Colleges have tremendous circulation of their bulletins and
newspapers. Their price per run on advertising is very
inexpensive for the number of prospects reached. Believe it or
not, multi-millions of dollars are spent by students each
semester.
If you have a new idea or product, run a test ad in one or more
of the publications and see if you get results. Usually a less
expensive 1" ad will let you know whether your product or
service is going to pull or not. If your test ad proves
successful, then you may want to go to a larger ad or even a
display-type ad and increase your coverage to include more
bulletins and newspapers.
Another way to distribute your product is to advertise for a
student on campus to represent you on a commission basis and be
your dealer. Usually there are several students who would love
to have the opportunity to make some extra money. A good way to
find the right person is by resume qualifications or actually
calling them on the phone and talking it over with them.
Finding the key person could result in many easy dollars in your
pocket.
In the past, some of the biggest sellers on campus have been
radio and stereo equipment, music tapes, car repair manuals,
study aids, self-improvement booklets and tapes, school fads of
various natures, and any kind of special or different steins for
drinking beer. Any new idea or product you may be able to come
up with could be very advantageous to you in the form of
increased sales.
Advertising in college bulletins and newspapers gains more
results during the first three days of the week. When ordering
advertising, it is best to specify that your ad appear in the
Monday-Wednesday editions. Thursday is okay, but Friday is
definitely out; minds seem to drift toward plans for the
weekend, leaving little interest for purchasing.
Write to the enclosed list of publications. Ask for their rates
and circulation. All of them will respond to your needs and
many of them will call you and discuss whatever plans you have
for advertising. They will work with you to try to see that you
get the most response from any type ad you may run.
We sincerely hope this report helps you in gaining sales and is
an instrument in the growth of your company. You cannot beat
the circulation of prospects reached for the dollars spent.
Have a good year!
50 LEADING COLLEGE BUYING POWERS
University of Oregon
Daily Emerald
P.O. Box 3159
Eugene, OR 97403
Circ. 10,500 daily
University of Arkansas
Arkansas Traveler
Hill Hall 304
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Circ. 8000 bi-weekly
University of Mississippi
Daily Mississippian
University, MS 38677
Circ. 10,000 daily
University of Washington
The Daily
144 Communications DS-20
Seattle, WA 98195
Circ. 18,000 daily
University of Texas at Arlington
P.O. Box 19038
Arlington, TX 76019-0038
Circ. 18,000 daily
University of Virginia
The Cavalier Daily
Newcomb Hall
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Circ. 13,000 daily
Illinois State University
Vidette
Normal, Il 61761
Circ. 22,000 daily
Ball State University
Munci, IN 47306
Circ. 14,000 daily
Florida State University
P.O. Box U-7001
Tallahassee, FL 32306
Circ. 46,000 daily
Jackson State University
Jackson, MS 39217
Circ. unknown
Indiana State University
The Indiana Statesman
Tirey Memorial Union Annex, ISU
Terre Haute, IN 47809
Circ. 14,000 daily
West Texas State University
College of Arts and Science
Canyon, TX 79016
Circ. unknown
Texas Southern University
3100 Cleburne Avenue
Houston, TX 77004
Circ. 15,000 weekly
Spelman College
Spelman Spotlight
P.O. Box 40
Atlanta, GA 30314
Circ. unknown
Wright State University
The Daily Guardian
Dayton, OH. 45435
Circ. 4,000 daily
University of South Florida
Oracle
Let 472, Arts and Letters Bldg.
Tampa, FL 33620
Circ. 25,000 daily
Ohio State University
The Lantern
281 Journalism Bldg.
242 W. 18th St.
Columbus, OH 43210-1107
Circ. 31,000 daily
Montana State University
Exponent
Strand Union Bldg.
Bozeman, MT 59715
Circ. 8,000 bi-weekly
Texas Tech. University
P.O. Box 4080
Lubbock, TX 79409
Circ. 17,000 daily
University of Florida
The Alligator
P.O. Box 14257
Gainesville, FL 32604
Circ. 43,000 daily
Iowa University
111 Communications Center
Iowa City, IA 52242
Circ. 20,000 daily
Bowling Green State University
The BG News
106 University Hall
Bowling Green, OH 43403
Circ. 11,000 daily
Morgan State University
Spokesman
Cold Spring Ln. & Hillen Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21239
Circ. 4,000 bi-weekly
East Texas State University
The East Texan
Box D - ET Station
Commerce, TX 75428
Circ. 7,000 bi-weekly
San Francisco State University
Dept. of Journalism
1600 Holloway Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94132
Circ. 10,000 weekly
Auburn University
The Auburn Plainsman
1st Floor, Foy Union Bldg.
Auburn, AL 36849
Circ. 18,500 weekly
Winona State University
Winonian
Winina, MN 55987
Circ. unknown
Washington University
Student Life
St. Louis, MO 63130
Circ. 8,300 weekly
University of Tulsa
Collegian
600 So. College
Tulsa, OK 74104
Circ. 4000 weekly
University of Maryland
Diamondback
College Park, MD 20742
Circ. 21,000 daily
University of Kentucky
The Kentucky Kernel
210 Journalism Bldg.
Lexington, KY 40506
circ. 18,000 daily
Boston College
The Heights
Chestnut Hill, MA 02167
Circ. 9,500 weekly
Seton Hall University
The Setonian
S. Orange, NJ 07079
Circ. 10,500 Weekly
Pace University
Pace Plaza
New York, NY 10038
Circ. unknown
University of New Mexico
Student Publications
P.O. Box 20
Albuquerque, NM 87131
Circ. 30,000 weekly
University of Wisconsin
Union Box 88
P.O. Box 413
Milwaukee, WI 53201
Circ. unknown
University of Tennessee
5 Communications Bldg.
Knoxville, TN 37996-0314
Circ. 15,000 daily
Cal State University, Long Beach
SS/PA-010
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90840
Circ. 20,000 daily
Northwestern University
N.O. News
360 Huntington Ave.
Boston, MA 02115
Circ. 21,000 weekly
University of Wisconsin, Stout
The Stoutonia
Menomonie, WI 54751
Circ. 7,000 weekly
Texas Christian University
The Daily Skiff
P.O. Box 32929
Circ. 5,500 monthly
University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Racquet
La Crosse, WI 54601
Circ. 5,000 weekly
Washington State University
The Daily Evergreen
P.O. Box 2008 C.S.
Pullman, WA 99164
Circ. 20,000 daily
San Jose State University
Spartan Daily
San Jose, CA 95192
Circ. 15,000 daily
Portland State University
Vaanguard
P.O. Box 751
Portland, OR 97207
Circ. 17,000 bi-weekly
Valdosta State College
The Spectator
VSC Box 194
Valdosta, GA 31698
Circ. unknown
Kent State University
Daily Kent Stater
Kent, OH 44242
Circ. unknown
Georgia State University
Signal
Box 695 University Plaza
Atlanta, GA 30303
Circ. 10,000 weekly
Arizona State University
State Press
15 Matthews Center
Tempe, AZ 85287
Circ. 40,000 daily
Monday, April 9, 2012
21st Century Business Women
When the first generation of women entered the workforce in earnest in the 1970s, they succeeded in the only way they could – by imitating men. Authoritarian leadership and tight control was the hallmark of that day’s businessman, and women were not exactly welcomed into the ranks of management. Well ladies, that was yesterday, and today is today!
Forget what your mama or your boss told you, because following the rules can be bad for your career. Today’s CEO/entrepreneur can no longer tap his/her company’s full potential using a “command-and-control” style. The 21st century business woman needs to be able to build a vision based on the awareness of economic transformation, then help her partners and staff fulfill that vision. She must draw on a wide range of skills to get to the top and stay there. Following are 7 Key Characteristics that are essential:
1. Sell the Vision: A leader with a fresh, independent plan for her company’s growth and future has a distinct advantage in luring and keeping great talent and investors. Vision is not some lofty ideal, but an obtainable concept that is easy to understand and will make the company grow to another level.
2. Reinvent the Rules: While women have traditionally been socialized to please others, the 21st century leader knows that good girls rarely post great returns. The strong managers/owners today not only anticipate change, they create entirely new organizations that respond to shifts and search for innovation.
3. Achieve With A Laser Focus: Go where others fear to tread! Being aggressive and ambitious has long been considered male traits, but they are key qualities for new leaders. Today’s business woman has the ability to home in on opportunities that others may simply not see, and then excel in that uncharted territory.
4. Use High-Touch in a High-Tech Era: When a number of leaders are conducting business by e-mail, voice mail, passwords, and PINs, the female entrepreneur succeeds because she guides with a strong, personal, bed-side manner. Today’s business woman is just as technologically savvy as her peers, but her skill with staff and customers is “high-touch” which gives her a critical edge and separation from the “pack”.
5. Challenge or Opportunity? – Women are great at turning a challenge into an opportunity instead of using the “slash-and-burn” approach. They are able to make bold strokes, but they also win the cooperation of others in the organization in making any transformation a success.
6. A Customer Preference Obsession: In this information age which makes it easier to shop around for the best “whatever”, businesses must work harder to give people what they want before their competitors do. There is no substitute for spending time with clients to become expert at their businesses and learn their demands. Female leaders are almost intuitively adept in doing just that, and without the client even suspecting.
7. Courage Under Fire: Show me any career woman or female entrepreneur today that isn’t able to “stand-the-heat” in any tough-call situation. Their decision-making skills are rooted in a high level of confidence, because they’ve had to weather and surpass any and all “corporate” storms they’ve encountered over time.
It takes a certain mind-set and bravado for anyone to start their own business and succeed, but it’s even more difficult for a female entrepreneur. Let’s face it, ladies! We’ve always had to be twice-as-smart and twice-as-confident as any male counterpart in the corporate world. After all, if we can bear and raise the future generation, how can running a successful business scare us?
Forget what your mama or your boss told you, because following the rules can be bad for your career. Today’s CEO/entrepreneur can no longer tap his/her company’s full potential using a “command-and-control” style. The 21st century business woman needs to be able to build a vision based on the awareness of economic transformation, then help her partners and staff fulfill that vision. She must draw on a wide range of skills to get to the top and stay there. Following are 7 Key Characteristics that are essential:
1. Sell the Vision: A leader with a fresh, independent plan for her company’s growth and future has a distinct advantage in luring and keeping great talent and investors. Vision is not some lofty ideal, but an obtainable concept that is easy to understand and will make the company grow to another level.
2. Reinvent the Rules: While women have traditionally been socialized to please others, the 21st century leader knows that good girls rarely post great returns. The strong managers/owners today not only anticipate change, they create entirely new organizations that respond to shifts and search for innovation.
3. Achieve With A Laser Focus: Go where others fear to tread! Being aggressive and ambitious has long been considered male traits, but they are key qualities for new leaders. Today’s business woman has the ability to home in on opportunities that others may simply not see, and then excel in that uncharted territory.
4. Use High-Touch in a High-Tech Era: When a number of leaders are conducting business by e-mail, voice mail, passwords, and PINs, the female entrepreneur succeeds because she guides with a strong, personal, bed-side manner. Today’s business woman is just as technologically savvy as her peers, but her skill with staff and customers is “high-touch” which gives her a critical edge and separation from the “pack”.
5. Challenge or Opportunity? – Women are great at turning a challenge into an opportunity instead of using the “slash-and-burn” approach. They are able to make bold strokes, but they also win the cooperation of others in the organization in making any transformation a success.
6. A Customer Preference Obsession: In this information age which makes it easier to shop around for the best “whatever”, businesses must work harder to give people what they want before their competitors do. There is no substitute for spending time with clients to become expert at their businesses and learn their demands. Female leaders are almost intuitively adept in doing just that, and without the client even suspecting.
7. Courage Under Fire: Show me any career woman or female entrepreneur today that isn’t able to “stand-the-heat” in any tough-call situation. Their decision-making skills are rooted in a high level of confidence, because they’ve had to weather and surpass any and all “corporate” storms they’ve encountered over time.
It takes a certain mind-set and bravado for anyone to start their own business and succeed, but it’s even more difficult for a female entrepreneur. Let’s face it, ladies! We’ve always had to be twice-as-smart and twice-as-confident as any male counterpart in the corporate world. After all, if we can bear and raise the future generation, how can running a successful business scare us?
Sunday, April 8, 2012
10 STEPS TO SUCCESS IN DIRECT SALES
Every year thousands of men and women across America sign on with
direct selling firm-Tupperware, Amway, or a cosmetic
company-hoping to make money enough for new draperies, a new
davenport, or some new clothes. They sell a little merchandise to
a few relatives and close friends. Then they are through. They
quit before they give themselves a chance to learn the basics of
success in sales. "I am simply not a born salesperson," they
often say.
No one is born a salesperson, any more than one is born a doctor
or born a lawyer. Sales is a profession. To be successful in any
profession one must learn not only the basic techniques, but also
how to apply those techniques. Success in sales makes use of all
the abilities one is born with, plus all those acquired through
education and experience.
If you are looking for a career opportunity or "extra income" to
help with the family budget, direct selling offers you
dream-fulfilling possibilities. However, you must give yourself
time to learn the techniques of sales. Ask yourself. "How long
does a doctor to be study? A lawyer to be study?"
WHAT IS DIRECT SELLING?
Direct selling is marketing a product directly to the consumer
with no middleman involved. Most reliable firms are members of
the National Association of Direct Selling
Companies. They bring to the public fine products that are
modestly priced in order to insure mass consumption.
Most direct selling companies furnish their representatives with
a starter kit and essential supplies below-cost prices. In many
instances the investment is under $100.
There is an old adage which says "Give a man a fish and you feed
him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a
lifetime."
Many of them were able to change their lives for the better. They
took their families on nice vacations. They purchased a piano or
an organ and provided music lessons for their children. They
saved money for college education. They redecorated their homes,
bought needed furniture. One highly successful saleslady built a
new home.
The rewards of direct selling are many
1. You can be your own boss.
2. You can set your own hours.
3. You can own your own businesses with little or no investment.
4. You can pay yourself more than any boss would ever pay you.
5. You can give yourself regular raises as your business grows.
It is only fair to tell you that there are failures, too. There
are people who will not work for themselves. When working for a
boss, they rise early, are well-groomed, and get to the office on
time. However, when they are their own boss, they are still in a
bathrobe, drinking one more cup of coffee at 11:00 A.M.
If you can be your own boss and discipline yourself to do what
has to be done when it has to be done, direct selling offers a
most unusual earning opportunity.
THE TEN STEPS
Here are ten steps that will assure your success:
1. BE A GOAL SETTER. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want
to save for college education for your children? A new car? A
new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it
enough to do the things that have to be done to get it. Whatever
your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it.
Divide the time period into blocks of achievement that are
reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each
week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must
in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without
definite goals.
2. BE A LIST MAKER. Each evening list all the things you want to
get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach
to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It
is amazing how much gets done when one works with a
"things-to-do" list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments,
potential clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it
with you at all times. You will be adding to it constantly.
3. BE ENTHUSIASTIC. Enthusiasm is the high-octane "fuel" that
salespeople run on. Enthusiasm generates its own energy. Energy
and good health are synonymous with busy, happy people, people
who are achieving.
4. RECOGNIZE THAT THE MAGIC WORD IN SALES IS "ASK." In direct
sales we don't have to wait for business to come to us. We create
our own business by asking for it. Ask for appointments, then you
can do business. Ask for business, then you will close sales. Ask
for referrals, then you always have a full list of potential
clients. Be quietly, yet firmly aggressive.
5. EXPECT NO'S. Realize that no's are not personal. In sales, as
perhaps nowhere else, the law of averages works. Every no gets
you closer to a yes. Keep track of your ratio. It will help
improve your techniques. Are you getting ten no's to one yes? Is
your ratio five to one? Remember, the yes's are your income. Also
remember that "no" does not necessarily mean "no." Often a "no"
is simply a stall for more time to think. It may be a request for
more information about your product or your service. What your
client is actually buying is assurance. Assure here by your
helpful attitude and your complete honesty, that you want what is
best for her. She will most likely respect you and do business
with you.
6. SCHEDULE TIME WISELY. A schedule is the roadmap by which
salespeople travel. It takes the frustration out of the day. It
assures that the necessary things get done and get done on time.
Plan your work then work your plan.
7. BE POSITIVE IN YOUR ATTITUDE. Success in sales, as in all
areas of life is 90 percent attitude and 10 percent aptitude. All
of us must work at developing habits of constructive thinking. I
am proud to be a salesperson. Sales make the wheels of our
economy turn. Bernard Baruch, advisor to several presidents, is
quoted as saying, "If every salesperson sat down and took no
orders for twenty-four hours, it would bankrupt our country!"
Every company that manufactures any kind of product depends upon
salespeople to move that product. Without salespeople business
would be paralyzed.
Remember, sales is one of the highest paid of all professions.
Statistics show that good salespeople enjoy incomes far above the
average.
8. HAVE AN OFFICE AREA. Most direct salespeople work from their
own homes, but it is essential to have a place where you can work
in a organized and efficient manner. An office plus a strict
working schedule gives you dignity. Both are absolutely essential
for efficient operation and accurate record keeping, so important
to the success of any business.
9. BE INVOLVED. Most sales organization offer contests to
stimulate production. Include winning contests as part of your
business goals. Contests make your business fun as well as adding
considerable dollar value to your income.
10. LEARN TO HANDLE MONEY INTELLIGENTLY. A regular nine-to-five
job usually means a paycheck at the end of the second week.
Direct sales "reps" handle money constantly. Direct sales is
instant income and constant income. Therefore. it is absolutely
necessary to become an efficient money manager.
Deposit every penny collected from
clients into a checking account set up especially for its
business. Since bank statements show an exact record of all
monies collected, and business expenses can be verified by
canceled checks, record keeping becomes simple and accurate.
Everything except a few "petty cash" transactions can be directly
taken from bank statements.
Money saved regularly and put at interest, soon develops a second
income in addition to earned income. A long-term goal, which is
realistic in direct sales, is to be able to live in retirement
off the interest earned on savings.
Would financial security mean a lot to you? If so, ask yourself
these questions:
* Am I honest?
* Do I really like people?
* Am I willing to learn?
* Am I willing to work?
* Am I capable of being my own boss?
If your answers are yes, to find a good product
for the direct sales market, one that you like, one that fills
the need of a lot of people, and go to work for yourself! .You
can turn dreams into reality.
direct selling firm-Tupperware, Amway, or a cosmetic
company-hoping to make money enough for new draperies, a new
davenport, or some new clothes. They sell a little merchandise to
a few relatives and close friends. Then they are through. They
quit before they give themselves a chance to learn the basics of
success in sales. "I am simply not a born salesperson," they
often say.
No one is born a salesperson, any more than one is born a doctor
or born a lawyer. Sales is a profession. To be successful in any
profession one must learn not only the basic techniques, but also
how to apply those techniques. Success in sales makes use of all
the abilities one is born with, plus all those acquired through
education and experience.
If you are looking for a career opportunity or "extra income" to
help with the family budget, direct selling offers you
dream-fulfilling possibilities. However, you must give yourself
time to learn the techniques of sales. Ask yourself. "How long
does a doctor to be study? A lawyer to be study?"
WHAT IS DIRECT SELLING?
Direct selling is marketing a product directly to the consumer
with no middleman involved. Most reliable firms are members of
the National Association of Direct Selling
Companies. They bring to the public fine products that are
modestly priced in order to insure mass consumption.
Most direct selling companies furnish their representatives with
a starter kit and essential supplies below-cost prices. In many
instances the investment is under $100.
There is an old adage which says "Give a man a fish and you feed
him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a
lifetime."
Many of them were able to change their lives for the better. They
took their families on nice vacations. They purchased a piano or
an organ and provided music lessons for their children. They
saved money for college education. They redecorated their homes,
bought needed furniture. One highly successful saleslady built a
new home.
The rewards of direct selling are many
1. You can be your own boss.
2. You can set your own hours.
3. You can own your own businesses with little or no investment.
4. You can pay yourself more than any boss would ever pay you.
5. You can give yourself regular raises as your business grows.
It is only fair to tell you that there are failures, too. There
are people who will not work for themselves. When working for a
boss, they rise early, are well-groomed, and get to the office on
time. However, when they are their own boss, they are still in a
bathrobe, drinking one more cup of coffee at 11:00 A.M.
If you can be your own boss and discipline yourself to do what
has to be done when it has to be done, direct selling offers a
most unusual earning opportunity.
THE TEN STEPS
Here are ten steps that will assure your success:
1. BE A GOAL SETTER. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want
to save for college education for your children? A new car? A
new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it
enough to do the things that have to be done to get it. Whatever
your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it.
Divide the time period into blocks of achievement that are
reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each
week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must
in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without
definite goals.
2. BE A LIST MAKER. Each evening list all the things you want to
get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach
to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It
is amazing how much gets done when one works with a
"things-to-do" list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments,
potential clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it
with you at all times. You will be adding to it constantly.
3. BE ENTHUSIASTIC. Enthusiasm is the high-octane "fuel" that
salespeople run on. Enthusiasm generates its own energy. Energy
and good health are synonymous with busy, happy people, people
who are achieving.
4. RECOGNIZE THAT THE MAGIC WORD IN SALES IS "ASK." In direct
sales we don't have to wait for business to come to us. We create
our own business by asking for it. Ask for appointments, then you
can do business. Ask for business, then you will close sales. Ask
for referrals, then you always have a full list of potential
clients. Be quietly, yet firmly aggressive.
5. EXPECT NO'S. Realize that no's are not personal. In sales, as
perhaps nowhere else, the law of averages works. Every no gets
you closer to a yes. Keep track of your ratio. It will help
improve your techniques. Are you getting ten no's to one yes? Is
your ratio five to one? Remember, the yes's are your income. Also
remember that "no" does not necessarily mean "no." Often a "no"
is simply a stall for more time to think. It may be a request for
more information about your product or your service. What your
client is actually buying is assurance. Assure here by your
helpful attitude and your complete honesty, that you want what is
best for her. She will most likely respect you and do business
with you.
6. SCHEDULE TIME WISELY. A schedule is the roadmap by which
salespeople travel. It takes the frustration out of the day. It
assures that the necessary things get done and get done on time.
Plan your work then work your plan.
7. BE POSITIVE IN YOUR ATTITUDE. Success in sales, as in all
areas of life is 90 percent attitude and 10 percent aptitude. All
of us must work at developing habits of constructive thinking. I
am proud to be a salesperson. Sales make the wheels of our
economy turn. Bernard Baruch, advisor to several presidents, is
quoted as saying, "If every salesperson sat down and took no
orders for twenty-four hours, it would bankrupt our country!"
Every company that manufactures any kind of product depends upon
salespeople to move that product. Without salespeople business
would be paralyzed.
Remember, sales is one of the highest paid of all professions.
Statistics show that good salespeople enjoy incomes far above the
average.
8. HAVE AN OFFICE AREA. Most direct salespeople work from their
own homes, but it is essential to have a place where you can work
in a organized and efficient manner. An office plus a strict
working schedule gives you dignity. Both are absolutely essential
for efficient operation and accurate record keeping, so important
to the success of any business.
9. BE INVOLVED. Most sales organization offer contests to
stimulate production. Include winning contests as part of your
business goals. Contests make your business fun as well as adding
considerable dollar value to your income.
10. LEARN TO HANDLE MONEY INTELLIGENTLY. A regular nine-to-five
job usually means a paycheck at the end of the second week.
Direct sales "reps" handle money constantly. Direct sales is
instant income and constant income. Therefore. it is absolutely
necessary to become an efficient money manager.
Deposit every penny collected from
clients into a checking account set up especially for its
business. Since bank statements show an exact record of all
monies collected, and business expenses can be verified by
canceled checks, record keeping becomes simple and accurate.
Everything except a few "petty cash" transactions can be directly
taken from bank statements.
Money saved regularly and put at interest, soon develops a second
income in addition to earned income. A long-term goal, which is
realistic in direct sales, is to be able to live in retirement
off the interest earned on savings.
Would financial security mean a lot to you? If so, ask yourself
these questions:
* Am I honest?
* Do I really like people?
* Am I willing to learn?
* Am I willing to work?
* Am I capable of being my own boss?
If your answers are yes, to find a good product
for the direct sales market, one that you like, one that fills
the need of a lot of people, and go to work for yourself! .You
can turn dreams into reality.
Get What You Want in 7 Powerful Steps
In my most recent columns we’ve covered issues about improving your business and marketing, but today let’s start right at the beginning.
You’re really getting tired of the 9 to 5 “rat race” and are thinking about chucking it for your own business. All your friends keep telling you that you could do for yourself just what you’re doing now for your boss. Why shouldn’t you profit from your ideas instead of him?
You keep thinking about it because you know that you’ll never be financially where you want to be with a weekly paycheck, but what business would you start?
Before you pack in that weekly paycheck, this is the time to evaluate yourself and your future and it takes some real, down to heart honesty. You want to change your life for the better, so let’s start.
Did you know that you have the potential to do and be anything you want? People have different perceptions of the ideal life, and it ranges from obtaining financial freedom to as simple as owning a new pair of sneakers. Unfortunately, many fail to reach their aspirations because they can’t get a solid, clear picture in their mind of what they want.
Take the next few days and embark on a fact-finding journey that will be a life-changing experience. Get a pad and pencil and start with this first step:
STEP 1 - KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT – Be specific in your passions, then focus all your efforts on that particular desire.
Those who always change their minds and those who give up easily when the going gets tough will never get anywhere. If you’re a bit confused and aren’t sure what you really want in life answer these questions:
1. What makes your heart beat with excitement?
2. What makes you happy?
3. What are you constantly thinking of day and night?
4. What do you want to do with the rest of your life?
5. What do you enjoy doing?
6. What are your obsessions?
7. What things make you jump for joy?
Write down all your possible answers to the above questions. Write down everything, no matter how silly or unimportant it seems. Put all your desires on paper that answers any of the above questions.
When that’s done, go back and circle five to seven items that interest you the most. Then evaluate and choose with your heart, not your mind, the one and only thing worthy to spend all your time and resources on and that brings out the best in you.
Now you may wind up with something like, “I want to play quarterback for the RAMS.” If you’re over 20 I’d say that isn’t too viable a choice, but you could do something related to football or sports. How about starting a sports publication? Or perhaps a sporting goods retail business, sports memorabilia business, or even a gym could be the answer. You can always read books and surf the net to help you in your search.
The most important thing to remember, no matter how “pie in the sky” it seems, is to USE YOUR HEART. Others may disagree with you, but you should be firm with what you really want. Others may offer comments or advice, but the final decision is always yours to make. You should concentrate on what you want, not what others want.
Remember you only get one shot at living your life. There are no replays and you don’t get to do it over. You may not do it right, but at least you’re doing it. Too many lives have been lived in quiet desperation waiting until – until they had saved a nest egg, until the children are out of school, until I retire, and they depart this life before “until” ever arrives.
Don’t go to sleep tonight without making a decision on WHAT YOU REALLY WANT IN LIFE MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE.
Then spend a few days evaluating how to make it possible and make a living at it. Begin living every day as if it were the last day you had – never leaving anything to be done next week, next month, or next year.
There will always be bills, things will always break down eventually and need replacing, there may be storms and earthquakes and repairs – but there will only be one life for you to live. It can’t be put on “hold”!
The final outcome of your efforts may be in the future, but you’re living each day by taking steps toward that outcome.
You’re really getting tired of the 9 to 5 “rat race” and are thinking about chucking it for your own business. All your friends keep telling you that you could do for yourself just what you’re doing now for your boss. Why shouldn’t you profit from your ideas instead of him?
You keep thinking about it because you know that you’ll never be financially where you want to be with a weekly paycheck, but what business would you start?
Before you pack in that weekly paycheck, this is the time to evaluate yourself and your future and it takes some real, down to heart honesty. You want to change your life for the better, so let’s start.
Did you know that you have the potential to do and be anything you want? People have different perceptions of the ideal life, and it ranges from obtaining financial freedom to as simple as owning a new pair of sneakers. Unfortunately, many fail to reach their aspirations because they can’t get a solid, clear picture in their mind of what they want.
Take the next few days and embark on a fact-finding journey that will be a life-changing experience. Get a pad and pencil and start with this first step:
STEP 1 - KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT – Be specific in your passions, then focus all your efforts on that particular desire.
Those who always change their minds and those who give up easily when the going gets tough will never get anywhere. If you’re a bit confused and aren’t sure what you really want in life answer these questions:
1. What makes your heart beat with excitement?
2. What makes you happy?
3. What are you constantly thinking of day and night?
4. What do you want to do with the rest of your life?
5. What do you enjoy doing?
6. What are your obsessions?
7. What things make you jump for joy?
Write down all your possible answers to the above questions. Write down everything, no matter how silly or unimportant it seems. Put all your desires on paper that answers any of the above questions.
When that’s done, go back and circle five to seven items that interest you the most. Then evaluate and choose with your heart, not your mind, the one and only thing worthy to spend all your time and resources on and that brings out the best in you.
Now you may wind up with something like, “I want to play quarterback for the RAMS.” If you’re over 20 I’d say that isn’t too viable a choice, but you could do something related to football or sports. How about starting a sports publication? Or perhaps a sporting goods retail business, sports memorabilia business, or even a gym could be the answer. You can always read books and surf the net to help you in your search.
The most important thing to remember, no matter how “pie in the sky” it seems, is to USE YOUR HEART. Others may disagree with you, but you should be firm with what you really want. Others may offer comments or advice, but the final decision is always yours to make. You should concentrate on what you want, not what others want.
Remember you only get one shot at living your life. There are no replays and you don’t get to do it over. You may not do it right, but at least you’re doing it. Too many lives have been lived in quiet desperation waiting until – until they had saved a nest egg, until the children are out of school, until I retire, and they depart this life before “until” ever arrives.
Don’t go to sleep tonight without making a decision on WHAT YOU REALLY WANT IN LIFE MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE.
Then spend a few days evaluating how to make it possible and make a living at it. Begin living every day as if it were the last day you had – never leaving anything to be done next week, next month, or next year.
There will always be bills, things will always break down eventually and need replacing, there may be storms and earthquakes and repairs – but there will only be one life for you to live. It can’t be put on “hold”!
The final outcome of your efforts may be in the future, but you’re living each day by taking steps toward that outcome.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Do You Have Low Self Esteem?
Low self esteem can be devastating to an individual’s personal, work, and scholastic life. The constant feeling of inadequacy and unworthiness can undermine attempts to succeed at even the smallest things. If you find yourself plagued with such feelings, you may need to ask “Do I have low self esteem?” Self esteem is your own view of yourself, your capabilities, and your attributes. It is impossible to succeed in life if you are constantly second guessing and berating yourself over the tiniest detail. Many individuals suffer from low self esteem, so you are certainly not alone. Some individuals have recently begun to question their self esteem while others have been doing so their entire lives. Whatever your situation, honestly answering these questions will give you a great deal of insight into how you view yourself.
Are you nervous or awkward around other individuals? These people can be coworkers, friends, family members, or even strangers on the street. Do you ever look at anyone and think you are not on the same “level” as they are physically, mentally, or athletically? Do you see yourself as the least important member of your family, group of friends, or office? These persistent feelings can erode your self esteem. Most likely, you are the only one who thinks these things. Ask your friends, coworkers, and family members about your performance, attitude, and personality. More than likely, you will be pleasantly surprised. Remember to rank your own needs up there with the needs of others. Quite often, individuals with low self esteem strive to please everyone but themselves in order to make themselves feel more adequate. This act usually backfires since your focus is on those surrounding you instead of yourself. Dig deep and figure out your own needs. Focusing on yourself for a while will allow you to identify to root cause of your self esteem issues so that you can go about conquering them.
Do you worry or obsess about your physical appearance? Are you constantly trying to change your appearance for what you think is the better? These feelings of inadequacy are quite common, especially among children and women. Often, individuals notice certain qualities about themselves as children due to comments by a friend, family member, or school mate. These feelings harbor themselves inside, making them stronger and deeper-rooted. Some individuals obsess about their weight, height, statue, bone structure, facial features, hair, and any thing else under the sun. These issues can become the root of serious problems, including eating disorders. Even the most beautiful people in the world have some feelings of inadequacy about their outward appearance. The people society deems beautiful or perfect have secret issues about their own appearance or body, so you are definitely not alone. Instead of constantly worrying about those aspects you deem as negative, focus on the positive. If you find yourself slipping into a dangerous or deadly habit, seek professional help as soon as possible. The world has learned to live with you, now you must make the decision to live with yourself. Once you are comfortable in your own skin, your self confidence will soar sky-high.
Do you publicly berate yourself for fun? Is your idea of a good conversation tearing yourself down at the expense of others? Would you rather talk about your failures and weaknesses over your successes and strengths? This is often the case with individuals with low self esteem. Instead of accentuating the positive, they verbalize that constantly criticizing voice they hear in their own heads. Whatever the case, if you find yourself to be suffering from low self esteem, there are ways to rebuild from within. Seek help from friends, family members, colleagues, self-help books, or professionals if necessary. Low self esteem is a problem that should not be ignored.
Are you nervous or awkward around other individuals? These people can be coworkers, friends, family members, or even strangers on the street. Do you ever look at anyone and think you are not on the same “level” as they are physically, mentally, or athletically? Do you see yourself as the least important member of your family, group of friends, or office? These persistent feelings can erode your self esteem. Most likely, you are the only one who thinks these things. Ask your friends, coworkers, and family members about your performance, attitude, and personality. More than likely, you will be pleasantly surprised. Remember to rank your own needs up there with the needs of others. Quite often, individuals with low self esteem strive to please everyone but themselves in order to make themselves feel more adequate. This act usually backfires since your focus is on those surrounding you instead of yourself. Dig deep and figure out your own needs. Focusing on yourself for a while will allow you to identify to root cause of your self esteem issues so that you can go about conquering them.
Do you worry or obsess about your physical appearance? Are you constantly trying to change your appearance for what you think is the better? These feelings of inadequacy are quite common, especially among children and women. Often, individuals notice certain qualities about themselves as children due to comments by a friend, family member, or school mate. These feelings harbor themselves inside, making them stronger and deeper-rooted. Some individuals obsess about their weight, height, statue, bone structure, facial features, hair, and any thing else under the sun. These issues can become the root of serious problems, including eating disorders. Even the most beautiful people in the world have some feelings of inadequacy about their outward appearance. The people society deems beautiful or perfect have secret issues about their own appearance or body, so you are definitely not alone. Instead of constantly worrying about those aspects you deem as negative, focus on the positive. If you find yourself slipping into a dangerous or deadly habit, seek professional help as soon as possible. The world has learned to live with you, now you must make the decision to live with yourself. Once you are comfortable in your own skin, your self confidence will soar sky-high.
Do you publicly berate yourself for fun? Is your idea of a good conversation tearing yourself down at the expense of others? Would you rather talk about your failures and weaknesses over your successes and strengths? This is often the case with individuals with low self esteem. Instead of accentuating the positive, they verbalize that constantly criticizing voice they hear in their own heads. Whatever the case, if you find yourself to be suffering from low self esteem, there are ways to rebuild from within. Seek help from friends, family members, colleagues, self-help books, or professionals if necessary. Low self esteem is a problem that should not be ignored.
Friday, April 6, 2012
SECRETS OF MILLION DOLLAR SALES LETTERS – FOR MAIL CAMPAIGN & INTERNET
Regardless of what you're trying to sell, you really can't sell it without "talking" with your prospective buyer. An in attempting to sell anything on the Internet, the sales letter you send out is when and how you talk to your prospect.
All winning sales letters "talk" to the prospect by creating an image in the mind of the reader. They set "the scene" by appealing to a desire or need; and then they flow smoothly into the "visionary" part of the sales pitch by describing in detail how "wonderful" life will be and, how "good" the prospect is going to feel after he's purchased your product. This is the "body or guts" of a sales letter.
Overall, a winning sales letter follows a time-tested and proven formula: 1) Get his attention 2) Get him interested in what you can do for him 3) Make him desire the benefits of your product so badly his mouth begins to water 4) Demand action from him - tell him to click the right button or send for whatever it is you're selling without delay - any procrastination on his part might cause him to lose out. This is called the "AIDA" formula (Attention, Interest, Desire and
Action) - it works.
On your website, your sales page should be the length of what it would be
if were doing a mailing, or longer if you're using bullets to emphasize benefits to build the desire. Of course on the Internet you don't have to worry about letterhead stationery or the cost of postage, which is a considerable savings. If, however, you want to also do a mailing campaign then the following would apply. The sales letters in mailings that pull in the most sales are almost always two pages with 1 1/2 spaces between lines. For really big ticket items, they'll run at least four pages. - on an 11 by 17 sheet of paper folded in half. If your sales letter is only two pages in length, there's nothing wrong with running it on the front and back of one sheet of 8 1/2 by 11 paper. However, your sales letter should always be on letterhead paper - your letterhead printed, and including your logo and business motto if you have one.
Regardless of the length of your sales letter, it should do one thing, and that's sell, and sell hard! If you intend to close the sale, you've got to do it with your sales letter. You should never be "wishy-washy" with your sales letter. You do the actual selling and the closing of that sale with your sales letter - any brochure or circular you send along with in your mailing will just reinforce what you say in the sales letter.
There's been a great deal of discussion in the past few years regarding just how long a sales letter should be. A lot of people are asking: Will people really take the time to read a long sales letter? The answer is a simple and time-tested yes indeed! Surveys and tests over the years emphatically prove that "longer sales letters" pull even better than the shorter ones, so don't worry about the length of your sales letter - just make sure that it sells your product for you!
The "inside secret" is to make your sales letter so interesting, and "visionary" with the benefits you're offering to the reader, that he can't resist reading it all the way through. You break up the "work" of reading by using short, punchy sentences, underlining important points you're trying to make, with the use of subheadlines, indentations and even the use of a second color, and leaving lots of white space around it. On your website, the sales letter should run down the middle of the page so the viewer doesn't have to keep adjusting the screen to see the whole sentence. This is very distracting and more apt to send that client to another website than losing patience reading a long letter.
Relative to the brochures and circulars you may want to include in your mailing with your sales letter - providing the materials you're enclosing are of the best quality, they will generally reinforce the sale for you. But, if they are of poor quality, look cheap and don't compliment your sales letter, then you shouldn't be using them. Another thing, it will definitely classify you as an independent home worker if you hand-stamp your name/address on these brochures or advertising circulars instead of having them printed.
Whenever possible, and so long as you have really good brochures to send out, have your printer run them through his press and print your name/address - even your telephone number and company logo - on them before you send them out. The thing is, you want your prospect to think of you as his supplier - the company - and not as just another independent entrepreneur. Sure, you can get by with less expense but you'll end up with fewer orders and in the end, less profits.
Another thing that's been bandied about and discussed from every direction for years is whether to use a post office box number or your street address. Personally, I don't like Post Office Boxes in a business address - because it transmits an aura of instability or temporary location. If your business is run from home, get a mail box from a post box vendor that has a street address. Then your address looks like, 1234 Willow Lane, #567, Your Town, and the box number could appear to the reader as a Suite number. However, if you live in a remote area where your address is 7890 Main St., RFD 42, Box 123, Your Town, then you have no choice but to include both your post office box number, AND, your street address on your sales letter. When doing it strictly for your website, put your street address, telephone number, and email address at the bottom of the page. More than likely, the customer will contact you by email, but it conveys dependability if that Internet buyer sees that you're willing to give your address. This kind of open display of your honesty will give you credibility and dispel the thought of you being just another "fly-by-night" mail order company in the mind of your prospect.
Above all else, you've got to include some sort of ordering page or coupon if you're mailing. The coupon has to be as simple and as easy for the prospect to fill out and return to you as you can possible make it. The order page on your website should already be filled out, with perhaps just the shipping left to choice. If your product is an eBook or software to be instantly downloaded, then you don't have any options to be chosen. A great many sales are lost because this order coupon is just too complicated for the would-be buyer to follow. Don't get fancy! Keep it simple, and you'll find your prospects responding with glee.
Should you or shouldn't you include in your mailing a self-addressed reply envelope? There are a lot of variables, as well as, pros and cons to this question. Overall, when you send out a "winning" sales letter to a good mailing list, a return reply envelope will increase your response tremendously.
Tests of late seem to indicate that it isn't that big a deal or difference in responses relative to whether you do or don't pre-stamp the return reply envelope. Again, the decision here will rest primarily on the product you're selling and the mailing list you're using. Our recommendation is that you experiment - try it both ways - with subsequent mailings and decide for yourself from there.
All winning sales letters "talk" to the prospect by creating an image in the mind of the reader. They set "the scene" by appealing to a desire or need; and then they flow smoothly into the "visionary" part of the sales pitch by describing in detail how "wonderful" life will be and, how "good" the prospect is going to feel after he's purchased your product. This is the "body or guts" of a sales letter.
Overall, a winning sales letter follows a time-tested and proven formula: 1) Get his attention 2) Get him interested in what you can do for him 3) Make him desire the benefits of your product so badly his mouth begins to water 4) Demand action from him - tell him to click the right button or send for whatever it is you're selling without delay - any procrastination on his part might cause him to lose out. This is called the "AIDA" formula (Attention, Interest, Desire and
Action) - it works.
On your website, your sales page should be the length of what it would be
if were doing a mailing, or longer if you're using bullets to emphasize benefits to build the desire. Of course on the Internet you don't have to worry about letterhead stationery or the cost of postage, which is a considerable savings. If, however, you want to also do a mailing campaign then the following would apply. The sales letters in mailings that pull in the most sales are almost always two pages with 1 1/2 spaces between lines. For really big ticket items, they'll run at least four pages. - on an 11 by 17 sheet of paper folded in half. If your sales letter is only two pages in length, there's nothing wrong with running it on the front and back of one sheet of 8 1/2 by 11 paper. However, your sales letter should always be on letterhead paper - your letterhead printed, and including your logo and business motto if you have one.
Regardless of the length of your sales letter, it should do one thing, and that's sell, and sell hard! If you intend to close the sale, you've got to do it with your sales letter. You should never be "wishy-washy" with your sales letter. You do the actual selling and the closing of that sale with your sales letter - any brochure or circular you send along with in your mailing will just reinforce what you say in the sales letter.
There's been a great deal of discussion in the past few years regarding just how long a sales letter should be. A lot of people are asking: Will people really take the time to read a long sales letter? The answer is a simple and time-tested yes indeed! Surveys and tests over the years emphatically prove that "longer sales letters" pull even better than the shorter ones, so don't worry about the length of your sales letter - just make sure that it sells your product for you!
The "inside secret" is to make your sales letter so interesting, and "visionary" with the benefits you're offering to the reader, that he can't resist reading it all the way through. You break up the "work" of reading by using short, punchy sentences, underlining important points you're trying to make, with the use of subheadlines, indentations and even the use of a second color, and leaving lots of white space around it. On your website, the sales letter should run down the middle of the page so the viewer doesn't have to keep adjusting the screen to see the whole sentence. This is very distracting and more apt to send that client to another website than losing patience reading a long letter.
Relative to the brochures and circulars you may want to include in your mailing with your sales letter - providing the materials you're enclosing are of the best quality, they will generally reinforce the sale for you. But, if they are of poor quality, look cheap and don't compliment your sales letter, then you shouldn't be using them. Another thing, it will definitely classify you as an independent home worker if you hand-stamp your name/address on these brochures or advertising circulars instead of having them printed.
Whenever possible, and so long as you have really good brochures to send out, have your printer run them through his press and print your name/address - even your telephone number and company logo - on them before you send them out. The thing is, you want your prospect to think of you as his supplier - the company - and not as just another independent entrepreneur. Sure, you can get by with less expense but you'll end up with fewer orders and in the end, less profits.
Another thing that's been bandied about and discussed from every direction for years is whether to use a post office box number or your street address. Personally, I don't like Post Office Boxes in a business address - because it transmits an aura of instability or temporary location. If your business is run from home, get a mail box from a post box vendor that has a street address. Then your address looks like, 1234 Willow Lane, #567, Your Town, and the box number could appear to the reader as a Suite number. However, if you live in a remote area where your address is 7890 Main St., RFD 42, Box 123, Your Town, then you have no choice but to include both your post office box number, AND, your street address on your sales letter. When doing it strictly for your website, put your street address, telephone number, and email address at the bottom of the page. More than likely, the customer will contact you by email, but it conveys dependability if that Internet buyer sees that you're willing to give your address. This kind of open display of your honesty will give you credibility and dispel the thought of you being just another "fly-by-night" mail order company in the mind of your prospect.
Above all else, you've got to include some sort of ordering page or coupon if you're mailing. The coupon has to be as simple and as easy for the prospect to fill out and return to you as you can possible make it. The order page on your website should already be filled out, with perhaps just the shipping left to choice. If your product is an eBook or software to be instantly downloaded, then you don't have any options to be chosen. A great many sales are lost because this order coupon is just too complicated for the would-be buyer to follow. Don't get fancy! Keep it simple, and you'll find your prospects responding with glee.
Should you or shouldn't you include in your mailing a self-addressed reply envelope? There are a lot of variables, as well as, pros and cons to this question. Overall, when you send out a "winning" sales letter to a good mailing list, a return reply envelope will increase your response tremendously.
Tests of late seem to indicate that it isn't that big a deal or difference in responses relative to whether you do or don't pre-stamp the return reply envelope. Again, the decision here will rest primarily on the product you're selling and the mailing list you're using. Our recommendation is that you experiment - try it both ways - with subsequent mailings and decide for yourself from there.
The All Important Opening
A lot of times we get wrapped up in our products. And why not? We’ve worked for months putting our business together and our products are what people want to buy. When it comes to putting together a sales letter we want to explain every little detail so our prospect can see exactly what they’re getting when they make their purchase.
Isn’t this the way it should be?
NO! The customer doesn’t care about the late nights you spent meticulously researching your product. The customer wants to know just ONE thing: What’s In It For Me? (WIIFM) If you can’t answer that one simple question, you’ll never be able to consistently sell your product or service.
In a sales letter or ad, you have less than two seconds to gain your prospect’s attention. The first major mistake most people make is to start out with a weak headline.
If your headline doesn’t grab attention, then whatever you say in the body copy is meaningless.
The next biggest mistake is starting any piece of copy with a “me” message. A “me” message is all about you and your company. To your prospect “me” messages are boring! To get your prospects attention you must talk about THEM, not you. You must talk to their pleasure, their wealth, their challenges, their fears, their problems, and their joys. Every prospect is tuned into the same radio station – WIIFM (as in “What’s In It For Me”).
One way of avoiding this after you have written your ad or sales copy is to reread it and circle all the “me” words. Words such as “I, me, we, and our” are “me” words. Rewrite the copy using “you” and “your” words, making it more interesting and exciting to your prospect.
Imagine how much fun it would be to see your profits go through the roof. To do this, you must clearly make your business stand out and apart from all your competition. You must convey your uniqueness without spending a fortune, and the secret is all in the sales copy.
You must create a Unique Selling Proposition (U.S.P.) What do you offer your prospects that your competitor doesn’t or can’t? Maybe it’s a better guarantee, better service, availability (reachable after 9 to 5), better location, or better customer treatment. Whatever you can do to set your business/services apart from your competition gives you the “edge”.
Something many business owners don’t realize or are mistaken about is the “length” of guarantee they offer. Giving your prospect a “2-Year, No Questions Asked Guarantee” is much better than a “90-day,
Money Back Guarantee.”
The longer the guarantee, the more credible you and your business are “perceived” by your prospect. Typically the majority of your customers will never make use of the “2-Year Guarantee.” Let’s face it, by that time they like using your product, and/or they’ve long ago lost the sales slip. BUT, when a prospect reads about the longer guarantee you’re offering, it raises their comfort level and makes them choose you over your competition.
Always remember that when you’re a small fish in a big pond – you must be different to stand out. Making use of good advertising copy filled with words that make prospects eager to satisfy their WIIFM is the answer.
Isn’t this the way it should be?
NO! The customer doesn’t care about the late nights you spent meticulously researching your product. The customer wants to know just ONE thing: What’s In It For Me? (WIIFM) If you can’t answer that one simple question, you’ll never be able to consistently sell your product or service.
In a sales letter or ad, you have less than two seconds to gain your prospect’s attention. The first major mistake most people make is to start out with a weak headline.
If your headline doesn’t grab attention, then whatever you say in the body copy is meaningless.
The next biggest mistake is starting any piece of copy with a “me” message. A “me” message is all about you and your company. To your prospect “me” messages are boring! To get your prospects attention you must talk about THEM, not you. You must talk to their pleasure, their wealth, their challenges, their fears, their problems, and their joys. Every prospect is tuned into the same radio station – WIIFM (as in “What’s In It For Me”).
One way of avoiding this after you have written your ad or sales copy is to reread it and circle all the “me” words. Words such as “I, me, we, and our” are “me” words. Rewrite the copy using “you” and “your” words, making it more interesting and exciting to your prospect.
Imagine how much fun it would be to see your profits go through the roof. To do this, you must clearly make your business stand out and apart from all your competition. You must convey your uniqueness without spending a fortune, and the secret is all in the sales copy.
You must create a Unique Selling Proposition (U.S.P.) What do you offer your prospects that your competitor doesn’t or can’t? Maybe it’s a better guarantee, better service, availability (reachable after 9 to 5), better location, or better customer treatment. Whatever you can do to set your business/services apart from your competition gives you the “edge”.
Something many business owners don’t realize or are mistaken about is the “length” of guarantee they offer. Giving your prospect a “2-Year, No Questions Asked Guarantee” is much better than a “90-day,
Money Back Guarantee.”
The longer the guarantee, the more credible you and your business are “perceived” by your prospect. Typically the majority of your customers will never make use of the “2-Year Guarantee.” Let’s face it, by that time they like using your product, and/or they’ve long ago lost the sales slip. BUT, when a prospect reads about the longer guarantee you’re offering, it raises their comfort level and makes them choose you over your competition.
Always remember that when you’re a small fish in a big pond – you must be different to stand out. Making use of good advertising copy filled with words that make prospects eager to satisfy their WIIFM is the answer.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
THE “WRIGHT WAY” TO SOLVE PROBLEMS
When Wilbur and Orville Wright finished the first successful manned flight on Dec. 17, 1903, they amazed and astonished the world. They also demonstrated the power of their problem solving method.
They not only solved a problem that others had found too complex and technical, but they did it without any help from outsiders. These brothers had little formal training or education, but they had amazing brainpower. Few accomplishments can match what these two former bicycle mechanics did with that flying machine.
The key principles of problem-solving used by the Wright brothers are still relevant for business owners today. There are only eight of them, and here they are:
CONSTRUCTIVE CONFLICT: This conflict can be used to discover and validate new ideas/strategies to find a practical answer.
TACKLE WORST THINGS FIRST: When big problems are put first, the cost for the whole is limited to this set should a solution prove unachievable.
JUST PLAIN TINKERING: New approaches can be created by tinkering with parts of a problem when you’re trying to understand it.
RIGID FLEXIBILITY: Flexing the mind allows for thinking of possibilities outside the realm of policy, tradition, or experience.
FOREVER LEARNING: Learning as a lifelong passion is essential for finding the information to solve problems.
METHODICAL METICULOUSNESS: The fastest, most efficient way to solve a problem is by being meticulous and methodical in your approach.
EQUITABLE TEAMWORK: The force of a group with a common purpose is multi-plied by interdependence and powered by trust, effort, profits, power, and honor.
A side benefit to these steps is that there is an added financial bonus. By using these principles, the Wright brothers minimized their costs to less than $1,000 and solved the problem of flight with mind-boggling speed. What business owner wouldn’t want to solve a problem in his business and cut cost at the same time?
They not only solved a problem that others had found too complex and technical, but they did it without any help from outsiders. These brothers had little formal training or education, but they had amazing brainpower. Few accomplishments can match what these two former bicycle mechanics did with that flying machine.
The key principles of problem-solving used by the Wright brothers are still relevant for business owners today. There are only eight of them, and here they are:
CONSTRUCTIVE CONFLICT: This conflict can be used to discover and validate new ideas/strategies to find a practical answer.
TACKLE WORST THINGS FIRST: When big problems are put first, the cost for the whole is limited to this set should a solution prove unachievable.
JUST PLAIN TINKERING: New approaches can be created by tinkering with parts of a problem when you’re trying to understand it.
RIGID FLEXIBILITY: Flexing the mind allows for thinking of possibilities outside the realm of policy, tradition, or experience.
FOREVER LEARNING: Learning as a lifelong passion is essential for finding the information to solve problems.
METHODICAL METICULOUSNESS: The fastest, most efficient way to solve a problem is by being meticulous and methodical in your approach.
EQUITABLE TEAMWORK: The force of a group with a common purpose is multi-plied by interdependence and powered by trust, effort, profits, power, and honor.
A side benefit to these steps is that there is an added financial bonus. By using these principles, the Wright brothers minimized their costs to less than $1,000 and solved the problem of flight with mind-boggling speed. What business owner wouldn’t want to solve a problem in his business and cut cost at the same time?
TRICKS OF THE TRADE
OBTAINING FREE ADVERTISING!
1.. Advertising Specials: If a magazine offers a "two for one"
deal, or a "pay for 3 and get a fourth ad free", take advantage
of it; it's Free Advertising!
2. Free Listings: Some publications offer to list your name and
address Free, if you have something that you offer "free for the
asking" to their readers. This can be a "free sample", a free
list of customers; or whatever. Tell publishers what you have
to offer!
3. Print a Booklet Offering Tips: List tips or what-have-you, and
on the inside pages, or in the back, place some of your own Free
ads!!
4. The Piggy-Back Method: Every time you get ready to mail a
letter or fill an order, place other ads in the envelope; it
costs you no more and it's like getting a free ad!!
5. Free "Give-Aways": These can be pens, rulers; key chains, etc.,
each with YOUR ad message and address on each one. Give them
away and your Free Ad rides along!
6. Your Own Advertiser/Newsletter: Issue it regularly; sell ad
space in it and subscriptions to it. They pay for the printing
and postage, and YOUR ads in it, too, at no cost to you!
7. Trade Products/Services for Ad Space: If you have something
which a publisher needs, trade what they want, for ad space!
8. Provide Commission Ads to Dealers: Your dealers place YOUR ads
over THEIR name! Free Ads for your products!
9. Columns; Releases, etc.: Publishers will often print these
free, if it's NEWS, or interesting to their readers! Send
notices out to editors and get free ads in exchange!
10. Share Costs With Others: Get together with other dealers and
mailers. Split costs and quantities with others. Your ads go
FREE to HIS customers, and HIS go free to yours!
11. Offer Your Commission Ads to Publishers: They insert them as
"mailer/distributor" commission ads! They cost you nothing and
can get you lots of orders!
12. Your Product as a BONUS Item on Another's Flyer: This can
increase the other person's orders, and YOUR product gets
advertised on HIS fliers, etc!
13. Place PIM-50 Phrases in your Ads: This says to Publisher:
"Insert my ad in your publication and I'll help distribute 50"
(or more) copies for you. It's another kind of "trade deal"
with publishers.
14. Give a Talk or Seminar: Contact local clubs, and organizations.
They always seek outside speakers. After you talk about your
business or your product, hand out flyers, etc. It's like
getting free advertising!
15. Ads on Bulletin Boards: Put up flyers on grocery, laundry
bulletin boards.
16. Make a Rubber Stamp of your Ad: Stamp it everywhere you can.
Stamp it on envelopes; flyers; etc.
17. Be Listed as a Source in Back of Books: Often writers will want
to list references and sources in their books. Get the work out
to authors! Look for ads offering Free Ads!!
18. Discount to "a Friend": Tell your customers you will give
discounts to anyone they send your way! It's Word of Mouth
advertising; the best you can get and it's free!
Free advertising is any message that goes out to prospective
buyers without cost to you! There are lots of ways to get
others to spread the word about what you offer! Try these
methods; and you'll get lot of free ads; which mean more
responses and more orders!
1.. Advertising Specials: If a magazine offers a "two for one"
deal, or a "pay for 3 and get a fourth ad free", take advantage
of it; it's Free Advertising!
2. Free Listings: Some publications offer to list your name and
address Free, if you have something that you offer "free for the
asking" to their readers. This can be a "free sample", a free
list of customers; or whatever. Tell publishers what you have
to offer!
3. Print a Booklet Offering Tips: List tips or what-have-you, and
on the inside pages, or in the back, place some of your own Free
ads!!
4. The Piggy-Back Method: Every time you get ready to mail a
letter or fill an order, place other ads in the envelope; it
costs you no more and it's like getting a free ad!!
5. Free "Give-Aways": These can be pens, rulers; key chains, etc.,
each with YOUR ad message and address on each one. Give them
away and your Free Ad rides along!
6. Your Own Advertiser/Newsletter: Issue it regularly; sell ad
space in it and subscriptions to it. They pay for the printing
and postage, and YOUR ads in it, too, at no cost to you!
7. Trade Products/Services for Ad Space: If you have something
which a publisher needs, trade what they want, for ad space!
8. Provide Commission Ads to Dealers: Your dealers place YOUR ads
over THEIR name! Free Ads for your products!
9. Columns; Releases, etc.: Publishers will often print these
free, if it's NEWS, or interesting to their readers! Send
notices out to editors and get free ads in exchange!
10. Share Costs With Others: Get together with other dealers and
mailers. Split costs and quantities with others. Your ads go
FREE to HIS customers, and HIS go free to yours!
11. Offer Your Commission Ads to Publishers: They insert them as
"mailer/distributor" commission ads! They cost you nothing and
can get you lots of orders!
12. Your Product as a BONUS Item on Another's Flyer: This can
increase the other person's orders, and YOUR product gets
advertised on HIS fliers, etc!
13. Place PIM-50 Phrases in your Ads: This says to Publisher:
"Insert my ad in your publication and I'll help distribute 50"
(or more) copies for you. It's another kind of "trade deal"
with publishers.
14. Give a Talk or Seminar: Contact local clubs, and organizations.
They always seek outside speakers. After you talk about your
business or your product, hand out flyers, etc. It's like
getting free advertising!
15. Ads on Bulletin Boards: Put up flyers on grocery, laundry
bulletin boards.
16. Make a Rubber Stamp of your Ad: Stamp it everywhere you can.
Stamp it on envelopes; flyers; etc.
17. Be Listed as a Source in Back of Books: Often writers will want
to list references and sources in their books. Get the work out
to authors! Look for ads offering Free Ads!!
18. Discount to "a Friend": Tell your customers you will give
discounts to anyone they send your way! It's Word of Mouth
advertising; the best you can get and it's free!
Free advertising is any message that goes out to prospective
buyers without cost to you! There are lots of ways to get
others to spread the word about what you offer! Try these
methods; and you'll get lot of free ads; which mean more
responses and more orders!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
USE THE WORD "FREE" IN YOUR ADS
1. The word "FREE" is still the most powerful - the most often
used word in advertising today! If you have anything to offer
FREE to others, you can use this powerful word! It pulls orders
better than any other word! Here's some ways to use it:
2. ONE thing FREE when you buy Another! This can be the way to get
people to order from you! A second one is FREE, with the
purchase of the first!
3. Buy 2 - get the third FREE! This can be used to get MORE and
LARGER orders! Giving away ONE, with the purchase of two others!
4. Fourth FREE, with purchase of Three! Tire stores and Publishers
offer a 4th FREE, when you buy Three others at regular price!
5. FREE "Trial Size"! Give away one that's smaller than usual,
hoping that people will LIKE what you give them, and want to buy
more!
6. FREE Bed frame, with purchase of A King Set! Lots of mattress
stores use this type of ad! Offering some sort of "premium"
FREE with purchase!
7. FREE Introductory Class! This usually is offered with purchase
of a Computer; Microwave oven; etc. (Free Memberships in clubs,
etc!)
8. Use it FREE for 30 days! Allow people to use something; to use
your product or service, FREE, for a limited time! (Enticing
them to order!)
9. FREE Service with each purchase! This is used often by Pizza
companies, and cleaning services. Free delivery; Free Folding;
etc.
10. FREE Interest for 3 months! Many loan companies and others
offer this to entice customers to buy from them! It's delaying
something for a time!
11. Fast service, or it's FREE! It's Hot, or it's Free! (7-11
offers Hot coffee). Denny's says "10 Minutes, or it's FREE!"
Customers come to see!
12. 2nd Topping is FREE, with purchase of a Large Pizza! That about
says it all! (Free Extras; Free Colors; Free Inks; No extra
charge at Printers!!)
13. FREE Details! This is used by a LOT of advertisers, who sell
products by mail! Let 'em know you'll send information FREE,
just to write and ask!
14. Buy 2 ads, get a 3rd (or 4th) FREE! This is another way to get
Long Term advertisers! They get FREE ads, with every 3rd or 4th
they buy.
15. FREE Commission Circulars! Many Prime Sources are willing to
offer you FREE circulars (some for postage) to obtain dealers!
Free Dealer Info!!
16. FREE Typesetting, with purchase of an ad! Publishers offer this
FREE service to obtain new advertisers! (Why pay extra for it,
if it's FREE?)
17. FREE Catalog! Many companies send out Catalogs FREE to anyone
who writes and asks for one! More sales result! (Free Downline
Recruiting!)
18. FREE Sample Copy! Some companies will be willing to send you
ONE FREE to entice you to buy more later! (Free Cassette; Free
Introductory Video, etc!)
used word in advertising today! If you have anything to offer
FREE to others, you can use this powerful word! It pulls orders
better than any other word! Here's some ways to use it:
2. ONE thing FREE when you buy Another! This can be the way to get
people to order from you! A second one is FREE, with the
purchase of the first!
3. Buy 2 - get the third FREE! This can be used to get MORE and
LARGER orders! Giving away ONE, with the purchase of two others!
4. Fourth FREE, with purchase of Three! Tire stores and Publishers
offer a 4th FREE, when you buy Three others at regular price!
5. FREE "Trial Size"! Give away one that's smaller than usual,
hoping that people will LIKE what you give them, and want to buy
more!
6. FREE Bed frame, with purchase of A King Set! Lots of mattress
stores use this type of ad! Offering some sort of "premium"
FREE with purchase!
7. FREE Introductory Class! This usually is offered with purchase
of a Computer; Microwave oven; etc. (Free Memberships in clubs,
etc!)
8. Use it FREE for 30 days! Allow people to use something; to use
your product or service, FREE, for a limited time! (Enticing
them to order!)
9. FREE Service with each purchase! This is used often by Pizza
companies, and cleaning services. Free delivery; Free Folding;
etc.
10. FREE Interest for 3 months! Many loan companies and others
offer this to entice customers to buy from them! It's delaying
something for a time!
11. Fast service, or it's FREE! It's Hot, or it's Free! (7-11
offers Hot coffee). Denny's says "10 Minutes, or it's FREE!"
Customers come to see!
12. 2nd Topping is FREE, with purchase of a Large Pizza! That about
says it all! (Free Extras; Free Colors; Free Inks; No extra
charge at Printers!!)
13. FREE Details! This is used by a LOT of advertisers, who sell
products by mail! Let 'em know you'll send information FREE,
just to write and ask!
14. Buy 2 ads, get a 3rd (or 4th) FREE! This is another way to get
Long Term advertisers! They get FREE ads, with every 3rd or 4th
they buy.
15. FREE Commission Circulars! Many Prime Sources are willing to
offer you FREE circulars (some for postage) to obtain dealers!
Free Dealer Info!!
16. FREE Typesetting, with purchase of an ad! Publishers offer this
FREE service to obtain new advertisers! (Why pay extra for it,
if it's FREE?)
17. FREE Catalog! Many companies send out Catalogs FREE to anyone
who writes and asks for one! More sales result! (Free Downline
Recruiting!)
18. FREE Sample Copy! Some companies will be willing to send you
ONE FREE to entice you to buy more later! (Free Cassette; Free
Introductory Video, etc!)
Viral Marketing
Viral marketing is a cool term for word of mouth on the Internet. It is where people hear about your website service or products through other people. Sending an email with an advertisement on the bottom is a good way to spread the word. Having a newsletter also increases your visibility online. There are also forums that discuss products and services and rate them. Viral marketing’s referral technique works like the snowball effect, which increases exponentially the visibility of your business. Getting personal recommendations to try a product or service is a great way to build credibility and trust in the company. Repeating these referrals to other people makes the customer actively engage themselves and not passively hear about the products advantages.
Viral marketing is a great way to keep advertising costs way down. Passing along an article from an ezine keeps the message intact, is free and easy to pass along, and doesn’t cost anything, but offers a clear benefit to both parties involved.
Here are some ways to make your viral marketing message work. You can give away a free article with a pass it on link on the bottom, or a free demo version of your product, or offer a free trial of your service on your web site and include a share it with your friend button at the bottom of the page. You could also hold a contest and capture people’s contact information and each time their friends come to the site, they are entered into the contest again. Starting your own affiliate program, where affiliates generate traffic to your website with banner ads, text links, letters of referrels, etc. You pay for results only.
Viral marketing is the way to achieve high traffic cheaply and effectively on the web. Provide your customers with a compelling reason to pass on the message and you are well on your way to big time traffic.
Viral marketing is a great way to keep advertising costs way down. Passing along an article from an ezine keeps the message intact, is free and easy to pass along, and doesn’t cost anything, but offers a clear benefit to both parties involved.
Here are some ways to make your viral marketing message work. You can give away a free article with a pass it on link on the bottom, or a free demo version of your product, or offer a free trial of your service on your web site and include a share it with your friend button at the bottom of the page. You could also hold a contest and capture people’s contact information and each time their friends come to the site, they are entered into the contest again. Starting your own affiliate program, where affiliates generate traffic to your website with banner ads, text links, letters of referrels, etc. You pay for results only.
Viral marketing is the way to achieve high traffic cheaply and effectively on the web. Provide your customers with a compelling reason to pass on the message and you are well on your way to big time traffic.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant is a self-employed business owner who provides administrative support to their clients. The clients may want a one time job, or a long term position. A virtual assistant may do secretarial duties, such as writing up letters and memo’s or contacting other business people for the client. Other duties a virtual assistant may cover are customer service, messaging services, email blasts or autoresponders, email support, fax paperwork, and many other duties. A virtual assistants duties really does vary drastically.
There are a few key attributes to a great virtual assistant. Good grammatical skills are necessary; no spelling errors are going to be acceptable. A virtual assistant must be extremely organized because no one will hire an assistant who doesn’t have their files arranged and handy. A virtual assistant with a wide range of skills is sought after. Being technically savvy is essential especially when you are a virtual assistant because it is what people expect and need in such an internet related business world. Also, in this technological world, you must be able to take directions, understand them without too many questions or issues, and get the work done, perfectly. A virtual assistant must be on their toes, on the lookout for unforeseen issues that may have been overlooked. Virtual assistants have great communication skills, negotiating rates, deadlines, and project plans. But, unfortunately, these assistants must make sure that they make time for work. It is really easy to get caught up in housework or the kids and not set aside work time at home. When deadlines are missed, it looks bad on your reputation as a virtual assistant.
A virtual assistant can make their own hours, as stated before, but they can also make their own rates, which is excellent. They do not have to settle for getting paid too little for a big job. They do not have to worry about long commutes, and therefore expensive gas, leaving their children at daycare, and stressful co-workers and bosses.
There are a few key attributes to a great virtual assistant. Good grammatical skills are necessary; no spelling errors are going to be acceptable. A virtual assistant must be extremely organized because no one will hire an assistant who doesn’t have their files arranged and handy. A virtual assistant with a wide range of skills is sought after. Being technically savvy is essential especially when you are a virtual assistant because it is what people expect and need in such an internet related business world. Also, in this technological world, you must be able to take directions, understand them without too many questions or issues, and get the work done, perfectly. A virtual assistant must be on their toes, on the lookout for unforeseen issues that may have been overlooked. Virtual assistants have great communication skills, negotiating rates, deadlines, and project plans. But, unfortunately, these assistants must make sure that they make time for work. It is really easy to get caught up in housework or the kids and not set aside work time at home. When deadlines are missed, it looks bad on your reputation as a virtual assistant.
A virtual assistant can make their own hours, as stated before, but they can also make their own rates, which is excellent. They do not have to settle for getting paid too little for a big job. They do not have to worry about long commutes, and therefore expensive gas, leaving their children at daycare, and stressful co-workers and bosses.
EXCELLENT WORDS & PHRASES FOR AD WRITING
Add sales punch to describe your merchandise or sales offer - use
one of the following words. It may be helpful, used alone, or
with other words. They have been selected from successful ads
for your convenience in preparing copy.
Absolutely. Amazing. Approved. Attractive. Authentic..
Bargain. Beautiful. Better. Big. Colorful. Colossal.
Complete. Confidential. Crammed. Delivered. Direct.
Discount. Easily. Endorsed. Enormous. Excellent. Exciting.
Exclusive. Expert. Famous. Fascinating. Fortune. Full.
Genuine. Gift. Gigantic. Greatest. Guaranteed. Helpful.
Highest. Huge. Immediately. Improved..Informative.
Instructive. Interesting. Largest. Latest.. Lavishly..
Liberal.. Lifetime.. Limited.. Lowest.. Magic.. Mammoth..
Miracle.. Noted.. Odd.. Outstanding.. Personalized.. Popular..
Powerful.. Practical.. Professional.. Profitable.. Profusely..
Proven.. Quality.. Quickly.. Rare.. Reduced.. Refundable..
Remarkable.. Reliable.. Revealing.. Revolutionary.. Scarce..
Secrets.. Security.. Selected.. Sensational.. Simplified..
Sizable.. Special.. Startling.. Strange.. Strong.. Sturdy..
Successful.. Superior.. Surprise.. Terrific.. Tested..
Tremendous.. Unconditional.. Unique.. Unlimited.. Unparalleled..
Unsurpassed.. Unusual.. Useful.. Valuable.. Wealth.. Weird..
Wonderful.
70 PHRASES STIMULATING ACTION
Close your ad with an action-getting phrase. Give the reader
something to write or do. Here are 70 suggestions for ways to
get action. Study them. They will help you prepare your copy
for better results.
Act now!.. Send your name.. All sent free to introduce.. Amazing
literature.. Free.. Ask for free folder.. Bargain lists sent
free.. Be first to qualify.. Booklet free!.. Catalog included
free.. Complete details free.. Current list free.. Dealers write
for prices.. Description sent free.. Details free!.. Dime brings
details.. Everything supplied!.. Exciting details free.. Extra
for promptness.. First lesson, 25 cents.. Folder free!..
For literature, write:.. Free booklet explains.. Free plans tell
how.. Free selling kit.. Free wholesale plan.. Free with
approvals.. Full particulars free.. Get facts that help..
Get started today!.. Get your copy now!.. Get yours wholesale..
Gifts with purchases.. Illustrated lists free.. Interesting details
free.. Investigate today.. It's Free!.. Act Now!.. Literature
free.. Mail material to:.. Money making facts free.. No
obligation! Write!.. Offer limited!.. Send today.. Only 10 cents
to introduce.. Order direct from:.. Order Now!.. Don't Delay!..
Particulars free.. Postcard brings details.. Request free
literature.. Revealing booklet free.. Rush name for details..
Sales kit furnished.. Sample details free.. Samples sent on trial..
See before you buy.. Send for free details.. Send for it today..
Send no money.. Send post card today.. Send 15 cents for mailing..
Send today.. Send your want lists.. Stamp brings details..
Stamped envelope brings.. Test lesson free.. Unique sample offer..
Valuable details free.. Write for free booklet free.. Write us
first!.. Yours for the asking.. 15 cent stamp for details..
$1 brings complete.. 32-page catalog free
BONUS !!!
THE 100 MOST THREATENING SPELLING WORDS
in the Order of Their "Threat" to You
occasion.. recommend.. occurred.. principal.. equipped..
accommodate.. disappoint.. possession.. privilege.. proceed..
inconvenience.. accept.. business.. necessary.. personal..
receive.. reference.. separate.. their.. whether.. questionnaire..
criticism.. description.. effect.. extension.. judgment..
quantity.. similar.. undoubtedly.. height.. immediately..
stationery.. foreign.. fourth.. government.. omitted.. weather..
personnel.. existence.. analysis.. across.. appearance.. loose..
pamphlet.. practical.. preferred.. unnecessary.. affect..
attendance.. incidentally.. apparent.. calendar.. professor..
strictly.. principle.. already.. coming.. its.. oblige..
opportunity.. original.. paid.. probably.. referring.. referred..
there.. too.. writing.. among.. arrangement.. practically..
convenient.. canceled.. really.. using.. beginning.. especially..
volume.. committee.. confident.. difference.. endeavor..
explanation.. except.. sincerely.. experience.. benefited..
conscientious.. eligible.. acquaintance.. controversy.. exceed..
laboratory.. omission.. procedure.. acknowledgment.. Wednesday..
guarantee.. February.. schedule.
The Key is to combine your words: EXAMPLE: "THE MAGIC MAMMOUTH
MIRACLE"; "The Three "M" Program". This has already caught the
attention and interest of your prospect! Now, for example,
say: The Money Making Facts are FREE! Merely Enclose your SASE
or $$ or Whatever! Fill in with a few details and you have a
tremendous $$ Pulling Ad. Use your own Ideas, but build them
around these words and phrases! but remember, your follow-up
material, must be just as interesting to get the orders.
NOW: A little test... did you catch the mispelling of Mammoth
(Mammouth)... well it's correct either way - the "ou" is used by
the British!
one of the following words. It may be helpful, used alone, or
with other words. They have been selected from successful ads
for your convenience in preparing copy.
Absolutely. Amazing. Approved. Attractive. Authentic..
Bargain. Beautiful. Better. Big. Colorful. Colossal.
Complete. Confidential. Crammed. Delivered. Direct.
Discount. Easily. Endorsed. Enormous. Excellent. Exciting.
Exclusive. Expert. Famous. Fascinating. Fortune. Full.
Genuine. Gift. Gigantic. Greatest. Guaranteed. Helpful.
Highest. Huge. Immediately. Improved..Informative.
Instructive. Interesting. Largest. Latest.. Lavishly..
Liberal.. Lifetime.. Limited.. Lowest.. Magic.. Mammoth..
Miracle.. Noted.. Odd.. Outstanding.. Personalized.. Popular..
Powerful.. Practical.. Professional.. Profitable.. Profusely..
Proven.. Quality.. Quickly.. Rare.. Reduced.. Refundable..
Remarkable.. Reliable.. Revealing.. Revolutionary.. Scarce..
Secrets.. Security.. Selected.. Sensational.. Simplified..
Sizable.. Special.. Startling.. Strange.. Strong.. Sturdy..
Successful.. Superior.. Surprise.. Terrific.. Tested..
Tremendous.. Unconditional.. Unique.. Unlimited.. Unparalleled..
Unsurpassed.. Unusual.. Useful.. Valuable.. Wealth.. Weird..
Wonderful.
70 PHRASES STIMULATING ACTION
Close your ad with an action-getting phrase. Give the reader
something to write or do. Here are 70 suggestions for ways to
get action. Study them. They will help you prepare your copy
for better results.
Act now!.. Send your name.. All sent free to introduce.. Amazing
literature.. Free.. Ask for free folder.. Bargain lists sent
free.. Be first to qualify.. Booklet free!.. Catalog included
free.. Complete details free.. Current list free.. Dealers write
for prices.. Description sent free.. Details free!.. Dime brings
details.. Everything supplied!.. Exciting details free.. Extra
for promptness.. First lesson, 25 cents.. Folder free!..
For literature, write:.. Free booklet explains.. Free plans tell
how.. Free selling kit.. Free wholesale plan.. Free with
approvals.. Full particulars free.. Get facts that help..
Get started today!.. Get your copy now!.. Get yours wholesale..
Gifts with purchases.. Illustrated lists free.. Interesting details
free.. Investigate today.. It's Free!.. Act Now!.. Literature
free.. Mail material to:.. Money making facts free.. No
obligation! Write!.. Offer limited!.. Send today.. Only 10 cents
to introduce.. Order direct from:.. Order Now!.. Don't Delay!..
Particulars free.. Postcard brings details.. Request free
literature.. Revealing booklet free.. Rush name for details..
Sales kit furnished.. Sample details free.. Samples sent on trial..
See before you buy.. Send for free details.. Send for it today..
Send no money.. Send post card today.. Send 15 cents for mailing..
Send today.. Send your want lists.. Stamp brings details..
Stamped envelope brings.. Test lesson free.. Unique sample offer..
Valuable details free.. Write for free booklet free.. Write us
first!.. Yours for the asking.. 15 cent stamp for details..
$1 brings complete.. 32-page catalog free
BONUS !!!
THE 100 MOST THREATENING SPELLING WORDS
in the Order of Their "Threat" to You
occasion.. recommend.. occurred.. principal.. equipped..
accommodate.. disappoint.. possession.. privilege.. proceed..
inconvenience.. accept.. business.. necessary.. personal..
receive.. reference.. separate.. their.. whether.. questionnaire..
criticism.. description.. effect.. extension.. judgment..
quantity.. similar.. undoubtedly.. height.. immediately..
stationery.. foreign.. fourth.. government.. omitted.. weather..
personnel.. existence.. analysis.. across.. appearance.. loose..
pamphlet.. practical.. preferred.. unnecessary.. affect..
attendance.. incidentally.. apparent.. calendar.. professor..
strictly.. principle.. already.. coming.. its.. oblige..
opportunity.. original.. paid.. probably.. referring.. referred..
there.. too.. writing.. among.. arrangement.. practically..
convenient.. canceled.. really.. using.. beginning.. especially..
volume.. committee.. confident.. difference.. endeavor..
explanation.. except.. sincerely.. experience.. benefited..
conscientious.. eligible.. acquaintance.. controversy.. exceed..
laboratory.. omission.. procedure.. acknowledgment.. Wednesday..
guarantee.. February.. schedule.
The Key is to combine your words: EXAMPLE: "THE MAGIC MAMMOUTH
MIRACLE"; "The Three "M" Program". This has already caught the
attention and interest of your prospect! Now, for example,
say: The Money Making Facts are FREE! Merely Enclose your SASE
or $$ or Whatever! Fill in with a few details and you have a
tremendous $$ Pulling Ad. Use your own Ideas, but build them
around these words and phrases! but remember, your follow-up
material, must be just as interesting to get the orders.
NOW: A little test... did you catch the mispelling of Mammoth
(Mammouth)... well it's correct either way - the "ou" is used by
the British!
WRITING A PRESS RELEASE
The word "Press Release" seems to scare most people to death. On top of that
not many people take the time to even think of writing their own Press
Release. We hope this brief article will help clear up some of the mysterys
surrounding this simple form of marketing.
The first thing you have to remember is that a Press Release is a "news"
item. It needs to "inform" people, NOT sell them something. For example,
you are reading this report because you want to learn something that will
BENEFIT YOU. You aren't reading it just so you can buy something else. If
money is the deriving force in your business - you won't go too far. Your
main goals should be in pleasing customers, providing them with a high-
quality product and more than their money's worth. The trick is to do all
this while still making money. People don't care what mountains you had to
climb, what seas you had to cross or what tribe of people you had to learn
the ways of just to find a secret formula. Instead - they want to know WHAT
the secret formula is.
The sales circulars you print and mail sell your product. A Press Release
informs others about your product. Instead of your main objective being to
sell the product and have the customer send in an order immediately, a Press
Release informs the customer exactly how your product will benefit their
lives. This must be conveyed in the form of a "newsworthy" Press Release.
If you have a sales circular to sell a product, you can easily turn it into
a Press Release without much difficulty. It's just a new marketing angle of
presenting your product to the public.
The following is an example of a typical Press Release for our publishing
services: So many people are entering the mail order market these days, but
so many of them are getting ripped-off by a bunch of hype. People are
promised untold riches in a short period of time. The hype ads play with
their emotions by making them believe it's so easy to make money through the
mail. It's sad.
However, a new book has just been released to help solve these problems for
the average person. For the first time in history - a REAL directory has been
compiled listing the ACTUAL name and addresses of 179 honest and trustworthy
mail order folks. People can write DIRECTLY to these people and receive FREE
information to get them started in their own business now!
It's unbelievable. Without trying to sell you anything else, you can get this
book for only $4.95 - a price anyone can afford. Meet the real mail order
dealers who care about their products and wants to help you get started doing
what they are doing.
Only available from Graphico Publishing, PO Box 488, Bluff City TN 37618.
As you can see, this is a short but sweet Press Release - however, you should
be able to see the "newsworthiness" in it. It's main focus is on the fact
that most people get ripped-off when they start their first mail order
business. The solution to this problem is a new directory that is available
for the first time in history. The sell is slowly led into because the reader
will naturally want to get their hands on this one. It doesn't ask for money
it only tells the reader how to get a copy if they want one.
Here's a great test for a real press release. Since your final sales pitch is
included in the last paragraph - read the Press Release aloud. Would it still
be worth reading WITHOUT your sales pitch? If so, it's probably a Press
Release.
Press Releases come in many forms due to the product you are writing about.
However, the basic rule of thumb still applies. If you've never wrote one
before - it may be a little difficult. Don't despair. Grab the latest daily
newspaper and read some of their informational articles. Notice how each
article is written and pattern yours after the same format. After you do a
few of them - you'll be able to "get the picture."
When your Press Release is written to your satisfaction, the proper way to
submit it to a publisher is: Be sure and type it on a typewriter or computer.
Standard format is double-spaced and not longer than two 8 1/2x11 pages.
Be sure and put your name, address and page number at the top of each page.
Write the note: "For Immediate Release." at the top. If you are only sending
the press release to one publication - tell them it's a "first run."
not many people take the time to even think of writing their own Press
Release. We hope this brief article will help clear up some of the mysterys
surrounding this simple form of marketing.
The first thing you have to remember is that a Press Release is a "news"
item. It needs to "inform" people, NOT sell them something. For example,
you are reading this report because you want to learn something that will
BENEFIT YOU. You aren't reading it just so you can buy something else. If
money is the deriving force in your business - you won't go too far. Your
main goals should be in pleasing customers, providing them with a high-
quality product and more than their money's worth. The trick is to do all
this while still making money. People don't care what mountains you had to
climb, what seas you had to cross or what tribe of people you had to learn
the ways of just to find a secret formula. Instead - they want to know WHAT
the secret formula is.
The sales circulars you print and mail sell your product. A Press Release
informs others about your product. Instead of your main objective being to
sell the product and have the customer send in an order immediately, a Press
Release informs the customer exactly how your product will benefit their
lives. This must be conveyed in the form of a "newsworthy" Press Release.
If you have a sales circular to sell a product, you can easily turn it into
a Press Release without much difficulty. It's just a new marketing angle of
presenting your product to the public.
The following is an example of a typical Press Release for our publishing
services: So many people are entering the mail order market these days, but
so many of them are getting ripped-off by a bunch of hype. People are
promised untold riches in a short period of time. The hype ads play with
their emotions by making them believe it's so easy to make money through the
mail. It's sad.
However, a new book has just been released to help solve these problems for
the average person. For the first time in history - a REAL directory has been
compiled listing the ACTUAL name and addresses of 179 honest and trustworthy
mail order folks. People can write DIRECTLY to these people and receive FREE
information to get them started in their own business now!
It's unbelievable. Without trying to sell you anything else, you can get this
book for only $4.95 - a price anyone can afford. Meet the real mail order
dealers who care about their products and wants to help you get started doing
what they are doing.
Only available from Graphico Publishing, PO Box 488, Bluff City TN 37618.
As you can see, this is a short but sweet Press Release - however, you should
be able to see the "newsworthiness" in it. It's main focus is on the fact
that most people get ripped-off when they start their first mail order
business. The solution to this problem is a new directory that is available
for the first time in history. The sell is slowly led into because the reader
will naturally want to get their hands on this one. It doesn't ask for money
it only tells the reader how to get a copy if they want one.
Here's a great test for a real press release. Since your final sales pitch is
included in the last paragraph - read the Press Release aloud. Would it still
be worth reading WITHOUT your sales pitch? If so, it's probably a Press
Release.
Press Releases come in many forms due to the product you are writing about.
However, the basic rule of thumb still applies. If you've never wrote one
before - it may be a little difficult. Don't despair. Grab the latest daily
newspaper and read some of their informational articles. Notice how each
article is written and pattern yours after the same format. After you do a
few of them - you'll be able to "get the picture."
When your Press Release is written to your satisfaction, the proper way to
submit it to a publisher is: Be sure and type it on a typewriter or computer.
Standard format is double-spaced and not longer than two 8 1/2x11 pages.
Be sure and put your name, address and page number at the top of each page.
Write the note: "For Immediate Release." at the top. If you are only sending
the press release to one publication - tell them it's a "first run."
Monday, April 2, 2012
When Did Customer Service Breakup?
We’ve all had friends in our circle who were known as “Mary & John”, and when “John” split “Mary” was alone. Mary was the “odd” number at the dinner party and we were all concerned about her. Well, today it seems that the union of Customer & Service have had a breakup. Service has split and Customer is on his/her own.
Today, let me tell you a story that many of you will find humorous but is all too common. I can tell you this without fear of our local editor getting sued because it’s about me, but business owners take note that you don’t fit the profile of company “X”.
Four weeks ago I decided that I needed another green recycling can from my trash pickup company. We’ll call them Brown Keg Trash Pickup, an anonymous company in the interest of avoiding litigation. I called their Customer Service number, and as an environmentally conscious citizen requested my extra recycle can. The cheerful voice on the other end of the line chirped, “Of course, we’ll have one delivered in 48 hours.” After giving her all the pertinent location information, I hung up the phone with the satisfied feeling of a good citizen.
I arrived home about 5 p.m. the next day and I was happy to see another green can at the mouth of my driveway. When I looked again, I noticed that I had another green can – but it was without a lid. I quickly dialed my cheerful telephone voice at Brown Keg Company thanking her graciously for the rapid service and then told her about the missing lid. Just as cheerfully as the first time, she told me to leave it at the end of my driveway after my usual trash pickup and they would replace the entire unit since they didn’t have extra lids. I agreed, and after hanging up the phone I pondered their plight of having lidless cans but no extra lids. I conjured up all sorts of scenarios that explained where all the lids to the lidless cans went, and sympathized with their predicament.
Well, 3 days went by and there sat my poor, green, lidless can at my driveway’s mouth and a replacement never arrived. Feeling empathy for this green plastic waif, I returned it to the side of it’s brother that had a lid. I called my cheerful Customer Service voice again, and reiterated the plight of my poor lidless can and after a chuckle she assured me a complete unit would be forthcoming. I found it necessary to make use of my lidless friend, and put it out the next pickup day filled to the brim. Fortunately, it wasn’t windy and all the contents remained inside it. That was 2 weeks ago, and life being what it is other more important tasks have occupied me until this morning when facing another pickup day I thought of my lidless friend.
Once more I picked up the phone and called my trash pickup company, and this time I listened to a litany of choices of buttons I could punch and chose my cheerful Customer Service button again. I was transferred, listened to a brief melody when there was a “click” and I expected my cheerful voice to chirp “hello”. The next thing I heard was another click, silence, and then the dreaded dial tone that means you’ve been disconnected. Not being one of the “fainthearted”, I simply redialed my number. Again there was the litany of button choices, my choice and the music, and just when I began to feel that all was right with the world I heard – “click”, “dial tone” and nothing.
This was not the morning for the phone to be playing games with me, so I made one more determined effort and REDIALED! “NASA, we have lift-off !” I once more heard the litany of button choices, but this time I outfoxed that monotonous voice and punched “0”. I asked for the Manager of Customer Service, I was given her name and was transferred. What greeted my eager ear was, “You’ve reached the voicemail of ……., please leave your name and number and she’ll return your call.”
So here we sit - my lidless, green can and I facing another pick-up day. This eager-to-serve plastic green waif must bravely face another dutiful day half-clothed.
You must admit that is an amusing story, and one that far too many of us have lived through, but what a sad commentary it is about our business community. Doesn’t it make you wonder if our language has changed so drastically that what we interpret “Customer Service” to mean - is not what today’s business owners mean. It makes me wonder when the marriage of Customer and Service broke-up, leaving us all the lonely ones.
Entrepreneurs and business owners take note! If you’re going to have a number for your customers to access your Customer Service, please follow these rules.
Have the phone manned by an employee that can hear thunder and see lightening.
Give that employee training in helping the caller and not shuffling the problem to another desk.
Have an overseer, who can also hear thunder and see lightening, check that all incoming complaints were handled appropriately.
After learning how to find your customers and what they want; after getting them committed to doing business with YOU; and after wooing them to keep them as your customers – WHY WOULD YOU LET “SERVICE” DIVORCE “CUSTOMER?”
If your customers aren’t getting the service they require from you – your competitor will be only too happy to help them!
Today, let me tell you a story that many of you will find humorous but is all too common. I can tell you this without fear of our local editor getting sued because it’s about me, but business owners take note that you don’t fit the profile of company “X”.
Four weeks ago I decided that I needed another green recycling can from my trash pickup company. We’ll call them Brown Keg Trash Pickup, an anonymous company in the interest of avoiding litigation. I called their Customer Service number, and as an environmentally conscious citizen requested my extra recycle can. The cheerful voice on the other end of the line chirped, “Of course, we’ll have one delivered in 48 hours.” After giving her all the pertinent location information, I hung up the phone with the satisfied feeling of a good citizen.
I arrived home about 5 p.m. the next day and I was happy to see another green can at the mouth of my driveway. When I looked again, I noticed that I had another green can – but it was without a lid. I quickly dialed my cheerful telephone voice at Brown Keg Company thanking her graciously for the rapid service and then told her about the missing lid. Just as cheerfully as the first time, she told me to leave it at the end of my driveway after my usual trash pickup and they would replace the entire unit since they didn’t have extra lids. I agreed, and after hanging up the phone I pondered their plight of having lidless cans but no extra lids. I conjured up all sorts of scenarios that explained where all the lids to the lidless cans went, and sympathized with their predicament.
Well, 3 days went by and there sat my poor, green, lidless can at my driveway’s mouth and a replacement never arrived. Feeling empathy for this green plastic waif, I returned it to the side of it’s brother that had a lid. I called my cheerful Customer Service voice again, and reiterated the plight of my poor lidless can and after a chuckle she assured me a complete unit would be forthcoming. I found it necessary to make use of my lidless friend, and put it out the next pickup day filled to the brim. Fortunately, it wasn’t windy and all the contents remained inside it. That was 2 weeks ago, and life being what it is other more important tasks have occupied me until this morning when facing another pickup day I thought of my lidless friend.
Once more I picked up the phone and called my trash pickup company, and this time I listened to a litany of choices of buttons I could punch and chose my cheerful Customer Service button again. I was transferred, listened to a brief melody when there was a “click” and I expected my cheerful voice to chirp “hello”. The next thing I heard was another click, silence, and then the dreaded dial tone that means you’ve been disconnected. Not being one of the “fainthearted”, I simply redialed my number. Again there was the litany of button choices, my choice and the music, and just when I began to feel that all was right with the world I heard – “click”, “dial tone” and nothing.
This was not the morning for the phone to be playing games with me, so I made one more determined effort and REDIALED! “NASA, we have lift-off !” I once more heard the litany of button choices, but this time I outfoxed that monotonous voice and punched “0”. I asked for the Manager of Customer Service, I was given her name and was transferred. What greeted my eager ear was, “You’ve reached the voicemail of ……., please leave your name and number and she’ll return your call.”
So here we sit - my lidless, green can and I facing another pick-up day. This eager-to-serve plastic green waif must bravely face another dutiful day half-clothed.
You must admit that is an amusing story, and one that far too many of us have lived through, but what a sad commentary it is about our business community. Doesn’t it make you wonder if our language has changed so drastically that what we interpret “Customer Service” to mean - is not what today’s business owners mean. It makes me wonder when the marriage of Customer and Service broke-up, leaving us all the lonely ones.
Entrepreneurs and business owners take note! If you’re going to have a number for your customers to access your Customer Service, please follow these rules.
Have the phone manned by an employee that can hear thunder and see lightening.
Give that employee training in helping the caller and not shuffling the problem to another desk.
Have an overseer, who can also hear thunder and see lightening, check that all incoming complaints were handled appropriately.
After learning how to find your customers and what they want; after getting them committed to doing business with YOU; and after wooing them to keep them as your customers – WHY WOULD YOU LET “SERVICE” DIVORCE “CUSTOMER?”
If your customers aren’t getting the service they require from you – your competitor will be only too happy to help them!
When Did Customer Service Breakup?
We’ve all had friends in our circle who were known as “Mary & John”, and when “John” split “Mary” was alone. Mary was the “odd” number at the dinner party and we were all concerned about her. Well, today it seems that the union of Customer & Service have had a breakup. Service has split and Customer is on his/her own.
Today, let me tell you a story that many of you will find humorous but is all too common. I can tell you this without fear of our local editor getting sued because it’s about me, but business owners take note that you don’t fit the profile of company “X”.
Four weeks ago I decided that I needed another green recycling can from my trash pickup company. We’ll call them Brown Keg Trash Pickup, an anonymous company in the interest of avoiding litigation. I called their Customer Service number, and as an environmentally conscious citizen requested my extra recycle can. The cheerful voice on the other end of the line chirped, “Of course, we’ll have one delivered in 48 hours.” After giving her all the pertinent location information, I hung up the phone with the satisfied feeling of a good citizen.
I arrived home about 5 p.m. the next day and I was happy to see another green can at the mouth of my driveway. When I looked again, I noticed that I had another green can – but it was without a lid. I quickly dialed my cheerful telephone voice at Brown Keg Company thanking her graciously for the rapid service and then told her about the missing lid. Just as cheerfully as the first time, she told me to leave it at the end of my driveway after my usual trash pickup and they would replace the entire unit since they didn’t have extra lids. I agreed, and after hanging up the phone I pondered their plight of having lidless cans but no extra lids. I conjured up all sorts of scenarios that explained where all the lids to the lidless cans went, and sympathized with their predicament.
Well, 3 days went by and there sat my poor, green, lidless can at my driveway’s mouth and a replacement never arrived. Feeling empathy for this green plastic waif, I returned it to the side of it’s brother that had a lid. I called my cheerful Customer Service voice again, and reiterated the plight of my poor lidless can and after a chuckle she assured me a complete unit would be forthcoming. I found it necessary to make use of my lidless friend, and put it out the next pickup day filled to the brim. Fortunately, it wasn’t windy and all the contents remained inside it. That was 2 weeks ago, and life being what it is other more important tasks have occupied me until this morning when facing another pickup day I thought of my lidless friend.
Once more I picked up the phone and called my trash pickup company, and this time I listened to a litany of choices of buttons I could punch and chose my cheerful Customer Service button again. I was transferred, listened to a brief melody when there was a “click” and I expected my cheerful voice to chirp “hello”. The next thing I heard was another click, silence, and then the dreaded dial tone that means you’ve been disconnected. Not being one of the “fainthearted”, I simply redialed my number. Again there was the litany of button choices, my choice and the music, and just when I began to feel that all was right with the world I heard – “click”, “dial tone” and nothing.
This was not the morning for the phone to be playing games with me, so I made one more determined effort and REDIALED! “NASA, we have lift-off !” I once more heard the litany of button choices, but this time I outfoxed that monotonous voice and punched “0”. I asked for the Manager of Customer Service, I was given her name and was transferred. What greeted my eager ear was, “You’ve reached the voicemail of ……., please leave your name and number and she’ll return your call.”
So here we sit - my lidless, green can and I facing another pick-up day. This eager-to-serve plastic green waif must bravely face another dutiful day half-clothed.
You must admit that is an amusing story, and one that far too many of us have lived through, but what a sad commentary it is about our business community. Doesn’t it make you wonder if our language has changed so drastically that what we interpret “Customer Service” to mean - is not what today’s business owners mean. It makes me wonder when the marriage of Customer and Service broke-up, leaving us all the lonely ones.
Entrepreneurs and business owners take note! If you’re going to have a number for your customers to access your Customer Service, please follow these rules.
Have the phone manned by an employee that can hear thunder and see lightening.
Give that employee training in helping the caller and not shuffling the problem to another desk.
Have an overseer, who can also hear thunder and see lightening, check that all incoming complaints were handled appropriately.
After learning how to find your customers and what they want; after getting them committed to doing business with YOU; and after wooing them to keep them as your customers – WHY WOULD YOU LET “SERVICE” DIVORCE “CUSTOMER?”
If your customers aren’t getting the service they require from you – your competitor will be only too happy to help them!
Today, let me tell you a story that many of you will find humorous but is all too common. I can tell you this without fear of our local editor getting sued because it’s about me, but business owners take note that you don’t fit the profile of company “X”.
Four weeks ago I decided that I needed another green recycling can from my trash pickup company. We’ll call them Brown Keg Trash Pickup, an anonymous company in the interest of avoiding litigation. I called their Customer Service number, and as an environmentally conscious citizen requested my extra recycle can. The cheerful voice on the other end of the line chirped, “Of course, we’ll have one delivered in 48 hours.” After giving her all the pertinent location information, I hung up the phone with the satisfied feeling of a good citizen.
I arrived home about 5 p.m. the next day and I was happy to see another green can at the mouth of my driveway. When I looked again, I noticed that I had another green can – but it was without a lid. I quickly dialed my cheerful telephone voice at Brown Keg Company thanking her graciously for the rapid service and then told her about the missing lid. Just as cheerfully as the first time, she told me to leave it at the end of my driveway after my usual trash pickup and they would replace the entire unit since they didn’t have extra lids. I agreed, and after hanging up the phone I pondered their plight of having lidless cans but no extra lids. I conjured up all sorts of scenarios that explained where all the lids to the lidless cans went, and sympathized with their predicament.
Well, 3 days went by and there sat my poor, green, lidless can at my driveway’s mouth and a replacement never arrived. Feeling empathy for this green plastic waif, I returned it to the side of it’s brother that had a lid. I called my cheerful Customer Service voice again, and reiterated the plight of my poor lidless can and after a chuckle she assured me a complete unit would be forthcoming. I found it necessary to make use of my lidless friend, and put it out the next pickup day filled to the brim. Fortunately, it wasn’t windy and all the contents remained inside it. That was 2 weeks ago, and life being what it is other more important tasks have occupied me until this morning when facing another pickup day I thought of my lidless friend.
Once more I picked up the phone and called my trash pickup company, and this time I listened to a litany of choices of buttons I could punch and chose my cheerful Customer Service button again. I was transferred, listened to a brief melody when there was a “click” and I expected my cheerful voice to chirp “hello”. The next thing I heard was another click, silence, and then the dreaded dial tone that means you’ve been disconnected. Not being one of the “fainthearted”, I simply redialed my number. Again there was the litany of button choices, my choice and the music, and just when I began to feel that all was right with the world I heard – “click”, “dial tone” and nothing.
This was not the morning for the phone to be playing games with me, so I made one more determined effort and REDIALED! “NASA, we have lift-off !” I once more heard the litany of button choices, but this time I outfoxed that monotonous voice and punched “0”. I asked for the Manager of Customer Service, I was given her name and was transferred. What greeted my eager ear was, “You’ve reached the voicemail of ……., please leave your name and number and she’ll return your call.”
So here we sit - my lidless, green can and I facing another pick-up day. This eager-to-serve plastic green waif must bravely face another dutiful day half-clothed.
You must admit that is an amusing story, and one that far too many of us have lived through, but what a sad commentary it is about our business community. Doesn’t it make you wonder if our language has changed so drastically that what we interpret “Customer Service” to mean - is not what today’s business owners mean. It makes me wonder when the marriage of Customer and Service broke-up, leaving us all the lonely ones.
Entrepreneurs and business owners take note! If you’re going to have a number for your customers to access your Customer Service, please follow these rules.
Have the phone manned by an employee that can hear thunder and see lightening.
Give that employee training in helping the caller and not shuffling the problem to another desk.
Have an overseer, who can also hear thunder and see lightening, check that all incoming complaints were handled appropriately.
After learning how to find your customers and what they want; after getting them committed to doing business with YOU; and after wooing them to keep them as your customers – WHY WOULD YOU LET “SERVICE” DIVORCE “CUSTOMER?”
If your customers aren’t getting the service they require from you – your competitor will be only too happy to help them!
HOW TO WRITE A "HOW-TO" FOLIO
Today, there are hundreds of enterprising men and women who
write simple research papers (known in the mail order trade as
FOLIOS) and sell them by mail. In the pages that follow, you'll
be shown how you can do the same. You'll be shown how to select a
subject, how to research it, how to write it, how to get it
printed, and how to sell it.
There are four ways to sell it. If you are new to folio
selling, You'll be shown which of the four ways would be the best
for you. Read what follows very carefully and
very thoughtfully. THERE ARE NO CATCHES.
EXACTLY WHAT IS A FOLIO?
A folio can be called a booklet, a pamphlet, a report, a
newsletter, a guide, an instruction manual, a plan, a
manuscript, etc. etc. A folio is simply an easy-to-understand
manual which shows the reader "How To" do something that he does
not already know how to do. Most folios show the reader...
* How to start or expand a hobby
* How to develop new abilities or qualities
* How to start a new business or expand an old one
* How to prepare for a new career
* How to make or save money
* How to spend leisure time.
A well written folio is authoritative, factual, and helpful. It
should be written in simple, easily understood language. It can
be anything from a brief two-page mimeographed report to a
professionally printed book bound in hardback cover. People who
purchase folios by mail are interested in the information they
contain. Seldom do they care what brand of paper the
information is printed on.
WHAT KIND OF FOLIOS ARE NOW BEING SOLD BY MAIL?
Pick up almost any magazine at a newsstand that carries
classified advertising and you will find ads written by people
who are selling their folios by mail. Here are sample ads from
magazines lying here on my desk.
"Be secure, confident, successful! Learn the secret of personal
power $2.00"
"Why grow old and die? Li Chung Yun lived 256
years. You could too! learn how - $2.00"
"Secrets of the Spirit World! Only 60 cents postpaid!"
"Guide to Witches Covens - $2.00"
"Traffic Tickets? Beat them, step by step method. $1.95
postpaid."
"Learning Bridge? Send $2.95 for small 20 page guide."
"Fluorescent Tubes rejuvenated at no cost. Instructions $1.00."
"Learn the secret of making every pair of slacks you sew fit
perfectly, Only $1.00"
HOW TO WRITE A FOLIO
"10 Wonder Working Prayers. Enrich, strengthen your life!
$1.00 guaranteed."
"Enjoy camping inside your Volkswagen. Do it yourself Plans -
$2.00'
"Homemade Cheese! Hard soft, and cottage! Make it yourself!
Easy. Delicious. Complete instructions, recipes $1.00"
"Toronto Area Job Opportunities - $1.00"
"Ship in Bottle. Instructions, Drawing. $1.00"
If you can produce a "How to Do It" Manual that is NOVEL,
INTERESTING and genuinely HELPFUL, you can do what the
advertisers above have done. You can print it yourself and sell
it by mail!
WHAT SHOULD YOU WRITE ABOUT?
You should write
* ONLY on subjects that REALLY interest you, and
* On subjects that you already know something about.
For example, if you just love to cook, write a folio on cooking.
If people like the first folio they buy from you, they will buy
other folios in the future, as long as they are on the same
basic subject. If you write on a subject that really does not
interest you very much, you will be bored to death by the time
you get to your third folio!
Ask yourself what do I do with my spare time? Write a folio
about THAT!
HOW DO YOU RESEARCH THE FOLIO?
Make yourself an expert on the subject! Talk to friends and
neighbors. Ask questions. Read books, newspapers, and magazines
on the subject. Ask your librarian for suggestions. As you
read, KEEP NOTES ON EVERYTHING. When you have read everything
you could lay your hands on, sit down and study your notes.
Read them over slowing and carefully. Then lay the notes aside
and think about the whole subject for a day or two. You will be
amazed at what your mind will do with the subject if you have
research it thoroughly!
HOW DO YOU WRITE IT?
Here's a tip from a professional writer. Sit down and pretend
that you are a person who knows absolutely nothing about the
subject. Write down FIFTEEN QUESTIONS that such a person might
ask you. Then write out, in your own words, the answers to the
fifteen questions. Do not try to be literary! When you are
finished, lay it aside for a day or two.
Then re-read it with a red pencil, crossing out all unnecessary
words and sentences, inserting a new point here and there.
REWRITE the whole thing, and you will be amazed to discover that
your folio is ready to be published!
HOW DO YOU GET IT PRINTED?
Type it as neatly as possible on 8 1/2 x 11 WHITE typing paper.
Single space it, leaving two lines between each paragraph. Take
it to a local PHOTO-OFFSET printer who will make a few hundred
copies for you, very reasonably, usually within 24 hours. If
you have more than four pages, have it printed on both sides of
the paper. It will lower your printing costs slightly, and it
will save you extra postage in the future. To give your folio a
professional touch, have it printed on canary yellow, pink, or
light green paper.
HOW DO YOU SELL IT?
There are four ways:
1. DIRECT FROM ADS IN MAGAZINES AND TABLOID PAPERS. If
economically possible, sell it for $1.00 or $2.00 per copy.
(Occasionally $3.00.) Write a brief, eyecatching classified ad
asking those interested to send their orders directly to you.
If your ad is novel, believable, and of genuine interest, you
will be surprised at how many people will do this. If your
folio is about stamp collecting, advertise it in the stamp
collecting papers. If it is about Astrology, advertise it in
the Astrology magazines - to do otherwise is fatal. Be sure to
run your ad in at least three issues. If you have never sold
folios by mail, I sincerely suggest you use this method.
2. ADVERTISE FOR INQUIRIES. If your folio is quite elaborate
and must be sold for $3.00 or more, use this method. Write a
brief, tempting ad describing your folio, and offer free
details. Then mail literature describing the folio to those who
answer the ads. Don't expect more than one inquiry in ten to
buy it from you.
Here are ads placed by folio writers in a recent issue of the
National Enquirer, who use this method:
"Never Won anything? Anyone can win sweepstakes contests! Free
details." "Overweight? I lost 53 pounds. Easily.
(Permanently!) New Method. Information Free.
"Troubles? God can help! Free information." "Make money
clipping newspapers at home spare time. Details Free."
3. DIRECT MAIL. If you have written a folio showing how to get
inventions patented, you could purchase a list of amateur
inventors, and mail your sales literature to each individual on
the list. If you are lucky, you'll sell your folio to about one
person in every twenty-five. Direct mail can be very effective
for experienced mail order operators, but it is usually far too
costly for the beginner. It can easily cost you several hundred
dollars for each one thousand letters you mail.
4. SELLING THROUGH AGENTS. If you are willing to sell your
folio in small wholesale quantities, or if you are willing to
drop-ship folios for mail dealers, then you might find this the
most effective way to market your folios. Below are some ads
placed by folio writers in a recent issue of Specialty Salesman.
"Sell Health Books Mailorder! Write"
"Sell Books by Mail! 400% Profit!"
"Sell Books by Mail. Complete dealer set-up. 25 cents"
"Free Newsletter! Sell Books by mail! We wholesale, drop ship."
Some of the above ads have been running ten and twenty years,
indicating that this could be a very successful way to market
your folios.
write simple research papers (known in the mail order trade as
FOLIOS) and sell them by mail. In the pages that follow, you'll
be shown how you can do the same. You'll be shown how to select a
subject, how to research it, how to write it, how to get it
printed, and how to sell it.
There are four ways to sell it. If you are new to folio
selling, You'll be shown which of the four ways would be the best
for you. Read what follows very carefully and
very thoughtfully. THERE ARE NO CATCHES.
EXACTLY WHAT IS A FOLIO?
A folio can be called a booklet, a pamphlet, a report, a
newsletter, a guide, an instruction manual, a plan, a
manuscript, etc. etc. A folio is simply an easy-to-understand
manual which shows the reader "How To" do something that he does
not already know how to do. Most folios show the reader...
* How to start or expand a hobby
* How to develop new abilities or qualities
* How to start a new business or expand an old one
* How to prepare for a new career
* How to make or save money
* How to spend leisure time.
A well written folio is authoritative, factual, and helpful. It
should be written in simple, easily understood language. It can
be anything from a brief two-page mimeographed report to a
professionally printed book bound in hardback cover. People who
purchase folios by mail are interested in the information they
contain. Seldom do they care what brand of paper the
information is printed on.
WHAT KIND OF FOLIOS ARE NOW BEING SOLD BY MAIL?
Pick up almost any magazine at a newsstand that carries
classified advertising and you will find ads written by people
who are selling their folios by mail. Here are sample ads from
magazines lying here on my desk.
"Be secure, confident, successful! Learn the secret of personal
power $2.00"
"Why grow old and die? Li Chung Yun lived 256
years. You could too! learn how - $2.00"
"Secrets of the Spirit World! Only 60 cents postpaid!"
"Guide to Witches Covens - $2.00"
"Traffic Tickets? Beat them, step by step method. $1.95
postpaid."
"Learning Bridge? Send $2.95 for small 20 page guide."
"Fluorescent Tubes rejuvenated at no cost. Instructions $1.00."
"Learn the secret of making every pair of slacks you sew fit
perfectly, Only $1.00"
HOW TO WRITE A FOLIO
"10 Wonder Working Prayers. Enrich, strengthen your life!
$1.00 guaranteed."
"Enjoy camping inside your Volkswagen. Do it yourself Plans -
$2.00'
"Homemade Cheese! Hard soft, and cottage! Make it yourself!
Easy. Delicious. Complete instructions, recipes $1.00"
"Toronto Area Job Opportunities - $1.00"
"Ship in Bottle. Instructions, Drawing. $1.00"
If you can produce a "How to Do It" Manual that is NOVEL,
INTERESTING and genuinely HELPFUL, you can do what the
advertisers above have done. You can print it yourself and sell
it by mail!
WHAT SHOULD YOU WRITE ABOUT?
You should write
* ONLY on subjects that REALLY interest you, and
* On subjects that you already know something about.
For example, if you just love to cook, write a folio on cooking.
If people like the first folio they buy from you, they will buy
other folios in the future, as long as they are on the same
basic subject. If you write on a subject that really does not
interest you very much, you will be bored to death by the time
you get to your third folio!
Ask yourself what do I do with my spare time? Write a folio
about THAT!
HOW DO YOU RESEARCH THE FOLIO?
Make yourself an expert on the subject! Talk to friends and
neighbors. Ask questions. Read books, newspapers, and magazines
on the subject. Ask your librarian for suggestions. As you
read, KEEP NOTES ON EVERYTHING. When you have read everything
you could lay your hands on, sit down and study your notes.
Read them over slowing and carefully. Then lay the notes aside
and think about the whole subject for a day or two. You will be
amazed at what your mind will do with the subject if you have
research it thoroughly!
HOW DO YOU WRITE IT?
Here's a tip from a professional writer. Sit down and pretend
that you are a person who knows absolutely nothing about the
subject. Write down FIFTEEN QUESTIONS that such a person might
ask you. Then write out, in your own words, the answers to the
fifteen questions. Do not try to be literary! When you are
finished, lay it aside for a day or two.
Then re-read it with a red pencil, crossing out all unnecessary
words and sentences, inserting a new point here and there.
REWRITE the whole thing, and you will be amazed to discover that
your folio is ready to be published!
HOW DO YOU GET IT PRINTED?
Type it as neatly as possible on 8 1/2 x 11 WHITE typing paper.
Single space it, leaving two lines between each paragraph. Take
it to a local PHOTO-OFFSET printer who will make a few hundred
copies for you, very reasonably, usually within 24 hours. If
you have more than four pages, have it printed on both sides of
the paper. It will lower your printing costs slightly, and it
will save you extra postage in the future. To give your folio a
professional touch, have it printed on canary yellow, pink, or
light green paper.
HOW DO YOU SELL IT?
There are four ways:
1. DIRECT FROM ADS IN MAGAZINES AND TABLOID PAPERS. If
economically possible, sell it for $1.00 or $2.00 per copy.
(Occasionally $3.00.) Write a brief, eyecatching classified ad
asking those interested to send their orders directly to you.
If your ad is novel, believable, and of genuine interest, you
will be surprised at how many people will do this. If your
folio is about stamp collecting, advertise it in the stamp
collecting papers. If it is about Astrology, advertise it in
the Astrology magazines - to do otherwise is fatal. Be sure to
run your ad in at least three issues. If you have never sold
folios by mail, I sincerely suggest you use this method.
2. ADVERTISE FOR INQUIRIES. If your folio is quite elaborate
and must be sold for $3.00 or more, use this method. Write a
brief, tempting ad describing your folio, and offer free
details. Then mail literature describing the folio to those who
answer the ads. Don't expect more than one inquiry in ten to
buy it from you.
Here are ads placed by folio writers in a recent issue of the
National Enquirer, who use this method:
"Never Won anything? Anyone can win sweepstakes contests! Free
details." "Overweight? I lost 53 pounds. Easily.
(Permanently!) New Method. Information Free.
"Troubles? God can help! Free information." "Make money
clipping newspapers at home spare time. Details Free."
3. DIRECT MAIL. If you have written a folio showing how to get
inventions patented, you could purchase a list of amateur
inventors, and mail your sales literature to each individual on
the list. If you are lucky, you'll sell your folio to about one
person in every twenty-five. Direct mail can be very effective
for experienced mail order operators, but it is usually far too
costly for the beginner. It can easily cost you several hundred
dollars for each one thousand letters you mail.
4. SELLING THROUGH AGENTS. If you are willing to sell your
folio in small wholesale quantities, or if you are willing to
drop-ship folios for mail dealers, then you might find this the
most effective way to market your folios. Below are some ads
placed by folio writers in a recent issue of Specialty Salesman.
"Sell Health Books Mailorder! Write"
"Sell Books by Mail! 400% Profit!"
"Sell Books by Mail. Complete dealer set-up. 25 cents"
"Free Newsletter! Sell Books by mail! We wholesale, drop ship."
Some of the above ads have been running ten and twenty years,
indicating that this could be a very successful way to market
your folios.
WRITE PROFITABLE CLASSIFIED ADS
Everybody wants to make more money. In fact, most people would like to hit upon something that makes them fabulously rich! And seemingly, one of the easiest roads to the fulfillment of these dreams of wealth is mail order or within the professional circles of the business, direct mail selling.
The only thing is, hardly anyone gives much real thought to the basic ingredient of selling by mail - the writing of profitable classified ads. If your mail order business is to succeed, then you must acquire the expertise of writing classified ads that sell your product or services!
So what makes a classified ad good or bad? First of all, it must appeal to the reader, and as such, it must say exactly what you want it to say. Secondly, it has to say what it says in the least possible number of words in order to keep your operating costs within your budget. And thirdly, it has to produce the desired results whether inquiries or sales.
Grabbing the reader's attention is your first objective. You must assume the reader is "scanning" the page on which your ad appears in the company of two or three hundred classified ads. Therefore, there has to be something about your ad that causes him to stop scanning and look at yours! So, the first two or three words of your ad are of the utmost importance and deserve your careful consideration. Most surveys show that words or phrases that quickly involve the reader, tend to be the best attention-grabbers. Such words as: FREE... WIN... MAKE BIG MONEY...
Whatever words you use as attention-grabbers, to start your ads, you should bear in mind that they'll be competing with similar attention-grabbers of the other ads on the same page. Therefore, in addition to your lead words, your ad must quickly go on to promise or state further benefits to the reader. In other words, your ad might read something like this: MAKE BIG MONEY! Easy & Simple. We show you how!
In the language of professional copywriters, you've grabbed the attention of your prospect, and interested him with something that even he can do.
The next rule of good classified copywriting has to do with the arousal of the reader's desire to get in on your offer. In a great many instances, this rule is by-passed, and it appears, this is the real reason that an ad doesn't pull according to the expectations of the advertiser.
Think about it - you've got your reader's attention; you've told him it's easy and simple; and you're about to ask him to do something. Unless you take the time to further "want your offer," your ad is going to only half turn him on. He'll compare your ad with the others that have grabbed his attention and finally decide upon the one that interests him the most.
What is being said is that here is the place for you to insert that magic word "guaranteed" or some other such word or phrase. So now, we've got an ad that reads: MAKE BIG MONEY! Easy & Simple. Guaranteed!
Now the reader is turned on, and in his mind, he can't lose. You're ready to ask for his money. This is the "demand for action" part of your ad. This is the part where you want to use such words as: Limited offer - Act now! Write today! Only and/or just...
Putting it all together, then your ad might read something like this: MAKE BIG MONEY! Easy & Simple. Guaranteed! Limited offer. Send $l to:
These are the ingredients of any good classified ad - Attention - Interest - Desire - Action... Without these four ingredients skillfully integrated into your ad, chances are your ad will just "lie there" and not do anything but cost you money. What we've just shown you is a basic classified ad. Although such an ad could be placed in any leading publication and would pull a good response, it's known as a "blind ad" and would pull inquiries and responses from a whole spectrum of people reading the publication in which it appeared. In other words, from as many "time-wasters" as from bona fide buyers.
So let's try to give you an example of the kind of classified ad you might want to use, say to sell a report such as this one... Using all the rules of basic advertising copywriting, and stating exactly what our product is, our ad reads thusly:
MONEY-MAKER'S SECRETS! How To Write winning classified
ads. Simple & easy to learn -should double or triple your
responses. Rush $1 to BC Sales, 10 Main Anytown, TX 75001.
The point we're making is that: l) You've got to grab the reader's attention... 2) You've got to "interest him" with something that appeals to him... 3) You've got to "further stimulate" him with something (catch-phrase) that makes him "desire" the product or service. 4) Demand that he act immediately...
There's no point in being tricky or clever. Just adhere to the basics and your profits will increase accordingly. One of the best ways of learning to write good classified ads is to study the classifieds - try to figure out exactly what they're attempting to sell - and then practice rewriting them according to the rules we've just given you. Whenever you sit down to write a classified, always write it all out - write down everything you want to say - and then go back over it, crossing out words, and refining your phraseology.
The final ingredient of your classified ad is of course, your name, address to which the reader is to respond - where he's to send his money or write for further information.
Generally speaking, readers respond more often to ads that include a name than to those showing just initials or an address only. However, because advertising costs are based upon the number of words, or the amount of space your ad uses, the use of some names in classified ads could become quite expensive. If we were to ask our ad respondents to write to or send their money to The Research Writers & Publishers Association, or to Book Business Mart, or even to Money Maker's Opportunity Digest, our advertising costs would be prohibitive. Thus we shorten our name Researchers or Money-Makers. The point here is to think relative to the placement costs of your ad, and to shorten excessively long names.
The same holds true when listing your post office box number. Shorten it to just plain Box 40, or in the case of a rural delivery, shorten it to just RRl.
The important thing is to know the rules of profitable classified ad writing, and to follow them. Hold your costs in line.
Now you know the basics... the rest is up to you.
The only thing is, hardly anyone gives much real thought to the basic ingredient of selling by mail - the writing of profitable classified ads. If your mail order business is to succeed, then you must acquire the expertise of writing classified ads that sell your product or services!
So what makes a classified ad good or bad? First of all, it must appeal to the reader, and as such, it must say exactly what you want it to say. Secondly, it has to say what it says in the least possible number of words in order to keep your operating costs within your budget. And thirdly, it has to produce the desired results whether inquiries or sales.
Grabbing the reader's attention is your first objective. You must assume the reader is "scanning" the page on which your ad appears in the company of two or three hundred classified ads. Therefore, there has to be something about your ad that causes him to stop scanning and look at yours! So, the first two or three words of your ad are of the utmost importance and deserve your careful consideration. Most surveys show that words or phrases that quickly involve the reader, tend to be the best attention-grabbers. Such words as: FREE... WIN... MAKE BIG MONEY...
Whatever words you use as attention-grabbers, to start your ads, you should bear in mind that they'll be competing with similar attention-grabbers of the other ads on the same page. Therefore, in addition to your lead words, your ad must quickly go on to promise or state further benefits to the reader. In other words, your ad might read something like this: MAKE BIG MONEY! Easy & Simple. We show you how!
In the language of professional copywriters, you've grabbed the attention of your prospect, and interested him with something that even he can do.
The next rule of good classified copywriting has to do with the arousal of the reader's desire to get in on your offer. In a great many instances, this rule is by-passed, and it appears, this is the real reason that an ad doesn't pull according to the expectations of the advertiser.
Think about it - you've got your reader's attention; you've told him it's easy and simple; and you're about to ask him to do something. Unless you take the time to further "want your offer," your ad is going to only half turn him on. He'll compare your ad with the others that have grabbed his attention and finally decide upon the one that interests him the most.
What is being said is that here is the place for you to insert that magic word "guaranteed" or some other such word or phrase. So now, we've got an ad that reads: MAKE BIG MONEY! Easy & Simple. Guaranteed!
Now the reader is turned on, and in his mind, he can't lose. You're ready to ask for his money. This is the "demand for action" part of your ad. This is the part where you want to use such words as: Limited offer - Act now! Write today! Only and/or just...
Putting it all together, then your ad might read something like this: MAKE BIG MONEY! Easy & Simple. Guaranteed! Limited offer. Send $l to:
These are the ingredients of any good classified ad - Attention - Interest - Desire - Action... Without these four ingredients skillfully integrated into your ad, chances are your ad will just "lie there" and not do anything but cost you money. What we've just shown you is a basic classified ad. Although such an ad could be placed in any leading publication and would pull a good response, it's known as a "blind ad" and would pull inquiries and responses from a whole spectrum of people reading the publication in which it appeared. In other words, from as many "time-wasters" as from bona fide buyers.
So let's try to give you an example of the kind of classified ad you might want to use, say to sell a report such as this one... Using all the rules of basic advertising copywriting, and stating exactly what our product is, our ad reads thusly:
MONEY-MAKER'S SECRETS! How To Write winning classified
ads. Simple & easy to learn -should double or triple your
responses. Rush $1 to BC Sales, 10 Main Anytown, TX 75001.
The point we're making is that: l) You've got to grab the reader's attention... 2) You've got to "interest him" with something that appeals to him... 3) You've got to "further stimulate" him with something (catch-phrase) that makes him "desire" the product or service. 4) Demand that he act immediately...
There's no point in being tricky or clever. Just adhere to the basics and your profits will increase accordingly. One of the best ways of learning to write good classified ads is to study the classifieds - try to figure out exactly what they're attempting to sell - and then practice rewriting them according to the rules we've just given you. Whenever you sit down to write a classified, always write it all out - write down everything you want to say - and then go back over it, crossing out words, and refining your phraseology.
The final ingredient of your classified ad is of course, your name, address to which the reader is to respond - where he's to send his money or write for further information.
Generally speaking, readers respond more often to ads that include a name than to those showing just initials or an address only. However, because advertising costs are based upon the number of words, or the amount of space your ad uses, the use of some names in classified ads could become quite expensive. If we were to ask our ad respondents to write to or send their money to The Research Writers & Publishers Association, or to Book Business Mart, or even to Money Maker's Opportunity Digest, our advertising costs would be prohibitive. Thus we shorten our name Researchers or Money-Makers. The point here is to think relative to the placement costs of your ad, and to shorten excessively long names.
The same holds true when listing your post office box number. Shorten it to just plain Box 40, or in the case of a rural delivery, shorten it to just RRl.
The important thing is to know the rules of profitable classified ad writing, and to follow them. Hold your costs in line.
Now you know the basics... the rest is up to you.
How to Find Time Management Games
Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to make better use of your time? If you regularly find yourself late for meetings or missing important deadlines, you may need to improve your time management. Although the playing of games isn’t always associated with putting your time to good use, it can be.
As great as it is to hear that time management games can help you learn how to make better use of your time, you may be curious as to what they are. Time management games are like most traditional games. The only difference is that you have a limited amount of time to finish the game. For example, a popular time management games is that of Tetris. With this game, blocks fall from the top of the screen and you must align them in the proper way until the screen fills up with blocks.
As for why you should play time management games, there are a number of reasons why. For starters, most time management games are fun to play. In fact, that is why some individuals deem them a waste of time because may say that learning how to manage your time should be work, not fun, but that doesn’t have to the be the case.
Another reason why you should play time management games is because they can help you learn how to quickly think on your feet. This can help you with a number of different situations, including emergencies. In fact, stressful and unexpected situations are where many individuals waste the most time.
If you are interested in using time management games to your advantage, you will first want to check your computer. If your computer comes preloaded with games, which many modern computers now do, you may have free time management games already installed on your computer. Just look for games that have set deadlines for you meet. Even games with trial periods are nice, as they can help you save money incase you don’t end up liking the game in question.
The internet is another great way to go about finding time management games to find and play. In fact, many time management games can be found online free of charge. With that said, there are some gaming websites that you charge you a fee, but you may first want to find free online time management games. Playing games online is nice, as there are no software programs that you have to install on your computer. These online games can easily be found with a standard internet search.
Speaking of performing a standard internet search, you may want to search with the phrase “free time management games.” You can also find online gaming websites. These are websites that list all sorts of games for you to pay. You can browse through the games yourself to find the time management games that you like the most. Finding time management games on your own can take a little bit of time, but you never know what other fun and exciting things you can find in the process.
In addition to games that you can find online or games that are already installed on your computer, you can also buy software for your own time management games. When you do so, you should receive a CD and an instruction booklet. Whether you buy these items in one of your local retail stores or online, the CD will need to be placed in your computer and then installed. Since you are buying a software program, as opposed to finding free games online, be sure to read reviews or examine trails first. This will help to make sure that your money is well spent.
Since you now know how you can go about finding time management games to play online and to buy, you should give them a try. As a reminder, there are a number of benefits to playing time management games. The best being the ability to quickly think on your feet.
As great as it is to hear that time management games can help you learn how to make better use of your time, you may be curious as to what they are. Time management games are like most traditional games. The only difference is that you have a limited amount of time to finish the game. For example, a popular time management games is that of Tetris. With this game, blocks fall from the top of the screen and you must align them in the proper way until the screen fills up with blocks.
As for why you should play time management games, there are a number of reasons why. For starters, most time management games are fun to play. In fact, that is why some individuals deem them a waste of time because may say that learning how to manage your time should be work, not fun, but that doesn’t have to the be the case.
Another reason why you should play time management games is because they can help you learn how to quickly think on your feet. This can help you with a number of different situations, including emergencies. In fact, stressful and unexpected situations are where many individuals waste the most time.
If you are interested in using time management games to your advantage, you will first want to check your computer. If your computer comes preloaded with games, which many modern computers now do, you may have free time management games already installed on your computer. Just look for games that have set deadlines for you meet. Even games with trial periods are nice, as they can help you save money incase you don’t end up liking the game in question.
The internet is another great way to go about finding time management games to find and play. In fact, many time management games can be found online free of charge. With that said, there are some gaming websites that you charge you a fee, but you may first want to find free online time management games. Playing games online is nice, as there are no software programs that you have to install on your computer. These online games can easily be found with a standard internet search.
Speaking of performing a standard internet search, you may want to search with the phrase “free time management games.” You can also find online gaming websites. These are websites that list all sorts of games for you to pay. You can browse through the games yourself to find the time management games that you like the most. Finding time management games on your own can take a little bit of time, but you never know what other fun and exciting things you can find in the process.
In addition to games that you can find online or games that are already installed on your computer, you can also buy software for your own time management games. When you do so, you should receive a CD and an instruction booklet. Whether you buy these items in one of your local retail stores or online, the CD will need to be placed in your computer and then installed. Since you are buying a software program, as opposed to finding free games online, be sure to read reviews or examine trails first. This will help to make sure that your money is well spent.
Since you now know how you can go about finding time management games to play online and to buy, you should give them a try. As a reminder, there are a number of benefits to playing time management games. The best being the ability to quickly think on your feet.
You’re A Salesperson in Your Life!
You’re A Salesperson in Your Life!
Strange as it may seem, our life is made up of a series of “sales presentations”. Sales may not be your gig, but if you’re the boss you’re making presentations everyday. Be it a pitch to your Board, announcing a policy change to employees, selling an idea to your spouse, or just trying to win others over to your point of view – you need to punch up your people skills for winning pitches.
Human nature is such that people support solutions that they help create, so involve them by allowing your audience to participate with questions or ideas. It goes without saying that to not involve key people is risky, because messages can be misunderstood. Your plans may be derailed before they begin if sufficient “buy-in” is lacking. Use lots of open-ended questions in your presentation to draw out the silent type.
Preparation is a key to success. Prepare your listeners to what’s coming during or before your presentation. Try these pre-meeting tactics:
• Assign task-related pre-work. This could be pre-reading or study of a problem, and the preparations of possible solutions. An example could be, “go and visit three kinds of accounts before the meeting.”
• Make pre-meeting contacts with those invited by email, phone, or in person. You might want to try an informal survey to get people’s position on the issues at hand.
Remember support on key or controversial matters can be established ahead of time by lobbying, if you know where to lobby.
Do your research! People who make it look easy and are effective presenters have a hidden arsenal. This is an arsenal of up-to-date, organized material that can be accessed quickly in ready-to-use form when needed. They have the stats to back up their ideas, and they have a mental arsenal of stories, examples, jokes, and ice-breakers to use when needed.
Your physical presentation could include tangible items relating to the issue such as recent articles clipped from newspapers or magazines, photographs, reports, and demonstration property. To become masterful in this art learn to maintain resources you can access for just the right thing at the right time.
The next thing you must do is to explain “why?” The single most powerful thing you can do to convince your audience of something is to provide a convincing reason why they should do what you suggest or believe what you say. People want and need a clear “WIIFM” – “what’s in it for me?” – to be able to react positively to what you want them to do. It’s extremely important that you deliver a vision of benefits. Hearing the “why” won’t automatically generate a “yes” to your proposition, but it’ll open the door for receptivity to your idea.
Knowing and accepting the “why” satisfies a basic need that we all have – to understand the purpose of our actions. Use the words “because” or “so that” in your presentation and then finish the phrase. When your subject matter is controversial or likely to generate emotions, it is essential that your “why’s” be tested in advance. Ask some people you trust or that are on your “team” to play devil’s advocate to help you with your logic and arguments.
These are just the first four points for making successful presentations. There are eight of them in total, and we’ll look at the other four in my column next week. For now, let me leave you with this thought.
Life is a sales job from beginning to end. From the moment that we discern how to get approval as children, winning friends at school, getting our first beau, getting our first (and subsequent) job, getting engaged and married, achieving our goals, and anything else you can think of in between – we’re selling ourselves or our ideas all along the way. Who said you weren’t a salesperson?
Strange as it may seem, our life is made up of a series of “sales presentations”. Sales may not be your gig, but if you’re the boss you’re making presentations everyday. Be it a pitch to your Board, announcing a policy change to employees, selling an idea to your spouse, or just trying to win others over to your point of view – you need to punch up your people skills for winning pitches.
Human nature is such that people support solutions that they help create, so involve them by allowing your audience to participate with questions or ideas. It goes without saying that to not involve key people is risky, because messages can be misunderstood. Your plans may be derailed before they begin if sufficient “buy-in” is lacking. Use lots of open-ended questions in your presentation to draw out the silent type.
Preparation is a key to success. Prepare your listeners to what’s coming during or before your presentation. Try these pre-meeting tactics:
• Assign task-related pre-work. This could be pre-reading or study of a problem, and the preparations of possible solutions. An example could be, “go and visit three kinds of accounts before the meeting.”
• Make pre-meeting contacts with those invited by email, phone, or in person. You might want to try an informal survey to get people’s position on the issues at hand.
Remember support on key or controversial matters can be established ahead of time by lobbying, if you know where to lobby.
Do your research! People who make it look easy and are effective presenters have a hidden arsenal. This is an arsenal of up-to-date, organized material that can be accessed quickly in ready-to-use form when needed. They have the stats to back up their ideas, and they have a mental arsenal of stories, examples, jokes, and ice-breakers to use when needed.
Your physical presentation could include tangible items relating to the issue such as recent articles clipped from newspapers or magazines, photographs, reports, and demonstration property. To become masterful in this art learn to maintain resources you can access for just the right thing at the right time.
The next thing you must do is to explain “why?” The single most powerful thing you can do to convince your audience of something is to provide a convincing reason why they should do what you suggest or believe what you say. People want and need a clear “WIIFM” – “what’s in it for me?” – to be able to react positively to what you want them to do. It’s extremely important that you deliver a vision of benefits. Hearing the “why” won’t automatically generate a “yes” to your proposition, but it’ll open the door for receptivity to your idea.
Knowing and accepting the “why” satisfies a basic need that we all have – to understand the purpose of our actions. Use the words “because” or “so that” in your presentation and then finish the phrase. When your subject matter is controversial or likely to generate emotions, it is essential that your “why’s” be tested in advance. Ask some people you trust or that are on your “team” to play devil’s advocate to help you with your logic and arguments.
These are just the first four points for making successful presentations. There are eight of them in total, and we’ll look at the other four in my column next week. For now, let me leave you with this thought.
Life is a sales job from beginning to end. From the moment that we discern how to get approval as children, winning friends at school, getting our first beau, getting our first (and subsequent) job, getting engaged and married, achieving our goals, and anything else you can think of in between – we’re selling ourselves or our ideas all along the way. Who said you weren’t a salesperson?
Sunday, April 1, 2012
A Leader Is...
There are certain leadership ideas that we fail to identify and comprehend. Here is a short list of things you thought you knew about leadership.
*Leaders come in all shapes and sizes.
There are different types of leaders and you will almost certainly meet more than one type in your lifetime. Formal leaders are those we elect into positions or offices such as the senators, congressmen, and presidents of the local clubs. Informal leaders or those we look up to by virtue of their wisdom and experience. Both formal and informal leaders practice a combination of leadership styles.
*Leadership is a process.
Although some people seem to be born with leadership qualities, without the correct environment and exposure, they may fail to develop their full potential. You do not become a leader in one day and just stop. Lifetime education is vital in becoming a good leader for every day brings new experiences that put your knowledge, skills, and attitude to a test.
*Leadership starts with you.
As an adage goes "action speaks louder than words." Keep in mind that your trustworthiness as a leader depends much on your actions: your dealings with your family, friends, and co-workers; your way of running your personal and organizational responsibilities; and even the way you talk with the newspaper vendor across the street. Repeated actions become habits. Habits in turn form a person's character.
* Leadership is shared.
A leader belongs to a group. Each member has responsibilities to fulfill. Effective leadership requires members to do their share of work. To learn how to work together requires a great deal of trust between and among leaders and members of an emerging team. Trust is built upon actions and not merely on words. When mutual respect exists, trust is fostered and confidence is built.
*Leadership styles depend on the situation.
Most of the time, leaders employ a combination of leadership styles depending on the situation.
*Leaders come in all shapes and sizes.
There are different types of leaders and you will almost certainly meet more than one type in your lifetime. Formal leaders are those we elect into positions or offices such as the senators, congressmen, and presidents of the local clubs. Informal leaders or those we look up to by virtue of their wisdom and experience. Both formal and informal leaders practice a combination of leadership styles.
*Leadership is a process.
Although some people seem to be born with leadership qualities, without the correct environment and exposure, they may fail to develop their full potential. You do not become a leader in one day and just stop. Lifetime education is vital in becoming a good leader for every day brings new experiences that put your knowledge, skills, and attitude to a test.
*Leadership starts with you.
As an adage goes "action speaks louder than words." Keep in mind that your trustworthiness as a leader depends much on your actions: your dealings with your family, friends, and co-workers; your way of running your personal and organizational responsibilities; and even the way you talk with the newspaper vendor across the street. Repeated actions become habits. Habits in turn form a person's character.
* Leadership is shared.
A leader belongs to a group. Each member has responsibilities to fulfill. Effective leadership requires members to do their share of work. To learn how to work together requires a great deal of trust between and among leaders and members of an emerging team. Trust is built upon actions and not merely on words. When mutual respect exists, trust is fostered and confidence is built.
*Leadership styles depend on the situation.
Most of the time, leaders employ a combination of leadership styles depending on the situation.
So You Want Your Own Business!
There are many reasons for wanting to start your own business, and most of us get to this point. Which one of the following applies to you?
• Freedom from daily routine.
• Doing what I want when I want.
• Improve my living standard.
• I want creative freedom.
• I want to fully use my skills, knowledge and education.
• I have a product/idea/service that people need.
• I’ll have more time with the family.
• I won’t have a dress code.
• There are good tax breaks for business owners.
• I’m a Type B person and work best alone.
• I want to be my own boss.
• I want to make the decisions.
Now granted, every one of the above is a good reason for wanting your own business. The rub is, that not many people think the process through – step by step. There are 7 phases to business planning. They are:
1. Investigation Phase
2. Planning Phase
3. Start-up Phase
4. Operating/Monitoring Phase
5. Problem/Challenge resolution Phases
6. Renewal/Expansion Phase
7. Selling, Transferring, Retirement Phase
We’ll cover all of the above in my next few columns as a “Business Basics” refresher, but for today let’s take number one.
In the Investigation Phase you take a look at yourself and also your business options. There are careers that are suited to personality types, so the first thing you must discern is “Which personality type am I?”
Duty Fulfillers
This is an introverted personality who is serious, quiet, thorough, orderly, matter-of-fact, logical, realistic, and dependable. They take responsibility, are well organized, know what should be accomplished and work steadily toward it disregarding distractions. They are careful calculators, and 20% of this group become accountants.
The Mechanics
These are also introverts and are cool onlookers. They are quiet, reserved, observing, and analyzing life with a detached curiosity and have unexpected flashes of original humor. They’re usually interested in cause and effect, how and why mechanical things work, and in organizing facts using logical principles. They usually are craftsmen, mechanics, or handymen with about 10% becoming farmers.
The Doers
These people are extraverts who are good at on-the-spot problem solving, don’t worry, enjoy whatever comes along, are adaptable, tolerant, and generally conservative in values. They tend to like mechanical things and sports, and dislike long explanations. They are best with “real” things that can be worked, handled, taken apart, or put together. About 10% of this type go into marketing or become Impresarios.
The Executives
These are another extravert group and are hearty, frank, decisive, leaders in activities and usually good in anything that requires reasoning and intelligent talk, such as public speaking. They’re usually well informed and enjoy adding to their fund of knowledge. They may sometimes appear more positive and confident than their experience in an area warrants. They’re sometimes called “judgers” and “thinkers” and 21% of this group become legal administrators.
To go into each personality type would be far too complicated, but to give you an idea of the roles that personality types could fall into look at the following list. Beside the categories we covered in depth here are some simply broken down into Introvert or Extravert Personality.
Introverts choose careers that satisfy being:
• Nurturers
• Guardians
• Artists
• Scientists
• Protectors
• Idealists
Extraverts are usually:
• Performers
• Visionaries
• The Inspirers
• Givers
• Caregivers
The second part of the Investigating Phase is looking at your business options. When choosing the business you want to start consider the following:
• Do you like to work with your hands or brain, or both?
• Does working indoors or outdoors matter?
• Are you good at math, writing, puzzles, blueprints, installing things or fixing things?
• What interests you? What are your hobbies?
• Do you like to work alone or as part of a team?
• Do you like to plan things, or go to events?
• Do you like machines, computers?
• Do you like to drive or operate equipment?
• Do you like to travel, collect/display things, give/attend shows, or take pictures?
• Are you small, large, strong?
Make a list of your likes and dislikes. Keep a diary of things you do that relate to business and rate each entry from 1 to 5 based on your interest. Then prepare a list of your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and concerns. After doing all that, you should have a list of candidate businesses that are right for you. Then you can make a list of the “candidate businesses” and rate them from 1 to 5 based on your own chosen criteria.
Some criteria could be is it feasible, low in cost to establish, meets my objectives, will make money, there is a “niche” market of existing customers, or it will produce residual income to name just a few.
By the time you’ve accomplished all that, you should seriously consider visiting the local chapter of S.C.O.R.E. or your own mentor to use as a sounding board for your plan. Next week, if I haven’t dissuaded you so far, we’ll cover the Planning Phase.
• Freedom from daily routine.
• Doing what I want when I want.
• Improve my living standard.
• I want creative freedom.
• I want to fully use my skills, knowledge and education.
• I have a product/idea/service that people need.
• I’ll have more time with the family.
• I won’t have a dress code.
• There are good tax breaks for business owners.
• I’m a Type B person and work best alone.
• I want to be my own boss.
• I want to make the decisions.
Now granted, every one of the above is a good reason for wanting your own business. The rub is, that not many people think the process through – step by step. There are 7 phases to business planning. They are:
1. Investigation Phase
2. Planning Phase
3. Start-up Phase
4. Operating/Monitoring Phase
5. Problem/Challenge resolution Phases
6. Renewal/Expansion Phase
7. Selling, Transferring, Retirement Phase
We’ll cover all of the above in my next few columns as a “Business Basics” refresher, but for today let’s take number one.
In the Investigation Phase you take a look at yourself and also your business options. There are careers that are suited to personality types, so the first thing you must discern is “Which personality type am I?”
Duty Fulfillers
This is an introverted personality who is serious, quiet, thorough, orderly, matter-of-fact, logical, realistic, and dependable. They take responsibility, are well organized, know what should be accomplished and work steadily toward it disregarding distractions. They are careful calculators, and 20% of this group become accountants.
The Mechanics
These are also introverts and are cool onlookers. They are quiet, reserved, observing, and analyzing life with a detached curiosity and have unexpected flashes of original humor. They’re usually interested in cause and effect, how and why mechanical things work, and in organizing facts using logical principles. They usually are craftsmen, mechanics, or handymen with about 10% becoming farmers.
The Doers
These people are extraverts who are good at on-the-spot problem solving, don’t worry, enjoy whatever comes along, are adaptable, tolerant, and generally conservative in values. They tend to like mechanical things and sports, and dislike long explanations. They are best with “real” things that can be worked, handled, taken apart, or put together. About 10% of this type go into marketing or become Impresarios.
The Executives
These are another extravert group and are hearty, frank, decisive, leaders in activities and usually good in anything that requires reasoning and intelligent talk, such as public speaking. They’re usually well informed and enjoy adding to their fund of knowledge. They may sometimes appear more positive and confident than their experience in an area warrants. They’re sometimes called “judgers” and “thinkers” and 21% of this group become legal administrators.
To go into each personality type would be far too complicated, but to give you an idea of the roles that personality types could fall into look at the following list. Beside the categories we covered in depth here are some simply broken down into Introvert or Extravert Personality.
Introverts choose careers that satisfy being:
• Nurturers
• Guardians
• Artists
• Scientists
• Protectors
• Idealists
Extraverts are usually:
• Performers
• Visionaries
• The Inspirers
• Givers
• Caregivers
The second part of the Investigating Phase is looking at your business options. When choosing the business you want to start consider the following:
• Do you like to work with your hands or brain, or both?
• Does working indoors or outdoors matter?
• Are you good at math, writing, puzzles, blueprints, installing things or fixing things?
• What interests you? What are your hobbies?
• Do you like to work alone or as part of a team?
• Do you like to plan things, or go to events?
• Do you like machines, computers?
• Do you like to drive or operate equipment?
• Do you like to travel, collect/display things, give/attend shows, or take pictures?
• Are you small, large, strong?
Make a list of your likes and dislikes. Keep a diary of things you do that relate to business and rate each entry from 1 to 5 based on your interest. Then prepare a list of your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and concerns. After doing all that, you should have a list of candidate businesses that are right for you. Then you can make a list of the “candidate businesses” and rate them from 1 to 5 based on your own chosen criteria.
Some criteria could be is it feasible, low in cost to establish, meets my objectives, will make money, there is a “niche” market of existing customers, or it will produce residual income to name just a few.
By the time you’ve accomplished all that, you should seriously consider visiting the local chapter of S.C.O.R.E. or your own mentor to use as a sounding board for your plan. Next week, if I haven’t dissuaded you so far, we’ll cover the Planning Phase.
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