Habitat for Humanity fundraiser

Looking for a unique way to make a difference while gaining massive value! Look no further. Matt Bacak, author of The Ultimate Lead Generation Plan, has put together by far the most incredible fundraiser ever. It’s like nothing you have ever seen. For anyone who knows Matt you know this was bound to happen. For those who don’t I can assure you Matt “walks his talk” and knows his stuff.

Find out more
http://www.theUltimateLeadGenerationPlan.com

Tradeshow resource

This is a great resource for anyone who participates in tradeshows. Read the article under breaking news. I had the opportunity to be interviewed for this.

http://www.exhibitoronline.com/news/enn-display.asp?counter=3963

Send clients articles of interest

If you find an article in a trade journal or magazine that you know a client would be interested in take the time to clip it out and send it to them. It could be something that is directly related to their business; a hobby they have a passion for; an article that relates to something of a personal nature (if you know them that well); or just about anything that let's them know you are thinking of their best interest.

This is the "Street Smarts" way to build great working relationships.

Kathleen Gage
www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Know Your Market's Motivating Factor

If you want to know the buying habits of consumers visit the VALS website. http://www.sric-bi.com/VALS/

VALS™ is a marketing and consulting tool that helps businesses worldwide develop and execute more effective strategies. The system identifies current and future opportunities by segmenting the consumer marketplace on the basis of the personality traits that drive consumer behavior. VALS applies in all phases of the marketing process, from new-product development and entry-stage targeting to communications strategy and advertising.

In order to sell effectively, you must know what motivates your buyer. Take the time to understand your market. It will be well worth the effort.

About Kathleen
Kathleen Gage is a business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions for small and home based businesses. She is a keynote speaker and the author of -101 Ways to Get Your Foot in the Door - and - 101 No Cost and Low Cost Tips to Market and Promote a Product, Service or Business. To access her FREE report, Learn How One Salt Lake City Consultant made Over $100,000 from One Idea, visit www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Just added a new description to my website

Kathleen Gage is The “Street Smarts” Speaker

The “Street Smarts” Speaker who teaches people to use their instinct, wit, creativity, and drive to achieve success, market penetration, sales performance and their fullest potential.

A few changes on my website - www.kathleengage.com

I made some changes on my website. You can now access articles directly from my site.
www.kathleengage.com

Kathleen Gage

Top Performers Can Teach Others How to Get Their Foot in the Door

When asked, most people in an organization can easily name top performers. Think about it! Who are the top performers in your organization, association, church group, or club? Are you one of them?

If you are, chances are you are more than willing to share your strategies of how you became a top performer. However, chances are, not many people ask. For some reason they seem to think it’s not okay to ask.

If you’re not a top performer, when is the last time you talked to one to find out what makes them tick? What is it that has taken them to the top? What are their beliefs, thoughts, actions, habits?

Success does not happen by luck, it happens by choice. Regardless of one’s title, position, industry or organization, success leaves clues. There are strategies, steps and risks that are involved.

If you are seeking ways to get to the next level of your success find those who are there and find out what their strategy is. There is a very good chance that if you are really willing to listen and apply what they say, you too will achieve “top performer” status.

About the author
Kathleen Gage is a business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions for small and home based businesses. She is a keynote speaker and the author of -101 Ways to Get Your Foot in the Door - and - 101 No Cost and Low Cost Tips to Market and Promote a Product, Service or Business. To access her FREE report, Learn How One Salt Lake City Consultant made Over $100,000 from One Idea, visit www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Keep the process going

Generating business is an ongoing process, not a one time experience. Seek multiple ways to keep your name in front of your market. Do this on a regular basis. Essential to your marketing success are your follow-up procedures.

Kathleen Gage
Street Smarts Marketing
www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Guarantees build trust

When selling a product or service be willing to offer a guarantee. This indicates to the consumer you believe in what you are selling.

Kathleen Gage
Street Smarts Marketing
www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Gain Free Publicity Through Press Releases

One of the greatest ways to promote your product or service is with publicity. Many people have little, if any, understanding of how to go about securing publicity, never mind free publicity. Fact is, people will pay more attention to free publicity than they often do to paid advertising.

A simple way to gain free publicity is to write and distribute a well-written and well-formatted press release. A good press release is one of the most effective, and yet, most underutilized, of publicity tools. Simply put, a press release is an announcement you send to magazines, trade journals, newspapers, and newsletters. Also to radio and television. Often what you send to radio and television are referred to as PSA’s (Public Service Announcements).

I have one client who hosted an event and submitted one well-written and well-distributed press releases to the media. When the release made it in print, they went from having a 50% booking for their event through some direct mail efforts to filling up the entire room in less than 48 hours. This was worth a substantial amount of money to them.

Necessary steps
Prior to writing a press release, determine the following:

 Who is your target market?
 What is your target media?
 Who is the contact person at the media outlet?
 What is the timeframe for submission?
 Do you have an attention-grabbing headline?
 Do you know the who, what, when, where, why, how?
 Do you have good quotes, research and technical date if appropriate?

Develop a system for writing and distribution of releases. Stay organized. Know how to send the press release to a specific media outlet and person. Each has their own preference as to how they want to receive it. It will be to your benefit to find out. A quick phone call will often provide you with this key information.

Editors are inundated with information. If you want their attention keep the release short and to the point. During busy times, like before a huge event in a city, they will be in information overload.

Don’t use massive amounts of buzzwords such as “its all-new, interactive, interoperable, cross-platform, new multimedia solution.” Avoid jargon. The general public will have no idea what your industry jargon means and editors rarely will take time to find out.

Give them the who/what/when/where/why as articulately as you can. Make your information is complete. Incomplete information is far more likely to get your press release in the trash bin than anything else.

The 5 Ws of writing a press release or PSA.
Who should attend? Who will be there?
What is taking place? What will come from this event? Is it a fundraiser?
When is it happening?
Where will this occur?
Why would people be interested in the information? Why would they attend the event?

Sending press releases
Many journalists prefer that you send press releases via e-mail. You will find some die-hard snail mail folks, and a few who like faxes. If you're about to start working with a new journalist, and you're not sure how they prefer to receive their press information, ask. Once they tell you how they prefer the information, honor that request.

E-mail should be sent as a plain text file: the simpler, the better. Do not send a press release via email with an attachment. Most media people will automatically delete due to the concern of a virus. Do not send your email out via a mass email. Actually, if you use a good contact management database, you can send it by mass email and it appears as if each is a personalized email. Don't send a press release to your entire press list, with the entire recipient list visible.

When an editor calls for more information, respond to their call as quickly and professionally as possible. There is not substitute for building good relationships with the media. Don’t ever think you are too busy for them.

By making yourself available for the media, they tend to make themselves available for you. And what more could you possibly ask for?

About the author
Kathleen Gage is a business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions for small and home based businesses. She is a keynote speaker and the author of -101 Ways to Get Your Foot in the Door - and - 101 No Cost and Low Cost Tips to Market and Promote a Product, Service or Business. To access her FREE report, Learn How One Salt Lake City Consultant made Over $100,000 from One Idea, visit www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

7 No Cost and Low Cost Tips to Market Your Business

Marketing a business can be fun, exciting and creative. It can also be very frustrating and expensive if one doesn’t know what outcome they are looking for or how to evaluate cost effective methods of marketing.

Over the years people have come to know me for my unique ability to develop low cost and no cost strategies to market and promote a business, product or service. Strategies that have realized incredible returns.

Some of my successes have included:

- Before my last book was published I pre-sold over $8,000 in books
- Over 250 people registered for a recent seminar in less than 2 weeks and the cost to promote was under $25
- One company used my strategies for a career expo and made over $180,000 in consulting fees
- One speaker sold over $23,000 in product sales back of the room at a two hour seminar with strategies outlined in my program

I don’t share this to impress anyone, rather to impress upon you when using the right strategies for your market, you can realize some incredible results.

People have also come to know me as someone who is a stickler when it comes to putting systems in place. My marketing successes are a direct result of the systems I have implemented.

With a bit of forethought, planning and desire, you can successfully market your business in a very effective manner. Below are seven proven strategies sure to increase visibility, leads and sales.

1. Business Cards
Business cards are often one of the most underutilized tools in one’s marketing.
Use the front and back of your business card to gain full benefit. Depending on your market you can put some very valuable information on the back such as a sports schedule, emergency numbers, or special dates people want to remember.

Keep some in your wallet, your automobile, on your desk, and some at home. Be sure to carry them with you wherever you go and be willing to hand them out as opportunity presents itself.

Creatively distribute your card. When you eat out you can leave one with the tip.
If you borrow a library book, use one as a book mark. Hand them to clerks in stores who may know other people who could use your product or service.

When someone gives you their business card be sure to enter their information in your database. Send them a short note or email within 48 hours of meeting them to keep your name fresh in their mind.

2. Send a picture
A great way to keep your name fresh in a customer’s mind is to send them a picture of when they purchased a product or service from you.

Put a picture of a buyer’s auto purchase in a beautiful calendar. Likely, the proud owner of the vehicle will display the calendar for the next 365 days.

For specialty gift shops, when a customer makes a substantial purchase, have a picture taken with the shop owner. Frame the picture and send it to the customer.
Chances are very good the picture will be displayed proudly for friends and family to see.

A dentist who specializes in smile makeovers can easily arrange to have a professional makeup artist and photographer capture the patient’s beautiful new smile. No doubt the patient will be more than happy to show others their new look.

3. Associations
Associations particular to your market are a great resource for marketing. There are associations specific to virtually any industry, job type or business. A quick web search will likely show you how much is available.

A major opportunity within many organizations is the chance to network. Additionally, to make presentations. Along with presentations come publications.
Often, when you do a presentation, you will get a mention in the association newsletter, their Ezine and/or on their website.

In many cases, when an organization has a newsletter or Ezine, they welcome the presenter writing a press announcement for them. It saves them time and often assures you have a better chance of the information making it into the publication.

They may also welcome you writing an article for their publication or website.
This lends itself to pre-presentation visibility. Additionally, you will position yourself as an expert and increase credibility.

Most organizations have the following opportunities that can help you to gain visibility and do some very effective marketing:

-Newsletters
-Internet listings
-Links to you website
-Discounted advertising rates
-Networking opportunities
-Business referral services
-Special recognition events
-Education seminars
-Business and membership directories

In many cases you will need to be a member of the association to take advantage of the multiple marketing opportunities. In other cases membership is not necessary.

4. Committee Involvement
Committee involvement is a great way to give back to the association or community while building visibility for you and your business. In some cases, you may even want to get involved in a committee where you have little experience or knowledge. This will give you an opportunity to stretch yourself and meet and network with individuals you may not have otherwise had the chance to meet.

5. Contests and drawings
Contests are a favorite for many businesses such as restaurants or those that have high foot traffic. Contests are a great way to build your database quickly.
You are generating very hot leads when you have a contest with people who have already frequented your place of business. The key though is to do back -end marketing. Far too many businesses hold contests, get lots of names and do nothing with them. In this case, it is a complete waste of time to hold a contest.
You can advertise a contest to gain new foot traffic in your place of business.
Trade show booths are a great place to hold a contest. Pre-show marketing helps to generate traffic at your booth. Invite people to stop by booth # _____ (whatever your booth is) to enter to win. Creative contests can also generate free publicity.

6. Cross-promoting
Join with other companies who have products or services that compliment yours and promote each other. Let’s say you have a massage business. You could partner with a candle company to sell their candles to your massage clients. They can give out coupons for your massage business. Or the candle company can partner with a gift basket company. Cross-promoting is only limited by your imagination.

This can considerably cut down the cost of business promotion and allow each business to use promotion techniques that might be too expensive to implement alone.

7. Bonuses
Secure special offers from various businesses who want to share a similar market as you. When a customer buys a minimum amount they receive a bonus packet with the various offers from the other vendors. This is a win/win all the way around. The other vendors gain visibility, you have something extra to offer you customers and the customers get incredible value for their purchase.

Be aware of who you cross-promote and joint venture with. You want someone who will be equally committed to a campaign.

About the author
Kathleen Gage is a business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions for small and home based businesses. She is a keynote speaker and the author of -101 Ways to Get Your Foot in the Door - and - 101 No Cost and Low Cost Tips to Market and Promote a Product, Service or Business. To access her FREE report, Learn How One Salt Lake City Consultant made Over $100,000 from One Idea, visit www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Generate Business With Coupons

Use coupons and discount offers to generate business during slow times and to build your start up business. When you use coupons be sure to put an expiration date on them. An expiration date allows you to control the influx of business. An effective length of time is 30 – 60 days.

About the author
Do you want to gain massive visibility within your market? Kathleen Gage can help you do just that. As a published author, keynote speaker and top rated award winning business advisor, Kathleen Gage teaches strategies that give high impact and high return. Sign up for Gage’s FR*EE Report “Learn How a Salt Lake City base consultant made over $100,000 from one idea” at www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Using Technology to Get and Keep Your Foot in the Door

In years past it was easier to get your foot in the door of a prospective client than it is today. Competition has increased, your prospect has more demands on their time and a simple visit to the Internet can offer many prospects the same choice you are offering for less money.

So what can you do? Not only do you have to do front-end marketing and promotions to gain new customers, you absolutely must have a good system in place to follow-up with your current customers and keep your name fresh in their mind.

With the advent of the Internet and specific types of technology, we now have tools to accomplish this with ease. The fear some people have is that use of the Internet and technology will take away the human aspect of doing business. Although this may be true in some cases, proper use of technology can allow you to have more time to spend with your customers. Using technology in any business situation should only be done when it will better serve you and your customers.

Although you might not be ready to embrace all that technology can do for you, your customers probably are. The Computer Industry Almanac projects that we will have 1.35 billion Internet users by 2007.

Every day more people are utilizing the power of the Internet to research companies, determine level of credibility of a company based on their web presence and making purchases via the Net. If you do not have a good system in place to take advantage of this, you will soon be left behind.

There are several reasons to become a real player in the world of the Internet. Most importantly, in order to be considered a credible business you have to have a presence on the Internet.

Other reasons include:

To increase your reach and visibility
Lower the costs of traditional marketing
Increase Return on Investment for every marketing dollar
Develop and maintain credibility
Attract visitors to your site and/or physical business location
Increase profit margins
Increase speed of response time

Patricia Twitchell, owner of Just Bears and Stuff, a specialty gift shop in the quaint town of Myrtle Creek, Oregon (population 3,000) relies heavily on the power of the Internet for her business success. With the implementation of one simple strategy, Patricia, known to many as The Teddy Bear Lady of Myrtle Creek, increased her Ezine signups by 600% of what they usually were in one week.

She simply implemented the use of an autoresponder and a hover menu. Not only have her signups increased, so have revenues.

The Ezine contains articles of interest to teddy bear enthusiasts as well as any specials of the month she is offering that readers have first opportunity to learn about. To see how The Teddy Bear Lady uses technology to streamline her operations and provide better service to her customers visit www.justbearsandstuff.com.

Imagine how much untold revenue is lost by not fully utilizing the power of technology and the Internet. To not only survive but thrive, you must have a proper foundation and effective systems in place for attracting visitors, providing information, selling products and services and following up.

Many people are under the mistaken notion that if they sell only in their local market they don’t need a strong Internet presence. It is this type of thinking that leaves many businesses in the dust.

Additionally, without a strong Internet presence you can waste countless marketing dollars that could be saved through the use of technology.

If you want to continually be in the game of “getting your foot in the door” you must develop and utilize a system that makes doing business with you simple.

It’s that simple!

About the author
Do you want to gain massive visibility within your market? Kathleen Gage can help you do just that. As a published author, keynote speaker and top rated award winning business advisor, Kathleen Gage teaches strategies that give high impact and high return. Sign up for Gage’s FR*EE Report “Learn How a Salt Lake City base consultant made over $100,000 from one idea” at www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Are You Investing Wisely?

Your marketing dollars are not just what you invest on the front end in your direct mail and advertising that matters. What are you willing to invest on the backend to continually build relationships with those individuals and companies you are a good match for? So often, companies spend massive amount trying to get a customer, but nothing to keep them satisfied and happy. Invest wisely.

About the author
Do you want to gain massive visibility within your market? Kathleen Gage can help you do just that. As a published author, keynote speaker and top rated award winning business advisor, Kathleen Gage teaches strategies that give high impact and high return. Sign up for Gage’s FR*EE Report “Learn How a Salt Lake City base consultant made over $100,000 from one idea” at www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

A Simple Strategy to Increase Profits

In today’s competitive business environment it is essential to find ways to reduce costs and increase revenues while keeping productivity and quality high. One of the best ways to achieve this is through hiring and retention of outstanding employees.

Far too often hiring managers rush through the hiring process due to being reactive rather than proactive when filling positions. With some preplanning in the hiring process and implementation of sound strategies once people join your organization, you will lower the cost of doing business by considerable amounts.

As you prepare to hire consider the following:

• What type of person are you looking for?
• What are the values that drive your company?
• How difficult is the job you are filling?
• Do you have anyone internally who can do the job?
• How long will it take to find the right person for the position?
• What are you willing to negotiate with the potential candidate?

In looking for potential candidates you may want to try more than the traditional employee search. Tap into your network of professional connections. Some of your best candidates may be working for your competitors. Be careful about hiring someone just because they are a friend or family member. Not that friends and family members don’t make good employees - often they can be fantastic. And yet, if you are hiring them only because they are a friend or family member, you are setting yourself up for some big problems. With the wrong choice morale with other employees can go down. With the right choice it is just as likely to go up.

Think through the compensation package. Are the wages fair for the job, industry and market? Make sure your benefit package is competitive for your industry. Find out what other companies are offering as far as compensation and consider matching or beating their offerings.

There are occasions when someone may take a position without thinking through income, benefits or fit. Once they have gotten settled in and are feeling comfortable with the position and the company, they may realize the compensation and the job is not all it could be. That can cause some discontent on their part. To avoid this, do your homework.

Another key to keeping good employees is to make sure they are treated with respect, dignity and appreciation. This may seem like common sense and yet, it often doesn’t happen. I consult with various types of organizations employee retention and how to gain more commitment from the staff. I often will meet individually, in private, with a cross section of the staff. I spend at least an hour with each employee in a confidential meeting to find out their view of the company. Inevitably, the areas that are most lacking for the employee to be fully satisfied are communication and appreciation.

Once the area of discontent has been identified I design programs for the company in which to address the problems. What is amazing is the problem is often on the way to being solved by virtue of the fact the organization has brought me in. A common comment is, “Finally, someone is listening to me.”

Often, a company’s problems can be lessened with some good coaching and training of management. It is amazing how many managers and supervisors were put into their position without any training in interpersonal skills, management and supervisory skills, and how to communicate effectively. Nine times out of ten the people who need the most training are the ones who think they need it the least. And, they are often the biggest obstacle to the success of a company.

In order to stay competitive on all fronts you must keep your entire team on the leading edge. By doing so you will be in business for years to come with a happy, dedicated and productive team. And that will equal profits.

About the author
Do you want to gain massive visibility within your market? Kathleen Gage can help you do just that. As a published author, keynote speaker and top rated award winning business advisor, Kathleen Gage teaches strategies that give high impact and high return. Sign up for Gage’s FR*EE Report “Learn How a Salt Lake City base consultant made over $100,000 from one idea” at www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Excellent Ezine resource

I just came across an excellent Ezine directory. It is operated by Christopher Knight who is definitely one of the most brilliant minds you will find on the Internet. Check out http://BestEzines.com/ Another excellent resource of Mr. Knight is http://www.emailuniverse.com

Here's the posting on Best Ezines for Street Smarts Marketing Ezine:

Street Smarts Marketing
Street Smarts newsletter is designed for people who want high visibility in their market through proven cost effective, high return marketing and promotions strategies. Learn from Kathleen Gage, recognized as one of the top business owners for 2004 in Utah.

Ezine Subscription Info: http://www.kathleengage.com

If your not subscribed to my Ezine, I would invite you to do so.

Kathleen Gage
Street Smarts Marketing and Promotions

November Street Smarts Ezine is ready

Your November Street Smarts Marketing Newsletter is available at http://www.turningpointpresents.com/newsletters/enewsnovember2005.htm

This month I am excited to bring you a great article by world-renowned business expert, Harvey Mackay - Salesmanship Starts When the Customer Says No. Mr. Mackay is the author of several best selling books including, - Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive - and - Pushing the Envelope All the Way to the Top. His article is a must read if you are in sales, marketing, own your own business or run a company.

Street Smarts Marketing and PR Newsletter contains success formulas, tips and strategies for retailers, sales professionals, consultants, authors, speakers, events coordinators, nonprofits and much more.

It's going better than expected

When I decided to offer my Street Smarts Making Money with the Internet eBook along with thousands of dollars worth of bonuses, I was pretty sure I would do well on sales. Not only have I done well, I have exceeded my own expectations. Lots of people have taken advantage of the special offer.

For less than the price of a dinner for two you can increase your leads, gain more prospects, sell more and increase your revenues like never before.

http://www.streetsmartsmarketing.com/Streetsmartsinternetppp.htm

Take full advantage of all the great bonuses while they are available.

Kathleen Gage

Great marketing program offer

Proven strategies to increase leads, sales, site visits and revenues.

For the next 72 hours you can access a very popular marketing program and get over 30 downloadable bonus products worth over $1,925 from experts from around the globe absolutely FR*EE when you order. Plus the first 96 people to order will get a FR*EE one hour teleconference with marketing expert, Kathleen Gage.

This is something you don’t want to miss.

Go here for more info:
http://knkayla.streets.hop.clickbank.net

Order now and get over 30 bonuses! The offer and full list of incredible bonuses is at this link: http://knkayla.streets.hop.clickbank.net

Look for some exciting news

In less than two weeks I will be introducing an incredible opportunity to my market. I am joining forces with some dynamite business experts around the globe. You will have an opportunity to learn from some of the very best.

Kathleen Gage
www.kathleengage.com

Search engine blog

I just came across an excellent blog with lots of resources for search engine submission sites.

http://www.searchengineblog.com/

Happy search engine submitting.

Kathleen Gage
www.kathleengage.com

Online resources for Press Releases

Free Press Release Submission sites:

http://www.free-press-release.com/

www.prweb.com

http://www.expressseek.com/addpr/addrelease.php

http://www.prleap.com/

http://www.webwire.com/

Where are you marketing?

I have been enjoying the beautiful community of Helena, Montana. It is a wonderful community. The people are some of the friendliest I have had the opportunity to meet.

As I have been getting to know some of the business owners and residents what I notice is how aware everyone is of the power of relationships, both personal and professional.

As change happens at an ever increasing rate, one of the most important things we can rely on are the quality of our relationships.

Today, commit to do what you can to improve the quality of your relationships.

Enjoying various cities

On Saturday, September 24, 2005 I was the featured speaker at a presentation sponsored by District 15 Toastmasters International. The topic was, "Learn How to Become a Professional Speaker." The event was very well attended with eager to learn individuals. The session took place in Salt Lake City.

On Saturday, September, 25th, I flew into Las Vegas to speak at a conference for a company with sales representatives and operations managers attending from througout the United States. The topic for this conference was The New World of Teambuilding. Again, very well attended and a great group of folks.

Today I flew into Helena, Montana to speak at the Women's Leadership Network conference on Tuesday, September 27th. The topic is "Okay Life! What's Next?"

I am having a great week traveling and speaking to hundreds of men and women.

When people ask me how I find these opportunities, I tell them it is a direct result of the amount of effort I put into my marketing, networking, follow up and delivery of outstanding products and services.

As anyone who knows me will tell you, I am a firm believer in a holistic approach to one's business. There is no one action that creates success.

Everything is important.

Kathleen
www.kathleengage.com

Ideas you can use

Be Yourself! But Be Good at It
from 101 Ways to Get Your Foot in the Door

Be yourself. If you don’t have a likeable personality, get one or get out of sales!

Joking aside, if you are uncomfortable, it’s guaranteed that your prospects will be. If you aren’t honestly confident about yourself and your products, your customers won’t be either.

You can improve the signals you send and keep self-consciousness to a minimum if you concentrate more on the person you’re talking with and the relationship you’re building than on making the sale.

Also, use every "no" as a learning opportunity. Go back and evaluate what could have been done differently in order to obtain the sale. Learn and grow from your mistakes. A client should have a pleasant time buying from you—it’s your job to ensure that she does.

-Prepare well
-Present well
-Follow up even better

Tired of cold calling? Ready to get your foot in the door of your prospects once and for all? If you answered yes, get your own copy of 101 Ways to Get Your Foot In the Door at www.101waystogetyourfootinthedoor.com

Great resource for client holiday gift giving

It is not too soon to begin thinking about what you are going to give your clients for the holidays. Yet, the pressure of going shopping, picking the right gift, wrapping and shipping can be overwhelming. For a great resource check out www.justbearsandstuff.com

When you call to place your order please let Patricia Twitchell know I recommended you contact her. She is great to work with.

Kathleen Gage

Need content driven articles

I am seeking content driven articles on sales and marketing for my Yahoo Group.

Group name is StreetSmartsMarketing. To sign up and begin posting email a blank message to:

streetsmartsmarketing-subscribe@yahoogrooups.com

You will be sent an invitation to join in your email box.

Articles are one of the best ways to promote you business. Why not start right away.

I will not post advertisements or anything that is not suitable for the general public. You can put a link to your website at the end of the article.

Show your clients you appreciate them

A great way to show your clients and customers you appreciate them is with unique gifts. Check out http://www.justbearsandstuff.com for some fun ideas.

101 No-Cost & Low-Cost Tips to Market A Product, Service or Business.

I am very excited to announce my newest release, 101 No-Cost & Low-Cost Tips to Market A Product, Service or Business.

This idea filled eBook was really fun to write. It is chalked full of ideas and tips on marketing and promotions that can apply to virtually any business. The ideas come from a variety of places; what I have done to market my own business, what I have used to market clients businesses, what others have shared with me that have worked for them.

The book was written knowing people continually want, and need, lots of great ideas that are easy to apply and very cost effective.

It is with this in mind I wrote, 101 No-Cost & Low-Cost Tips to Market A Product, Service or Business.

To read all the details on my newest downloadable eBook. please visit http://www.turningpointpresents.com/101nocostlowoffer.htm.

You probably know by now that I am not one to beat around the bush. Now is no exception. If creative and very affordable methods to market are important to you then you will want to get my newest eBook. It is only $7.95 and you get some really nice bonuses with the purchase. http://www.turningpointpresents.com/101nocostlowoffer.htm

New term

During a recent marketing training in which I was a participant (yes, even as a marketing advisor I participate in training) I heard an interesting term - TARKETING. It is knowing who you are targeting your marketing to.

One thing I see over and over are those people who don't take time to figure out who their specific market is and how to effectively market to that group.

Take time to evaluate your market. You will be glad you did.

Solutions May Surface in the Still of the Night

“Necessity is the mother of invention!” The first time I heard this was nearly twenty years ago when I was introduced to Tony Robbins’ material. I have to admit, the first time I heard this it didn’t quite register.

However, nearly two decades later, it makes all the sense in the world. In fact, a majority of the things we take for granted were created out of a need. When the need became great enough, someone figured out a solution.

Such is the case with a new eBook that just hit the market - Tokens for TV. The idea for this informative book is the brainchild of working mom, Lisa Workman. As she explains it, about a year ago, she and her husband were struggling with how to get their kids to take an interest in choosing how much television and computer time they were spending each day. She came up with a system that not only limited how much TV/Computer time they received, but also took out some of the parental nagging and placed some responsibility on their shoulders. She came up with a simple solution to helping children manage their television and computer time.

Seeing how effective her system is, friends began asking her how it worked. After numerous requests, she wrote down the system and eventually fine tuned it to the point it became her now popular eBook, Tokens for TV.

An exciting aspect of this resource is that the information aligns perfectly with Lisa’s personal and professional vision and mission. She is extremely committed to providing quality information to families while promoting healthy lifestyles for children. However, something Lisa realizes is that without an effective marketing campaign to promote Tokens for TV there are many people who will never know how effective the system can be.

Lisa has put together a very effective campaign which includes full use of her Tokens for TV website, free reports, and article distribution both online and off, interviews with the media and viral marketing. Her marketing plan was developed long before the eBook was taken to market. Without a doubt, she will be successful in getting the word out.

Another excellent example of creative problem solving comes from Jo Capista, DDS, a Pennsylvania based dentist specializing in general and cosmetic dentistry. One of his greatest challenges was positioning his message about his top-notch cosmetic dentistry services to his market. As he analyzed his market and those who would invest in cosmetic dentistry, he knew he had to use unconventional marketing strategies to reach potential patients.

He began offering complimentary public information seminars. He promoted the seminars in neighborhood newspapers and with posters strategically placed throughout his region. The response to his first session was overwhelming. So much in fact he repeated the process several times with incredible results both in name recognition and revenues.

The next step was to do the seminars with other businesses who shared a similar market. Again, the process proved extremely successful. He then decided to invest in a vendor space at a body and bath expo. As with the other strategies, the expo was equally as successful.

I had the opportunity to talk in detail with Dr. Capista about why he feels all of this is working. Simply put, preparation, delivery and follow up. And of course, making sure he is targeting the right market for his services.

Like Lisa Workman and Dr. Capista, countless people have excellent ideas that solve a common problem; solutions that will definitely work. Unlike Lisa and Dr. Capista, they either don’t test their idea or if they do, they get busy with day-to-day activities and lose their focus, thus losing their potential for seeing how successful their idea could have been.

Often, it is in the still of the night, the answers will surface. A simple strategy that will help you to identify a solution you may be able to provide to others is to ask yourself the following question, “What keeps you or your customers awake at night?”

Regardless of the size of a company, it is essential to constantly seek solutions to your customer’s problems. Once you find a solution, take action and commit the time, money and resources to the end result. When your customer is looking for a solution, who do you want them to go to – your or your competition?

Current issue of Ezine available

The current issue of Street Smarts Marketing Ezine is now available at http://www.turningpointpresents.com/newsletters/enewsjuly2005.htm

Tradeshow Secret

Many people participate in tradeshows, home shows and gift shows as a way of promoting their business. Often, they do not gain full benefit from the investment due to lack of preplanning and follow up.

A tip on preplanning: Get to know show organizers. Most are more than willing to help in any way they can. They want you to succeed because when you succeed, they succeed.

From 101 Ways to Get Your Foot in the Door - www.101waystogetyourfootinthedoor.com

Create Your Vision of Success

Title: Create Your Vision of Success
Author: Kathleen Gage
Email: kathleen@turningpointpresents.com
Word Count: 750
Copyright: © 2005 by Kathleen Gage
Web Address: www.kathleengage.com

Publishing Guidelines: You may publish my article in your newsletter,
on your web site, or in your print publication provided you include
the resource box at the end. Notification would be appreciated but is not required.

Summary – Understanding the power and profit in business that comes from one’s internal perceptions.

Create Your Vision of Success
By Kathleen Gage

Most marketing strategies are about being in motion. Have a plan, be proactive, and take the necessary action steps. Although being proactive is a necessary aspect of marketing, an often overlooked and yet equally important part is your company’s internal perception.

Many companies put a lot of effort into all the external aspects of what they do, yet completely overlook what is happening due to internal perception. Internal perception includes your thoughts and beliefs; the internal dialogues and thought processes you have regarding your business, your industry and your customers/clients. Often, we may not be aware of hidden thoughts. Our thoughts support or hinder our success.

To find out how what you believe take this simple test. For the next 48 hours notice what comes up when you are talking about your company, your products and services and the value you bring to the table. Do your internal thoughts match your words? Do you feel good about your interactions? Do you feel the prices you charge are fair and reasonable? Do you believe you are worth what you ask? Do you feel you are the best choice for your customers?

You can invest lots of money and time on external campaigns. Your true success will be determined when your thoughts and beliefs match your actions. Before you launch your next marketing campaign, ask yourself these important questions:
-How do you feel about your product or service?
-Do you feel the price you charge is matches the value your product/service -brings to your customers?
-Do you appreciate your clients?
-Do you feel appreciated by your customers or clients?
-Who do you want to do business with?
-Who wants to do business with you?
Whether you are in financial planning, training, banking, the beauty industry, day spas, or technology, take the time to know what sets you apart. In the consumer’s mind, Company A looks the same as Company B in many ways. The same with Salesperson A compared to Salesperson B. To stand apart your must help the consumer understand your differences.

A simple formula to clarify your differences is to write down every reason someone would want to do business with you.
-Are you an expert in your industry?
-Do you deliver in record time?
-Do you have a unique location?
-What is unique about your business compared to your competitors?
-What is most important to your prospects and customers about doing business with you? (If you don’t know – ASK!) -What can only you do that your competitors can’t do?

Once you answer these questions, create a short message that incorporates these answers. When you meet with a potential customer and they ask what you do, you want to be able to concisely tell them. This process is also helpful with your current clients. Remember - they are only one call away from utilizing the services of someone else!

Before you begin to aggressively position yourself and gain visibility, think about the vision for you and your organization. Gaining a vision of what the organization stands for, the impact you want to have on your customers or clients, the quality of products and services, your contribution to your community, and where you want the organization to be in the future is essential as you move forward.

Your vision is your ideal future state and includes your values and what you desire your organization to be like. What’s most important to you?

An essential aspect of your vision is understanding what makes you, your company and your team unique in the marketplace. What makes your product or service different from your competitors? Once you have your vision in mind, write it down. This will help you to solidify your thoughts and stay on track with what is truly important.
Periodically revisit your overall vision. Your core values should be the main driver of your vision, yet some of the details are bound to change. As you and your customer’s needs and wants change, you may find it necessary to update your vision.

Where do you want your company to be? Where do you want to be? Match your actions with your thoughts and beliefs. Create a vision for success!

Kathleen Gage is a keynote speaker, author and business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions. Access Gage’s’s FREE eBook Street Smarts Marketing On the Internet at http://www.streetsmartsmarketing.com/free-ebook.htm

Selling promotional items.

"Selling promotional products is a world unto itself." This according to businessman and author Randy Kirk, whose career includes sales of products and services in over 30 industries.

"In most businesses, you pitch the quality and the utility. When it comes to promotional products, your selling the glitz or the fun or the space available for a logo." That's not the only difference according to Kirk.

"Every sale is starting over. The customer may have used hats last year, so now she wants to use anything but hats. Or if she does want hats, she's going to put the purchase out to bid."Kirk has a blog, http://www.advertisingspecialty.blogspot.com that gives totally free ideas on selling, prospecting, and other aspects of the promotional salesperson's life.

From time-to-time there is a commercial for his product line which can be viewed at http://www.californiasprings.com. He explains, "This blog is just for teaching and coaching. Hopefully, some will find it to be a good resource for their careers."

A blog to visit

A good blog to visit. http://www.advertisingspecialty.blogspot.com

Randy W. Kirk
Location:United States
President of ASI 30111, manufacturer of California Springs Water Bottles. Married to Pam with 4 kids and 2 grandchildren. Author of 5 business books with another one coming in Feb 2006.

The Power of Beliefs

Years ago I had the opportunity to meet a woman who reinforced my understanding of the power of beliefs. A woman who is probably one of the most powerful individuals I will ever encounter. I met Chris in 1986 while taking the Dale Carnegie course in Santa Rosa, California.

Although not in class the first week of a twelve-week training; Chris showed up during the second week. Class was well under way when Chris walked into the room. Actually, she didn’t really walk into the room; she dragged herself in, supported by a pair of metal crutches. Chris has Cerebral Palsy, which she lived with all her life.

Chris had an extremely difficult time communicating with others. This was not due to lack of desire, but because for most of her twenty-one years of life she had been kept in a room with no more than Elvis records and tapes to entertain her. No one had taken the time to assist her in developing the ability to communicate. No one except Bonnie, her current caretaker. It was Bonnie who knew there was much more to Chris than anyone ever gave her credit for.

When asked by the instructor what her goal for the twelve-week course was, Chris struggled to respond and became frustrated and angry in the process. Chris had a very short fuse when it came to frustration because for most of her life no one would listen to her. The only way she knew to get someone to listen was through temper tantrums.
We discovered her goal was to be able to stand, by herself, in front of forty-five people and tell us about herself. With Bonnie as her interpreter, Chris conveyed this desire to a room full of business professionals.

To the amazement of everyone in the class, on the twelfth week, Chris stood in front of the room and shared with us, in her own words, what her life had been like for her. It was one of the most beautiful and enlightening experiences I have ever witnessed. Here was a woman who had, in many ways, been thrown away. And yet, she had a determination, commitment and belief that she could accomplish more in her life and she did. She also had the love and support of forty five friends, who weeks before had been strangers complete strangers.

What we all witnessed through Chris’ courage, is that life is created moment by moment based on our beliefs. Beliefs that can empower beyond our wildest dreams.

Our beliefs are developed on both a conscious and subconscious level. As our beliefs change our experiences change. And as our experiences change, so do our beliefs.

Beliefs are relevant to both our personal and professional direction. What are the beliefs that will carry you to places you have yet to explore?

Kathleen Gage is a keynote speaker and business advisor based out of Draper, Utah. She is the author of several books including Message of Hope, Inspiring Thoughts for Uncertain Times. To sign up for Kathleen’s free weekly inspirational thoughts visit http://www.turningpointpresents.com/messageofhope.htm

Making Money With the Internet Seminar Back by Request

Due to an overwhelming response from the last training session I offered entitled - Making Money With the Internet - I have decided to offer an enhanced version of the seminar on Tuesday, June 14, 2005 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

There's just one problem - I am limited in the number of folks I can accommodate. Last time we had seating for over 200 and we filled up within a few days. This time I have only 100 seats available and anticipate filling up even quicker than before.

If you are interested in learning how to utilize the power of the Internet in your marketing then sign up today. You are in for an incredible learning experience.

This session is not designed for "tech heads." Rather, it is for small and home based business folks who want to understand proven strategies to drive traffic to your website and increase your market reach and revenues. It is about the Marketing Mindset as it applies to the Internet and your overall marketing.

Sign up now http://www.turningpointpresents.com/june14thregistration.htm

A portion of what you will learn is...

-How to use the Internet in your overall marketing
-Extremely cost effective web design and maintenance resources.
--How to gain unbelievable visibility with your market
-One often overlooked strategy that can increase your reach tenfold
-Insider secrets that are guaranteed to increase your revenues regardless of your product or service
-3 proven strategies to improve your web presence almost immediately
-What you must avoid doing if you want to be taken seriously in the game of Internet marketing
And much more.

This session is designed to fast track anyone who is serious about taking their business to the next level through the power of the Internet.

Here are the particulars...

Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Registration 8:30 - 8:45 a.m
Training 9:00 - 11 a.m.

SLCC Miller Center
9750 South 300 West

We will be in the main building (closest to the freeway). Parking is available on both sides of the building.

In order to accommodate everyone, if you are planning on bringing anyone else please have them sign up too.

Sign up now http://www.turningpointpresents.com/june14thregistration.htm

Create and register your blog

Blogs are definitely a great way to keep in touch and send information out.

To create a blog at no cost go to www.blogger.com

To register go to:

http://articlesubmissionsites.com/cgi-bin/order/login.pl
http://www.bloggerforum.com
http://www.blogexplosion.com
http://www.bloglet.com/
http://www.blogarama.com/
http://www.bloglines.com/
http://www.technorati.com/

When is it Enough?

Recently I facilitated an Internet marketing training class in Salt Lake City. The attendees have all been on my email distribution list for a period of time.

Most people have heard someone needs to see your name 7 – 8 times before they make a buying decision. Curious as to how many times each had received a message from me via email I conducted a quick survey.

The group average was 15 times. I tend to believe 15 is closer to the average for most people who are selling something than what we were traditionally led to believe. Especially if the purchase is with someone who has been marketing to us on the Internet.

Think about your own buying habits when it comes to the Net. Do you visit someone's sight several times before pulling out your credit card? Do you need to get multiple communications from the person or company before the decision is made? Do you find you have more choices today than ever before and therefore you are extremely well informed when the time comes to buy?

If you answered yes, you are not alone. If it takes you a while to make a decision, you are not alone. This is equally true for your customers. If you are selling something on the net the sales cycle might be longer than you think.

Are you doing all you can to keep your name fresh in your markets mind? Are you creating value for those you want to have as customers? Are you a resource before you are a vendor? If not, now is the time to begin.

Sign up for your free Street Smarts Tips at www.streetsmartsmarketing.com

Excellent article on corporate blogging

Came across this article and thought you would find it beneficial.

http://www.corporateblogging.info/basics/corporatebloggingprimer.pdf

Kathleen

My newest web page

Please check out my newest webpage. Information on my book Message of Hope.

http://www.turningpointpresents.com/messageofhope.htm

Here's Your Copy Writing Formula for Internet Sales

By Loren Beckart
http://ClickTracs.com

Once you have created an internet sales page that works, then you have a template you can use again and again, customizing the basic formula to any product in your line. The key is to be sure to include all the elements of an effective sales page, and use a 'formula' that has been tested and is known to work.

If you are hiring a copy writer or writing the copy yourself, here is a checklist of the essential elements to help you organize and plan your next internet sales page.

Headlines: There can be up to three parts to the headline. First, there is the pre-headline, which is a note to attract your target market, letting them know you have something for them in particular. Second, is the main headline, which describes the big benefit of whatever you're offering. The main headline should be in large font, and nothing elsewhere on the page should be larger or distract from it. Third, is a post-headline, which is only necessary if you need to clarify or elaborate upon the main headline.

The story: This is an emotional grabber that pulls the
visitor into the copy so you can present your product and
make your offer. It should be benefit driven, showing the reader how they could feel or their life could be better if they owned the product.

Credibility: This is a particularly important aspect of on- line sales. The visitor needs assurance that both you and the product are for real. Give your contact information, including an address. No one will come to your door, and if someone does call, that's good, because you gain insight when talking with clients. Also for credibility, include some results-based testimonials about your service or product, and give the full name of the testifier. Giving only first names is suspicious. If possible, explain results of product tests or quote favorable third-party reviews. And if you have credentials or expertise related to the offer, include it. Throughout the sales copy use real and specific numbers rather than approximations.

Benefits of the product or service: Using bullet format, because bullets are easy to scan, itemize all the benefits (not the features). Put them in order of priority. It is better to have too many than too few because it often takes just a single benefit to inspire a prospect to purchase, but every prospect has their unique hot button.

Features and/or specifications: This is where you specifically tell the visitor exactly what they are getting. Here is where you give details about the product.

Bonuses. Always include something extra, and make sure it has value - that it could be something people would order the product just to get the bonus. Tell the specific dollar value so you can use that information in the value build- up, or close.

Value build-up: Be explicit about the reasons the price of the product is a good value. Make comparisons to other similar products that are more expensive with less gained. Offer a guarantee if at all possible. Anticipate and counter objections. Create a sense of scarcity. That is to say, give a deadline, explain why they need to act now, and keep your deadline real. Help the visitor feel the pain of not ordering~ exactly what won't change or get better unless they have your product.

Ordering: Imagine that this is the first time your new client has ever ordered online, and hold their hand through the process by making your instructions absurdly clear at each step. Also, offer purchasing options, the most common being a secure on-line credit card page, but also Pay Pal and instructions for calling in an order or sending a check, (although this will actually happen rarely). Most importantly, remember to ask for the order in the first place by saying, "Order Now."

Post Script: In effect, this is a one-paragraph summary of your sales page, including a repetition of the most important parts. Also, ask a final time for the order.

Now that you have this list of essentials, search online for good examples. You won't copy another sales page of course, not even a line, but using good models will inspire you to write your own killer copy!

Loren Beckart is Marketing VP for http://www.ClickTracs.com, a company that specializes in delivering highly targeted traffic to your website. For information, visit: www.ClickTracs.com

The Gold is in the Opt-in ListBy

by Kathleen Gage

When I consult with small and home based business owners, more times than not one of the greatest concerns they have is how to increase reach to a targeted market while keeping costs down. Hands down, effectively using the power of the Internet is the cornerstone to achieving this outcome. More times than not, companies are not using their Internet presence as effectively as they can.

I often see a company that has a website that looks great from a design perspective, yet from a marketing and sales perspective the site is not working. Many people are under the mistaken belief that if a potential customer or client visits their site they will be so impressed they will automatically return time and again. Fact is, this is not what happens in the real world of the Internet. Chances are within minutes most visitors have forgotten sites they looked at unless there was something that encouraged them to remember.

People remember based on the value you create and a problem being solved. They also remember by you keeping your name and company fresh in their mind.

One way to do this is to offer visitors the opportunity to opt in to your mailing list. If people have taken the time to visit your site, you need to encourage them to leave their contact information. You do this by offering them something that is incredibly valuable that they sign up for.

It’s incredible how many companies, large and small, miss the opportunity to encourage visitors to sign up for something. It is in the signing up you will build a mailing list that is worth more than its weight in gold.

Most people are so overloaded with information that if you don’t immediately solve a problem for them they are not going to be interested in signing up for anything. Additionally, once they sign up if your information does not continue to solve their problem they will want off your list.
In today’s world of Internet marketing, your job is to look for ways to continually offer value while increasing your distribution list.

Specific Strategies to Increase Your Distribution ListIf you are in the retail industry, every time someone comes to your store, simply ask them if you can add them to your distribution list to keep them updated on specials, events, and unique offers. In most cases if they are attracted to your store, they will gladly give you their information. Make sure to get their email address.
If you have a current mailing list of clients, conduct a survey and offer an incentive for people to respond. Direct them to your site where they fill out a survey and perhaps receive a free report or eBook.

If you do any type of presentations as a part of your job, collect contact information from the attendees. Send a follow-up message within 48 hours inviting them to sign up for your Ezine.
Use your email signature file to encourage people to sign up for an incentive on your website. Put the web link right in your signature.

Put a sign-up box on every page of your site. Many websites have a sign-up on the main page but have not put one up on other pages of their site. Fact is, a web search for a specific product or service can take people anywhere on your site, not just the main page. Make it easy for them to sign-up for something from every page.

Write and distribute articles online with a strong byline at the end of the article. A byline is simply an information piece that is usually a few sentences in length. In the byline direct readers back to your website for something of value.

Offer a free report from your site. Make sure it is compelling enough for people to want to sign up.

Offer free eBooks to encourage people to leave their contact information in order to download the file.

Opt-in lists are one of the most powerful marketing tools you have in your online and offline marketing. Complemented by a good Ezine, website, consistent focus on driving traffic to your site and gaining visibility, the potential for growing your business is unlimited.

Kathleen Gage is a keynote speaker, author and business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions. Access Gage’s’s FREE eBook Street Smarts Marketing On the Internet at http://www.streetsmartsmarketing.com/free-ebook.htm

7 Marketing Lessons I Learned From the Muscleheads at Gold's Gym

by Alexandria K. Brown, "The E-zine Queen"

Can I share a secret with you?
I love working out. In fact, several years ago I considered a career in fitness. I modeled for Reebok and Ironman magazine, made it to the final round for hosting a fitness TV show, and I moonlit as an aerobics instructor and personal trainer for several years while I figured out how to get out of my day job in publishing.

Now that I make a great living online as The E-zine Queen, I still make time for my health. And I'm lucky to live close to the most famous gym in the world: Gold's Gym at Venice Beach, California. On a daily basis, I'm surrounded by bodybuilding legends like Lou Ferrigno and various men named "Gunther," athletes like Kobe Bryant and Lisa Leslie, and celebs like The Rock. The place is an absolute circus, and I enjoy the entertainment factor.

When I first joined Gold's two years ago, I didn't pay much attention to the "muscleheads" - the professional bodybuilders. But I've come to realize they can teach us a lot about marketing and business success. Here are 7 lessons we can all learn from.

1. Hang around people whom you want to be like.
Bodybuilders and aspiring bodybuilders from all over the area come to the Venice Gold's because it's the home of bodybuilding. I know a few bodybuilders who drive almost an hour just to work out there. Sure, they could exercise at their neighborhood Bally's, but instead they make the trip to their Mecca every day through the arduous Los Angeles traffic.

Why? They know that when you hang around people who are doing what you want to do, you automatically have a much greater chance of success. The furious energy at Gold's is undeniable as soon as you walk in the door. You're surrounded by world-class competitors, gold medalists, and celebrities. It's not only motivating and inspiring, but there's a wealth of knowledge surrounding you as well.

Who are YOU hanging around? (Think about it.)

2. Consistency is the key for long-term success.
Bodybuilders know that a body is built over a long term. And even if they take some time off, they'll bounce back quickly because of all the training they've done over the years. It's called "muscle memory" - your body remembers your shape and snaps back into place.

In the same way, our clients and customers have "marketing memory." That is, as long as we're in front of them on a regular basis, they'll remember who we are - even if we take a break. (And there's no better way to stay in front of them than publishing an e-zine!)

3. Ups and downs are a part of the process.
Bodybuilders know that success comes in cycles. It's physically damaging for them to try to be on "full force" more than a few times every year. They know their limits, and they push them, but they don't break them.
Marketing has cycles as well. You can hit it hard for a while, then ease back for a bit. Don't worry when there's a "down." Just make sure to immediately follow it with an "up". Get back on your marketing schedule or mix it up and do something different.

4. Hard work is part of the game.
Bodybuilders don't wake up and say, "I don't feel like working out today." They just do it. It becomes part of their schedule, part of their life. And that ensures their success.

How many of us secretly wish our success would be handed to us on a silver platter? I'm all about attracting success on whatever level we can, but hey, let's realize there is work involved. The solution is to make the hard work FUN by doing what you love to do and delegating what you don't.

5. Model others who are already doing what you want to do.
Bodybuilders don't try to invent their own training programs from scratch. They look at what the top competitors are doing, and they do the same thing. From weightlifting to cardio to diet, they've got it down to a precise formula.
Don't reinvent the wheel when there are others who are already racing along. Find other business owners who are doing what you want to do, and model them. Important: Don't model ones who are doing it half-assed. Model the best, the ones who are experiencing the immense success that you dream of!

6. Find a mentor or coach for faster results.
I don't know of any champion who got to where he/she did alone. Every bodybuilding competitor hires a trainer or a coach who has been there before and can walk them through every step of the way. Does this cost them a lot of money? You bet. But they don't look at what it costs. They look at what it's WORTH. They're fast forwarding their success, and that is priceless.

I know many entrepreneurs who have wasted thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars on websites, programs, and training that got them nowhere or pointed them in the wrong direction. Don't make that mistake - I've been there. Stop struggling and invest in someone to show you the way - the right way - the first time.

7. Show off what you've got!You can be sure the bodybuilding gurus at Gold's aren't meek about their successes. They show off their hard work with outfits that emphasize their assets. (Oh, the stories I could tell you about some of the costumes there! Lace catsuit, anyone?)

Even if you don't have it all (yet), show off what you DO have. Strut your best stuff and toot your own horn. You're doing the world a disservice if you don't let us all know what you and your business can offer.

© 2004-2005 Alexandria K. Brown
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this blurb with it: Online entrepreneur Alexandria K. Brown, "The E-zine Queen," is creator of the award-winning 'Boost Business With Your Own E-zine' system. To learn more about this step-by-step program, and to sign up for her FREE how-to articles and FREE audio class, visit www.EzineQueen.com

How to use Auto-responders to Boost Web Sales

By Loren Beckart
http://ClickTracs.com

A web site with no traffic is not a business asset; it’s a liability. The cost in money and time to create and maintain a web site is just the beginning. There is the further investment of resources to get traffic. With the goal of profitability in mind, the central question a web site owner must address is how to maximize the value of visitors once you get them to visit the site. One important element of the strategy is to make use of an auto-responder.

A brief definition of an auto-responder: by email, an auto-responder sends an immediate reply when a person buys something online, sends to a specified email address, or fills out a website form. The content of the auto-response message could be information, an electronic receipt, an e-course, and so forth. When people go online, they are often searching for information, and auto-responders gratify them with instant delivery of material they’ve requested.

What makes an auto-responder such an effective marketing tool is that when prospects make requests for information and give their email address, that allows you to send follow-up emails.

How do auto-responders enable you to follow up with prospects? If you have properly set up opt-in plus an auto-responder series, you aren’t personally involved in follow up. The auto-responder contacts the prospect with the initial reply and beyond, becoming in effect your constantly at work, automated sales force. All you have to do is set it up one time. Write the follow up messages, program the intervals at which you want your messages sent, then the auto-responder set-up works for you again and again on auto-pilot.

What is the best content to present in an auto-responder series? Each set-up would contain messages relating to the initial request for information made by the prospect. Example: a visitor at a site about dieting fills out a form requesting a special report (a page or two in length) describing some effective foods and food combinations that inhibit blood sugar from turning into fat. The prospect gives their email address to receive the report, and the auto-responder tied to the form sends the fr~ee information immediately. Furthermore, the visitor learned at the site that in addition to the special report, they will receive further weight loss suggestions and encouragement in a series over the next few days or weeks, whatever time frame is suitable for the type of products in question.

How are sales boosted by an e-course or auto-responder series? The email component of online marketing is very important, and sending only one email message to your prospects is simply not sufficient. Conventional wisdom about marketing in any area is that the majority of people don’t take action on a new advertising message unless it has been put before them from five to seven times. They need repetition, and any business that hasn’t got a system for timely and consistent follow up from five to seven times is losing money.

What is the recommended ratio of information and marketing in the auto-responder series? Always keep in mind that the visitor isn’t interested in your objectives. They only want to know what is in it for them. They’ve given their email address mainly because they want to get information, not so they can read your advertisements. So give them what they want: accurate and useful information on a particular subject. Earn their trust. Then, you can tell about how your products and services could benefit them. Keep the ratio of information to marketing at a maximum of 75% to 25%. If you don’t give good content, prospects won’t keep opening the emails in your series. Make it a win-win. They get good information and you get a well qualified prospect thanks to your auto-responder messages.

http://ClickTracs.com

Recommended Blog

Good resource http://sanjay-j.blogspot.com/

Integrated Marketing in the Workplace

Integrated marketing is not just a popular buzz word that has an empty meaning. Integrated marketing is actually the way that most smart companies implement their marketing strategies these days.

Integrated marketing means that a company brings all of the marketing roles, resources and responsibilities sunder one umbrella so they all work together to deliver marketing, promotional and customer service activities aimed at internal, external, existing and potential customers. If your company still has separate departments for advertising, public relations, marketing and sales, then you really are living with a business model from decades ago. Similarly, if your company has decentralized marketing, where each department does their own promotion, your company is at a huge disadvantage in today's business world, and at the very least you are costing yourself a fortune in expenses that will be doubled and tripled up.

There are various models of marketing followed by different companies. Some companies have separate departments for advertising, public relations, marketing and sales, this is a very old model, where energies of different departments work at separate levels and may not be using all the resources to their optimum. Another model is where your company has decentralized marketing activities, and each department handles its own marketing activities. In such a model the company is at a disadvantage because each department handling its own marketing means that certain costs and expenses are being repeated and incurred twice or thrice by different departments. The economies do not work well in this kind of model.

Integrating all aspects of marketing into one department ensures that your company's strategic marketing plan is being followed because it can be led, driven, monitored and championed by one or two individuals. If each department does their own marketing, it's difficult to measure and evaluate the results effectively. Also, why leave the marketing up to accountants, assistants, and IT people? Marketing should be done by marketers. Accounting should be done by accountants. It just makes sense to get certain professionals to do the jobs they are trained for.

Also, it is important that all your marketing requirements should be undertaken by one single cohesive department. This department should be in the able hands of marketing professionals. Everyone should do the job that they are trained for accountants and IT people should not be involved in marketing and should be looking after only their respective fields of work. This way you can be sure that your marketing is being done well. Motivated, supervised and championed by the right kind of people. This also allows you to check and evaluate the progress that is being made in a single place giving you a clear picture. If you have separate departments then it becomes difficult to judge the exact position of your marketing strategy.


Author, Scott Geld is the creator of /www.MarketingBlaster.com"Marketing
Blaster one of the leading information resources on the subject of marketing available on line. For continued marketing know-how contact: http://www.MarketingBlaster.com/contact.html

Grab Your Share of Untold Amounts of Advertising Dollars

Title: Grab Your Share of Untold Amounts of Advertising Dollars
Author: Kathleen Gage
Email: kathleen@turningpointpresents.com
Word Count: 851
Copyright: © 2005 by Kathleen Gage
Web Address: www.kathleengage.com

Publishing Guidelines: You may publish my article in your newsletter, on your web site, or in your print publication provided you include the resource box at the end. Notification would be appreciated but is not required.

Grab Your Share of Untold Amounts of Advertising Dollars
By Kathleen Gage

If you advertise in any way, the following information could show you how to find and utilize untold advertising dollars you may not be aware of.

In the mid 80’s I was an account executive for a radio station located in Santa Rosa, California. During that time I became very familiar with what is referred to as co-op advertising.
Co-op advertising is a great source of advertising dollars. And there is so much of it available to people, yet most people know very little, if anything, about co-op dollars.

Interestingly, I was one of the only reps at the station who made sure my clients knew about this benefit. The reason was simple, there was more work involved in getting my clients set up, and yet, there was financial gain for both my client and myself by taking time to help them stretch their marketing dollars.

Co-oping is where you put in money for advertising and the manufacturer of a product you sell also puts in money. Often it is as much as 50% of the campaign. It is a great way to stretch your advertising campaign and to beef up your campaign.

Unfortunately, even though the money is available if conditions are right, many people either aren’t aware of this or if they arethey think it’s too much work to meet the criteria. Granted, in somecases it is, but often utilizing co-op money is a great way to stretch your marketing budget.
There are many co-op-advertising opportunities available if you plan to do advertising on the Internet. Not all are good investments though. Check opportunities out very carefully before making a final commitment.

Using co-op dollars is an excellent way to build a stronger relationship with your retail suppliers and to generate a lot more traffic in your store or on to your web site. If the overflow of business is handled correctly you will increase your sales and profits.

The great thing about using co-op dollars when you are dealing with standard media is that your account rep can handle the paperwork for you. Many retailers hesitate using the “hidden” dollars dueto feeling intimidated by the paperwork, the unknown.

Not only can the rep help you with the paperwork, they can also help you to build the campaign. However, before you trust them completely, find out what their experience is, what successful campaigns they have spearheaded and get some references. Take the time to do some research upfront to save money over the long run.

The reality is, if they are professionals in the truest sense of the word, they will be more than willing to take much of the paperwork burden off of you by handling it. After all, the more value an account rep creates for their clients the greater chance for an ongoing business.

Co-op dollars are not limited to retail businesses. Often, there are hidden dollars for non-profits. There are city and state funds that are set aside to help various organizations increase their visibility and reach.

One nice thing about using co-op dollars from a large manufacturer is that brand names do attract customers to your business—that's whyyou offer them. Advertising specific well known brands will increase your foot traffic. Harley Davidson has an amazing co-op program they offer to their retailers. It is a primary reason they have done so well. They encourage advertising based on specific guidelines.

It is to the advantage of an advertiser to utilize these dollars. Manufacturers in virtually every industry want to help with advertising costs. They are very aware that when you correctly advertise their brand name product you will probably sell more of it, thus increasing your orders.

The disadvantage of co-op advertising can be the restrictions set by the manufacturer. Often, they have such rigid guidelines about how to design the ad that you may lose all control of creative expression. For example, their logo may have to be positioned in an exact location in order for them to co-op the campaign.

If you are working with someone who claims to be an expert at advertising and they know nothing about co-op dollars they are not the expert they claim to be. Be aware.

Areas that you need to be educated on are program terms and reimbursement schedules. In some cases it can take months to receive reimbursement for a co-op campaign. In other cases, the company you are cooping with will send the money directly to the media source. Be sure to check this information out in order not to run into a cash flow problem.

Advantages of co-op advertising
- Extra money to advertise
- Account executive can do the paperwork
- More frequency

Disadvantages of co-op advertising
- Restrictions by manufacturer
- No guarantee it will work
- Limited creativity in ad copy

Before making a final decision, research your options on co-op advertising. You may be pleasantly surprised with what you discover.

Kathleen Gage is an award winning keynote speaker, author and business advisor specializing in marketing and promotions. Access Gage’s FREE eBook Street Smarts eMarketing Strategies Guaranteed to Jump Start Your Internet Presence to Put You Miles Ahead of the Competition at http://www.streetsmartsmarketing.com/free-ebook.htm

Internet Auctions - The New Face of E-commerce

Internet Auctions - The New Fact of E-commerce
by Victoria Wadelly

Just about everybody knows someone who has sold something on eBay. If you don't know what to do with something a common response is Sell it on the Bay. Internet auction sites are actually changing the face of e-commerce and small-business around the world. 30 million people visit eBay on any given day. And that is only eBay. There are many other auction sites that are quickly gaining in popularity including: Overstock.com, Yahoo auctions, and Bidville.

These Internet auction sites allow sellers to put up items for sell or auction for a small listing fee and a percentage of the selling price. Millions of people can be found shopping these sites looking for bargains and hard to find items.

Bargain hunters can find super deals at these auction sites and those interested in a business opportunity have an easy way to break into e-commerce. There has probably never been a better opportunity for people to get started in their own business with so little money up front. For example, on eBay a seller can set up an online store within only a few minutes and be selling from their own URL address for less than $20 a month. It is really that easy and the only problem an individual faces is finding things to sell.

Finding products to sell is no easy task. It requires a consistent and regular effort. There are many sources for finding products to sell at online auctions. Some of sources used by successful sellers include: their own attics, garage and yard sales, clearance racks at major department stores, wholesale suppliers, liquidators, drop shippers and thrift shop. Drop shippers are becoming very popular for sourcing products for auction seller because the seller does not have to invest a lot of money in inventory. Drop shippers will ship products directly to customers for an additional fee above the wholesale price.

Because the traffic is already at these online auction sites it provides the perfect place for anyone to start an online business. Finding customers to buy your product is the hardest part in starting a new business whether it is an online business or not. All you have to do is show up on eBay because the traffic is there and you don~t have to worry about spending a small fortune on advertising.

The other reason why individuals can successfully compete in the global market on Internet auctions is because everyone is on level ground. The multi-million dollar corporation does not have an advantage over the individual selling out of his apartment. The resources and tools available to sellers are the same. If you have ever dreamed of owning your own business but didn~t have the money or knowledge to get started now is your chance. Your first sale is probably neatly tucked away in a box your garage or attic!

Victoria Wadelly is the webmaster and owner of YE
http://www.fargoauctions.com
is an excellent place to find auction links, resources
and articles. For more information on this article,
please visit: http://www.fargoauctions.com/

Seat are almost filled

Only a few seats left for the free seminar on March 14th.

Secrets to Making Money with the Internet - and I am near capacity. I did this utilizing the very strategies I will be teaching in the upcoming seminar.

If you are looking for ways to increase your market reach and visibility in an extremely cost effective way, don't put this off. Join me for this content driven FR^EE session.

You will learn …

-How and where to begin
-How to use to power of the Internet to gain unbelievable visibility
-What to do to drive high volume traffic to your website
-One strategy that can increase your visibility on the Internet tenfold
-Insider secrets that are guaranteed to increase your revenues regardless of your product or service.
- and more!

I am offering this FR^EE Session on Monday March 14, 2005 from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. in Sandy Utah.

The session is almost filled so sign up today.

http://www.turningpointpresents.com/quickstartfreetraining.htm

Proudly sponsored by
The Miller Business Innovation Center

If you know anyone who may benefit from this session, tell them right away because we may not have room in a day or two.

Thank you
Kathleen Gage