next couple of days.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Osman,
(1) How can i build a big list fast? What offer should I give to get people interested in opting-in to my list?
Get your offer in front of lots of people, and offer something compelling for FREE. It’s that simple. My MiniSite Profits Exposed course is a good example.
(2) Which traffic generation should i use to get lots of people to my site? Do you recommend me using Adwords?
AdWords is fast, but it also can cost a ton if you don’t make good profit from your visitors. I’d start with Squidoo and articles myself.
(3) I noticed most salesletter offer bonuses from other marketers’ products. How to request other marketer to give away a product that we can use as a bonus?
Some of those products are resale rights (RR) products. You can buy those in various places. Another way to ask is to find the name and email address of somebody who owns a product and propose a JV. Put your thinking cap on and figure out what might interest that person (in other words, what’s in it for him?)
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Janet
What do you think of doing refunds on line? I am so confused and the company doesn’t seem to want to help me out.
Thanks,
Janet
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Pam,
You said:
“I need help with finding places to advertise.
I seem to have a hard time getting signups,or even getting people to my site.”
Articles are good. Squidoo is good. Forum marketing is good. Ads in other people’s ezines/newsletters are good. They all work. Why not propose a JV and try to build your list that way?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Immigrant Coach
Michael,
I have challenges starting with Adwords since I hear that lot of people have lost their shirts. Furthermore, I also believe that lot of people click on the organic search results and not on Ads.
Pls advice how should I go about it?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From stanley
BANS: build a niche store. ebay affiliate program. here you can build a store and drive people to ebay and when they make a purchase you get commission.
when you said build a mini site and start selling a product what exactly you mean? Is it like BANS site or ecommerce site or an affiliate site where when people buy product or service you make commission.
can you please elaborate.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Dennis,
That sounds like a safelist kind of arrangement to me. I wouldn’t do it. Build your own list on your own site by getting traffic to visit and sign up. That will serve you better in the long run.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From stanley
also I asked about adsense sites, can you comment this time?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dave
I am just getting started with IM and have watched your tutorial and purchased the deluxe version; I have only listened to it once but plan to listen multiple times as you suggested in the course.
My question is, I have identified my niche. I am writing an ebook to target to the niche. Its not clear to me how to build the list, is it simply to get people to the site and have an opt-in dialog?
Second question:
How is your autoresponder different from aweber and why might I choose yours over aweber?
Thanks the opportunity to ask these types of questions is just what I have been wanting!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Roob and Lisa
Hi Michael, We have enjoyed several of your products. My question is similar to Dougs’ previous question about what to do to build traffic with a new site? In your response you recommended not starting with adwords. We have a single minimal campaign with adwords, and are using builtraffic.net as well. Can you elaborate on not getting too involved with adwords just yet. I believe you said, unless you know what you’re doing. Can you also clarify some things you need to know about adwords?
Thanks for doing this as well.
Rob and Lisa
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dan
Hi
I am one of thre frustrated ones. One concern is: On Google Adwords and trying to find my selected keywords..I know I a suppose to find the top 10-15, but there are different categories. Do I find the top 10 keywords for each category AND the top keywords are all HEAVY competition..Wouldn’t that mean I would be paying a ton in PPC? Also, what FREE search engine do you recommend (besides squidoo and ezine, goarticles). I’ve done those but on so far down on pages that no one would see my articles..Any other suggestions?? Thank You!!!!!!!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Alex,
Your English is fine
I would Google “wordpress tutorial” (without the quotes). I’m sure you can find a ton of great resources out there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Nicolas Boussion
Hi Mickael,
You’ll probably agree with me : most of your success relies on your mailing-lists. “Money is in the list”, and 250 000 prospects, it’s really huge for a single person !
Would you mind showing us what tools/strategy/tactics did you use to attain such results ?
Thank you in advance !
Nicolas.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bill C
Micheal,
Any thoughts, opinion, advice on dropshipping physical products? Would you approach a site of this type the same as an affiliate based model? Meaning articles, lists, etc.?
Everyone seems to focus on IM but I see that market as being saturated and generally not a place one would want to start.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Leo
Hello Michael
If you were to start over, would you choose the IM market first, or at all?
I seem to have locked myself in there…I use articles, squidoo, blogger, hubpages, forums, and blogs…I have dabbled with review pages, mini sites, article driven squeeze pages…
Seem to get ok trafffic to blog, and some affiliate sites yet either list or sales remain slow…I am missing the IM target
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Rich,
You said:
“So my question is does it matter that there is so much competition in the market I want to enter. My market is fat loss and muscle building I have 18 years experience as a trainer.”
There’s no doubt your market is crowded. But that’s for a reason. It’s a highly profitable market.
What you need is a unique selling proposition (USP) that will appeal to a tight sub-niche in your market to start with. With your experience, I bet you can get some killer testimonials, and come up with a great product that hits a desperate need. That’s the key.
Don’t be afraid to enter the market, but expect to have to work to carve out your niche. Maybe it’s muscle building for older women, or people who’ve just had surgery…you get the point.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Seelye
Hi Michael;
First, i’d like to say this is a generous free service you are offering, which is much appreciated.
Now to the chase:
How do I thoroughly research what it is that people want when they search on the web? So, how to find niches that are relevant to people’s needs. It’s maybe more than you have time for but a process or method for research would be very helpful. Any courses youwould recommend for this?
Regards,
Michael
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bill
Michael,
As a beginner, one of the most frustrating issues for me is “finding a market” or “pick a niche”.
Nearly all marketers will direct you to first “find a niche”. You have even mentioned in your comments, that it is more of an art than a science. Well, I don’t get it.
I spent 27 years in the mechanical engineering community and everywhere I looked, there were specific - exact - answers to my needs.
I’m told to look here or look there, pick a hungry market, etc.
I need to know exactly how to scrutinize the information I see. You mentioned EzineArticles.com or 43Things.com. What exactly am I looking for? Specifically, what criterion is used to evaluate a potential niche?
I find it hard to believe that it is an art. There must be specific actions to take in evaluating specific information when searching for a profitable niche.
Please point all of us in the right direction.
Bill
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jane
Michael, great, fantastic, this is so helpful, man I need lots of help. Your reply to Will is great as I want to learn how to drive traffic to my site while spending very little $s and start making money asap. I have been receiving tons of emails from ‘experts’ providing, ’secret codes’, ‘clickbank act now’ affiliate programs, etc and I am just confused and anxious trying to learn it all. I paid for my site now I need to use it effectively and ‘get attention’. What do you suggest for a newbi. Is there a free tutorial, terminology explained, etc for people who are actually starting from a limited knowledge base of ‘ways to make money on-line’. There has to be! Thanks for your assistance, and I am ever so thankful that there is someone who cares enough to share info and suggestions.
Kind regards from Jane in Cairns Queensland Australia.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark
I just don’t get enough traffic and have gone broke paying for it, pat per clicks and other pay methods, and don’t know where to turn
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Marlene
Hello Michael,
Yes, I do need help. I have a large niche web site about 40 pages. The subject is photography. I have 4 blogs that tie into the site 3 on photography and 1 on oil painting. So far I haven’t made a dime. Right now I’m studying blogging from some of the blogging pros because I know it is important to write quality articles. So that I’m doing. If you can help in any way I will listen. Thank you…Marlene
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Steve
I’d like to avoid the huge mistake of not focusing on a market with a known, urgent need. I understand it takes looking for desperate buyers in a niche market who have a problem they REALLY want to fix? But that doesn’t seem to be as easy as it sounds.
What tools, resources and steps can you recommend for picking a great niche?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From laurie McKinney
When you create an information product, what kind of “thing” do you need to make it an automatic download. Is it part of autoresponder software? or is it code that is written in to your page? I would just like to know how that works.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Sharon
Michael: I have 2 websites that I bought from a large company that sells them regularly at seminars. I won’t mention names. Great websites and reporting, but I am constantly getting calls from internet SEO companies saying that my websites are not optimized properly. How can I learn about proper optimization?? I get very little traffic. I have been on line for 2 years and hardly any sales to speak of.
Also, I am having a hard time finding distributors to sell me good products at a wholesale price and offer drop-shipping. Can you recommend where I can find good drop shippers who are really wholesale suppliers.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dana
I have a great online social networking community and I’m ready to start monetizing the website. I know that Banners do not work as well. I want to know what I should dive into. I already started including affiliate links/pictures in the email promos that I’ve been sending. But not getting any buys so far. Let me know! Thanks!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mark,
I would say Google is your friend there, although you said you haven’t had much luck with finding templates.
Keep it simple. An HTML table with a box around it and some text inside is fine to start with. You can make it fancy later. Just get it up!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From James Stephenson
Michael,
I thought your steps for starting over with only $100 were really interesting. I have been working that route, plus setting up Twitter and Facebook accounts.
There is one big problem with what you are telling us. Getting people to hit your site. How does anyone even know your site exists?
I have been setting up several sites and submitting articles to ezinearticles and still the traffic is minimal. Now, I am not going to say that my sites are perfect, far from it. But, the point is regardless of how good your site is, somehow people have to go to it. That is the part I am struggling with.
At the risk of being told how awful my sites are here are a couple of them:
[urls removed]
I really appreciate what you have put together here and hope you succeed in all that you do.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Herbey,
I’m obviously biased, but I recommend http://www.AutomateYourList.com. It’s a great autoresponder, and you can import leads (they’ll have to opt in, however, when you switch over).
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Gregg Watson
Hi Michael
Thanks for this opportunity
Here is my problem
I have been learning about marketing for about 3 years
I was drawn to audio product, as I found them to be a great way to learn about marketing, while doing other things, in my case mainly while I worked, all I need was an mp3 player.
I decided that creating a Private Label audio Book wholesaling site was my way to sack my boss
So after a lot of late nights and expense, I have the site up and running and products in place.
I even have some future products completed
But I have no market.
I have a small neglected list built from giveaway event sites.
I had put all my hope in a couple of well known marketers who had promised to promote an offer to their lists, as a bonus for purchasing one of their promotions
Here is the real problem
I created a promotion using the seven dollar script for them to promote to their lists using my membership site was a backend up-sell (oto)
I was intending to use their list to launch the limited membership site(800 members) one marketer claims to have 30,000 list and the other 70,000
Sounded great but after trying to contacting them, and getting no response
Opps now I have a real problem
All My eggs in one basket
I didn’t think that these particular marketers would let me down
but I should have known better, it’s not the first time I have lost money to a so called Guru
The work required to keep the products up to the site, leaves me with very little to promote it
As soon as I sell the first membership I am committed to constant product creation
I need my day job to survive and I need the extra time to promote the site.
I have very little to no spare time now as it takes all of my spare time to create 3 quality audio products each month
I have tried to make contact with other marketers to help promote the site but to date I have had no responses.
Finally the Question
If you found yourself in such a position What would you do to selvage all of the hard work?
Hey Thanks again for this opportunity
I really appreciate it especially when you are having trouble responding to 1% of your emails
Yours Sincerely
Gregg R Watson
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Veronika
Hi Michael,
I am currently looking for a really good full service fulfillment house - preferrably in the San Jose, (Bay Area) in California.
Thanks,
Veronika
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From James
I have always been interested in e-books online. I am a pastor so religous ebooks would be my category. How do I get started cheaply and still look professional. I have a website and maintain it my self (no ebooks just personal site)
Thanks,
Pastor Powell
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From somanathan
Dear Sir , thank you very much for your mail .
Infact I am in search of some help to start my online jobs -do it at home style- since i am a retired engineer from India and wants to do some thing to feed me in a honourable way.But I can’t invest money since i dont have that but put forth my work effecively and sincerely.
Hope you can give me some idea with your experience to start my on line carrrier in a great way.
with regards,
SOMANATHAN.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jaime Reina
Hi,
sorry for my english i speak spanish..
I buy his product google Nemesis and software is very good, nevertheless I have created 12 different campaigns with google adwords and no runs because google considers this like a swindle or “pshing” apparently. can you help me or say to me as I exert my guarantee?
thank you
jaime reina
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bill
You have a huge list. When starting out, what was the ‘breakthrough’ strategy or event that started you on the road to a massive list?
Thanks,
Bill
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jesus
Which is the best software program for manage lists?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From James T Creech
Hi Michael,
I am a bilateral below knee amputee. Making some money on the net is imperative for me.
I have created seven differnet types of meditation Cds geared specifucally for amputees only.
I have had a website designed and a writer finalized my sales copy. I have aweber as my autoresponder and am hosted with Hostgator.I like what I have accomplished so far.
But now begins the tough part. Marketing.
How would you begin to market to my target which is obviously “amputees”?
All I have done so far is to set up a banner ad in a top ranked google site called amputee.ca and have redirected it to my website.
Jim
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Brynton,
That’s a big question. The easiest thing to do is figure out a market to sell to, and figure out what to sell them. My free mini-site creation course would be very helpful, I think:
http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Stuart,
You said:
“need help in advertising oversea in Asia, Africa, Australasia & scandinavian countries. Everyone we seem to approach have their hands out for payment in advance but very little aftersales service, if any at all”
Gosh, I’m not sure who you’re talking to
Article marketing and Squidoo are free, so I’d start there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tola
I want to start blogging as a way of making money online.I was going to start with ASdsense originally.
So,I bought two of Joel Comm’s books: Adsense Secrets 4.0 and Adsense Code.But the fear the Google is the judge,jury and executioner gave me a second thought.So,I decided to go with blogging first,then,optinmize my pages for adsense later.
I have about US$500-$1000 to invest and hope I can generate $1000 per month after starting two months of launching it.
I hope to buy John Reese’ Traffic Secrets 2.0 for traffic generation.But I am still a biy unsure how to continue to generate good content for my blog.
I am not sure of this but I wanted to know who could give one of the best person personal coaching in blogging.
Thanks.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Sandy,
You said:
“I don’t have an autoresponder on either and have no idea how to do this. …My questions are how do you get a lists going using dropshipers sites and how to I drive prospects to my sites?”
All you have to do to hook up an autoresponder to your site is include a sign-up form. My autoresponder service (http://www.AutomateYourList.com) makes that easy.
What you really need to figure out is that you’ll offer people as an enticement to sign up. An ecourse on bears? A free report on something? A subscription to your newsletter? Product updates? It’s up to you, but you need to offer something free.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Craig
Hi Michale, Thanks for doing this. My question is in regard to a few mini-businesses I am trying to start.
I have invested in a few of these pre-made plug-in internet businesses to try to get started. What is your opinion of these? I invested in a website template business, which also has an option to create memberships and sell the master resale rights to these templates each month. Is this a waist of my time? Several other people are selling the exact same thing as I am on the internet, as they invested in this too. I also invested in Google Nemesis, and a few other similar type start ups. Again am I waisting my time with these premade ready for you business in abox opportunities? Thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rich
Hi Michael
I am new to marketing including Internet and Affiliate. I have done a lot of reading lately and Purchased several courses. All of them suggest strongly creating a website, and write articles to drive traffic to that website but provide little or no instructions on how to go about it. I am also most 70 yrs old and could sure use some additional income. Where is a good place to start without spending big bucks on useless training programs.
Thanks Rich
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Jim,
You said:
“I am in the Process of starting a Membership Site!What Membership Site Script would you recommend? Also can you provide any “tips” on building a Membership Site for Digital Products?”
Take a look at amember.com for a full-featured membership script. If all you need is basic password protection, try LockedArea.com.
As for general tips, just one: Don’t make it too complicated. Offer helpful information or products for a monthly fee. You don’t need to shoot the moon.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mathias,
WordPress is actually pretty good, and free. Joomla is another free alternative.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Chris,
You asked:
“Based on your experience of online marketing,what would you recommend to a newbie,as the best method(s)of generating website traffic?”
I’d go with article marketing to start. It’s free, fast and pretty easy. If it’s not working for you, you can move on to other things (blogs, Squidoo, etc.)
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ian
Hi Mike,
I have looked at all the dvds etc and signed up to the Mike Filsaime platinum course but foud iit all too much info overload so much so that I did not know where to start, I looked at getting programmers / website desgners to set up my sites and start getting traffic and my web guy said that he specialises in organic traffic and that PPC is not the way to go as can be too expensive, he also said it will take at least a year to get to $200 per day and all this has disillusioned me, as the impression I got was you can make money fast in this business, I was willing to invest money in order to generate profit fast but that does not seem to be the case, I have requested JV’s but do not get a response as I do not have a list etc all seems very difficult to achieve, what I do see is that there are tons of online marketers selling ther and other peoples products and that seems to be what is going on but I think only a few are making real money plus the so called gurus then make money by teaming up together with a product launch and make money from seminars etc coaching, webinars and so on, I am willing to invest in something that can work what do you say have you got a proposal
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Everald
Thanks for shearing your experience.It serves as an encouragement for me.
I am new to internet marketing and i need help getting my online business going, how to build a list and how to identify the right market for my business .
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Abdulhaq
its great to know such business but I have no idea whether it is possiable to do it from Afghanistan or not.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Larry
Michael:
well maybe I started out the wrong way-I was talked into signing up for Vianet Coaching-since I am pretty computer illiterate even this seem like greek. I am having a hard time getting the site up and running and can’t seem to figure out how to get all the important thing on my site-like this site is hacker safe-how to set up the auto responder. and after reading some of your material-I am begining to think I am on the wrong track-I not even sure my site is set up right to keep the customer on long enough to click on anything. There really seem like alot to getting the site up and running rigth-any suggestions
thanks
Larry V
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Pete,
You can be an affiliate for various things of mine. For example, if you sign up at http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com you can promote that product.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Bruce,
You asked:
“Would recommend leaving the one alone to start the other? Any other recommendations?”
If your site is able to run almost on autopilot, you might divert your energies to another project for a while. But you might try spending time on that site for a while to see if you can get it to produce again. What can you tweak?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Robert
Hello Michael,
Step by step info about how to setup downloadable e-books on my site. or other little freedeals. They all say “Do it” but noone sais how!
I am sure its as simple as A-B-C but having never done it I do not percieve the techicalities.
Thanks, Robert.
P.S. great service you bring here, congratulations.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Ernie,
I’d start here:
http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
It’s a 30-day action plan. I can’t (and won’t) guarantee you’ll be rich in a month, but I can say that free video course is a great place to start.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ronald F Hird
My only websites up and running are those sites of my interest at the moment.(Affiliates etc.) I haven’t been able to fathom how to get others that I have ‘established’ online yet. I find it very difficult to follow instructions given from the origins of domains or hostings.
It is difficult when one has not been brought up on computers or the i/net to grasp the finer points and the expectation appears to be that ‘basic knowledge’ is the realm of all users but sadly, it is not and frustration takes over.
Further, although I accept that you have suggested methods of creating a ‘list’, it is not easy to pull a niche or subject out of thin air to create a ‘report or newsletter’ from. My efforts at this have resulted in nothing, zero!
Am I the only ‘i/net idiot’ in cyber space or is there a fraternity of us trying to beat the odds and make something, in dollar terms, by continually beating our heads against that proverbial brick wall?
Regards,
Ronald F Hird Australia (D.O.B 10 Jun 1941)
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike Mulanax
Hi Michael!
No questions, just a comment. To all the Newbies reading this blog….If you want to chose a marketer to emulate, follow and learn from Michael Rasmussen. There are VERY few marketers that OVER-DELIVER, but Michael is near the top of the list. You can’t go wrong following his advice, period.
Thumbs up to ya Michael!
Michael M.
USA
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dot
My biggest problem is finding a profitable niche. Once I can find that I’m sure I can make some headway.Your answers have given me some more food for thought thanks.I think I am at the stage where I have to move on as I don’t think I am really persuing a desperate/hungry market by the results I have got. But I have been reluctant to move on when I have spent such a lot of time on what I have been doing.
Can you please explain about title tags, so often I hear about putting keywords in tags but what are they and how do you do it? Do they not get read by humans?
Thanks for the opportunity to pick your brains.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From zalina
hi,
basiccally my problem maybe a small problem to other but its giving me major headache for past 3weeks.. until now i cannot solve it..
1.i want change my website sub pages from php to html… i’ve tried so many ways but still fail of doing so….
2. i’m doing so much thing but still no result in promoting my website…. what should i do…
thanks for ur reply
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Brian
Hi,
Constructive criticism on my website please as to why I get visitors but cannot convert them let alone get them to opt-in.
Regards & Thanks, BP
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Cheri LaVelle
Hi there,
But mostly I think its the feeling of being overwhelmed with all the offers that drop in our mail boxes and never knowing for sure what is a legitimate offer and what is a scam.
What a great blog/community you have here. Just so you know, I have been one of those silent lurkers that file and read all you emails and have even taken you up on some of your offers. So to all that send out email campaigns, remember, there are many like myself that are listening but for what ever reason, not jumping in at the moment. I suspect it has to do with time and money
Congratulations Michael, this blog will bring us out of the woodwork and you can now really get to know us wanna be internet marketers.
I will definitely stay here and keep up and soon jump in the big sea of the internet with both feet!
You now have my full attention!
Cheri LaVelle
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Liz Nichols
Thanks, Michael–
Confirms the things I’ve learned in 5 years in the IM space.
I plan on mentioning your blog in my marketing blog today because is is so helpful to newbies.
Liz Nichols
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Robert
Oh! and to help others as well, I found this helpfull Google search term; “allinurl:” thereafter request your article info. Ex; allinurl:dog names articles.
You will have a plethora of information and ideas for your own article write-ups.
Regards Robert
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rick
Michael,
This is really the BEST effort I have seen any guru put forth. You actually HAVE responded to all the blog posts - and personally! Most IM gurus ask for comments, and then say “I got a lot of questions on traffic. Here’s my traffic product for the low low price of …” But YOU - you are giving ACTUAL advice to everybody! Hats off to you, man.
So, now for my question.
Your response to Angie was:
“Use Google’s keyword tool to find keywords that get decent traffic but have manageable competition.”
I have at least 6 ebooks with 6 different ways of defining “decent traffic with manageable competition.”
What formula do you use?
For example, one person says 100 searches/day and less than 30,000 competing websites.
Another says at least 5,000 searches/month and less than 50,000 competing websites.
Thank you agsin for this and for all you do for us “Michael wannabes.” I’ve made some money online, but it hasn’t been $440,000… yet…
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Karla
Hi Michael,
What you are doing here is a very kind thing!
I have been plugging away for about a year, I am working in the home improvement niche, found that alittle too wide and am going to try getting into a couple sub-niches.
I have a squeeze page and a very small adwords campaign ($5/day), amw working on a blog and doing a squidoo lens for my 1st sub-niche.
My question is I have 40 people on my list so far and they get an initial 7-part intro and mini-course that they sign up for from my autoresponder but I’m not sure how often/what type of messages for follow up.
Also at this point some haven’t heard from me for a long time as they have been on the list for some months and a few are recent sign-ups.
How would you proceed with this?
Thank You! Karla
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Vanessa Lino
Hello,
First of all… what you are doing is great! Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I bought a Brazilian Clothing Store that went out business 3 years ago and since than I have been trying to sell the merchandise. I have tried:
1. selling retail - doesn’t work because I have LOTS of products, 1 different than the other and it takes too long to take pictures, resize them and post on the web site.
2. selling wholesale at normal wholesale price - looks like everyone wants to find a bargain… the products weren’t selling fast enough.
3. Finally I lower the price and was almost giving away the merchandise for free… I really LOWERED the products. For some reason that was the worst of all my attempts… I guess people see the price and thinks is not a quality product?!?
What do you suggest? The product’s quality is the best (some of them found in expensive boutiques) but they are really dragging me (and my business) down. I have donated a lot to Churches, Good Will, etc. but what’s left (which is a lot) is all the “good” merchandise I can’t donate…
Thanks for your help.
Vanessa
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Chris,
You asked:
“1. To get postings distributed and ranked in the search engines, I have been told to use socialmarker.com and stumbleupon.com to distribute the postings through the various social networing organisations. Would you recomend this or is there another alternative solution.”
I’m not as savvy at the social marketing stuff as I want to be (haven’t had the time), but I do suggest that you use that strategy. I would add some direct marketing yourself, though. Establish a presence in the social networks directly so people can get to know you as part of their community.
“2. What marketing steps/actions should I sequentially follow in making sure the blog gets high rankings quickly. Eg - inbound links to the site?”
Use your keywords, especially in your post titles, link articles to your blog, ping your blog to the outside world, etc. Those don’t have to be sequential, I don’t think.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From david
i,m trying to get traffic to my web site.but i just having problems running a web site.i just dont think im doing it right
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Keith,
Lots of people want free traffic fast, so I would try this:
1) article marketing
2) a Squidoo lens
3) forum marketing
4) a Blogger blog
5) seeing if you can find places to offer a free product that’ll get you viral traffic
All of those should help. I can’t guarantee lots of traffic, or a given level fast, but those are currently working for lots of people.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From David
My website is new, And because of my principles I don’t want nothing to do with credit cards, I know this will be hard to achieve, But I need some help getting backlinks. Funds at this time are minimal. Is there someone out there or someone who can give some help where one can get immediate response or by a phone no, one could call or willing to help with setting up backlinks? I find I make some small mistakes doing this and not being familliar with all the terms. makes it difficult to understand. Or if there is someone willing to help. AS this research i’m doing is extremely important as it seems no one of any intelligence will listen and it is the only energy that can and will save this planet. Do you or anyone out there that could help. I will not forget their help.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Jaz,
Thanks for sticking with me!
Here are my top two traffic generation techniques, in no particular order:
1) Offering high-quality free products for free
2) Having other marketers promote those products for me as my JV partners
That’s really simple, isn’t it? There are lots of ways to generate huge traffic, but those work best for me. You might not start there, but I bet you’ll end up there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Nick
Michael,
I’ve got a site that is currently just a squeezepage for a course that I use aweber to send people to my lessons on another part of the site (see author’s site for link). My questions are as follows:
1. How does the squeeze page look in your opinion?
2. I currently have both adsense and affiliate products in the course, should I keep both or eliminate one, and if so which?
3. I’ve been thinking of redoing the site to make it look more professional and also add articles that I’ve written (or had ghostwritten) for better linkage with keywords and various niche related affiliate products, along with other non-affiliate resources. Do you think this is a good idea?
Thanks in advance for all your help!!!!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Abhishek Agarwal
Hi Michael!
You have taken a very different initiative indeed! Great work! I have heard about you, but never knew the level of success you have had. Congrats! Hard work in the right direction certainly pays!
My question:
I am currently working on a big project and i want to ask you if i am doing anything wrong.
About a year ago, i rummaged through all the niche PLR products i had, and selected around 200 PLR books.
I re-designed the covers of each book, reformatted them completely, and more than doubled their number of pages by adding relevant articles. These books are now looking really new, fresh and attractive.
I have also completely redone the look and feel of the sales page that came along with these products. Also added my own headlines, etc. for each of these 200 sites.
I have also added around 125 different autoresponders on these sites(1 on each site, of course). I have created 125 new ebooks that i am giving to my subscribers when they sign up to my list. These free books are over 50+ pages each, containing a collection of articles related to the niche.
In order to get traffic to these sites, i have around 8,000 freshly written articles which i will be submitting to ezinearticles. These articles are PLR articles that have been completely re-written by human writers and are now around 90% unique. I aim at being in the top 2 expert authors on ezinearticles.com
Each of my books (the 200 books i will be selling, as well as the 125 free books) will be having affiliate ads, as well as a link back to my site.
I also have OTO set on almost all of my sites, which will be very hard to resist.
I also plan to give around 75% - 100% commission to my affiliates on the front end… so that i get maximum traffic.
This entire collection of sites would be powered by Fantasos (JV Manager 2)
This is a brief overview of my project. There are many other elements of this project which i have not discussed here.
I have been working on this for more than a year, and i will be launching it by September.
I have told you all this because i want to know if i am making any big mistake that i might have overlooked. From your perspective, you definitely have a better understanding and can see the bigger picture.
Any advice or suggestion or warning you can offer will be highly appreciated.
Regards
Abhi
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ife
Thank you for all of the userful information you’ve given in response to others inquiries, and being there for those of us who don’t really know what we’re doing—smile.
Being able to access my own website with the pages that were created for me for one of my internet businesses. Sometimes the free stuff doesn’t work and you get no response from those who you’ve already paid to assist.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Patti
Hi, Michael,
I’m just starting out. I’m having trouble with all the pieces of info marketing: website, blog, free reports, for sale reports, articles, etc. How does one keep them cohesive and relevant without being repetetive from one vehicle to the next?
Thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Lori
Can you share your best tips on how to approach someone you would like to joint venture with for the best chance of getting through and creating a JV?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tammy
Hi Michael,
I’m really kind of stuck regarding email follow ups. For example, I have created a very good and informative free report in my niche, that others can download. Outside of the free report, I’m concerned with giving too much information away for free when it comes to following up. How do you create a fine line of educating (in follow ups after they’ve read the report)without giving away the cow?
Any help on this would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Tammy
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Miko
Hi Michael
I have been online bizs for about 1 year.
But, not much improvement.
I would like to do my own product.
But, don’t know how and what niche product.
Can U enlighten me.
Thanks.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Buzz Reed
I have a question about traffic, I have used Adwords and the free traffic sites but it seems like the traffic sites allhave to look at other sites to gain credits, all the “extra” time is spent surfing other sites. What do you do for traffic?
Thanks for helping. This is a big advantage to us newbies. The gurus want 497 to access the info you are graciously giving us.
Buzz
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dan weyler
Michael, I have an unusual question. My X-wife writes
poetery. But not not just poetery she has a gift to
put on paper how a person feels about another, and it
fits that persons needs to the tee, once it is written. For example: Lets take you Michael if your married or not I don’t know But just say your married
with children. Its your anniversery or valentines day and you want to tell your wife how you feel but you can’t put it into words. Well my wife has the ability to put your feelings on paper for you to give a poem/or letter to your wife about how you feel and it will always be on target. She has nver had a complaint about any thing that was out of line or off beat to the feelings of the person that she wrote it for. My Question: How does she market this poetery thing. Could you help in this area with advice or would you try her out and if your impressed would you be a seller of her product. These are not cp generated she will have to one at a time it is certanily not a get rich thing because she has to take each one individually.But she is in dire need of financial help and if you could help then it would be a blessing.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Jaun-Andre,
If you’ve tried AdWords with ClickBank and you’re not seeing a profit, it’s not working for you right now. I mean that in the most helpful way possible.
I suggest that you use free methods until you get some sales going and you KNOW what converts. Then you can attack AdWords with confidence.
There’s really no magic to it except this: The pros don’t spend very much until they KNOW it converts.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tammy
I feel like I’m going in circles. I have 2 blogs and 2 websites and nothing from either one. I can’t get people to answer questions. Heck, I can’t get people to leave comments.
I often wonder if the only niche where real money can be made is the niche of Internet Marketing.
I know how to do the research to make sure it’s a top niche. I had researched for months and finally had a brainstorm one day and found my niche…. or so I thought.
I’m not ready to give up but I don’t have any money and don’t have a clue what I’m doing wrong.
I hear all the Internet Marketing guru’s say they went from living in trailer parks or being homeless or even simply being broke to multi millionaires, like you.
I’m REALLY at a loss as to how you could go from absolutely no money to making millions. I think it really does take money to make money.
I know all about vision boards and gratitude and to know that you’ll make it, truly know you’ll make it. However, I can’t see where it’s working.
I sometimes think it would be nice for a person/guru to have an up front list of what it will cost to get started ie. domain purchase, hosting, autoresponder, etc.
Could you be making the kind of money you’re making if you were not in the Internet Marketing niche? Say if you were in a country living niche or a 4-wheeler/ATV niche?
I don’t want to give up but this is taking quite a bit of time away from my family and if it’s really not going to work then maybe I should find something else to do.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From CONNIE
michael
i think your work is great,but i am at loggerheads
trying to find a way to get started online.
information overload i think i might suffer from at the minuite…..i want to sell information online were do i start???? my harddrive is full of ebooks and packages of software that i have downloaded for weeks now but am still stuck badly whats your advice to me??????
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kelvin
Hi Michael
Thks for giving me this opportunity.
In fact, I am asking this question for those new marketers in my list.
Q: Imagine you have lost your list and all your JV partners overnight. What are the things you will do to start making money again within 90 days with just enough money to purchase your domain, hosting and autoresponder.
Thks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kwami Wentum
I am a complete novice and I don’t know but I have tried getting customers to visit my site by buying list with I was promised will direct traffic to the website. So far nothing has happened and I am very frustrated. What can I do to make visitor and customer to visit and buy from the site.
Thanks for the offer of help. It is very much appreciated
Cheers
Kwami
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Beau,
“How do I optimize this process?”
How much traffic are you actually getting from the various things you’re doing? Analyze that and focus your efforts on the winners.
Beyond that, definitely use your content for more than one thing…make an audio of your article, make a video of it with PowerPoint and put that on YouTube, Twitter about what you’re doing, post an extract your article on your blog and link back to your site for the rest, etc.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From akmisty
Hi Michael, I have searched for the graphic box you use to frame your promotions, can you tell me where you got it from? I notice that Ann Sieg and a few other marketers use the same one.
Thanks,
Misty
P.S. This is awesome for you to take the time and answer questions for us newbies. There are lots of great questions I can’t wait to hear your reply to.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Garth Bradley
Michael,
I signed up for Ed Dale’s “Thirty Day Challenge.”
In your opinion, how effective is the 30DC?
Thanks,
Garth
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tom MIller
Michael, We provide full website services for local businesses to have a website developed and promoted with SEO to be placed on the search engines.
Question: We have found many web sites nationwide, by using keywords, that are not completed/ extremely amateurish. We would like to contact these web sites and offer to create a complete and professional website on our server.
We would like to do this online.
“How do we market our web developement company online rather than”in the real world?” Would a person buy this if they cannot look at you and plan the site with you sitting together at a desk?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Cheryl,
To be honest, I’m not sure what options you have in South Africa. You might look into 2CheckOut, Plimus (lots of international folks use it) or WorldPay.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael
I would like to find someone with experience that I can get in touch with either by phone or email as a mentor and guide and pay an hourly fee. Everyone wants thousands up front for consulting and you don’t get what you need. I want to be able to call, get guidance, reviews of the web, step-by-step help etc, when I need it at a reasonable hourly rate. Where can I find this person?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Kocis
Hello Michael, So far everything I’ve read here is tremendous. One aspect where I lack in understanding is,accepting payments on a site.
Right now I’m hosted by pagebuzz.com and it’s extremely easy to use. Their shopping cart is set up to accept paypal however, I’ve been told a merchants account makes it much more professional to the customer ?
I looked over Hostgator ( looks good) but I’m not tech smart enough to fully grasp what I NEED in any given shopping cart.
Could you explain (in laymans terms)
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rebecca
Thanks for being a leader and giving out information to help newbies grow and prosper.
I really really would like to know what software you are using to create the videos for MiniSites and your Email Promos Exposed. They are sharp and different from the normal Camtasia look and feel.
Where can I get this video creation software so I can create dynamic video products like you are so I too can give info to my list that is professional looking and branded differently than the rest of the herd.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Steve,
It’s my pleasure answering questions…as long as I get to take some breaks in there!
You said:
“In just under 3 weeks I have had 200+ clicks from the links on my sales/review page to the merchants sales page. This I’m quite please with this but here’s the catch - NO SALES in ClickBank.”
Well, 200 clicks MIGHT not be enough to judge. Let it get to 300-400 and then assess. But see below.
“So i am wondering what is a good benchmark sales conversion for this? If I had just 1% that would be 2 sales - definitely not retirement time but a good incentive nonetheless!!”
If you get 300-400 clicks and don’t muster 1% conversion, you know the problem is one of two things. Either your prospects aren’t warm enough when they hit the sales page, or the sales page doesn’t convert well.
You can try pumping up your pre-selling pitch, or you can pick a different product. You’re not married to the one you started with.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Samuel Enemaku
Hi Michael;
I’m a newbe. I bought the Google Nemesis system through you(with your great BONUSES).
I just about finished reading all the material and I am now ready to take ACTION.
WHAT “exactly” would you advice me to DO FIRST.
If you prefer, you can e-mail the answer to this to my mail address.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Julie,
I can’t really say there’s a “standard” out there for website design. But I suggest you look for somebody who will show an active portfolio of work and offer a good price for a package deal. There are lots of good designers out there like that, who don’t charge by the hour and inflate the hours.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From William Bell
Michael,
Thanks for sharing these tips. I picked up a couple just from reading your responses which I will implement right away.
Really appreciated your minisitesecretsexposed course.
William B
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Paul,
“I am curious how big your list was your first year in business and exactly what did you do to build it?”
I don’t give out my growth numbers for privacy. I actually revealed more in this blog post than I usually do.
But I will say my list started at zero, and I built it by offering and promoting products to hungry markets, along with recruiting JV partners. In other words, I built my list by doing the things I do now. The difference is scale, and I’m a little smarter about what I do, that’s all.
“I know you mentioned article writing, setting up a Squidoo lens and Blogging but there has to be more ways to build a list faster for FREE?”
I didn’t give you an exhaustive list.
Do you want to know the fastest way to build a huge list for free? Okay, get somebody with a hyper-responsive list to JV with you. That’s not rocket science, but it’s the truth.
Now the ball’s in your court. Talk to any big name marketer out there and they’ll tell you the same thing I just did. It’s up to you to DO it.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Stan Pontiere
I need more traffic. I have 4 blogs that I post to daily, I write a minimum of 4 articles and submit them daily, belong to a social network that I submit new topics daily. Don’t have a lens yet but working on that. I have not budget for Adwords so, what else can I do to drive traffic?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Danny,
I’ve told others this today, so I’ll stick with it…
“Any particular products you would recommend me to market? Are there any of your products I can promote?”
You can promote http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com. Why that one? Because you’re in the market. It helps people get past your level. I say use it yourself, produce some results, then promote it as something you believe in because it works.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Global Success Creators
Hey Michael,
First of all, thanks for your
awesome blog and all the
great answers you’ve given.
You’ve really provided “the
keys” for getting up and
running fast, and I know
from experience that
everyone who implements
what you’ve said will find
themselves well on their
way to profit.
One of the points I also
liked is that it’s good to
keep things really simple.
I’ve seen so often that
people make things much
more complicated than they
need to when it comes to
making money online.
But if they keep it simple and
just take action, success will
come.
I have also noticed that you
always keep the customer
in mind and provide them
with really good value at
every step.
This concept is key as we all
know, and you do it very well.
As for my specific question -
but for
well … I’m sure I could pick
your brain for hours if I got
you on the phone
now I’ll just make a request
that you have more of these
kind of interactive blog posts
or even some teleseminars
so that everyone can really
enjoy all the expertise you
have in this field.
It’s been very helpful for
me and I’m sure for everyone,
and it would be great to have
more in the future.
Thanks again, Michael, and
keep up the good work!
Ciao,
Carolyn Carey
Global Success Builders
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mike,
Your squeeze page offer can be anything you want, as long as it’s free. That’s what gets them in the door.
It certainly could be more information. But you brought up a good point:
“Should your squeeze page capture list information by offering more information or are you offering a solution to solve their problem?”
Definitely offer solutions. That’s what people want. They’re not just interested in getting bombarded with additional email.
“What makes a good squeeze page?”
A killer headline with your key benefit or solved problem in it, bullets to highlight the benefits of your content, and a clear call to action with a sign-up form. That’s it!
“How many articles, squidoo lenses, blog post should one be doing on a consistent basis to drive traffic?”
There’s no one right answer. I suggest being active at least a few days a week, though, just to keep things fresh.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rodney Dunn
Hello Michael,
from the sunny south pacific (New Zealand) Been getting your emails for years now but we’ve only been marketing online for the last 6 months or so.
My question is, as you’ve heard a thousand times before “What’s the best way to monetize your sites” as that seems to be the challenging part.
Here in NZ we seem to be well behind compared to what’s happening in the US. That’s where the market seems to be. Sometimes feel like poor cousins down here! Cheers!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark Nelson
How do you drive traffic to your site. I know everyone wants to make money but in order to make money you have to have traffic.
I write comments on other blogs.
I wrote articles
I have not done a squidoo page
Thanks,
Mark
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Peter,
I don’t know about that Google situation. It sounds like you’re doing everything right to me. One possibility is that other ads are beating your quality score, even though yours is great. If they’re better, they’ll beat you, if I understand things correctly.
If anybody else knows what’s causing Peter’s problem, chime in and help him out.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Funmi
Hello Micheal
I have a website, my problem since i have started are
1.How to get traffic to my site?
2.How to monetized my website? I subscribe for Google Adsense since June and my balance till date is less than $2, even my clickbank account balance is $0
Please i need your help, i have spend a lot to know the secret of internet marketing and i am getting frustrated.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
You mentioned that at one time you had over 50 sites. What provider did you use?
Would you recommend GoDaddy? Are there any secrets when dealing with these providers and hosts? Thanks!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Sara,
“So my question is, when can I speak with you about a JV please? Im keen to speak with you about making some serious cash together, actually some more serious cash together :)”
Yep, you and everybody else
I get literally hundreds of requests a week. I obviously can’t respond to them all. But your question gives me a good excuse to tell people what a good JV proposal looks like. Here goes:
1) It’s a true JV proposal, not “promote my product for 50% of the profits”.
2) It stands out. I get HUNDREDS a week. Why should I pay attention to yours? Sounds cold, I know, but it’s the reality.
3) Are your ducks in a row, and are you willing to prove it? If your site’s not up, or looks bad, or doesn’t work, or you won’t give me your product to evaluate, that’s dead on arrival.
4) How much advance notice are you giving? I plan this stuff. A surprise JV tomorrow isn’t going to happen.
5) Overall, how creative is your proposal? I like to work with people who know how to come up with creative win-win scenarios. Is that you? Does your proposal demonstrate that?
So if you want to propose a JV to anyone, not just me, keep those guidelines in mind.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Eliza
I will be honest this is the first time that I have actually read the email that is delivered to my junk box, I was signed-up on one of your “advertise for free boards”.
I was very surprised by the content and will return to the site for future read-ups. This is great info - Thanks!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Todd
Hi Michael,
First I want to say thanks for all of the valuable information you have provided. Your products and info are top notch.
I also have a cool tool for you for extracting keywords with commercial intent all at once rather then having to do them individually! This is a thanks for all you have given me (you can email me if you get the chance).
Here is my question.
I currently operate 3 sites in the fitness niche and have gone further into it and focused on the Mixed Martial Arts Fitness niche [url removed]
I would like to crack into the IM niche and have a ton of PLR and MR products but I can’t find the time to get them set up.
Can you recommend a good outsource resource at a reasonable cost. I have used places in India but find myself having to explain everything which is counter productive.
Thanks for all your help
Todd
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jack W.
To honor our military service men and women and for the family to cherish and wear, I have designed a stainless steel pendant on which their military photo is engraved.
As a companion item and for only a $1.00 (one dollar) additional charge, a pendant with a family or other loved ones photo will be engraved and sent to the military person placing the order.
In Internet marketing how do I build a niche business and obtain traffic?
My website does not have this military design as of this moment. If you wish to see it I can email it to you.
Jack W.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mike,
You asked:
“I looking at beginning to make products using Camtasia. I saw Mike Filsiame’s recent ‘Review Crusher’ video series and would like to duplicate his ‘horizontal’ type presentation format. What software is he using to do that? Is it just Powerpoint and Camtasia or is there some other tool?”
Mike might be using a pricier tool, but I bet you can do it with Camtasia and PowerPoint.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Erick
Dear people
Thanks for all the advices that you have send to me.
Erick Jurn
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mayank
Michael, Thanks for the great tips and the free videos.
I have one burning question -
Have your tried any PLR packages that give complete minisites with graphics, an ebook to sell, autoresponder mails etc?
Would you recommend using such a service?
I would like to get started with mini sites and this seems to be a good option to me.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Erick
Dear people
Thanks for all the advices that you have send to me.
Erick Jurn
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mike (we have a lot of “Mikes”!),
You said:
“I have only one question. being completely new to all of this, I have no idea what to do where to start or anything like that. I was offered a 6 day training camp that would give me all the tools and information that I needed to start a sucessful business online but at the small cost of $9000.00 plus. You have to be kidding. Anyway how do i get started? I dont have a lot of money but I have a mind full of great ideas. any suggestions?”
Honestly, good coaching costs money. That’s just the way it is. But you can always take your great ideas and put them into action with http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com. It’s FREE.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Patti McElveen
I have been trying since April to work with a company called “Wealthy Affliate”. The website looks great, there are great reviews. From what I am reading, article marketing is what I need to do, but I have no idea where to start. I really think it could be top of the line. But, my dilemna, is that I don’t understand any of it. I am a complete newbie to Internet Marketing. I have no money (where you started), we are so far behind on bills, and I have 2 small children so I have to work part-time jobs so I can take them to school, pick them up, have days off that they have, etc.
What are your suggestions?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bob
Hi Michael.
I don’t know if your offer includes a quick evaluation of my web site or not, but that is what I need.
I am sending traffic to it right now with 22 articles on EzineArticles.com and Go Articles.com. ( Example article: [link removed] )
Out of 1731 views I have 310 click throughs but only 2 sales. I feel conversions should be much better, but maybe I’m wrong.
I don’t currently have an opt-in form on the site, but will add one when conversions are better and after I crank up more traffic generators.
Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. The site is at [link removed].
Thanks in advance for your help.
Bob
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Joshua Teh
I have bought GOOGLE NEMESIS by Chris X from your promotional website when it was launched recently. I have sent you the clickbank receipt for the payment to use the software of GOOGLE NEMESIS.You have given the bonus accept the DVD you promised but I have yet to receive anything on how to have access to the GOOGLE NEMESIS programme. Would you kindly tell me how to quickstart my online business using GOOGLE NEMESIS?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mark,
“…how do I get things rolling FAST! Writing newsletter is a real struggle for me and do you have any other products/info/ebooks I could market like you do that I can get up and running FAST that won’t cost a fortune?”
Everybody wants fast, but that’s really the wrong focus. The right focus is SIMPLE. How can you start building and selling to a list simply? One easy way I’ve already mentioned is to check out this offer:
http://www.michaelrasmussen.com/video/killer-emails/
It’s free, and can get you started as an affiliate without having to write much at all. You’ll need to have a site and some traffic, but at least the 30 free (and proven) email promos take away some of the follow-up effort.
“Please give me your opinion of my site too.”
Nothing personal, but if I start doing this I’m going to get off track from answering questions, so I’ll make a general rule for this post: no site reviews
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Deb
Hi Michael,
This is great! We are offering our first affiliate product from a clickbank vendor, and when we pre-sell our list on this product and then give them our affiliate link to purchase, it goes to the clickbank product sales page.
This would be great, except that people we are sending, pre-sold, have to double opt-in to the product seller’s list before they can get to the product sales page, and more importantly, the order page. Having a squeeze page is good business (we have one ourselves), but I’m wondering if it is good business to put a squeeze page like that up for affiliates selling your product.
I’d prefer to be able to send pre-sold people directly to the purchase link instead of having to present an additional double opt-in to buyers before they can buy. Any idea how to bypass the clickbank sales page squeeze page? Thanks.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From stanley
i asked a couple of questions and I see you are answering all but me.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Dave,
You ask a good question, and it’s really a matter of trust.
For example, I’d like to think you’d trust my testimonial for something. So if you trust me generally on the IM front, you can be more confident of something I endorse.
One other thing you can try is actually emailing people who’ve endorsed something and asking some follow-up questions. If you get no response, that could mean the person’s too busy to answer, or the product isn’t worth your time. Unfortunately, you can’t know which is true beforehand.
Enter the money-back guarantee. Use it if a product stinks. Period.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Pavel K
hi Michael. i’m not sure whether i should make a site and sell a product through a supplier, or get into affiliate marketing. can you give me your opinion on what’s better?
maybe a better question is, can i be successful without writing articles to promote, blogging or building a list? i don’t enjoy coming up with content, and i have no idea what to say in an autoresponder series.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ron
Hi Michael,
If you were to start all over again, which of the ways below will you begin with:
1. A simple squeeze/opt-in/landing page about a product to capture leads
2. A review site comparing a few products and recommend one.
3. A site with tons of information (with categories and sections) and generate income through adsense and ads.
4. Gather a few PLR/MRR products, sell them and earn profites.
5. Combination of any 4 methods above.
Thank you
Ron
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Alan
Hi Michael,
Thanks for this page. The information is priceless.
I’m just into your mini-sites and AYL etc. but got sidetracked into the VRE scene which I’m working on madly with absolute intention to get back to your minisites next week. Traffic to sites will be my priority and you have answered already ways to do this.
I think most people would be energised to try harder if they could see even a little initial return that would pay for their future resources.
My question would be:- ” Do you know of a supplier of ‘mental rivets’ as maybe these would force me to FOCUS for longer periods.
Thanks Again
Alan
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Jack,
Let’s take your questions one at a time…
“1.Do you offer coaching? If you don’t, who would you recommend? I ask because I learn REAL fast if I’m shown versus reading, videos (a little better), or a site (Forum?) visited occasionally by the author.”
Nope, I don’t offer coaching. I’m not saying no to the idea forever, but it’s not on the radar quite yet. I do get asked all the time, however.
“2.There are literally thousands of marketers out there that will give an overview of starting a niche business model or any of tons of other approaches to marketing….affiliate, Ebay, public domain, etc.
But not one of them EVER tells you how to structure the business form as in “Sole Proprietorship”, “C” Corporation, LLC, etc. I’m not asking you to give legal advice, just a sequence of structure. IE; start out as a sole proprietorship then gravitate to a more formal Corp or LCC upon advice of attorney and accountant? A generic description would be great. Given your fast rise in the business you must have faced similar circumstances.”
Like you say, I can’t give legal advice. An accountant is the best person to ask, since that person can help you understand the tax advantages of various structures. Having said that, though…
S Corps and LLCs are a great place to start for lots of people. You get some corporate protection with a pass-through entity for income tax purposes. An S Corp usually involves some payroll stuff and “reasonable salary” provisions, but LLCs let you take owner draws by writing yourself a check. A C Corp can give you flexibility with ownership shares, but it’s often overkill.
“3. Last one. Call me a dullard….but I’m having a real hard time understand how “Hosting Multiple Domains” works…..does one hosting account house these with bandwidth sharing? If so, do you think that is a good idea or would you set a hosting account for each registered URL? I ask because I have several ideas I think might be descent….but I’m having one helluva time trying to understand and sort out the interrelationship with auto responders, websites, driving traffic, links, social sites, article authoring, etc. I guess I’m asking what framework is best to manage all of the above.”
Yes, it’s usually an account that lets you host multiple domains within your monthly bandwidth. Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket, though. What happens if that server goes down? It’s smart to spread your hosting around at least a little bit.
“4. One more “Last one”…it’s brief.
Do you have an opinion on xsitepro?”
It sounds like a good product to me, although I don’t use it myself.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kris
Hi Michael, I’ve been doing affiliate marketing for about 5 years. I’ve rode the google wave to high rankings a few years ago, now that’s gone, and despite great effort, still bad rankings. So, 2 questions:
1) What is the single most important thing I can do to get my rankings back?
2) I use autoresponders, tried PPC but way too expensive for a financial niche, what one thing can I do to make money fast that will keep growing (not one of those “google slam-bam X” secret courses or other silly trend)?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Amelia Brazell
It is apparent that all of the really big guns in internet marketing are part of a tight knit group that markets for each other.
Newbies seem like Alice in Wonderland - watching through the looking glass.
So here’s the multi-million dollar question - If you were starting today, with no guru relationships, what would you do first to begin building a massive presence that could crack through the looking glass?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Charlie
What are the steps you would recommend me to take if I wanted to promote a mutli-level program? The niche is already pretty much picked out, but competetition is real high.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Valik
Michael,
Thank you for your answers, these are great!
My question is, what would you do if you had a $1000 and had to start over from scratch.
(You can skip the stuff you wrote for the $100 answer) I just want to know where you would go from there and how you would spend your budget to make the volume grow.
Thank you.
Valik
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rollannd Bill Haworth
Michael, very good. You answered some of my questions (and I havn,t asked any yet) You gave a lot of what I would call GOOD advice. I learned severial things that I never thought of asking. I just wanted to tell you how good you did. I will be going to your web sites that you recemoned. Soon as I get finishew cutting the grass huuuuu,I will be sending my list of questions. I hope that you will have time to answer them. They will be easy questions for you. Thank You
bill1553@comcast.net
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Des,
“What I am struggling with is that fact that my online business (i.e. mortgage advising) is not bringing in the results I want, and I REALLY want to start another online business, but I don’t know what niche to concentrate on. I am not an expert on anything except mortgages and related matters and so I don’t have the confidence to write about any other subject, and that’s what’s holding me back… In a nutshell, I am looking for inspiration on what niche I could get into, knowing I don’t know about anything else! In fact, I would prefer more than a ‘niche’, I’d prefer a whole market-place.”
I suspect I’ll disappoint you a little bit, because I can’t recommend a specific niche/market for you. But before you jump ship on your current one, ask yourself this:
Why is your current business not making you much online income? If you answer that, you might revitalize your offering.
For example, you say you’ve taken a hit because of the credit crunch. Hm…do people in the UK have home equity loans? Are they getting crunched? Can you help them?
You’ve probably got a bigger market than you thought.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Freda Hill
Hi Michael,
Thanks for your time,
I opened a zip file in my
files on cPanel, the enclosed
files opened in a new window
but sat flat! I couldn’t move
the files back into the folder
(or anywhere) or open them to
see what they contained.
Do you have a unzip program
to use in cPanel without downloading
and re-uploading again? Its a very
slow process with video files
and defeats the purpose of having
the creator upload them to my cPanel
initially from their pc.
Can you help me?
Cheers and thank you, Freda
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kevin
Michael,
Firstly may i say, It is great to see a top guy come out and actually talk and help all us newbies!
My head is like scrambled egg at the moment. Not a great lover of pc’s, but i am determined to make it work. joined Nemesis. OK, but Adwords. It,s so hard to get up there! Followed Chris Mc. steps, but a lot of the keywords get taken away (insufficient bids)putting $0.50 limit?
Not getting enough traffic! and of course no sales!
The Q are endless, Just show me how to make it online.
A frustrated wannabee.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From GRAEME MCINDOE
,Hi Mike Graeme here All the way from NEW ZEALAND. YOU answered most of what i was going to ask my only problem now is i need a little traffic so i can get a wage started so i caanfocused on other issues that need sorting Igot two sites up that havent had any traffic and im sure they should work once i can get started one is Lawn Chair Millionaire program and the other is Rejuvenate Worldwide by the way thank you I like the way you remember us little folk who have nothing but hope and dedication I AM KEEN ENUFF TO MAKE IT IM looking for a little start and ill be away.addvertising has been the haardest to start. thank you for nemisis (mac) .
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bill in Louisiana
I have spent 15k in building web sites that said they would get me 3-5 thouand dollars a month. So far no sales and only money going out in fees. I do not know how to market these sites and I ran out of money to spend.I know it can work I just need to know how to market on very little or no money. Can you help me?
bill
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
Hi Michael
I have a forum with 3 free ad forums, a joke forum, a no joke forum, some helpful suggestions forum and a member chat forum. The amount of traffic is not my problem, in fact I’m sure I could increase my traffic if I thought it would be worth while.
My problem is the same as the person that wrote that she got 11,000 visitors with just 3 sales. I’m not getting many sales. I plan to add some ClickBank offers even though I have tried that before I had the forum with no luck. My copy on my mini splash pages might have something to do with it but I believe with there being so much available in the IM niche has more to do with it. You know, too many offers in the IM niche.
So I am trying to find a way to generate some revenue from my visitors even if they do not buy anything.
Like a lot of people I have had my Google Adsense account disqualified for not paying close enough attention to the TOS. I have tried a couple alternatives to Google Adsense that pay for both impressions and clicks but I’d have to increase my traffic by 40 times the amount to even make it worth sending my visitors away from my forum when they click the ads.
Can you suggest a good alternative to Google Adsense?
Preferably something that I would get paid for both impressions and clicks?
Something that would be worth while?
Thanks
Mike
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Des
Thanks for the reply Michael.
If you care to look at my website, maybe you can see things in a different light to me. I’ve SEO’d it the my best abilities!
OK, if you can’t recommend an alternative niche, can you tell me what niche’s are the most popular in bringing in the best results for the IM ?
Regards
Des
Regards
Des
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From betty
hello Michael
as you can see on my website, i have my little operation up and running…and yes i know..it’s a mix of free hosted websites and a free Blogger blog,and basically everything i’ve done so far is totally on a zero budget! but it’s my only option, since i can’t generate HTML websites on my own, and don’t have an online budget because i don’t have a credit card and here in belgium it is impossible to link a bank account to one’s paypal account, making it impossible for me to add funds to it and make online purchases…there are no services here in belgium that come with easy to use, click and point, drag n drop website building tools, and domain names are still quite expensive in comparison to the USA prices…so i am very aware that this is a bad start, the free domain names i use that is.
now, i must say i am quite proud of my work so far..apart from that nasty looking third party ad on my front page ..but if only i could get some traffic flowing to my website, that’d be even better…i think that over the time-span of a year, my maximum #visitors was just last week, with a count of maybe 12 visitors in one day…and i have profiles on numerous social networking sites, i even started making squidoo lenses and even regularely put some ads in your and one other advertising forum…i guess i’m stuck in the field, with no traffic, no free advertising or promotional channels left to put a backlink to my homepage on…for months and months i tried to bring some traffic to my site but it all adds up to nothing…i still get no traffic…now my question is…what am i doing wrong and what do i need to do to finally start earning some cash…i must admit, a couple weeks ago, i received my first $1.57 from a merchandise sale…boy was i proud!
it’d be so darn kind of you if you could help me out some…
betty
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark Myers
Hi Michael,
I would like some benchmark numbers if possible.
1. What is a good opt in rate
2. What percentage of unique visitors should make it to the sales page (operating as an affiliate)
3. What is a benchmark for conversions (1%-2%?)
4. How many unique visitors is “good” for a mini site per day
5. My site probably tends to over pre-sell, I thought that would limit my percentage of people making it to the main sales page, but they would convert better. I am currently converting under 1%. My traffic comes from articles, then my very biased review, then to the sales page. They should be hot not even warm. Any insight?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Adebola Oni
How do i make sustantial profit selling language software & what are the best software you recommend. I really have a burning desire to launch a website to people who really want to learn other languages particularly English language.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Shane,
“Question- How do I monetize an informational site (I don’t have a course or ebook- maybe I should?) and would you recommend charging potential callers a consulting fee (maybe developing a strategic plan for investing?)”
I would definitely create an info product around the problems people face that they ask your help with. Sell that as an ebook for some passive income.
Beyond that, you might consider setting up a coaching program at three different levels:
1) Email only, where you respond within 24-48 hours.
2) Recorded videos/audios you can do once and sell in a membership site
3) Live coaching via teleconference, possibly through a membership site (sort of a Gold level, or something similar)
You should charge more for each higher level, of course.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tracey
I would like to know the best way to find profitble niches to make campaigns.
Thanks,
Tracey
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kevin
Michael,
Second Q. your Auto pilot. would love to have, but i have no list? I don’t think the Nemesis site i have collects these?
Plus your e mail lists. sounds great,but don’t you need great keywords to get these seen?
Tell me how to get the lists started through my Nemesis site. And i will get your auto responder.
Thanks for your time
Kevin
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Gary,
“what sort of methods would you use to see if there are any niche markets that I could sell to”
Since you have the books already, start with them and try to figure out keywords. Then use the approach I outlined earlier today in my answer to Nazul to estimate if there’s a profitable market.
“and what would you say is a fare price to market an ebook at?”
Use Google to see the prices other people are charging for similar stuff
“Finally, can your autoresponder service be setup to automatically send an ebook to a customer, after they pay?”
Yes, but I suggest setting up a download page on your site and sending buyers there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Steve,
“think the biggest problem I face (and I’ve read about many others with this same problem) is that I don’t know what niche to pick or what affiliate program to target. How do a find a niche where people are really seeking needs to problems that I can learn about and start digging into?”
Read my previous answers to see what I recommend. It’s more art than science. You have to find what people are saying they want, or hinting at.
“I already have a website about my biggest passion (fly fishing) but it’s not a real money maker. I need to find something that’s going to bring in some serious cash.”
Why is it not making you real money? I can’t believe there’s no way to make money with fly fishing! I suggest you start there and figure out what fly fishermen want.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Immigrant Coach,
The best advice I can give you is not to start with AdWords. Try to get yourself free traffic and get your pages ranking better in the organic search results you’ve seen lots of people click
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From David
Traffic, quality traffic is a major key.
PPC seems to be such a learning curve for me, and the little traffic I get there is not converting into sales. How can a marketer get a handle on driving traffic to their business. Seems everyone one in my up line is knocking the cover off the ball but I cant seem to get in front of the people who want what I have to offer.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Stanley,
“BANS: build a niche store. ebay affiliate program. here you can build a store and drive people to ebay and when they make a purchase you get commission.”
Got it. Nothing wrong with that…as long as you have physical stuff to sell.
“when you said build a mini site and start selling a product what exactly you mean? Is it like BANS site or ecommerce site or an affiliate site where when people buy product or service you make commission.”
I meant set up a small, quick, simple site to sell a single digital product. It’s simple and fast, and it gets you doing something that can make you money.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Stanley,
AdSense sites are fine, but it’s tough to build a business that way. It’s easier to sell or promote a product and build a list.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Rob and Lisa,
It’s simple. Google costs money, and most people end up spending a lot before they see any sales. Why not start with free methods, prove what actually sells, then start driving big traffic with AdWords?
That’s all I meant
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Nelson
Hi Michael,
How do I get a service oriented website business off the ground? I have an auction site started and need users. How do I accomplish this on a tight budget? Where would you advertise on the cheap?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Dan,
“I am one of thre frustrated ones. One concern is: On Google Adwords…”
Stop there. I really don’t want to badmouth PPC (AdWords included), but almost everybody who’s currently frustrated should cut the AdWords out right now.
Focus on free traffic generation by targeted highly relevant keywords that have good traffic and manageable competition. That’s the “secret sauce”.
I recommended some tools for doing that. If they’re not working, it’s most likely because there’s not lots of traffic in your niche, or your articles aren’t ranking well enough for it because you’re not targeting them well. Remember, use your keyword early and often, especially in your titles, but keep it natural (meaning don’t stuff your keywords in everyplace).
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Nicolas,
The money is in the list…but you have to build it first. See my other answers for strategies. It really is as simple as creating something free that people want and getting it in front of them.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From James Nichols
Hi Michael,
My questions are, ‘Where are the best places or ways to advertise or place ads to generate e-mail lists?’ and ‘Is there a certain count for minimum number of web sites or links to other web sites, blogs, etc, that help get your site/ name recognized more better today on say Google?’ (or is this a more SEO question?)
Thanks,
James
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Brian C.
Hello Michael,
I need to find another way to improve my online gourmet coffee business. I also sell on ebay but I need larger ticket items to buy at 20-30% of retail and offer to sell 50-60% of retail. I prefer to dropship to avoid access inventory. Your help and support is appreciated, Brian.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From rafiq
I’ve been reading your newsletter for quite some time and are very interesting. keep up the good work.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Jayendra,
“1. How to find a hungry market.”
I think I’ve answered this one
“2. How to build the email list.”
This one too.
“3. Can you recommend any book which will teach us step by step online business.”
Not really, but this free course would probably help you a bunch:
http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
“4. Is there any authetic online training institute.
I fail to understand why universities are not starting such short courses.”
Not that I know of. There are coaching programs out there, but that’s all I know about.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bonnie Thomas
Hi Mike,
I haven’t started anything yet, but wanted to say thanks for all the good advice you and others have given to a newbie.
Bonnie
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Linda,
“I’ve been exploring the internet marketing since Oct. 2007. It appears to be that unless you have your own site/product, you will not be successful. It is hard to gain success being an affiliate marketer since there is so much competition. Am I right and what can I do?”
Yes and no.
It’s a good idea to have your own site even as an affiliate marketer. Should you start as an affiliate? That’s up to you. I suggest you try starting with your own product in a hungry niche, no matter how simple that product is. I’ve recommended my free mini-site course several times–start there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Betty,
You have the proverbial cart before the proverbial horse
Start with one site at any hosting company you pick. When it comes time to grow, ask that hosting company what your options are…or pick another one.
Really, don’t make it complicated. Sub-domains might not be a good idea (you’re right), but if your host will front a subdomain with a different domain name and handle the technical redirection behind the scenes, you’ll be set.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Judy
Hi Michael,
I have three seperate(yet similar) businesses that I am promoting. Do they each require a seperate site? The reason I ask is, if they are all on one site it is less expensive for me to promote of course. But, I also wonder if they might be “too much” and therefore distract/confuse the people visiting my site by having them all there.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Danny,
“Also what do you think of product review sites as a way to do affiliate marketing? And using adwords to drive traffic to them?”
It’s a fine idea. Just be sure not to spend yourself into a hole with AdWords. Remember, it’s conversions that count, not clicks.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Karl,
“So how do you handle those that say no, even though they can see you have a great product?”
Try again with a different pitch, or ask somebody else. There’s no sense in wasting time on somebody who says no or ignores you. They’re busy. They can’t respond to everybody. Just move on. There are other fish in the sea. Try emailing 20 people and see who bites
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Colin,
Other than the obvious ones, I can’t recommend places to find freelancers…unless you haven’t tried the Warrior Forum. There are lots of helpful, skilled people who hang out there. Might be worth a shot.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Ken,
“How do you put list building together with opt-in software and auto responder software? It is very confusing.”
It sure can be if you’re new to it. Here’s what to do:
1) Sign up for an autoresponder service (http://www.AutomateYourList.com is one)
2) Set up a squeeze page to offer a free product (downloadable PDF report, ecourse, etc.)
3) Tell people sign up to get it
4) Put your HTML sign-up form on the page (your autoresponder service should give you code for this)
Simple!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Gary
Hi Michael,
Just want to say thanks for your help in introducing me to minisites. I am in the process of still digesting your material which may I say is very informative compared to others I have investigated.
Your system with domanin names, autoresponder and AWeber gives a turnkey operation of minisites to customers who have little knowledge of the internet let alone building a site. As a web builder of two sites I thoroughly understand the problems with driving traffic to a site and getting it exposed to the top search engines. Many feel once they have a site up it is an automatic given that people with visit it. But with your courses and information you simply it in layman’s terms. Your courses are very explanatory.
It is no wonder why you are succesful. Helping others is very commendable and hopefully for you rewarding.
Your blog site here has valuable information and answers to questions that even were raised in my mind.
I will keep it bookmarked.
Thank you
Gary Pollard
NW Digital Video Productions
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Gary Dunsford
Hi Michael (again),
Thanks for answering my previous question. You mentioned about setting up a download page. Is this easy to do and how do you go about doing it. Is it in your minisiteprofitsexposed tutorials at all ?
thanks,
Gary
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Ophir,
One thing you can do is find somebody you want to be your mentor and…wait for it…volunteer your time/help on the technical side.
Don’t propose a JV yet. That comes later. Build up some proof you’re good, then pitch something.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mark,
If you don’t have a site and don’t know how to build one, start here:
http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Steven,
You said:
“I do how ever have a site that was free to me when I became an affiliate and I do use some of the products, very good products that I believe in, but the site has not made me any money to date, not sure what to do for it but here is the domain name: [url removed]”
Keep trying! Figure out a away to monetize the site and build your list. If you’re getting good coaching, use it! Ask them their advice, then implement it.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Marty Baker
Hey Michael
It seems to me that there are 2 types of internet markets and its realy hard to label them but I will try. The get rich quick type I will make you $30,000 in 30 days type. That I think take advantage of lots of new internet Marketers.
and Your Type, More of a the Content is King type, more of the build over time
Both types do preach the same thing on the marketing side.
Article Marketing
Blogging
forum post
Press Releases
Web 2.0
and so on
Where I find myself having problems lets use article marketing for an example. I Start to write an article and I basicaly freeze up, these thoughts go though my head. Do I want to write this as a review or do I write it as a break down of my product. So here is an actual question.
What types of articles are there?
What format should we use when writing them?
Thanks
Marty B.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Elaine,
“I still need clarification and specific explanation on what - and why - email addresses to use in autoresponders. Currentlly, am subscribing to your AutomateYourSystem. Tried others - and literature - but cannot find any description of the “philosophy” behind using different email addresses for A/R Lists. Am also wary of putting in current email addresses in the event of a flood of replies and/or questions. Can you help?”
I suggest that you create a separate customer support email address and send people there. Keep your private one private.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hello Pat,
“Would you recommend creating a website by using PLR articles, books, software ect?”
Sure! Sounds like a good idea. PLR stuff is great, as long as the quality is good. When you find a good source, stick with it.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Don Loiler
Hi Mr. Rasmussen
I have 800,000 e-mail address’s and I don’t now how to talk to them without them saying it is spam and turn me in.
I got them when I purchased a program.
The question is are they spam?
Don
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Guy,
“I’m having trouble with on my…blog.”
I’ve never used that tool before, so I can’t help you there. Sorry.
“Thanks for your help… I’m thinking you’ve got your hands full over the next couple of days.”
Yes indeed. In fact, I’m going to have to sign off for the day very soon. It’s been almost six hours non-stop
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Carol Amato
Hi,
I need your advice on PRIORITIZING. I have too many pans in the fire, I think – have only followed thru on a few things I have started.
•Bought Virtual Smart Agent several months ago even though I didn’t have a site yet cause I recognized a great product and wanted the good price for future use
•Joined Sky High Auctions to learn how to boost my eBay sales – haven’t had time to study their video/articles yet
•Joined SaleHoo to learn great wholesale sources – no action taken yet
•Registered on an alternative auction site, paid $47 for a lifetime “no fees” deal – have 2 auctions running only because character limit is causing me to have to compress each and every listing (FP) before launching – time consuming for little traffic
•Signed up for MiniSites Exposed – got to the 6th video – was loving it but still had no idea what product to promote/sell – even bought the bonus package – got interrupted by an offer for Google Nemesis!
•Bought membership to Google Nemesis thru your affiliate link cause I wanted your great bonuses - still need to read Day Job Killer before reading any of the Nemesis program – complete newbie here!
•Bought John Thornhill’s eBook Site offer and am currently editing pages, etc. Got AWeber account because of this purchase – don’t even have a list yet!
•Joined My Silent Team – Interested in public domain sales and really excited about all to learn there.
•Set up a blog just so I could get accepted by Google AdSense – I haven’t added to it since then – have a few ads on my ebook website
•Still need to watch Hot Item Finder help videos to decide what to add to my eBay store
•Joined Ebay Partner Network but have not made a single cent commission because I have no clue where to promote my sales.
•I am currently promoting Mini-Sites Exposed on my About Me page – no commissions on bonuses sold yet
My Daily Activities:
•Maintaining my eBay business as a PowerSeller on the UK site selling American goods.
•Helping spouse with home business –bookkeeping, invoicing, etc.
•Working with spouse in franchise – commercial cleaning
I do not have more than 4-5 hours each day to devote to all of this. PLEASE tell me what I should focus on and in what order! I see the forest but am blinded by the trees!
Thanks so much,
Carol
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Janet,
“What do you think of doing refunds on line? I am so confused and the company doesn’t seem to want to help me out.”
Gosh, if somebody offers a refund and won’t give it, that’s bad business. Give them a little leeway on time, but they should definitely give you a refund if they promised it.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Bill,
“Any thoughts, opinion, advice on dropshipping physical products? Would you approach a site of this type the same as an affiliate based model? Meaning articles, lists, etc.? Everyone seems to focus on IM but I see that market as being saturated and generally not a place one would want to start.”
Dropshipping is fine, and it’s fine outside of IM too. Yes, same strategies, but you’re offering a physical product instead. And yes, IM can seem awfully saturated. It’s all about micro-niche markets now, but there’s still profit to be made.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Leo,
“If you were to start over, would you choose the IM market first, or at all?”
IM is a great market, but you have to target things well, and that’s more art than science (people will get tired of me saying that). Would I start there today? Probably not. Find a niche market for info outside of IM. That’s probably easier.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Michael,
“How do I thoroughly research what it is that people want when they search on the web? So, how to find niches that are relevant to people’s needs. It’s maybe more than you have time for but a process or method for research would be very helpful. Any courses youwould recommend for this?”
I answered this before. The best place to start is probably to Google “[topic area] forum” and see what forums are out there. Then eavesdrop and see what people are talking about.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Pat Janowski
Hi Michael How do you make money with this site I tired a Lot of Different things like emails flyers Chat Rooms Nobody’s Biting not even Nibbling.
Can You Help Me make Money with this Site.
hstrial-PJanowski.homestead.com
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Mark,
“I just don’t get enough traffic and have gone broke paying for it, pat per clicks and other pay methods, and don’t know where to turn.”
If you haven’t tried the free approaches I’ve given already, try those. Definitely don’t pay for any more traffic that you’re not reasonably sure will convert. Going broke won’t help you, of course.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Vegard
I’ve provided corporate strategy, finance, and development consulting for over 30 years and would like to offer one or more internet-based services, such as a membership site (with notes, articles, blogs, knowledgebase), webinars, one-on-one coaching by email, on-demand Skype audio or video calls, etc. Any suggestions on stucture and marketing for someone who did not grow up with the Internet (or computers, for that matter)?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Richard Daigle
Hi Michael,
I’m making my 1st attempt at launching a new site which will be a Downline Builder for Traffic Exchanges. I don’t have many contacts or a large list. Can you suggest some strategies to help my new program get noticed?
Blessings,
Richard Daigle (realtimerick)
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Arlen Card
Michael, thanks for taking time on this.
What are the best ways to get testimonials/endorsements for a new eBook? I have no list, nor do I know any “gurus.”
Thanks,
Arlen
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Bill,
As an engineer, I can imagine most of marketing is terribly frustrating to you. You might not want to believe it’s more art than science, but it is.
Picking a niche has some science to it, but it’s mostly analysis after you try something. You can find what you think is a perfect niche. If it doesn’t make you a profit, what does that mean? It means YOU can’t make a profit there.
A hungry market is a market in desperate need a solution. Think of people with acne who desperately want it gone. Think of overweight people who desperately want to lose weight. Think of people with XBoxes who can’t get the dang red light problem to go away.
That’s what you’re looking for. There are no specific criterion like “if you find 37 people asking the same thing, you’ve reached critical mass overload and you’ll make $1,836 per day on average”. It’s just not out there.
I’ve given some suggestions about finding things people are interested in or in desperate need of. Pick one, try it and put your engineering skills to work analyzing. Pet rocks sold, Edsel’s didn’t. Go figure.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Jane,
“I paid for my site now I need to use it effectively and ‘get attention’. What do you suggest for a newbi.”
This is becoming my stock answer, but I’d start here:
http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
Look, it’s free, so you won’t feel bad giving it a shot, and you’ll probably learn lots of good ideas for “getting attention” for your site.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From BrendaRocket
Hi Michael,
Can you please suggest books that can help me with adsense, etc. ?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi Marlene,
“Yes, I do need help. I have a large niche web site about 40 pages. The subject is photography. I have 4 blogs that tie into the site 3 on photography and 1 on oil painting. So far I haven’t made a dime. Right now I’m studying blogging from some of the blogging pros because I know it is important to write quality articles. So that I’m doing. If you can help in any way I will listen. Thank you…Marlene”
I don’t want to insult your intelligence here, but you might try this:
1) Find some affiliate products you can promote in your photography niche
2) Create a short downlodable info product to give away to people who visit
3) Build a list
4) Start promoting your affiliate products to that list, but sprinkle in some good free content (meaning don’t promote 100% of the time)
If you’re not already doing that, I’d start there. Articles will help get you traffic, but you have to monetize it (I suspect you knew that one already).
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From wayne
Hi,
I’d like to use Google’s free Website Optimizer to do A/B split testing to improve the conversion rate of a page I’m using to promote an affiliate product.
This requires that you create a new page that is a variation of the original web page you want to improve. Then you have to identify a page on your site that is the conversion page.
The problem is that the conversion page is not on my site, it’s on the affiliate product site.
Is there any way to use Google’s A/B split tester to evaluate the number of clicks that go to the affiliate site from the original and modified pages on my site?
Thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mark Perry
Hey bro!
Thanks for giving the folks some hope here.
It took us 4 long, trying years to actually be able to work from home full time. Hopefully you have helped more than one compress time by answering their questions.
Good providence and rock on!
Mark Perry
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael Rasmussen
Hi folks,
Well, it’s been a long day answering questions, but I’m glad to do it. Hey, I asked for it!
I’m going to sign off for the day now and be back in the morning. I’m sure I won’t get to everybody’s question before I end my commenting time for this post, so I apologize in advance. Your response has been tremendous, and I hope I’ve been able to help.
See you all tomorrow.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Joy
I am somewhat glad to hear that you have struggled, lost money and made mistakes as well because I am doing that right now. I paid for a web site that did not have the right tools to get me picked up by search engines, I lost a big chunck of change on marketing and to no avail. I am with a new company now and they promise to help make up for all that. So far I feel good about the support I’m getting but I know once I’m ready to for the maketing portion I’m going to have to spend some more money and that will be another risk I’m taking. I’m building an affiliate website and my question is besides clickbank and commission junction where do I go to get content for my site to make it successful?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From John
Hello Michael,
I purchased a product you are pushing called Google Nemesis. I am almost scared of the product because all of my research data and other information about my adwords campaigns are kept on their server, meaning they have access to all my campaigns and work and could easily be used by them for their own benefit and profit. Saying they would never do that would be funny! and unbelievable! The forums are full of negative about this product and the storage of this vital campaign info on their servers, no one seems to be happy about this product? I am sure you are aware of this? I would like some feed back from you!
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Cyb
I was wondering how exactly to be internet law compliant. Terms of use, privacy policy, etc.
Do these items need to be included on squeeze pages?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Steven
Thanks for your response. I will ask Vianet coaching if they can help me out with my first site, not sure if they can since we are working on building a new site, but it won’t hurt to ask.
I will stay posted.
Thank you.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From David
Hi Mike
Im a big fan of your non Guru style.
1.I bought rights to a great membership site it gives newbies there first product and newbie videos with PLR.
what shoping cart do you like best paypal,paydotcom,1 shoping cart.
2.I offer a $1 (30 day) trial membership someone told me it would be better to offer a 14 trial instead what do you think.
3.like jack im confused about hosting multiple domains
i know how to upload the main index, thankyou page etc.
some of your great videos have help me with that.
but when it come to other subdomains im not sure where the files go so when you type the domain in the site comes up.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From William Bell
When placing articles on your website, is it better to post the full article on the page or,
Does it matter in search engine rankings if you use hyperlinks to PDF articles in your website to prevent creating so many pages?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Keith
Thanks for your help
This is a great way to offer your help.
I offer online travel websites and would like to have suggestions on how to attract JV partners and affiliates? How can I use viral marketing to build a list? What type of niche products could I offer? I have blog and I have social marketing sites but I don’t get many opt-ins to my list.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bill C
Michael,
It’s been awesome to read your messages today. I am sure I speak for everyone here when I say, Your efforts are appreciated! It isn’t every marketer out there that is willing to let his entire list have a shot at picking his brain.
I have noticed that many folks, including our engineer friend Bill, are looking for a definative answer to finding a good niche. I think there are ways to find niches that I think are profitable by doing some keyword research and weighing various search factors. You can get help that goes a long way to explaining some of this process at http://www.simplemarketresearch.com. There are tons of other information opportunities out there too. Another good one that I like is Brad Callen’s product, “Keyword Elite”, at http://www.keywordelite.com.
Good luck everyone! Wishing you, (and me), great success.
Bill C
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Gwen Maisenhelder
Hi, I am a very new to this and something of a technophobe; but as a senior citizen on a low fixed income, I need some way to supplement that income. Unfortunately, I have lost a lot of money to scammers–one of which pretty well took my credit cards to the cleaners and still insists I am to pay almost $40 a month as a hosting fee when I don’t have a website.
What do you recommend for the ultimate beginner like me who really doesn’t understand how to build a website? Believe me, I need all the advice and help I can get.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Michael
Hi Michael;
In terms of web hosting, I saw a mention of HostGator somewhere on your site(I think I did??). Do you know anything about Blue Host? They offer unlimited bandwidth & unlimited storage for $6.95/mo if purchased yearly. Have you heard if they are good?
Regards,
Michael
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Adrian Fine
My problem is setting up a website I gathered lots of information which seem to confuse me even more. One problem is I’m very short of funds at the moment and I have 200 books and templates with sellers rites and I cant benefit from them. finally the question how do I build a website at a low cost and so get rid of my frustration.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Elizabeth
Micheal How do you upload hoplinks to your website? No matter what I try it does`nt work.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Chris
I have been working like heck following all the good information that you and mike and Eric put out and my grandfather and I are getting close to success but I want to brand our names to the few websites and have professional banner ads created I mean ones that make our sites look and feel that a person can trust us because we have a professional design and all I find are junk companies charging way too much what can I do on a budget
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From johannes
hi i am 55yrs old know nothing about the internet let alone all the other stuff about marketing tried to buy three difrent internet businesses got ripped everytime scared to try anything i still would like something that can make me exstra money
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Kash
Hi Michael,
I think it is cool you are taking time out to answers questions very cool!!! And also a good way to build loyalty with your list.
Anywayz my questions for you: -
1. I have a product I have created (a system that shows people a unique way of how to create products) and also have a website. But Iv never created a website, now using a web designer is obviously the way to go but I still want to maintan control, how do you do that if something goes wrong on the website and you are not a webmaster and the webdesigner has been paid and completed his/her work?
2. This is question I asked AM (just putting down the initials im sure you know who that refers to) at a recenet seminar. If I have a product that Im putting on Clickbank or something similar hows the best way to find and get super affiliates to promote my product?
Thanks again…
Kash.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From sandipan mitra
let me know very what i have to do.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From sandipan mitra
let me clear that what i have to do to earn money.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From davie
Hi Michael
I’m new to the internet marketing world and have only recently come across your name and I gotta say, I’m impressed with your dedication to your subscribers…….I hope I can be so dedicated when I start building my own list.
I have tried to make some sense of the TONS of information I have gathered and to be honest I have been spinning my wheels for way too long trying to understand the whole process.
Decided to take the plunge, have bought a domain name and registered an hosting account and autoresponder series……even though I’m still not really sure what I’m doing!
My question is……..I have heard much hype about registering with all the social networking sites and getting my blog, article or whatever out there as soon as possible. I’ve also heard that you should not promote your own product in case you get accused of spamming. I wish to promote affiliate products eventually…..but if I do this with only one user name, could I not be accused of spamming again.
Should I sign up to each site with a pen-name? Do I need to sign up to each site with the same name for each site? Do I need multiple pen-names for each site and is’nt this frowned upon?
Sorry Michael, I got carried away with the questions but you can see I’m just bursting now to get on with it!
Respectfully, Davie
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jay Byers
With the first anniversary of the launch of my online business fast approching, I can’t help but think I’ve wasted a year of my life and apx.$40K… not to mention the stress this has put on my family.
Michael do you have any words of advise for a businessman that is promoting a product rather than an affiliate program or list building programs.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Del
Hello Michael,
I am very new to online marketing and even using blogs so please bare with me. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to ask you questions.
I starting with ad-words affiliate marketing an review site concept first. My question is;
What is the best way to set up ad-groups?
Do I need to set up a new ad for each ad-group?
Or say one ad, with different ad-groups, and then related keywords to each of those ad-groups?
Sorry about so many words to ask this question.
Thanks,
Del
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Del
Hi Michael,
I hope it is OK to ask another question.
I can see the benefit of using the mini sites to promote, say affiliate marketing and others. I’ll be reviewing your materials soon.
Will this be one of the ways to start building an OPT IN list? If I am going to build lists, is it overwhelming starting from scratch? How necessary are the list when doing affiliate marketing?
Thanks again for being available for communication.
Del
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Bob Lowell
1. How does one set up a download page on a site? Is that in http://www.MiniSiteProfitsExposed.com
2. What’s the best payment processor?
3. Do you need an e-commerce system to sell digital products?
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Eldad Yogev
Thanks Michael for taking time to do this - it is helpful and rare that a successful IMer actually helps for free.
You mentioned in many of your replies the free traffic generation sources and focused on articles marketing. Are there other methods?
I know a bit about SEO for when I build & develop the site’s pages but wanted to learn if other free methods exist. What do you think of using some of the free classified sources that are out there?
Have you ever used the free classifieds? And are they a good way to test Keywords or copy?
Thanks in advance,
Eldad
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Garry Baker
Michael:
I already wrote you today in a separate email about making Google Nemesis a success and how to do it and possibly the formation of a Master Mind Group to assist us and so we can assist each other. GN is where I want to concentrate for now to see if I can make money with it but it is very confuding and far from step-by-step. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Garry
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Suzanne
Hi Mike, thanks for doing this.
I have a mini-site, am collecting opt-isn, driving traffic with adwords, and getting brake even sales. I’m trying to test/tweak, have whittled down to a single keyword that gets opt ins, and try to market with my AR series.
My problem is that if they don’t buy in the first 3 emails, the open rate falls off dramatically.
How do you recommend I reach out to the list after 3-5 emails? Or shoudl I be tweaking my autoresponders to try and get better sales in the beginnign when most emails are being opened?
Finally, when do I drop this campaign and move on? Or do I stubbonrly refuse to quit until it’s profitable?
Thanks.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Jon Coleman
Dear Mr. Rasmussen,
Thanks for your giving nature! I’m having problems getting my vtribes site to take orders for the backend products. I know I need to pay for programming, but its been difficult finding php/mysql tech help that are knowledgable about the vision-gate style template site. I have contracted with someone to do the work, but it is taking a long time for them to fit me into their schedule. When it finally all works, where should I look? Many people I’ve contacted suggest I can the vtribes site and start with something THEY know. (;>)
Thanks,
Jon
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Carol Clossen
Hi, Michael,
Thanks so much for giving us this great opportunity!
I have three questions:
1. Do you think Better Business Bureau and similar seals make a difference in trust level on a web page?
2. Any suggestions how to go about promoting affiliate programs if you have 6 or 8 of them?
3. I’ve heard that you should post articles on many article directories, and I’ve heard not to bother since one article posted many times will not be acceptable?
Thanks again.
Carol
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From William Bret
Hi Michael: Great job in doing this. What system do you use to get your emails to your list. My ISP has a 100 at a time limit and 750 per day. Also, how do you try to protect your emails from being considered spam and blocked. Thanks
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Rocky Shores
Hey Michael,thanks for all your doing for us.
My major obsticle is building a list, where do I put my splash pages to capture some good folks.
Just need to get over this bump in the road.
Thanks
Rocky
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Marieta Jansen
Hi Michael,
I have to say this is the best blog I’ve ever come across. Thanks for the invite.
I really hope you have time to read my message. I’ve been trying to get into affiliate marketing for the past 18 months and up until now I was only figuring things out. I’ve spent thousands of dollars and now that I’m finally ready, I dont’ have money to spend on advertising and I’m really frustrated. I also don’t have a list, just a list that I got with one of my offers, but I’m not too keen on using it in case it’s not real and I get kicked for spamming. Any quick, inexpensive listbuilding ideas?
I’ve also created a site with all my affiliate programs on one site. Is that a bit dumb or do you think it can work?
Lastly but not least. I have hundreds of products to create minisites with. Is there any pushbutton software out there that I can use to just push a few buttons to put it all together?
Thank you for your time and all the best to you.
Kind regards,
Marieta
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From BERNIE
Hello Michael,
Hope you are well and can help me out. I have an Internet business that can only process purchases from clients that have gift cards on my Gift Card Redemption website. I would like other customers to be able to purchase from it and want to have it converted over to an E-Commerce website. How do I do that? What type of software do I need to purchase? The company that I got the website from can upgrade the site for me at the cost of $600.00. I do not have that type of money to invest at this time. Can you please advise me on what to do? My husband thinks that I should “throw in the towel and cut my loses.” Thanks and may God bless you.
Sincerely,
Bernie
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Robert Le Gay brereton
My question is how do i advertise for free and make money on the internet.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Dreamcatcher
I would like to see honesty come back into the internet by way of telling newbies just how much money is needed to get a campaign off the ground, especially using Google Adwords PPC. With the Google Assassin, Google Nemesis, Profit Lance (which by the way is a great learning course), noone brings to the forefront of how many dollars is required to get a ROI. I know this isn’t a question, but rather a dream by Dreamcatcher.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Tony Bennett
Hi Michael
I want to sell product in UK £ and US Dollars but my shopping cart Total Business Cart will onl support one currency. I only want one cart - what is the answer please?
Tony
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Cheryl Gonzalez
With all the newbies posting, I thought I might add a resource that is JUST getting started. It’s FREE and can help since so many people get involved.
It’s called Thirty Day Challenge
For a full 30 days they are going to be showing you exactly how to start your own Internet business and generate your first income online without spending a dime.
Michael has been quite generous with his time and has provided awesome answers. This is a way to participate with others who may be at the same newbie stage you are.
Ed Dale is also a LOT of fun
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Amelia
Hi: Just a comment to thank you for this idea. I had a few questions, but they were asked by others & you answered them. Never thought I would ever get answers without saving thousands of dollars to pay for coaching sessions.
Thanks again
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Charlene
Great help. I now have direction. Thank you.
Charlene
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From John
Michael:
I have a world of respect for you. I don’t know how
you do it. What kind of help do I need? Everything.
Well all I wanted to do was try to pay off some of my
medical bills before I dye.
I went through 5 by pass heart surgery. Now fighting
cancer with chemo. Can’t really sit at my computer
that long anymore. I need all the help I can get.
I’am getting bomb barted with so many people I don’t
know where to start. I joined up with direct deposit
profits right now. All I’am doing is wasting my money.
I see most of the big boys got everything all sewed
up. I need to know what advertizers are the best to
join. I need to find some where that isn’t taken by
all the big boys. It’s like you said it’s not the
advertizers as much as it is how you present your
product. I about ready to cash it all in. I just don’t
know what to do anymore. Have any advice to give me.
So many people sending me ads that on home busisnesses
and they all say were the best. Maybe just do away
with this ddp program and just do clickbank
advertizing.
Any thoughts of where to go. I’ve pretty
good in selling my own things in Ebay. Been there
about 10 years now. Still have 100% rating. But I need
to start making some bigger money and don’t have much
left anymore to sell. What all do I need to do?
John
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Ruby Redwine
Hi Michael I would like to have a web site set up with my products But I don’t think I canafford it.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Armando B. Silva
Hi Michael,
What’s the core set of skills you find critical for becoming success online? Surely over the past 6 years, you had to master new skills… which ones are important to you?
And about your market niches, are they all within the Internet Marketing niche? Or do you also operate in unrelated target markets? Thanks and keep well.
Armando
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From dave aderinto
Hi Michael,
Thanks for the opportunity.Iam new in im. where do i start.iam not too familiar with most of the language.i did register a few blog and i got some goggle adverts but no click, i try clickbank but nobody purchased anything. In a simple man language, what should i do,few steps that in need to take to start earning a few dollars to start with, it will be encouraging.
• Author's Site • July 31st, 2008
From Mike
Hi Michael,
What I really want to know is when to do a sales letter type web pag