Besides instant communication, and more knowledge at our fingertips than we could ever read, the internet offers us an ease of shopping never before available, especially when shopping for hot tubs. It’s as if a magic genie has given us all our shopping wishes: optimum choice, access no matter the location, and the best of prices.
Shopping on the internet allows us to select a particular store or even a brand name manufacturer if that is our shopping style. We can search by product or brand name, but either way, we are able to choose the store we feel most comfortable with to make our actual purchase. We can choose our favorite leading department store, favorite discount distributor, or even go right to the manufacturer if they offer online purchasing.
Our choice of who to buy from is only the beginning; our buying experience is further enhanced by the ability to make unlimited price comparisons. Only the internet makes it possible to compare prices of 10 different distributors of a hot tub without ever leaving the comfort of our home. Some sites offer cost comparisons within a single site, allowing a person to designate an item and to then see prices from several discount online merchants.
Because buying on the internet eliminates the need for an actual store location and staffing, prices are often at a considerable discount. Whether you are buying large items for health purposes, such as a hot tub to help your arthritis or fibromyalgia, or buying something small for spiritual purposes, such as a tiny bronze Buddha, or a medium item for purely decorative purposes, such as a brightly colored abstract framed jazz poster—all can usually be found at a fraction of the cost you might expect to pay if you purchased them in a specialty store.
Another benefit of doing our shopping online is the ability to find various ratings or evaluations of the products you are thinking about purchasing. Frequently web sites will offer various customer rankings and even customer reviews of the products, as well as web sites that offer more objective evaluations of items. Researching what you are buying can help guide your final choice, and in the end can lead to increased satisfaction with your ultimate decision.
One thing you need to consider when shopping online is the cost of having your purchase delivered. Frequently, you will be offered various speeds of delivery, with the longer you are able to wait to receive an item, the less expensive the delivery charge. Even for instant shipping, such as overnight or two-day delivery, often the discounted price is more than enough to offset the shipping. This is something you will need to think about when you make your cost comparisons. If the item will be taxed, that is, the distributor has a store in your state and is required to charge state sales tax; this should also be factored into the cost of the item.
When buying online, always consider the date that you want to have the product in your hand; ask yourself if there is a particular date that the item must arrive. This date, if it exists, will guide you in your choice of shipping method, and may, in fact, dissuade you from making a purchase that is not available by the time you need it. If your delivery requirements are more open-ended, and you have no specific time that you must receive the purchase by, you will have more flexibility in both shipping methods and who you order from.
Since more and more people have turned to the internet for their shopping needs, companies have developed ways to safeguard your personal information, especially credit card information. Look for assurances that your information is protected. If you are still wary of giving such information online, many internet companies allow you to print out order forms, and mail or fax them with your check or credit card information. While this may take a bit longer, it can be reassuring if you still do not feel comfortable providing such personal information, like your credit card number and expiration date, online.
Internet shopping also makes record keeping a breeze; printing a copy of your online order is often as simple as pushing your “print” button. The shipper almost always provides an order confirmation or code, which can be quickly jotted down and kept in a safe place near your computer. Many shippers, besides confirming your order by e-mail, will also confirm the date of shipment and inform you of the tracking number for the shipment. Some merchants even have places on their web sites where you can check the progress of your order, where it offers you several responses, such as awaiting shipment, shipped on a specific date, or expected arrival date.
If you are seeking a very specific or unusual gift, online shopping is often a wise choice. Want a specific animal breed cup for a loved one, or a towel featuring a certain college sports team? Instead of becoming frustrated when your local stores do not carry exactly what you want, the internet can locate even the most esoteric characters and team mascots. It is as if you are able to travel the world, shopping for that special gift to delight your loved one, that gift that says how much you truly care. Sometimes, if the item is very specific, you may have to search several sites before locating exactly what you want, but your chances for procuring a specific item are definitely enhanced by shopping online.
On a cold, rainy day, many of us dread taking an unnecessary trip outside the house. On just such days, we can easily do our shopping online, wearing our most comfortable clothes, sipping our favorite hot chocolate and watching the weather from a cozy vantage point in our own home. Imagine doing almost all of your holiday or birthday shopping for the year in a single afternoon? With the internet, this becomes a real possibility, saving you time, stress and money. Makes you glad to be alive in this day and age, doesn’t it?
woensdag 29 juli 2009
dinsdag 28 juli 2009
5 eBay Selling Tips for Newbies
I’m directing this article to those who are just starting their eBay Selling Venture. Whether you’re selling books, DVDs, CDs, collectibles or clothing, all things (with the exception of eBooks and services) need to be mailed. And it’s the postage, handling fees and mailing that seems to cause a great deal of angst among new sellers.
You’ve heard the advice – don’t overcharge for shipping. That is very good advice, indeed, as nothing turns off potential buyers like sellers who gouge you on the shipping costs. It’s also a practice that can rack up bad feedback.
However, I’m going to play Devil’s Advocate here and suggest that you don’t go overboard and give so much of a break on shipping that you’re chipping away at your profits. It’s good to remember the “hidden costs” of shipping: bubble wrap to secure your breakables, tape, shipping envelopes, boxes, etc. Then there’s the gas you put in your car to take all those trips to the post office.
You might think I’m being cheap, but, if you added up all your eBay expenses for the year (as some did for their recent taxes) you might be shocked to see how all the packing materials and gas for your car added up and took a little chunk out of your eBay profits. And, believe me, they do add up.
Some people are even more surprised to find they underestimated the weight of their packages, causing their profits to shrink even further.
How can you be fair to both you and your buyers?
1. Buy a scale. It may sound simple, but purchasing a scale can save you a bundle in shipping. If you’re just eyeballing the weight of the package, you can often times guess too low, and be in for quite a shock when you go to the post office and see the package is going to cost twice what you thought to ship.
2. Know the dimensions of your packaging before listing the item. Some packages cost more to ship because of their dimensions. Knowing the weight alone isn’t enough.
3. Offer the buyer a variety of shipping methods. Some prefer speedy delivery with Express mailing, while some prefer to save money with parcel post even though the wait is longer. It’s always a good idea when using parcel post or other slower ground shipping to alert the buyer by email that it can take anywhere from 8 to 10 days.
4. Save yourself money whenever possible by using boxes that have been used. Most stores are more than happy to let you rummage through their old boxes and take some home with you. But, do remember to choose boxes that are presentable, secure and strong enough for your items. And, if you have breakables, don’t skimp on the bubble wrap.
5. Give yourself a small handling fee that will cover your expenses. Some sellers add on an additional $1 or $2 to the shipping fees for their handling fees (depending on the cost of the item and how much packaging you have to use). I really advocate doing this because your expenses will add up if you do a lot of selling on eBay. Be sure to be upfront with your buyers that you have a small handling fee so they can’t complain about it later.
Being fair to both yourself and your buyer will keep you both happy, and keep more of your profit in your pocket.
You’ve heard the advice – don’t overcharge for shipping. That is very good advice, indeed, as nothing turns off potential buyers like sellers who gouge you on the shipping costs. It’s also a practice that can rack up bad feedback.
However, I’m going to play Devil’s Advocate here and suggest that you don’t go overboard and give so much of a break on shipping that you’re chipping away at your profits. It’s good to remember the “hidden costs” of shipping: bubble wrap to secure your breakables, tape, shipping envelopes, boxes, etc. Then there’s the gas you put in your car to take all those trips to the post office.
You might think I’m being cheap, but, if you added up all your eBay expenses for the year (as some did for their recent taxes) you might be shocked to see how all the packing materials and gas for your car added up and took a little chunk out of your eBay profits. And, believe me, they do add up.
Some people are even more surprised to find they underestimated the weight of their packages, causing their profits to shrink even further.
How can you be fair to both you and your buyers?
1. Buy a scale. It may sound simple, but purchasing a scale can save you a bundle in shipping. If you’re just eyeballing the weight of the package, you can often times guess too low, and be in for quite a shock when you go to the post office and see the package is going to cost twice what you thought to ship.
2. Know the dimensions of your packaging before listing the item. Some packages cost more to ship because of their dimensions. Knowing the weight alone isn’t enough.
3. Offer the buyer a variety of shipping methods. Some prefer speedy delivery with Express mailing, while some prefer to save money with parcel post even though the wait is longer. It’s always a good idea when using parcel post or other slower ground shipping to alert the buyer by email that it can take anywhere from 8 to 10 days.
4. Save yourself money whenever possible by using boxes that have been used. Most stores are more than happy to let you rummage through their old boxes and take some home with you. But, do remember to choose boxes that are presentable, secure and strong enough for your items. And, if you have breakables, don’t skimp on the bubble wrap.
5. Give yourself a small handling fee that will cover your expenses. Some sellers add on an additional $1 or $2 to the shipping fees for their handling fees (depending on the cost of the item and how much packaging you have to use). I really advocate doing this because your expenses will add up if you do a lot of selling on eBay. Be sure to be upfront with your buyers that you have a small handling fee so they can’t complain about it later.
Being fair to both yourself and your buyer will keep you both happy, and keep more of your profit in your pocket.
maandag 27 juli 2009
WYSIWYG?
Many web sites seem to have graphics and moving images on their pages, some even have music, personally I think that music Is just wasted space on a website anyway, as a large percentage of people don’t even have their volume on. If you want to incorporate music it is good practice to let the visitor decide if they want to listen to it or not and give them a play and stop button.
The problem with this is the time it takes for the page to load.
Many visitors to a website will not wait for the graphics to download they will simply back out and go to the next website in the listings and you have just lost yourself a sale.
High resolution graphics and music is fine for most people with a high speed broadband connection, but if you have anything less than that then waiting for graphics to download on a web page is very frustrating.
For the web designer themselves it is wise to test the website you have created on a 28.8 connection speed and see how fast your site downloads, it should be viewable within about 3 – 4 seconds maximum. It is recommended also that a site be no larger than 50k, you can still fit great graphics and content into a site with around 30k of content.
A tip is to make your graphics smaller in size and to use fewer colours, instead of a million, use 216 and try to keep your images smaller than 4k.
Instead of using graphics you can try colouring the cells, or changing the colour of borders. If you experiment a little the effects can be fantastic and obviously the less graphics you are using, the faster your webpage will load.
The thing to remember when developing a website is that less is more, we live in a world where we want everything now, so give the customer what they want!
The problem with this is the time it takes for the page to load.
Many visitors to a website will not wait for the graphics to download they will simply back out and go to the next website in the listings and you have just lost yourself a sale.
High resolution graphics and music is fine for most people with a high speed broadband connection, but if you have anything less than that then waiting for graphics to download on a web page is very frustrating.
For the web designer themselves it is wise to test the website you have created on a 28.8 connection speed and see how fast your site downloads, it should be viewable within about 3 – 4 seconds maximum. It is recommended also that a site be no larger than 50k, you can still fit great graphics and content into a site with around 30k of content.
A tip is to make your graphics smaller in size and to use fewer colours, instead of a million, use 216 and try to keep your images smaller than 4k.
Instead of using graphics you can try colouring the cells, or changing the colour of borders. If you experiment a little the effects can be fantastic and obviously the less graphics you are using, the faster your webpage will load.
The thing to remember when developing a website is that less is more, we live in a world where we want everything now, so give the customer what they want!
zondag 26 juli 2009
5 Big Internet Business Lies
You have heard from people saying Internet Business is a waste of time, you will not make any money, there is no real money to be made online, it will never work and so many others negative words coming from people who don’t really understand in this Internet Business industry.
The thing is, it does work. Why some people make a fortune and some don’t even make money at all? Simply because the people who make thousands or millions of cash knew all the lies in this business and they will not trust these lies.
So what is this big internet lies? Below here are the 10 big internet lies that you should know:
1. Starting And Running A Business On The Internet Is Expensive
Do you know that you can start your business with zero cost? You can actually earn your income by joining a very high quality affiliate program. Usually, as an affiliate marketer, your job is concentrating on marketing only. All the follow up, delivery of the product, answering questions from customers and so on are done by the owner of the program.
Usually the ‘expensive’ statement often comes from people who are living in non-U.S. countries, especially if the country’s local currency is smaller than that of the U.S. Dollar. If it is not a currency issue, it is a vision issue. See and think small to get small. See and think big and your results will have a tendency to match your thoughts.
2. You Can Make Easy Money From The Internet
Most people believe you can make money overnight and by not doing anything at all. If it is what you have in mind right now, this myth is what sets the realistic apart from the unrealistic. You have probably heard of stories of how people make 5 to 6 figure incomes in the shortest period of time imaginable.
These stories might be true but did you know most of them have failed so miserably several times before they can really make money? They have learned from their mistakes and move on. It may seem as if some gurus are overnight successes with the wild numbers some people have brought in during a day or a week selling information or products online.
Some interesting facts about overnight success – it normally takes months if not years to realize. In other words, they prepare, they create a joint ventures, they get ready and then build up anticipation for a launch – then BOOM it explodes!
3. You Must Know HTML, Programming And Graphic Designing In Order To Start Your Business
You don’t need to know all of these at all. Period. In fact, one of the biggest shockers was the discovery that most of the biggest on the gurus today do not have the first clue as to how to build a web page.
These gurus earned more money because they knew how to reach people. They either outsource for professional help or establish Joint Ventures with other individuals who can compensate their lack of knowledge in any one of these areas.
As a matter of fact, most successful people are true successes because they only focus their time on what brings them successes.
If you want to create your web pages without having to learn programming, HTML and designing skills, just find someone else that can do it for you. There are many professional web designer you can find on the Internet which you can hire them to design your web pages exactly like you wanted.
4. On The Internet, There Is No Need To Know How To Sell
This statement has make people who hate selling are attracted to ads that read “no selling required”. Think for a moment, is there any logic at all you can make money without doing anything at all? Usually these programs are usually unworkable and some are run by fly-by-night operators.
In this business, don’t try to sell to other people. Instead, you inform your potential customers. Show people what their lives would be like with what you offer and you will have a sale without selling anything at all!
5. You Don’t Have To Build A Mailing List At All
Laughing out loud – that is like saying, “I don’t want to be in business”. Put this in your head, your mailing list is as important to you as the “Yellow Pages” is to a conventional B2B business.
“The money is in the list”. You probably heard this from most gurus out there. But you should also have this word in your mind, “The money is in the relationship”. The idea of networking with people is unattractive to most who hate to sell.
Remember though, you are not selling anything. You are just showing people their life and how it can easily be enhanced by what you have to offer.
All the above are just some of the big Internet lies. Actually there are a lot more Internet lies you should stay away from. You have to be smart in order to really achieve success that you could possibly imagine. Success is like enlightenment. It is a path and not a destination.
The thing is, it does work. Why some people make a fortune and some don’t even make money at all? Simply because the people who make thousands or millions of cash knew all the lies in this business and they will not trust these lies.
So what is this big internet lies? Below here are the 10 big internet lies that you should know:
1. Starting And Running A Business On The Internet Is Expensive
Do you know that you can start your business with zero cost? You can actually earn your income by joining a very high quality affiliate program. Usually, as an affiliate marketer, your job is concentrating on marketing only. All the follow up, delivery of the product, answering questions from customers and so on are done by the owner of the program.
Usually the ‘expensive’ statement often comes from people who are living in non-U.S. countries, especially if the country’s local currency is smaller than that of the U.S. Dollar. If it is not a currency issue, it is a vision issue. See and think small to get small. See and think big and your results will have a tendency to match your thoughts.
2. You Can Make Easy Money From The Internet
Most people believe you can make money overnight and by not doing anything at all. If it is what you have in mind right now, this myth is what sets the realistic apart from the unrealistic. You have probably heard of stories of how people make 5 to 6 figure incomes in the shortest period of time imaginable.
These stories might be true but did you know most of them have failed so miserably several times before they can really make money? They have learned from their mistakes and move on. It may seem as if some gurus are overnight successes with the wild numbers some people have brought in during a day or a week selling information or products online.
Some interesting facts about overnight success – it normally takes months if not years to realize. In other words, they prepare, they create a joint ventures, they get ready and then build up anticipation for a launch – then BOOM it explodes!
3. You Must Know HTML, Programming And Graphic Designing In Order To Start Your Business
You don’t need to know all of these at all. Period. In fact, one of the biggest shockers was the discovery that most of the biggest on the gurus today do not have the first clue as to how to build a web page.
These gurus earned more money because they knew how to reach people. They either outsource for professional help or establish Joint Ventures with other individuals who can compensate their lack of knowledge in any one of these areas.
As a matter of fact, most successful people are true successes because they only focus their time on what brings them successes.
If you want to create your web pages without having to learn programming, HTML and designing skills, just find someone else that can do it for you. There are many professional web designer you can find on the Internet which you can hire them to design your web pages exactly like you wanted.
4. On The Internet, There Is No Need To Know How To Sell
This statement has make people who hate selling are attracted to ads that read “no selling required”. Think for a moment, is there any logic at all you can make money without doing anything at all? Usually these programs are usually unworkable and some are run by fly-by-night operators.
In this business, don’t try to sell to other people. Instead, you inform your potential customers. Show people what their lives would be like with what you offer and you will have a sale without selling anything at all!
5. You Don’t Have To Build A Mailing List At All
Laughing out loud – that is like saying, “I don’t want to be in business”. Put this in your head, your mailing list is as important to you as the “Yellow Pages” is to a conventional B2B business.
“The money is in the list”. You probably heard this from most gurus out there. But you should also have this word in your mind, “The money is in the relationship”. The idea of networking with people is unattractive to most who hate to sell.
Remember though, you are not selling anything. You are just showing people their life and how it can easily be enhanced by what you have to offer.
All the above are just some of the big Internet lies. Actually there are a lot more Internet lies you should stay away from. You have to be smart in order to really achieve success that you could possibly imagine. Success is like enlightenment. It is a path and not a destination.
zaterdag 25 juli 2009
3 Simple Tips For Making Money Online Even If You Don’t Have Anything To Sell!
Have an idea about making money online but don’t know where to start?
There are several ways to make money on the Internet – even if you don’t have a product to sell. Keep in mind that running an online business takes time and effort, just like running any business. However, you can get started without any products, which is one less roadblock for most people wanting to start a business.
You don’t need to be a computer expert to run an online business, but you do need to either be able to set up a website, or have the resources to pay someone else to do it for you.
Here are 3 simple ways to make money online even if you don’t have your own product:
Affiliate programs
Being an affiliate means you are selling other people’s products, and you get a percentage of the sale, or you make a small fee for each person who requests more information. Most major retailers offer affiliate programs, along with many smaller retailers (with lots of good products and services). It’s not a good idea to try to compete with an established retailer like Wal-Mart, Target, or Circuit City. A better way to make money is to find a “niche” that serves a smaller group of people, that you can easily reach.
For example, rather than selling sporting goods to everyone, you might start a fishing site that sells canoes and fishing products to people who like fresh water fishing. You can also find smaller retailers who may offer more specialized products to those who know a lot about fishing, while selling the basics from Wal-Mart to beginners.
A good place to start is Commission Junction (http://www.CJ.com), and you’ll get an idea of the products you can offer. Be creative in finding your niche, start with something you know a little about, or enjoy doing, and before long you can be making money online!
Adsense from Google
Adsense is an advertising program from search engine Google.com (there are other advertising programs you can offer, but for now Google’s is the biggest and most popular). By placing ads on your site, you earn money for each person who clicks on the ad. Google will automatically determine which ads are best for your site, based on the topic of each web page. All you have to do is place the code on your web page, and Google does the rest.
You can also sell individual ads, and determine your own terms and price. But using a program like Google is simple, and if your set gets a lot of visitors, you can make good money. Again, the best way to succeed is to find a niche, create a website around that topic, and Google will be able to determine the best ads for your visitors.
Write a “How-To” booklet
If you don’t want to sell other people’s products, but don’t have a lot of money to create your own, a simple way to get started is to write your own “how-to” booklet. Pick a topic you know enough to write about, and start writing. Information products are always good sellers – the key is to solve a particular problem. “How to catch fresh water fish” or “How to plan a fishing vacation on a tight budget” are possibilities for the fishing niche mentioned above.
To learn more, do a search for “creating information products” or “writing e-books”, and you will find lots of resources. Once you create your product, Clickbank.com offers a simple service to help you sell your information product, and there are others to help you get started.
Again, be creative, there are lots of problems out there that people need help with. And offering a good solution can make you lots of money!
Making money online takes more than just building a website. You need to pick the right products or services. Then you need to find the right audience to sell those products and services. Then you need to promote your website to enough people so you can make money. For now, you should have enough ideas to get you started – even if you don’t have a product to sell yet!
There are several ways to make money on the Internet – even if you don’t have a product to sell. Keep in mind that running an online business takes time and effort, just like running any business. However, you can get started without any products, which is one less roadblock for most people wanting to start a business.
You don’t need to be a computer expert to run an online business, but you do need to either be able to set up a website, or have the resources to pay someone else to do it for you.
Here are 3 simple ways to make money online even if you don’t have your own product:
Affiliate programs
Being an affiliate means you are selling other people’s products, and you get a percentage of the sale, or you make a small fee for each person who requests more information. Most major retailers offer affiliate programs, along with many smaller retailers (with lots of good products and services). It’s not a good idea to try to compete with an established retailer like Wal-Mart, Target, or Circuit City. A better way to make money is to find a “niche” that serves a smaller group of people, that you can easily reach.
For example, rather than selling sporting goods to everyone, you might start a fishing site that sells canoes and fishing products to people who like fresh water fishing. You can also find smaller retailers who may offer more specialized products to those who know a lot about fishing, while selling the basics from Wal-Mart to beginners.
A good place to start is Commission Junction (http://www.CJ.com), and you’ll get an idea of the products you can offer. Be creative in finding your niche, start with something you know a little about, or enjoy doing, and before long you can be making money online!
Adsense from Google
Adsense is an advertising program from search engine Google.com (there are other advertising programs you can offer, but for now Google’s is the biggest and most popular). By placing ads on your site, you earn money for each person who clicks on the ad. Google will automatically determine which ads are best for your site, based on the topic of each web page. All you have to do is place the code on your web page, and Google does the rest.
You can also sell individual ads, and determine your own terms and price. But using a program like Google is simple, and if your set gets a lot of visitors, you can make good money. Again, the best way to succeed is to find a niche, create a website around that topic, and Google will be able to determine the best ads for your visitors.
Write a “How-To” booklet
If you don’t want to sell other people’s products, but don’t have a lot of money to create your own, a simple way to get started is to write your own “how-to” booklet. Pick a topic you know enough to write about, and start writing. Information products are always good sellers – the key is to solve a particular problem. “How to catch fresh water fish” or “How to plan a fishing vacation on a tight budget” are possibilities for the fishing niche mentioned above.
To learn more, do a search for “creating information products” or “writing e-books”, and you will find lots of resources. Once you create your product, Clickbank.com offers a simple service to help you sell your information product, and there are others to help you get started.
Again, be creative, there are lots of problems out there that people need help with. And offering a good solution can make you lots of money!
Making money online takes more than just building a website. You need to pick the right products or services. Then you need to find the right audience to sell those products and services. Then you need to promote your website to enough people so you can make money. For now, you should have enough ideas to get you started – even if you don’t have a product to sell yet!
vrijdag 24 juli 2009
3 Legitimate Reasons For Getting An Immediate Product Refund
So now that you've finally decided to purchase that product and can't wait to try it out, you have to find out that it does anything else but what you've expected. Don't worry, you still have a chance to get your money back with the following tips for getting an immediate product refund.
1. False advertising
"Get 10.000 hits to your website in 24 hours". Such tempting promises might sure make you wanna flip out your credit card immediately. But when you apply the methods or use the software and have to find out that those 10.000 hits might really result in 10, then this is a legitimate reason for requesting a refund. Unfortunately it's not always that easy. Many vendors get around such false advertising by stating in the fine print that these results cannot be guaranteed. Therefore always keep an eye on such statements and if you cannot believe what's advertised then search for product reviews using your favorite search engine.
2. Product outdated
Believe it or not, but I've seen products that were still advertised and happily took the money out of the customers' pockets but were totally outdated or didn't work anymore. I once bought a product that could not be downloaded anymore but still had the sales page up and running, it even displayed the current date indicating the end of a special promotion. Every attempt to contact the creator of the software failed and after I read in a forum that I wasn't the only one not being able to download the software, I contacted the credit card processing company and got my money back.
3. Usability
Not every software is as user-friendly as Windows (you got the joke, right?!), which can be frustrating if you want nothing more than use it immediately. For most complex software products there exist written tutorials that exactly describe how to use them and sometimes even video tutorials that make the product handling even easier. If you've read and watched all tutorials and still cannot manage to use the product, then state this to the creator and you should get that refund.
If you've contacted the product creator and still were not able to get a refund despite some legitimate and acceptable reasons, not all hope is gone. Most marketplaces offer a refund guarantee for products that were sold through them (e. g. Clickbank offers its customers a general refund policy of 8 weeks after the product purchase, for a vendor like PayDotCom you have to contact the credit card processor like Paypal which has a refund policy of 60 days).
It is always suggested to clearly state the reason for your product refund and to keep a friendly communication style. Even if the product is not worth a single penny it doesn't make things easier when you insult the creator. Try to show that you've really tried to use the product in an efficient way, maybe attach some screenshots, include suggestions what could be better, etc. The product creator might loose you as a customer but still can benefit from your experience and will most of the time happily give you the refund.
Whatever you do, please be fair. It's just not right to purchase a product which you badly want and then request a refund to get your money back but still continue to use the product. Most marketplaces (Clickbank, PayDotCom) tolerate 2 or even more refunds, but after that you might not be able to purchase anything again through the specific company.
1. False advertising
"Get 10.000 hits to your website in 24 hours". Such tempting promises might sure make you wanna flip out your credit card immediately. But when you apply the methods or use the software and have to find out that those 10.000 hits might really result in 10, then this is a legitimate reason for requesting a refund. Unfortunately it's not always that easy. Many vendors get around such false advertising by stating in the fine print that these results cannot be guaranteed. Therefore always keep an eye on such statements and if you cannot believe what's advertised then search for product reviews using your favorite search engine.
2. Product outdated
Believe it or not, but I've seen products that were still advertised and happily took the money out of the customers' pockets but were totally outdated or didn't work anymore. I once bought a product that could not be downloaded anymore but still had the sales page up and running, it even displayed the current date indicating the end of a special promotion. Every attempt to contact the creator of the software failed and after I read in a forum that I wasn't the only one not being able to download the software, I contacted the credit card processing company and got my money back.
3. Usability
Not every software is as user-friendly as Windows (you got the joke, right?!), which can be frustrating if you want nothing more than use it immediately. For most complex software products there exist written tutorials that exactly describe how to use them and sometimes even video tutorials that make the product handling even easier. If you've read and watched all tutorials and still cannot manage to use the product, then state this to the creator and you should get that refund.
If you've contacted the product creator and still were not able to get a refund despite some legitimate and acceptable reasons, not all hope is gone. Most marketplaces offer a refund guarantee for products that were sold through them (e. g. Clickbank offers its customers a general refund policy of 8 weeks after the product purchase, for a vendor like PayDotCom you have to contact the credit card processor like Paypal which has a refund policy of 60 days).
It is always suggested to clearly state the reason for your product refund and to keep a friendly communication style. Even if the product is not worth a single penny it doesn't make things easier when you insult the creator. Try to show that you've really tried to use the product in an efficient way, maybe attach some screenshots, include suggestions what could be better, etc. The product creator might loose you as a customer but still can benefit from your experience and will most of the time happily give you the refund.
Whatever you do, please be fair. It's just not right to purchase a product which you badly want and then request a refund to get your money back but still continue to use the product. Most marketplaces (Clickbank, PayDotCom) tolerate 2 or even more refunds, but after that you might not be able to purchase anything again through the specific company.
donderdag 23 juli 2009
Magazine Online Subscriptions – Staying Up to Date
Online commerce and content distribution has changed the face of the publishing industry and most well known magazines have an online version available. However, if you are still a firm believer of reading a magazine when reclining on a lazy-boy then you can go ahead and subscribe to the print version of the magazine. However, the process of subscribing for the magazine can be completed online within a few minutes and you can start expecting you magazines within a few days rather than the long wait which is normal when subscriptions are sent in by post.
One of the key things you will need to complete the process of magazine online subscriptions is a valid credit card. You should also ensure that the subscription page is officially from the website of the magazine and is secured. You will see a small lock at the bottom of the browser to confirm the security status of the page. Apart from the credit card, the online form will require complete shipping address where the magazine is to be delivered. It is always useful to add a landmark.
Since many magazine publishers are looking at online users, you are likely to get a good bargain (sometimes better than the subscription leaflet in the print version). Publishers having multiple magazines often club subscriptions or promise a few issues free of charge in order to capture the subscriber’s interest. One of the most prominent offers which have been doing the rounds online is the Time magazine offer for three free issues and then subscription if you like. So if you are keen on a particular magazine, do check the online site to see I there is any subscription facility available online.
One of the key things you will need to complete the process of magazine online subscriptions is a valid credit card. You should also ensure that the subscription page is officially from the website of the magazine and is secured. You will see a small lock at the bottom of the browser to confirm the security status of the page. Apart from the credit card, the online form will require complete shipping address where the magazine is to be delivered. It is always useful to add a landmark.
Since many magazine publishers are looking at online users, you are likely to get a good bargain (sometimes better than the subscription leaflet in the print version). Publishers having multiple magazines often club subscriptions or promise a few issues free of charge in order to capture the subscriber’s interest. One of the most prominent offers which have been doing the rounds online is the Time magazine offer for three free issues and then subscription if you like. So if you are keen on a particular magazine, do check the online site to see I there is any subscription facility available online.
woensdag 22 juli 2009
The Four Principles of Making an Income Online
Making an income online really can be as simple as you'd wish.
It need not seem complicated or force you to feel out of your depth.
There are four key aspects to being successful on the Internet with a website:
*Bring traffic to your website-
And there are so many different ways to get that traffic. Including the one you are reading right now-writing articles. Others are such as, pay per click, viral marketing, and ezine ads, to name just a few.
*Capture the emails of visitors to your website-
Now this could be a 'squeeze page', or a pop up or even just a simple form on your main webpage. Capturing emails and therefore building a list is vital to your internet business success. Using a 'bribe' to get them to opt into your list is also very important. Otherwise you won't capture many email addresses.
*Make the first sale from your list, offering them a product or service that will genuinely help them with their goals. (Usually this will be an entry level product and relatively inexpensive, say $20 - $40). And this aspect is very important. You want people on your list to know you are wanting to sincerely help them, not just flog them some junk for a quick buck. Which unfortunately seems to be what many lists, especially those in the Internet Marketing field are all about.
*Make additional sales from that person on your list offering them further valuable products and services. These products and services are of a higher level, what is known as a 'back-end', and also much more expensive in price. You will find these repeat customers are the lifeblood of any business. It is much easier, and cheaper, to sell to someone you have already sold to, than to a new customer.
Its as easy as 1 2 3 4!
So many people and so called 'guru's' make it seem like some kind of mystical, reserved for a privilaged few, information. But in reality, at its core, its nothing more than these four steps. Do these well and you will make money online, make ALOT of it. It is virtually impossible not to, once you have all the steps properly streamlined.
The fact is, all successful business on the internet have these four ingredients. Those that choose to skip one or more of them are the ones which tend to struggle with their own online business.
So which would you like to be.....?
It need not seem complicated or force you to feel out of your depth.
There are four key aspects to being successful on the Internet with a website:
*Bring traffic to your website-
And there are so many different ways to get that traffic. Including the one you are reading right now-writing articles. Others are such as, pay per click, viral marketing, and ezine ads, to name just a few.
*Capture the emails of visitors to your website-
Now this could be a 'squeeze page', or a pop up or even just a simple form on your main webpage. Capturing emails and therefore building a list is vital to your internet business success. Using a 'bribe' to get them to opt into your list is also very important. Otherwise you won't capture many email addresses.
*Make the first sale from your list, offering them a product or service that will genuinely help them with their goals. (Usually this will be an entry level product and relatively inexpensive, say $20 - $40). And this aspect is very important. You want people on your list to know you are wanting to sincerely help them, not just flog them some junk for a quick buck. Which unfortunately seems to be what many lists, especially those in the Internet Marketing field are all about.
*Make additional sales from that person on your list offering them further valuable products and services. These products and services are of a higher level, what is known as a 'back-end', and also much more expensive in price. You will find these repeat customers are the lifeblood of any business. It is much easier, and cheaper, to sell to someone you have already sold to, than to a new customer.
Its as easy as 1 2 3 4!
So many people and so called 'guru's' make it seem like some kind of mystical, reserved for a privilaged few, information. But in reality, at its core, its nothing more than these four steps. Do these well and you will make money online, make ALOT of it. It is virtually impossible not to, once you have all the steps properly streamlined.
The fact is, all successful business on the internet have these four ingredients. Those that choose to skip one or more of them are the ones which tend to struggle with their own online business.
So which would you like to be.....?
dinsdag 21 juli 2009
Organizing URLs 101
Every traffic exchange and program on the planet gives you a URL to promote. You may not be interested in promoting every one, but you may still want to have those URLs in a place that’s easy to find.
Why is that?
Well, if you belong to traffic exchanges, most of them have downline builders, right? So, even if you don’t belong to a dedicated downline builder, you’ll still need your usernames and affiliate links at some point and it’s great to have that information at your fingertips.
My solution is to build a table in Word or any other word processor with table-making capability. You need only two columns. The first column is for the program or traffic exchange’s name, and the second is for the affiliate URL.
I also list my banners in their respective blocks. However, when adding a banner, I color it blue. You can color it magenta. It doesn’t matter. Just so it sticks out as being different from the affiliate links.
Other URLs I might add for the same program might be shortcuts, as with TinyURL. Or tracking links, as with LinkBrander. And, I color them differently, too. You’ll be amazed at how big a difference coloring links is. It will save you lots of time in the long run. You won’t have to read the whole URL to see what it relates to, only choose the right color.
Beside these URLs, I often add descriptions. For instance, I belong to Marlon Sanders’ affiliate program, and he has umpteen products to sell. So, next to each of my affiliate URLs, I describe the product it relates to with a short keyword or two in parentheses.
You can type all of this information into your table in any order. When you've finished, click on the first column and then go to "Table" in the top toolbar and then, "Sort." Your programs and respective URLs will then be in alphabetical order, making finding your URLs very easy.
After your table is complete and sorted, save your document. Then, go to your Start menu, click the icon for My Documents and navigate to your table. Drag the icon for it to your desktop. Each time a program asks for a URL or you need one to plug into a traffic exchange for advertising or another for a downline builder, the link will be right at your fingertips. Voila!
I’ve been using this system for almost three years and it works very well for me. Try it. I hope it works well for you, too.
Why is that?
Well, if you belong to traffic exchanges, most of them have downline builders, right? So, even if you don’t belong to a dedicated downline builder, you’ll still need your usernames and affiliate links at some point and it’s great to have that information at your fingertips.
My solution is to build a table in Word or any other word processor with table-making capability. You need only two columns. The first column is for the program or traffic exchange’s name, and the second is for the affiliate URL.
I also list my banners in their respective blocks. However, when adding a banner, I color it blue. You can color it magenta. It doesn’t matter. Just so it sticks out as being different from the affiliate links.
Other URLs I might add for the same program might be shortcuts, as with TinyURL. Or tracking links, as with LinkBrander. And, I color them differently, too. You’ll be amazed at how big a difference coloring links is. It will save you lots of time in the long run. You won’t have to read the whole URL to see what it relates to, only choose the right color.
Beside these URLs, I often add descriptions. For instance, I belong to Marlon Sanders’ affiliate program, and he has umpteen products to sell. So, next to each of my affiliate URLs, I describe the product it relates to with a short keyword or two in parentheses.
You can type all of this information into your table in any order. When you've finished, click on the first column and then go to "Table" in the top toolbar and then, "Sort." Your programs and respective URLs will then be in alphabetical order, making finding your URLs very easy.
After your table is complete and sorted, save your document. Then, go to your Start menu, click the icon for My Documents and navigate to your table. Drag the icon for it to your desktop. Each time a program asks for a URL or you need one to plug into a traffic exchange for advertising or another for a downline builder, the link will be right at your fingertips. Voila!
I’ve been using this system for almost three years and it works very well for me. Try it. I hope it works well for you, too.
maandag 20 juli 2009
Truth Behind Ebooks
For 10+ years now people have been searching for ways to make money on the internet. That means for 10+ years people have been writing ebooks promising you that if you read this book you will make money on the internet.
To put it to you the easiest way I know how, “They are all full of shit”. The only reason why 99% of the ebooks ever get written is for the sole purpose of making money for the writer. The writer could care less about helping you earn money on the internet after they have sold the ebook to you. I have never purchased an ebook but I have browsed through most of the ebooks that are supposed to be decent and never found any use full information that I couldn’t find easily for free.
Here is why none of these ebooks can ever make you rich. The main reason is because they always lack the idea. This is the most important part behind making a website for profit. You need to get that one idea that is unique and its something people will want. That is a must in order to make huge profits on the internet. No one is ever going to sell you that information so stop looking for it. You need to come up with that yourself.
Heres an example on what a real “how to make money online” ebook should look like:
First off I will give you the million dollar idea that is going to make you rich. Since you are the only person who bought my ebook you will have exclusive rights to all my information and you can rest assure no one will be copying you.
Through out this ebook I am going to walk you through step by step from the idea all the way up to cashing the checks. So lets get started with the idea right now.
The million dollar idea that you bought off of me for $59,95 because I am too lazy to put this idea into action is this. You are going to make and market a website that mimics the look and functions a computer desktop. Everything will work exactly the same from moving the icons to making new folders and icons.
What this is doing is giving users something that they are used to seeing with functionality that does not need to be explained. This will help out in that famous decision that will come up to everyone that sees your site down the road which is, “Make this page your homepage?” The purpose behind this site is to get users to use it as their homepage which will end up bringing a ton of traffic to you on a daily basis.
To build the site I would just hire a programmer to make it. There are quite a few freelance sites where you can go post your job and get it done easy. I would suggest to get the site done in AJAX because its probably the easiest to do all that functionality in right now.
The first step in marketing the site is we are going to get webmasters interested. To do this we are going to allow them to create their own icons for their sites and submit them. Why would a webmaster want to waste their time doing this? Well because the icon will be listed in our directory that are users will be browsing through to put icons on their internet desktop. So it will provide a link back to their site and it will also improve the chance of users picking their site to put on their desktop for the main reason of them having a custom icon.
Now that we got the webmasters involved you should start seeing your site being talked about throughout the internet and hopefully gaining some popularity. If you are lucky you will make it on popular websites that have the ability to send you a ton of traffic like Digg and Slashdot.
Now that we have the users we were looking for now we need to make some money. This can be done in two ways. The first way is just to sell simple banner space on the top of the site. The second is to use Google search to monetize it. Both ways are effective but I believe using Google search will make you more money.
Now I know that is incomplete obviously but that is basically how an ebook that is going to make you money online should look. They should not tell you how to make money without giving you the idea. That means the only idea that they are giving you is to write an ebook and sell it to people!
To put it to you the easiest way I know how, “They are all full of shit”. The only reason why 99% of the ebooks ever get written is for the sole purpose of making money for the writer. The writer could care less about helping you earn money on the internet after they have sold the ebook to you. I have never purchased an ebook but I have browsed through most of the ebooks that are supposed to be decent and never found any use full information that I couldn’t find easily for free.
Here is why none of these ebooks can ever make you rich. The main reason is because they always lack the idea. This is the most important part behind making a website for profit. You need to get that one idea that is unique and its something people will want. That is a must in order to make huge profits on the internet. No one is ever going to sell you that information so stop looking for it. You need to come up with that yourself.
Heres an example on what a real “how to make money online” ebook should look like:
First off I will give you the million dollar idea that is going to make you rich. Since you are the only person who bought my ebook you will have exclusive rights to all my information and you can rest assure no one will be copying you.
Through out this ebook I am going to walk you through step by step from the idea all the way up to cashing the checks. So lets get started with the idea right now.
The million dollar idea that you bought off of me for $59,95 because I am too lazy to put this idea into action is this. You are going to make and market a website that mimics the look and functions a computer desktop. Everything will work exactly the same from moving the icons to making new folders and icons.
What this is doing is giving users something that they are used to seeing with functionality that does not need to be explained. This will help out in that famous decision that will come up to everyone that sees your site down the road which is, “Make this page your homepage?” The purpose behind this site is to get users to use it as their homepage which will end up bringing a ton of traffic to you on a daily basis.
To build the site I would just hire a programmer to make it. There are quite a few freelance sites where you can go post your job and get it done easy. I would suggest to get the site done in AJAX because its probably the easiest to do all that functionality in right now.
The first step in marketing the site is we are going to get webmasters interested. To do this we are going to allow them to create their own icons for their sites and submit them. Why would a webmaster want to waste their time doing this? Well because the icon will be listed in our directory that are users will be browsing through to put icons on their internet desktop. So it will provide a link back to their site and it will also improve the chance of users picking their site to put on their desktop for the main reason of them having a custom icon.
Now that we got the webmasters involved you should start seeing your site being talked about throughout the internet and hopefully gaining some popularity. If you are lucky you will make it on popular websites that have the ability to send you a ton of traffic like Digg and Slashdot.
Now that we have the users we were looking for now we need to make some money. This can be done in two ways. The first way is just to sell simple banner space on the top of the site. The second is to use Google search to monetize it. Both ways are effective but I believe using Google search will make you more money.
Now I know that is incomplete obviously but that is basically how an ebook that is going to make you money online should look. They should not tell you how to make money without giving you the idea. That means the only idea that they are giving you is to write an ebook and sell it to people!
zondag 19 juli 2009
How To Find New Coupons
Years ago, finding coupons involved the time-consuming job of searching through newspaper advertisement sections for deals and discounts. You’d search for the coupons you needed and clip them out with a pair of scissors. Coupon clipping was tedious work back then and remembering to take clipped coupons along on shopping excursions was difficult for many people. Still, paper coupons provided good savings and many people used them.
Today, more and more individuals are turning to online coupons for saving money. Instead of fooling around with newsprint and scissors, they are using computers to find coupons and coupon codes. The Internet offers a wealth of coupons, and savvy users can save a bundle using them. Best of all, there is no clipping or storing involved and you can search for online coupons and codes anytime you need them.
Wondering how to find new coupons? It is surprisingly easy. First, think about the online stores and websites you frequent on a regular basis. Most of them probably offer some type of online coupons. Each time you are considering a purchase, check the online store or websites you normally patronize for coupon deals. You will likely find at least a few coupons this way.
Next, check out sites that offer online coupons and coupon codes. Such sites are often a bargain lover’s dream, featuring discount codes and coupons for everything from baby powder and diapers to clothing and fine jewelry. In fact, there are so many available coupon deals that you are actually doing yourself a disservice by paying full price for just about anything.
Online coupon sites are set up in a variety of ways. Some compile coupons under specific headings. For example, some online coupon sites list coupons for DVD players under the heading of electronics and magazine coupons under the book and magazine heading. Some online coupon sites place discount deals in easy to use databases, while others use links to advertise coupon deals. Many online coupon websites list coupons according to brand or manufacturer names, while others supply a daily listing of the best coupon deals.
Let your personal shopping style directly influence your online coupon search. If you’re a person who likes to dig and search for deals, you might like one of the coupon sites that throws hundreds of coupons together and lets you search for deals. However, if you prefer to have your deals and discounts provided for you, with little searching required, you might prefer one of the websites that sorts online coupons and coupon codes for you by category, brand, or manufacturer. You may also find it useful to peruse a few different coupon sites and bookmark those you like best for regular use.
You can find online coupon sites that feature coupons for hundreds of products or sites that feature only a specific type of product. For example, you can find coupon sites for electronics only or sites that have coupons and codes for electronics in addition to just about anything else you can imagine. Some coupon sites allow you to select the types of coupons you wish to view, enabling you to target your coupon search and avoid viewing online coupons in which you have absolutely no interest. There are even some websites that offer automatic e-mail notification of new coupons from particular stores or in certain categories. Automatic e-mail notification makes finding and using online coupons practically effortless.
Many people think online coupon sites are limited to coupons, deals, and discounts made only for the Internet. This is a misconception, as many sites feature coupons for use both on and off the Internet. For example, you may find a Gap coupon that can be used online, as well as in your local Gap store. By contrast, most print coupons cannot be used online. Online coupons can be easily printed for use in brick and mortar stores.
In addition to online coupons, many coupon sites feature product reviews. These reviews are typically provided by average consumers and can give you valuable insight into items you may wish to buy. This is especially true of items like electronics, which are manufactured by many different companies. Product reviews can assist you in choosing such items wisely.
You may wonder what the trick or gimmick is to online coupon sites. In many cases, such sites earn commissions when customers use the coupons listed. It is basically a win-win situation as you, the consumer, gain easy access to money-saving deals and the coupon site owner earns a little cash for presenting them to you.
Do yourself a favor and forget about clipping coupons. Wash the newsprint off your hands and toss your scissors in a drawer. All you need to find great coupons and online coupon codes is your computer and access to the Internet. Saving money has never been easier.
Today, more and more individuals are turning to online coupons for saving money. Instead of fooling around with newsprint and scissors, they are using computers to find coupons and coupon codes. The Internet offers a wealth of coupons, and savvy users can save a bundle using them. Best of all, there is no clipping or storing involved and you can search for online coupons and codes anytime you need them.
Wondering how to find new coupons? It is surprisingly easy. First, think about the online stores and websites you frequent on a regular basis. Most of them probably offer some type of online coupons. Each time you are considering a purchase, check the online store or websites you normally patronize for coupon deals. You will likely find at least a few coupons this way.
Next, check out sites that offer online coupons and coupon codes. Such sites are often a bargain lover’s dream, featuring discount codes and coupons for everything from baby powder and diapers to clothing and fine jewelry. In fact, there are so many available coupon deals that you are actually doing yourself a disservice by paying full price for just about anything.
Online coupon sites are set up in a variety of ways. Some compile coupons under specific headings. For example, some online coupon sites list coupons for DVD players under the heading of electronics and magazine coupons under the book and magazine heading. Some online coupon sites place discount deals in easy to use databases, while others use links to advertise coupon deals. Many online coupon websites list coupons according to brand or manufacturer names, while others supply a daily listing of the best coupon deals.
Let your personal shopping style directly influence your online coupon search. If you’re a person who likes to dig and search for deals, you might like one of the coupon sites that throws hundreds of coupons together and lets you search for deals. However, if you prefer to have your deals and discounts provided for you, with little searching required, you might prefer one of the websites that sorts online coupons and coupon codes for you by category, brand, or manufacturer. You may also find it useful to peruse a few different coupon sites and bookmark those you like best for regular use.
You can find online coupon sites that feature coupons for hundreds of products or sites that feature only a specific type of product. For example, you can find coupon sites for electronics only or sites that have coupons and codes for electronics in addition to just about anything else you can imagine. Some coupon sites allow you to select the types of coupons you wish to view, enabling you to target your coupon search and avoid viewing online coupons in which you have absolutely no interest. There are even some websites that offer automatic e-mail notification of new coupons from particular stores or in certain categories. Automatic e-mail notification makes finding and using online coupons practically effortless.
Many people think online coupon sites are limited to coupons, deals, and discounts made only for the Internet. This is a misconception, as many sites feature coupons for use both on and off the Internet. For example, you may find a Gap coupon that can be used online, as well as in your local Gap store. By contrast, most print coupons cannot be used online. Online coupons can be easily printed for use in brick and mortar stores.
In addition to online coupons, many coupon sites feature product reviews. These reviews are typically provided by average consumers and can give you valuable insight into items you may wish to buy. This is especially true of items like electronics, which are manufactured by many different companies. Product reviews can assist you in choosing such items wisely.
You may wonder what the trick or gimmick is to online coupon sites. In many cases, such sites earn commissions when customers use the coupons listed. It is basically a win-win situation as you, the consumer, gain easy access to money-saving deals and the coupon site owner earns a little cash for presenting them to you.
Do yourself a favor and forget about clipping coupons. Wash the newsprint off your hands and toss your scissors in a drawer. All you need to find great coupons and online coupon codes is your computer and access to the Internet. Saving money has never been easier.
zaterdag 18 juli 2009
Is An Ebusiness Right For You
You need to make some money. Perhaps you'd like to change careers. Maybe you'd like a new challenge. Or you've just heard the rumors about the fortunes to be made on the internet.
Any one of these reasons might have led you to the decision to start your own internet business, but before you begin investing your time and money there are some important questions you need to answer to determine if an ebusiness is right for you.
First you should consider your familiarity and ease with the internet. If you don't know about negotiate the web or attempting to do makes you uncomfortable then this alone does not mean you should rethink starting an ebusiness. However it does mean that you need to spend time learning about how the internet works and getting familiar with basic tools such as email, web browsers, message boards, and search engines. If your discomfort was a simple result of ignorance then don't worry about it as you can acquire the knowledge and skills you need. However if you find that you simply don't like it even after you become familiar then that should be a red flag to consider another career path.
Second you should consider your business knowledge and experience and then consider how that works for you or against you in the world of ecommerce. A simple lack of knowledge and experience simply means that you will need to spend time learning or filling in the gaps in your knowledge. The good news is that this information is readily available on the internet. Of course the bad news is that if you leap into business before you are ready it can cost you a lot of time and money. My advice is to read articles and ebooks to acquire a basic foundation then begin spending time in some online forums and ask questions. People are always willing to help. Don't spend any money while building this foundation knowledge. You don't have to so why do it? Latter on as you begin to delve deeper into your niche then you may decide that some information is worth paying for but hopefully by then you'll be a better judge. However you may discover during your studies that ecommerce bores you or confuses you. Again, that should be a red flag to consider another career path.
Third what need will your ebusiness fill? Obviously you have needs but that is not what I'm talking about. Think about your potential audience or customer. Start searching for other products that might compete with yours or other businesses that already exist. Visit forums, subscribe to newsletters, and study web sites that relate to this field. Eventually you will be able to determine if there is a need for your ebusiness, how big a demand exists, and how much competition is already in place. It is important to consider these angles because each fact will help determine how easy it will be to establish your new business, grow that business, and ensure its success. You can make a success in a highly competitive field but it is more work than finding yourself in a smaller, yet unexplored, niche.
Any one of these reasons might have led you to the decision to start your own internet business, but before you begin investing your time and money there are some important questions you need to answer to determine if an ebusiness is right for you.
First you should consider your familiarity and ease with the internet. If you don't know about negotiate the web or attempting to do makes you uncomfortable then this alone does not mean you should rethink starting an ebusiness. However it does mean that you need to spend time learning about how the internet works and getting familiar with basic tools such as email, web browsers, message boards, and search engines. If your discomfort was a simple result of ignorance then don't worry about it as you can acquire the knowledge and skills you need. However if you find that you simply don't like it even after you become familiar then that should be a red flag to consider another career path.
Second you should consider your business knowledge and experience and then consider how that works for you or against you in the world of ecommerce. A simple lack of knowledge and experience simply means that you will need to spend time learning or filling in the gaps in your knowledge. The good news is that this information is readily available on the internet. Of course the bad news is that if you leap into business before you are ready it can cost you a lot of time and money. My advice is to read articles and ebooks to acquire a basic foundation then begin spending time in some online forums and ask questions. People are always willing to help. Don't spend any money while building this foundation knowledge. You don't have to so why do it? Latter on as you begin to delve deeper into your niche then you may decide that some information is worth paying for but hopefully by then you'll be a better judge. However you may discover during your studies that ecommerce bores you or confuses you. Again, that should be a red flag to consider another career path.
Third what need will your ebusiness fill? Obviously you have needs but that is not what I'm talking about. Think about your potential audience or customer. Start searching for other products that might compete with yours or other businesses that already exist. Visit forums, subscribe to newsletters, and study web sites that relate to this field. Eventually you will be able to determine if there is a need for your ebusiness, how big a demand exists, and how much competition is already in place. It is important to consider these angles because each fact will help determine how easy it will be to establish your new business, grow that business, and ensure its success. You can make a success in a highly competitive field but it is more work than finding yourself in a smaller, yet unexplored, niche.
vrijdag 17 juli 2009
Seven Secrets of Internet Millionaires
Internet millionaires don’t acquire their wealth and success by luck of the draw. They know the secrets to success. These secrets are so valuable that if you implement them, you will succeed in your own Internet business.
There are two general types of secrets that Internet millionaires know which include external and internal secrets. We will discuss these secrets in detail in hopes that you will use them to your advantage and become an Internet millionaire yourself.
First, let’s look at the external secrets that Internet millionaires have in their tool kit.
Internet Millionaire Secret #1: Internet millionaires recognize that strategy should be the foundation of any marketing plan. It is critical to have a marketing strategy and not just jump into marketing techniques. For example, we don’t have to use mass advertising anymore because mass advertising doesn’t have strength because consumers have choices. You would have wasted valuable time and money if you used mass marketing techniques without first strategizing about the state of the market.
Internet Millionaire Secret #2: Internet millionaires are not generalists. They focus on selling their products and services to specific niche markets. The business market in general is going in the direction of niche markets because customers have more choices regarding places to buy their products.
Internet Millionaire Secret #3: Search for and grab untapped markets. Seek out people that have not been able to have access to your product in the past. In untapped markets, you don’t have to deal with competitors which helps keep the marketing costs down. In addition, you will be able to establish a rapport and trust with your customers.
Internet Millionaire Secret #4: Your backend strategy is crucial to success.You want several profit centers that allow you to sell your products and services to more customers. The backend part of your company supports these profit centers. It diversifies your business so you are bringing in money through many different areas. You can’t rely on retiring early if you only have one profit center.
Internet Millionaire Secret #5: Try to automate as many services as possible. This will allow you to sell services 24 hours a day 7 days a week online. Automate your service centers to cut down on costs and help your customers at all hours of the day.
Internet Millionaire Secret #6: Set up your business so that you are replaceable. You can make yourself replaceable by branding. Branding encompasses yourself or the value that you provide. Branding yourself is lucrative, but it doesn’t allow you to take a break because you have to make every decision. Branding your value, on the other hand, sells your expertise and not your time.
Internet Millionaire Secret #7: Don’t work alone; build a team to support your business venture. Create a team of marketing, business, a mentor and accountability individuals. Remember, two heads are better than one so you can discuss ideas and strategies you have for your business.
Internet millionaires also have internal secrets. An Internet millionaire has self confidence and believes in their product. They are able to make decisions quickly. They have learned the correct information and modeled others that have proven success. They are not afraid to make a mistake and realize that their job doesn’t define who they are. One of the most vital secrets is that Internet millionaires persevere and never give up no matter what obstacles cross their path.
donderdag 16 juli 2009
Achieve Indepencence Through Web Lead Generation
Before setting up anything, it is important that you understand the high relevance of lead generation to your business' success. It is highly important for you to be able to find ways for lead generation because without lead generation, your business will really suffer. Leads potentially lead to shoppers, and shoppers potentially lead to sales and profits. Thus, with no leads, you can have no shoppers, and so forth.
1. Business Breeds Business
A poor quality of lead generation will end up costing you a lot of wasted time and money. The initial impression people have about your business is very important. And if people hear that many of their friends are shopping somewhere, they are likely to try shopping there also. Take command of your company's lead generation - never leave the sales of your business as well as its growth, efficiency, and image, to fate.
2. Growth Is More Important Than Profits
You always need to supervise your company's lead generation so that you won't be left in the dark when it comes to your company's growth (or lack of it). If you are now interested in taking command of your company's lead generation, here are some simple tricks of the trade.
3. Use The Internet
Since hundreds of millions of people are logged on to the internet every single day, whether they are looking for something specific or just browsing around, it is highly important that you are able to bypass all the lead brokers as well as the other competition on the internet and just directly connect to your desired customers straight to a company's web site. You MUST have a website. In this day and age, your customers not only expect it, they demand it.
4. Lead Generation
Choose a lead generation that you can efficiently control and which is highly dependable. Make sure that your lead generation system is cost effective and specifically targeted to internet lead generation. Start getting off the lead generation habit of merely doing internet sales leads. It is advisable for your company to be able to develop a type of lead generation program where you will be able to cut out the middleman. You will not only be able to increase your company's lead generation but it can also improve the quality of your company's internet lead generation wherein you will be able to cut your costs per lead.
It is important to note that being able to create an effective internet sales lead generation system or program comprises of being highly sensitive of what you prospective clients want such as the right keywords or phrases that prospective clients usually use in the internet search engines. It is to the client's advantage that he or she will be able to choose the right keyword or key phrase (the ones that are most likely to be used by their prospective clients) because the whole point of lead generation is to basically be able to gain as much exposure over the net as possible as well as being able to provide all relevant information to their prospective clients.
1. Business Breeds Business
A poor quality of lead generation will end up costing you a lot of wasted time and money. The initial impression people have about your business is very important. And if people hear that many of their friends are shopping somewhere, they are likely to try shopping there also. Take command of your company's lead generation - never leave the sales of your business as well as its growth, efficiency, and image, to fate.
2. Growth Is More Important Than Profits
You always need to supervise your company's lead generation so that you won't be left in the dark when it comes to your company's growth (or lack of it). If you are now interested in taking command of your company's lead generation, here are some simple tricks of the trade.
3. Use The Internet
Since hundreds of millions of people are logged on to the internet every single day, whether they are looking for something specific or just browsing around, it is highly important that you are able to bypass all the lead brokers as well as the other competition on the internet and just directly connect to your desired customers straight to a company's web site. You MUST have a website. In this day and age, your customers not only expect it, they demand it.
4. Lead Generation
Choose a lead generation that you can efficiently control and which is highly dependable. Make sure that your lead generation system is cost effective and specifically targeted to internet lead generation. Start getting off the lead generation habit of merely doing internet sales leads. It is advisable for your company to be able to develop a type of lead generation program where you will be able to cut out the middleman. You will not only be able to increase your company's lead generation but it can also improve the quality of your company's internet lead generation wherein you will be able to cut your costs per lead.
It is important to note that being able to create an effective internet sales lead generation system or program comprises of being highly sensitive of what you prospective clients want such as the right keywords or phrases that prospective clients usually use in the internet search engines. It is to the client's advantage that he or she will be able to choose the right keyword or key phrase (the ones that are most likely to be used by their prospective clients) because the whole point of lead generation is to basically be able to gain as much exposure over the net as possible as well as being able to provide all relevant information to their prospective clients.
woensdag 15 juli 2009
How to build links the easy way with Pyramid Linking
Building quality links to your website has always been one of the most difficult and tedious methods of search engine optimisation. Good quality links are hard to obtain and with reciprocal linking being devalued by popular search engines such as Google the task is getting even harder.
A new free to use website called http://www.pyramidlinking.com/ is poised to make link building easy once again. In 2006 it’s not often that a genuinely new idea appears on the internet but Pyramid Linking looks to be one of the big new sites of the year.
With over 500 links exchanged between 100 users within hours of the sites unofficial launch its clear that webmasters are as keen as ever to build links.
Each website that signs up is given a list of sites to link to. Once the links have been validated the site is added to the link queue and will receive twice as many links as it donated.
The links obtained using the site are one-way static links in plain html so there are no scripts to install or tracking code to leave a footprint for search engines to detect. The links obtained are all relevant and, due to the nature of the program, are all of a higher PageRank than the links donated.
An innovative referral program will give all users the opportunity to earn 5 extra links for each new user they refer.
Pyramid Linking is run by a team of experienced programmers and SEO professionals with experience dating back to 1998. The site has been designed to be usable and offer maximum information about the program.
Why not take a look at the http://www.pyramidlinking.com/ website and see how easy it could be to build your links? It could be the best opportunity of the year for your website.
Freelance
A new free to use website called http://www.pyramidlinking.com/ is poised to make link building easy once again. In 2006 it’s not often that a genuinely new idea appears on the internet but Pyramid Linking looks to be one of the big new sites of the year.
With over 500 links exchanged between 100 users within hours of the sites unofficial launch its clear that webmasters are as keen as ever to build links.
Each website that signs up is given a list of sites to link to. Once the links have been validated the site is added to the link queue and will receive twice as many links as it donated.
The links obtained using the site are one-way static links in plain html so there are no scripts to install or tracking code to leave a footprint for search engines to detect. The links obtained are all relevant and, due to the nature of the program, are all of a higher PageRank than the links donated.
An innovative referral program will give all users the opportunity to earn 5 extra links for each new user they refer.
Pyramid Linking is run by a team of experienced programmers and SEO professionals with experience dating back to 1998. The site has been designed to be usable and offer maximum information about the program.
Why not take a look at the http://www.pyramidlinking.com/ website and see how easy it could be to build your links? It could be the best opportunity of the year for your website.
Freelance
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