(Failure to) Build a List

Failing to collect names in order to build a list of email addresses you can continuously promote to is a BIG mistake. Building a business online is a very long term process that requires time and effort. It’s not an easy road. An integral part of that process is collecting and developing a list of email addresses that you can promote well into the future. By doing so you are able to take advantage of the efficiency of both your cost and effort while still growing your business.

(Failure to) Build a Relationship

When you build a list for your online business you first want to develop a relationship with list members BEFORE you start promoting to them. This also works in life. Become friends first. This helps to strengthen their loyalty towards you and makes your promotional efforts easier.

‘No Ask No Get’

As your relationship with list members grows now is the time to begin promoting your goods and services. It is not necessary nor is it recommended to make every email message promotional in nature. On the other hand do not be shy about marketing to your list either since this is why you collected names in the first place. You don’t ask, you won’t get.

Lacking Perseverance

Do not expect that every time you promote something the people on your list will buy since this is unrealistic and will never happen. It is important to understand that on average it can take up to seven contacts with a person before they make a purchase. In other words DO NOT GIVE UP after one or two attempts! You will make it work.

Overusing Graphics

Placing graphics or using multi-media tools on your site is perfectly fine as long as it aids the selling process. Be careful to NOT overload your site with too many distractions and problematic graphics however since this will be an annoyance and distraction for your website visitors. You want them to clearly understand the message on your site which of course is to make a purchase. Don’t overuse them!

Ineffective Sales Copy

Copy writing is how you sell anything on the internet and if you do not know how to produce effective sales copy either learn to or hire a professional. This should be considered a very important component of your overall online marketing strategy.
Look around online and examine the various sales letters and see how they are written. Notice how they ‘target’ certain emotional triggers in the reader and at what point in the sales copy this done. Copy writing is a talent that can be learned and if you take the time to do so it will be one of your most valued assets. Not saying our website is perfect, but we are trying everyday to make it better.

Expecting Not to Work Hard

An online business differs from a traditional off-line business only in that the primary means of communicating to your customers is through the internet. Online entrepreneurs must first invest their time and effort in order to see their businesses grow and flourish. It is true that many tasks can be ‘automated’ it but you will FIRST have to establish a business to do this.
If you are thinking online marketing is an easy road to overnight riches you have been misled. Online marketing is a way to realistically build a solid and lucrative business in a ‘relatively’ short period of time but only AFTER an investment of time and effort.

Avoiding these mistakes can help with your online marketing success. Check out Adogy for ways to monetize your affiliate success!