Get High-Paying Freelance Writing Jobs: 4 Keys to Marketing for — and Landing — High-Paying Clients
November 29, 2011
Like most of the posts here on InkwellEditorial.com, this one was inspired by readers who send me questions. Over the last month or so, I’ve received four emails from freelancers asking either directly or indirectly about how to grow their businesses – and it all starts with landing high-paying freelance writing jobs (or at least those that pay well enough to be able to pay outsourcers a decent rate.
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Editor Note: Inkwell Editorial Holiday Deals and Discounts: We’ve got some good ones, eg, 1/2 off!
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Following is the email that was very direct about it. This freelance writer wrote a very detailed question. Note: Even though he’s an SEO writer, the advice I’m going to give applies no matter what type of writing you specialize in, so that’s why it’s posted here, instead of on SeoWritingJobs.com, Inkwell’s sister blog devoted to web/SEO content writing:
Hi Yuwanda,
I generally like to figure things out on my own, but this is one of those times where I realize I need to get better at asking for help. I’m the [SEO] writer who secured about $5000 worth of work [see testimonial #24 at this link], (probably much more) with one firm, and I’ve continued to find enough business to make my wife and I’s expenses and a little more. So, I guess in a beginning sense, I’m successful, and I’m grateful for that.
However, my goal with this freelance writing is to make six figures the first year, if not more, as it seems to be very doable. The problem that I’m having is locating companies who will pay better rates than what I’m getting right now. Right now, most companies I know will pay $20-$25, and I have one committed to $30 per article. My goal is to get double that because I would like to be able to pay writers working for me better than a starvation wage of $15 per article, which is just not fair.
I followed your advice targeting the SEO companies, and that has worked so far. The problem is that I don’t know how to break into that next level of clientele. Right now, I’m thinking SEO companies may not be willing to do $40-$60 per article, but I could be mistaken on that.
FYI – I am a complete newbie to the marketing aspect of business. I guess what I’m asking is where should I try marketing in order to get higher-paying clientele? I could do offline marketing to small firms like one of your e-books suggested, but I don’t feel like enough of an expert to stand in front of people and tell them how it works yet (although I feel that’s close).
One of your reports says that “large firms” are looking for freelancers, and of course, would be able to pay higher rates. How do I go about contacting these “large firms?” Where are they? Do I call the front desk and ask to talk to someone in charge of that? I don’t think they’d let me through! Do I send a marketing e-mail or letter? I’m just 28 and quit my part-time job (only 10-15 hours per week anyway), so I’m still learning some aspects of business, and marketing is one of them.
I feel that I could write a great marketing letter to talk about how beneficial superb content writing is, but I just don’t know where/how to target businesses online. One possibility I heard would be to network with small business owners on an online forum. This makes sense to me.
I apologize if I’ve overstepped my bounds on any of this – most people don’t like to give away trade secrets, but I’ve never gotten the sense from you that you are that way. I guess I’m just looking to get pointed in the right direction is all. Thanks for any help that you are willing to provide.
~D
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My Answer
The first thing I want to say is that some experts may disagree with what I’m about to tell you. But, I always dispense advice based on my own personal experiences, so take it for what it’s worth. Also, I never mind sharing my “trade secrets;” for, really they’re not secrets at all. It’s basically good ole hard work. So I don’t have anything I do that I don’t share to land freeelance writing jobs.
My “Secret” to Landing Freelance Writing Jobs
If there’s one thing I “may” do differently is . . . I tend to stick with things. Too many wannabe business owners give up when the going gets tough (and that’s why they remain “wannabes” instead of “doers”). I’m the type that tends to dig in and work harder when things get tough. I will try 9011 different ways to make something work before I’ll give up. And, I never give up — unless data says, “Oh, that’s NEVER going to work.”
But, with freelance writing (eg, landing high-paying clients), there’s no data that says that. In fact, all the “data” is to the contrary. Others land clients charging more, so my mindset is, so can I. Moving on . . . following is my advice to this freelancer.
Confidence: The #1 Skill Needed to Market to Clients for High-Paying Freelance Writing Jobs
To answer THIS freelancer in particular, I don’t think he’s ready to market for higher-paying clients simply because he’s not confident enough yet in his skills as a marketer. When you’re asking prospects to shell out more than what they consider is the “industry norm,” many of them are going to ask some pretty detailed questions.
And if you’re not knowledgeable, skilled or comfortable enough to answer, then you’re going to blow the sale before you even have a real shot at it – even if you could handle the work.
Selling to higher-end clients is really no different than selling to mid-priced or lower-end ones (at least as far as technique), but your mindset must be different. This boils down to one factor that I think many newbies (even experienced freelancers) lack, and that’s confidence.
You must have confidence in your abilities, your product/service, your presentation and your skills.
So with that being said, following is some insight for all freelance writers on how to market for – and land – higher-paying clients.
3 Things to Prepare to Market for High-Paying Freelance Writing Jobs
I. Results Package: The reason freelance writers like Bob Bly can ask for – and get – five figures to write a direct mail sales package is because he has proven results. He’s worked for some of the biggest names in the business, so clients don’t even quibble when they come to him.
They EXPECT to pay top dollar.
“But,” you may be thinking, “I’m no Bob Bly and haven’t written for noted companies, how do I get there?” Glad you asked.
One of the best places to start landing high-paying clients is your local Chamber of Commerce. I got some of my most lucrative gigs from Chambers because it’s where the small business owners in any community are. And many of them know jack, zilch, nada about marketing online.
All you have to do is show them how they can. Many of them have websites that don’t produce any sales or leads. As a freelance writer, it’s pretty easy to take a site from getting 20 or 30 visitors a day to 500 to 1,000 and is generating 3, 5 or 10 leads a week.
Right there what do you have? RESULTS! Results that you can turn into a case study and put as a pdf download on your site and use in your marketing efforts.
One of these can start landing you higher-paying clients.
II. Benefits Package: The second thing you need in your arsenal to market for high-paying freelance writing jobs is a benefits package. This is little more than a sales letter; again, one you can turn into a pdf file and put on your website.
When you’re asking clients to pay top dollar (or more than the industry norm); you’d better be able to justify your rates.
One way to do this is to – while spelling out benefits – explain to them that you understand your industry. The online marketing tutorial my SEO writing firm produced is a good example. It’s written as a tutorial for clients that explains what internet marketing is all about – and how SEO content is an integral part of that.
Note: Learn how I landed a high-paying SEO writing client as soon as a prospect finished reading this report.
Because my firm authored the report, when it comes time for them to hire an SEO writing company, we have a good shot at the business because the report illustrates that we know what the heck we’re talking about when it comes to not only SEO writing, but internet marketing.
The report connects a lot of dots – and if you’re the one doing the “teaching” when it comes time for a prospect to hire a firm to do some writing, again, you have a shot at the business.
FYI, this is known as content marketing – and is some of the most effective, FREE marketing you can do.
III. A Niche: One of the easiest ways to land high-paying freelance writing jobs is to niche it; ie, specialize in providing a certain type of content.
Now, this writer is an SEO writer, so he probably writes on everything under the sun (most SEO writers do). But, it still does not mean that you can’t specialize.
I’ve told the story ad nauseam, but the very first SEO writing job I landed I got because I pitched myself as a real estate/mortgage writer. The client hired me to write about mortgages, but I went on to write a few thousand SEO articles for them on everything from wire jewelry to ski resorts. But, it was my knowledge of real estate/mortgages that got my foot in the door with this firm.
Bob Bly, the copywriter mentioned earlier specializes in direct mail packages.
Another freelancer, who’s profiled in the ebook, Advice from Successful Freelancers: How They Built Their Biz & How You Can Too!, specializes in alternative health. She wrote in the update I did recently of this ebook (it was originally published in 2004 and I updated it a few months ago):
Hi Yuwanda,
Wow, 7 years went fast. :) Yes, business is booming and I’m still enjoying the freelance life very much. I’m working between 30 and 40 hours per week and enjoying a 6-figure income. (emphasis added) A few years ago, I decided to specialize in alternative health . . . and that helped me land higher quality, national-level clients.
Another thing about “niching it” is that you have an in-built client base to market to. For example, if you decided to specialize in providing SEO content to attorneys, you know where to go: eg, websites of attorneys, the ABA (American Bar Association) website; legal nonprofit groups; etc.
See what I mean?
Hope these four keys give you some insight into what it takes to market for high-paying freelance writing jobs.
Good luck!
P.S.: Learn how to build a six-figure freelance business in The Freelance Writer’s Outsource Package.
P.P.S.: Pad freelance writing dry spells and earn holiday cash. Learn how I’ve averaged $100-$150/day placing free classified ads since January 2009.
Holiday Deals and Discounts on Freelance Writing Ebooks & Eclasses
November 28, 2011
I received the following e-mail from a site reader last week, which inspired me to offer deals and discounts on our freelance writing products/classes early this year compared to last – and it’ll be for a longer period of time.
The reader wrote:
Hi Yuwanda,
Love your site and information. I hope you are having a fantastic Thanksgiving. I wanted to ask if you would be doing a holiday sale buy one get one free like you did last year. I know that I will be getting your ebook in 3 days Ebook and I would like to get the ebook about Free Classifieds.
I have decided to build an ebook and affiliate marketing business.
I am inspired to be able to be able to take care of myself and my daughter and be home to continue to homeschool her.
Thank you in advance an again thanks for the information and inspiration to live my life on my own terms.
My Response
First T, I did have a nice Thanksgiving; hope you did too. Thanks for inquiring.
Now to business — good for you for deciding to take control of your financial future. As I said in last year’s holiday deals and discount post:
I’m a huge advocate of always, always, always having something going on on the side because there is no such thing (in my opinion) as job security anymore.
I’d even argue that freelancing is the new job security in this global economy.
Recession-Proof Job? Job Stability? Should “Freelancing” be the Synonym Here?
Proof of the bolded statement just above? The Bureau of Labor statistics October 2011 report found that:
The unemployment rate has remained in a narrow range from 9.0 to 9.2 percent since April (it’s currently 9 percent);
In October, the number of long-term unemployed — those who have been jobless for 27 weeks or more (that’s almost 7 months!) – makes up over 40 percent (42.4 percent to be exact) of unemployed individuals; and perhaps most disheartening of all is . . .
There were almost a million (967,000 to be exact) discouraged workers in the labor force. Discouraged workers are persons not currently looking for work because they believe no jobs are available for them. In short, these people have given up hope.
When you give up hope, what’s left?
So to “keep hope alive” for those who’ve decided to take charge like the above freelancer, here are Inkwell Editorial’s Deals and Discounts for the 2011 Holiday Season. Note: All offers are good through the end of the year (til midnight U.S. EST on 12/31/2011).
2011 Inkwell Editorial Holiday Discounts
Half-Price on All Ebooks: Right now if you buy any ebook, you get a second one of your choosing for half off. Note: The “half off” ebook must be priced equal to or LESS than your highest-priced item. For example, if you buy an ebook for $19.95, you get half off a second one priced at $19.95 or less.
How to Take Advantage of This Sale: Make your selections, figure the total, then send payments to payment@InkwellEditorial.com. DO NOT purchase via the payment buttons on the site. Tell us in the comments section of your PayPal payment which ebooks you want. All ebooks will be delivered manually within 24 hours (yes, even on the weekend).
50% Off Freelance Writing Ecourse: The general freelance writing e-course. Note: You can pay in 2 installments for this ecourse. All payments must be received by 12/31/2011. E-course will be delivered after final payment is made.
$300 Off SEO Copywriter Training ECourse: The SEO Copywriting Training e-course. Note: You can pay in 2 installments for this ecourse. All payments must be received by 12/31/2011. E-course will be delivered after final payment is made.
Here’s to finally getting your freelance writing, internet marketing and/or self-publishing career off the ground in 2012!
P.S.: Get Freelance Writing Jobs — Learn How to Create an Online Writing Portfolio That Lands Jobs — Fast!
Get Freelance Writing Jobs: How to Create an Online Writing Portfolio That Lands Jobs Fast! Advice for Web Writers
November 27, 2011
[See all Inkwell Editorial Work-from-Home Titles Here]
PREFACE
One of the things that scare the bejeezus out of most new freelance writers is not having any experience; hence, no writing samples to show clients.
Take the fear out of hearing, “Do you have writing samples?” for only $19.95.
The Writing Samples Quandary: One Thing That Terrifies Many New Freelance Writers
If a client asks to see their “portfolio of work,” most are stumped; they’re literally terrified of being asked this question. But, there’s no need to be.
You can create an online writing portfolio in just a matter of hours – really! And, start landing freelance writing jobs – online and off — almost immediately. How do I know?
Well . . . because I’ve done it!
I created my SEO writing portfolio in a matter of hours – and went on to land 14 jobs in one week (and many more since then), which I detail in the ebook, How to Make $250+/Day Writing Simple, 500-Word Articles.
The Importance of Having an Online Writing Portfolio: How It Catapulted My Career
I have made such a good living writing SEO content since 2007 that I have been able to:
(i) Start/grow an SEO writing company;
(ii) Move into a strictly managerial role in at this firm – as of summer of 2011, I rarely write for clients anymore, I mostly outsource and oversee projects;
(iii) Focus on writing and publishing my own ebooks and e-classes , which accounted for more than half my annual income for the first time ever in 2010;
(iv) Pay off a ton of debt; and
(iv) Travel, live and work abroad, which I talk about in the free ebook, Living the Freelance Life! Learn How I Live Internationally and Have Made My Living Completely Online (Since 2007) & You Can Too! (subscribe from any page of InkwellEditorial.com to get it).
A Freelance Writing Portfolio Reference Guide: Who This Ebook Can Help
This ebook is a step-by-step guide that shows you exactly what you need to do to put together an online writing portfolio that will impress clients – and start landing you freelance writing jobs quickly.
No Experience as a Freelance Writer; No Writing Samples – No Problem!
Just because you don’t have experience does not mean that you can’t market for – and land – freelance writing jobs. After all, we all have to start somewhere, right?
Well, the info here will not only get you started – it’ll put you on the fast track to landing jobs just like experienced freelance writers.
With that being said, following is a complete Table of Contents, which details the five steps you need to take to create an impressive freelance, online writing portfolio.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE, Page 2
The Writing Samples Quandary: One Thing That Terrifies Many New Freelance Writers, Page 2
How I Created an Online Writing Portfolio in a Matter of Hours & Landed My First Job, Page 2
The Importance of Having an Online Writing Portfolio: How It Catapulted My Career, Page 4
A Freelance Writing Portfolio Reference Guide: Who This Ebook Can Help, Page 4
No Experience as a Freelance Writer; No Writing Samples – No Problem! Page 4
STEP I: DETERMINE YOUR NICHES, Page 7
To Get Freelance Writing Jobs Fast, Why It’s Important to Niche It, Page 7
How to Develop a Niche in 3 Simple Steps, Page 8
The Easiest Way to Get Writing Samples If You Have No Experience, Page 9
5 Elements Samples that Land Freelance Writing Jobs Must Have, Page 11
3 Kinds of Writers: Which Category Do You Fall In? Page 11
Why Good Samples Can Leave Some Clients Speechless – and Willing to Pay More, Page 12
Do Your Writing Samples Have These 5 Elements? Page 13
Freelance Writers: When and When Not to Use Copy You’ve Written for Clients in Your Portfolio, Page 18
3 Ways to Skirt the “Don’t Use Client Samples In Your Portfolio” Rule, Page 19
Why It’s the Norm for Freelance Writers to Give Away All Rights to Content, Page 19
Writing Sample Example, Page 21
Writing Sample Example: 5 Key Elements Highlighted, Page 23
STEP II: STUDY THE COMPETITION, Page 26
How Many Competitor Sites Should You Research, Page 26
10 Specifics to Study When Researching Other Freelance Writer (Competitor) Sites, Page 26
STEP III: CONDUCT KEYWORD RESEARCH, Page 38
How to Conduct Keyword Research: A Quick Overview, Page 38
How to Determine Which Keywords to Use in Your Writing Samples, Page 42
Keyword Research: How to Tell If an Audience is Big Enough to Write For, Page 43
Section Conclusion, Page 43
STEP IV: WRITE, Page 44
Don’t Make This Mistake When Deciding Which Keyword Phrases to Use in Your Writing Samples, Page 44
Where to Use Keywords in Your Freelance Writing Samples, Page 45
Section Conclusion, Page 45
STEP V: PUBLISH ONLINE, Page 46
Getting to the Point Where You Don’t Need Writing Samples, Page 46
Section Conclusion, Page 47
CONCLUSION, Page 48
ABOUT THE AUTHOR, Page 49
Learn how to create writing samples — fast! — and start competing with more experienced freelancers for only $19.95.
Marketing with Press Releases: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
November 26, 2011
[See all Inkwell Editorial Work-from-Home Titles Here]
The following is an excerpt (a pullout) from the ebook, The Small Biz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit! A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Guide for Entrepreneurs.
$6.95 (Instant Download)
Marketing with press releases – one of the eight marketing ideas discussed in the above-mentioned ebook – is free and easy to do! And, it doesn’t require a big time commitment. Following is a step-by-step plan of how to market via this medium – the right way.
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
InkwellEditorial.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What Is a Press Release? Page 4
The 6 Elements of an Effective Press Release, Page 4
How to Make Your Press Release Relevant, Page 6
The Difference between Press Releases and Articles, Page 6
The 4 Best Ways to Make a Press Release Work for You, Page 6
The 5 Sections of a Press Release, Page 7
Guide to Writing a Press Release, Page 9
How to Submit Press Releases to Free PR Sites, Page 11
Press Release Example, Page 12
SEO Press Release: What It Is and Why It’s Extremely Important to Do It, Page 21
How to Get Your Press Release in the Top Positions in Search Engine Results, Page 22
Where to Find Keywords to Use in Your Press Release, Page 23
SEO Your Press Release: A Free Tutorial, Page 29
Why You Should Learn to Write Your Own Press Releases, Page 30
Hire Professionals to Write Your Press Release: Online Sources, Page 30
How Much Does It Cost to Write and Distribute a Press Release, Page 31
Learn everything you need to know to market effectively via this free method for only $6.95. Instant download.
Postcards Marketing: A Simple Guide to How to Do It Right
November 26, 2011
The following is an excerpt (a pullout) from the ebook, The Small Biz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit! A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Guide for Entrepreneurs.
$6.95 (Instant Download)
Postcard marketing – one of the eight marketing ideas discussed in the above-mentioned ebook – is very low cost. It can be implemented by anyone and doesn’t require a lot of time. This ebook details how to market via this medium – the right way.
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
InkwellEditorial.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 Major Benefits of Marketing with Postcards, Page 4
Overview: The 4 Elements of an Effective Postcard, Page 5
4 Features of Effective Postcards, Page 7
The 3 Best Ways to Make Postcards Work for You, Page 8
Create an Effective Postcard Campaign in Just 6 Easy Steps, Page 9
Marketing with Postcards: What Response Rate (ROI) Can I Expect? Page 10
What Types of Businesses Can Really Benefit from Marketing with Postcards, Page 10
Marketing with Postcards: Where to Find Affordable Postcards Online, Page 10
Postcard Mailing: How Much Will It Cost to Send My First Postcard Campaign, Page 11
Learn More about Marketing with Postcards, Page 11
Learn how to increase sales for less than the cost of a first-class letter for only $6.95. Instant download.
Marketing with Newsletters: How I Consistently Earn 4 Figures Per Month
November 26, 2011
[See all Inkwell Editorial Work-from-Home Titles Here]
The following is an excerpt (a pullout) from the ebook, The Small Biz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit! A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Guide for Entrepreneurs.
$6.95 (Instant Download)
Newsletter marketing – one of the eight marketing ideas discussed in the above-mentioned ebook – is easy to do, and it costs practically nothing.
Following is some first-hand insight on how I consistently earn four figures per month marketing via this medium.
You can too!
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
InkwellEditorial.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE, Page 2
Earning a Consistent Four Figures per Month Publishing Newsletters, Page 4
Why Newsletters are Effective, Page 4
What a Newsletter Should Include, Page 6
Here’s Exactly What to Do to Start Your Newsletter, Page 7
How to Get Tens of Thousands of Newsletter Subscribers – In Just Weeks! Page 9
One of the Biggest Mistakes – and Lessons — I Ever Made/Learned about Newsletter Marketing, Page 11
The 3 Most Important Things to Look for in a List Management Provider (IMO), Page 13
One Way I Use My Newsletter Stats to Make Money, Page 14
8 Ways to Increase the Chances of Your Newsletter Subscribers Buying from You, Page 14
How Many Dollars Does Each Newsletter Subscriber Earn You? Page 18
About the Author, Page 20
Learn how easy marketing with newsletters — and earning a consistent online income — can be for only $6.95. Instant download.
Article Marketing Checklist
November 26, 2011
[See all Inkwell Editorial Work-from-Home Titles Here]
PREFACE
The following is an excerpt (a pullout) from the ebook, The Small BIz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit! A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Guide for Entrepreneurs.
$3.95 (Instant Download)
I’ve written well over 1,000 articles to market my ebooks, e-classes and affiliate products online since 2004. And, I’ve made thousands of dollars doing so.
Hence, it’s probably not surprising when I say that article marketing – one of the eight marketing ideas discussed in the above-mentioned ebook – is one of my favorite ways to market online. Why? Becuase it’s free and it drives web traffic and sales for years. It’s also something anyone can learn to do fairly quickly and easily.
Write the Perfect Article Every Time & Never Worry about Missed Website Traffic Sales or Leads Again!
Write the perfect article for your article marketing campaigns every time using this handy checklist. Because every element is important when you write an article to distribute online – especially in today’s crowded online marketplace — you’ll never have to worry about missing one again.
About This Ebook: The Article Marketing Checklist
Does Your Article Contain These 8 Elements?
Your article should contain as many of these 8 elements as possible before being distributed. On Page 7 of this ebook isa fully diagrammed, color-coded article highlighting all of these elements.
Note: Every article directory has different guidelines. Hence, you won’t be able to do all of this in every article you submit, but do implement as many of these guidelines as possible when writing. This way, you can be assured of writing and distributing the most effective article – every time.
Even as an experienced article writer – remember I’ve written over a thousand — I went back through some of my articles and found that many were missing some of these elements.
So, even I will keep this checklist handy!
Write the perfect article — and generate all the traffic, leads and sales you’re entitled to — with every article you write, EVERY time, for only $3.95. Instant download.
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
InkwellEditorial.com
P.S.: Don’t know what article marketing is? Get the unabridged version of this ebook and learn all about it – plus 7 other free and low-cost ways to market online – at http://inkwelleditorial.com/marketingkit.
What Is Article Marketing? A Simple Tutorial from an Article Marketing Pro Who’s Written Over 1,000 Articles
November 26, 2011
[See all Inkwell Editorial Work-from-Home Titles Here]
PREFACE
The following is an excerpt (a pullout) from the ebook, The Small Biz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit! A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Guide for Entrepreneurs.
$6.95 (Instant Download)
I’ve written well over 1,000 articles and earn 4 figures per month online. This is one of my favorite online marketing strategies. Why? Because it works!
Article marketing – one of the eight marketing ideas discussed in the above-mentioned ebook – is free. It drives web traffic and sales for years. And, it’s something anyone can do.
This ebook details how to market via this medium – the right way.
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
InkwellEditorial.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE, Page 2
What Is an Article Directory? Page 4
How Does Writing and Distributing Free Articles Get Me Sales and Leads? Page 5
What Is a Resource Box? Page 5
2 Essential Keys to Writing a Money-making Resource Box, Page 6
Example of a Resource Box, Page 6
The 3 Main Benefits of Article Marketing, Page 8
Article Marketing: What to Write About, Page 9
5 Distribution Channels for Your Articles, Page 10
The 3 Best Ways to Make Free Article Distribution Work for You, Page 12
Article Marketing Checklist: Does Your Article Contain These 8 Elements? Page 14
Free Article Marketing Tutorial, Page 16
Example: The Perfect Article – A Diagram, Page 19
About the Author, Page 21
Learn how to start generating web traffic — and getting sales — for only $6.95. Instant download.
The Small Biz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit! A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Guide for Entrepreneurs
November 26, 2011
[See all Inkwell Editorial Work-from-Home Titles Here]
Dear Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Do you own a business? Are you thinking about starting one? Would you like to learn how to increase sales and generate leads — today? Is your marketing budget practically nonexistent? Then The Small Biz Owner’s Complete Marketing Kit!: A Complete How-to, Shoestring Marketing Kit, is for you.
Get the Special Deal Offered with this Ebook.
No matter what type of product/service you offer, you must market to be a success. Consistent marketing is the key to increasing sales and this e-book will put you two to three years ahead in marketing your business. Read on for how and why.
Learn 8 free and very low-cost ways to get more sales, leads and website traffic for only $24.95.
Unsolicited Testimonial
I just wanted to tell you how invaluable I found your 87 page ebook on marketing to be. I read through it like a ravaged dog that had not eaten in several days. One of my handicaps has been that it is not easy for me to retain read information, there are days when I have to read through something three times before I get it. I got it the first time.
I wrote my press release and sent it out on the 10th of May receiving an average of 30 inquiries per hour on my website and orders. I was amazed when people emailed me and said they heard about my product on the radio. I have had inquiries from three local TV stations and one from Australia, a journalist from Upscale Magazine, Elle, Redbook and Vogue UK.
I am struggling now putting together a Media Kit. I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate what you are doing. I just wrote my first article today and sent it. The beginning of many. Thanks again. –Sharon P.
You will refer to this marketing kit over and over again as your business grows. It is specifically geared for those who are serious about starting/growing a small business, and who want to get a handle on marketing — now!
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Included are eight low-cost, easy-to-implement marketing ideas. Each is powerful in its own right. Consistently combine two or more and watch your sales rapidly increase! Each idea is discussed in detail. Samples are provided for ready reference so that you will know exactly what is being referred to every step of the way. Three free bonus reports (details below) are also included.
Real-life examples are used. Nothing is more believable or concrete than hearing from someone who has “been there and done that.” If you start out using these methods, you will be well on your way to success.
“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.”
— Epictetus, Greek Philosopher
Marketing is the lifeblood of any business simply because people have to know you exist before they buy from you.
The marketing methods discussed are specifically for small business owners who want to learn how to create sustained growth and generate steady sales on a shoe-string budget. All of the methods are proven and don’t require massive amounts of time.
LEARN TO EMBRACE MARKETING
If you are serious about succeeding at entrepreneurship in any form, then you must embrace marketing. Most small business owners have a great product/service, a lot of ambition and plenty of knowledge about servicing their customers. But, they have little or no knowledge of marketing (especially online).
MARKETING SUCCESS BY THE NUMBERS
What is it? It’s a process whereby you do the same thing on a consistent basis over a period of time. This system will lessen your workload, increase your sales, generate new leads and save you money. Instead of putting together the dreaded “marketing campaign” on major holidays or for special events, you will be marketing all year long.
The best thing about marketing success by the numbers is that it gives you a workable plan to stay on solid footing. That way, you don’t have to market in panic mode, eg, “If this campaign doesn’t work, then I might have to close shop.”
When you start marketing on a consistent basis, you are constantly drawing new customers into your fold. So, the ups and downs of the economy will have less of an effect on your business.
DON’T ADVERTISE, MARKET
What’s the difference? Advertising usually refers to paid ads, spots, campaigns, etc. Marketing is all of the ways you get the word out about your business — paid or unpaid. Handing out flyers is marketing. Placing a classified ad in the newspaper is advertising.
Marketing success by the numbers includes paid and unpaid advertising. But, the paid methods are very low-cost (eg, under $20/month) and you will be able to implement them immediately.
Most small businesses market out of a sense of hopeful desperation, ie, sales are slow, so let’s “advertise.” You put all of your eggs in one basket and it almost never works out the way you hope. This, “shotgun marketing” rarely, if ever, works. You need a consistent plan.
GENERATE CONSISTENT SALES AND NEW LEADS
Which would you rather do: send out 1,000 postcards at once, or send out 10 a day, every day? Consistency and time are all you need as far as marketing to grow a business. It doesn’t matter what your business is, if you market consistently – to the right group – over a period of time, your business will grow!
Did you know that getting rich is simple? Not easy, simple. The same goes for losing weight, getting into shape, becoming a better, writer, runner, speaker, teacher, etc. Practice and time — that’s all it takes to become a better “whatever.”
The problem most small business owners have is impatience and sheer frustration that the business “is just not working.” Rarely is that the case. The truth is, you probably haven’t prepared for the long haul.
Remember, in business, the first few years, you are usually just greasing the pipes. After that, you shouldn’t have to work so hard for every sale.
Look at it this way, just because you send out 5,000 flyers does not mean that customers are going to start banging on your door. Especially when you consider that most buyers have to see your message 7 to 28 times (depending on which source you read) before they will act. It’s called building name [brand] recognition — and equally as important, trust.
After this, you have to wait until your customer has a need/desire for your product or service. Then, you have to be in the right price range.
In essence, you have to wait for all of these factors to align before a sale can take place. Seems like a long time? It’s really not.
CREATE A MARKETING PLAN THAT SAVES YOU TIME, MONEY & EFFORT
If you don’t absorb anything else, remember this: marketing is the life-blood of every business.
That’s why marketing success by the numbers is such a necessary, viable, common-sense approach to marketing. It’s easy, low-cost and practically runs itself.
When you create a schedule, which the book outlines how to do, your marketing goes on auto pilot, leaving you more time to fiddle with why you opened your doors in the first place — to dazzle your customers with your wonderful product/service.
No more stressing about when to do this, how much that will cost, whom to call to get that done, et cetera. You will be able to work this plan yourself, or outsource it to someone else. The bottom line is, you won’t ever have to worry about marketing again.
GET NATIONAL EXPOSURE
One thing you will learn (if you don’t already know it), is the bigger they are (magazines, newspapers, etc.), the slower they move. So, just continue to market and run your business and media attention will come because consistency builds traction.
THERE IS A MARKET FOR EVERYTHING
Think of all the products you are bombarded with on a daily basis. How do you explain purses that have a waiting list of two years to purchase; $1,500 boots that you can’t tell from $50 boots; and sweat suits that cost $400?
It’s brilliant, consistent marketing – that’s the explanation!
GET 3 FREE, MONEY-SAVING, LEAD-GENERATING BONUS REPORTS AND A FIRST-HAND ACCOUNT OF GOING FROM FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE TO BEING THE BOSS!
These free reports are chock full of ideas you can use immediately to increase sales.
1. Success by the Numbers: An in-depth look at how to automate your marketing program for maximum effect.
2. How to Surf the Web and Increase Your Profits: Learn effective surfing methods that will put you on the road to profits.
3. The Five Biggest Marketing Mistakes Most Small Business Owners Make: What they are and how to avoid them!
REMEMBER: A sure-fire marketing plan is the best way to grow your business!
Following is a complete Table of Contents.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE, Page 2
8 FREE — AND ALMOST-FREE — MARKETING METHODS, Page 9
I. E-MAIL CAMPAIGNS, Page 10
The Difference between Email Campaigns and Newsletter Marketing, Page 10
How Effective Can Email Marketing Be? My Success Story – 14 Freelance Jobs in 1 Week, Page 10
3 Major Benefits of Email Campaigns, Page 11
Overview: 4 Things You Must Do When Devising Your Email Campaigns, Page 12
The 2 Best Way to Make E-Mail Campaigns Work for You, Page 13
12 Things to Look for in Email List Management Software, Page 14
How to Create an Email Campaign: A Step-by-Step Tutorial, Page 15
Cost of Email List Management Software/Software Providers, Page 16
II. THE PURPOSEFUL NEWSLETTER, Page 17
Earning a Consistent Four Figures per Month Publishing Newsletters, Page 17
Why Newsletters are Effective, Page 17
What a Newsletter Should Include, Page 19
Here’s Exactly What to Do to Start Your Newsletter, Page 20
How to Get Tens of Thousands of Newsletter Subscribers – In Just Weeks! Page 22
One of the Biggest Mistakes – and Lessons — I Ever Made/Learned about Newsletter Marketing, Page 24
The 3 Most Important Things to Look for in a List Management Provider (IMO), Page 26
One Way I Use My Newsletter Stats to Make Money, Page 27
8 Ways to Increase the Chances of Your Newsletter Subscribers Buying from You, Page 27
How Many Dollars Does Each Newsletter Subscriber Earn You? Page 31
III. POSTCARD MARKETING, Page 32
4 Major Benefits of Marketing with Postcards, Page 32
Overview: The 4 Elements of an Effective Postcard, Page 33
4 Features of Effective Postcards, Page 35
The 3 Best Ways to Make Postcards Work for You, Page 36
Create an Effective Postcard Campaign in Just 6 Easy Steps, Page 37
Marketing with Postcards: What Response Rate (ROI) Can I Expect? Page 38
What Types of Businesses Can Really Benefit from Marketing with Postcards, Page 38
Marketing with Postcards: Where to Find Affordable Postcards Online, Page 38
Postcard Mailing: How Much Will It Cost to Send My First Postcard Campaign, Page 40
Learn More about Marketing with Postcards, Page 39
IV. THE ALMIGHTY PRESS RELEASE, Page 40
What Is a Press Release? Page 40
The 6 Elements of an Effective Press Release, Page 40
How to Make Your Press Release Relevant, Page 42
The Difference between Press Releases and Articles, Page 42
The 4 Best Ways to Make a Press Release Work for You, Page 42
The 5 Sections of a Press Release, Page 45
Guide to Writing a Press Release, Page 46
How to Submit Press Releases to Free PR Sites, Page 47
Press Release Example, Page 49
SEO Press Release: What It Is and Why It’s Extremely Important to Do It, Page 57
How to Get Your Press Release in the Top Positions in Search Engine Results, Page 58
Where to Find Keywords to Use in Your Press Release, Page 59
SEO Your Press Release: A Free Tutorial, Page 65
Why You Should Learn to Write Your Own Press Releases, Page 65
Hire Professionals to Write Your Press Release: Online Sources, Page 66
How Much Does It Cost to Write and Distribute a Press Release, Page 66
V. ARTICLE MARKETING, Page 67
What Is Article Marketing: A Quick Intro from an Article Marketing Pro Who’s Written Over 1,000 Articles, Page 67
What Is an Article Directory? Page 67
How Does Writing and Distributing Free Articles Get Me Sales and Leads? Page 68
What Is a Resource Box? Page 68
2 Essential Keys to Writing a Moneymaking Resource Box, Page 69
Example of a Resource Box, Page 70
The 3 Main Benefits of Article Marketing, Page 71
Article Marketing: What to Write About, Page 72
5 Distribution Channels for Your Articles, Page 72
The 3 Best Ways to Make Free Article Distribution Work for You, Page 75
Article Marketing Checklist: Does Your Article Contain These 8 Elements? Page 77
Free Article Marketing Tutorial, Page 79
Example: The Perfect Article – A Diagram, Page 81
VI. MARKETING WITH SALES LETTERS, Page 83
What Is a Sales Letter? Page 83
The 4 Most Important Elements of a Successful Sales Letter, Page 86
How to Start a Sales Letter: 4 Ways That Work! Page 87
Layout of a Sales Letter, Page 88
Sample Sales Letter, Page 90
VII. WEBSITE / BLOG MARKETING, Page 94
My Story: Getting a Website for the First Time, Page 94
The 4 Main Reasons Every Web Entrepreneur Needs a Website / Blog, Page 95
What’s the Difference between a Website and a Blog? Page 96
The #1 Thing to Consider When Trying to Decide Whether to Get a Website or a Blog, Page 98
The Web Design Process: 5 Steps to Getting a Website, Page 98
How Much Can You Afford to Spend to Get Your Website / Blog Done, Page 99
Naming Your Site: Selecting and Registering a Domain Name, Page 100
How Businesses Get Their Websites / Blogs to the Top of Search Engine Results, Page 102
Insight into How to Choose a Web Designer / Web Design Company, Page 103
Questions to Ask All Potential Web Designers, Page 103
What Pages Must I Absolutely Have On My Website/Blog? Page 106
What to Look for in a Web Hosting Company, Page 108
Web Hosting Costs, Page 110
About Free Web Hosting Companies, Page 110
Finding a Freelance Writer/Editor/Content Developer: What to Look For, Page 112
How Much Should You Pay a Content Developer (eg, Freelance Writer)? Page 112
Why Producing Content Has Never Been Easier – or More Profitable, Page 112
What You Need to Know about Maintaining / Updating Your Site, Page 114
Why You Should Learn to Maintain / Update Your Site/Blog Yourself, Page 114
About Marketing Your Website/Blog, Page 114
My Favorite Way to Market My Websites / Blogs, Page 115
VIII. SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING, Page 118
Why Social Media Needs to Be a Part of Your Marketing Mix – Now, Page 118
5 FREE Ways to Build a Responsive Social Media Community, Page 119
The Best Way to Create Traffic (and Get More Sales and Leads) Using Social Media, Page 121
FREE REPORTS, Page 122
FREE REPORT #1: The 5 Biggest Marketing Mistakes Most Small Business Owners Make — And How You Can Avoid Them! Page 123
FREE REPORT #2: How and Why to Automate Your Marketing Plan, Page 125
FREE REPORT #3: How to Use the Internet to Increase Sales No Matter What Your Business Is, Page 129
About the Author, Page 133
Notice: Original, copyrighted material. May not be reproduced in whole or in part, in any medium, without written permission from author. Violators will be prosecuted.
P.S.: If you want to know how to do something, ask someone who is already doing it. This is the vantage point from which the guides are written. Therefore, all material is first-hand, contributed by real entrepreneurs. This allows readers the benefit of learning from those who have been there.
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The Freelance Writer’s Thanksgiving Prayer: What are You Thankful for as a Freelance Writer?
November 24, 2011
I wrote the following around Thanksgiving in 2006. It’s become a perennial favorite — one I add to every year.
What are you thankful for as a freelance writer? Add your thoughts in the comments section below and I’ll add them to the “prayer” so we can all share in each other’s “thanks.”
CLIENTS
I’m thankful for clients.
I’m thankful for clients – who pay.
I’m thankful for clients – who pay on time.
I’m thankful for clients – who pay what I’m worth.
I’m thankful for clients – who pay their thanks to me.
I’m thankful for clients – who realize my value.
I’m thankful for clients – who have ideas.
I’m thankful for clients – who have no idea.
I’m thankful for clients – who know when to give up their ideas.
I’m thankful for clients – who know what they want.
I’m thankful for clients – who know when they don’t know what they want.
I’m thankful for clients – who let me do my job.
I’m thankful for clients – who realize writing IS a job.
I’m thankful for clients – who realize writing is MY job.
READERS
I’m thankful for blog readers – who value the information they find here.
I’m thankful for blog readers – who share their ups and downs in freelancing.
I’m thankful for blog readers – who realize their dreams of freelancing because of the info they find here.
ME
I’m thankful for the gift of writing.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – for a living.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – words that matter.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – just for me.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – love notes to those who matter.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – editorials that change people’s minds.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – to help others.
I’m thankful for the gift of writing – down what I’m thankful for.
FRIENDS
I’m thankful for friends – who realize I write for a living.
I’m thankful for friends – who don’t ask me to work for free.
I’m thankful for friends – who don’t tell me to “get a real job.”
I’m thankful for friends – who pick up the tab during dry spells.
FAMILY
I’m thankful for family – who respect my working hours.
I’m thankful for family – who encouraged me to pursue my dream.
I’m thankful for family – who ignore me when I’m on deadline.
I’m thankful for family – who know I love them, even when I’m on deadline.
I’m thankful for family – who realize that my computer really is a person to me.
I’m thankful for family – who know I’m a professional, even in my fuzzy slippers.
I’m thankful for family – who encouraged my curiousity, which drives me to explore other cultures.
I’m thankful for family – who instilled a good work ethic, which allows me to grow a successful business.
I’m thankful for – my high school Humanities teacher, who imparted in me a love for words.
TECHNOLOGY
I’m thankful for technology – that allows me to live and work from anywhere.
DEADLINES
I’m thankful for deadlines – that pass.
I’m thankful for deadlines – that pass with pay.
MONEY WISH LIST
I’m thankful for checks;
I’m thankful for checks – that come in the mail,
I’m thankful for checks – that come in the mail on time;
I’m thankful for checks – that come in the mail on time in my name;
I’m thankful for – “notification of payment received” emails from PayPal;
I’m thankful for bank lines of credit;
I’m thankful for bank lines of credit – in my name;
I’m thankful for bills – that don’t come;
I’m thankful for bills – that don’t come – in my name;
I’m thankful for bills – that are paid;
I’m thankful for bills – that are paid on time;
I’m thankful for bills – that are paid on time in my name.
WISH LIST FOR CLIENTS
I wish for vodka shots before talking to unreasonable clients;
Bottles of tequila to share with good clients;
A moonshine hangover to non-paying clients; and
A three-martini introduction to new clients.
WORK
I’m thankful for work.
I’m thankful for work – that matters.
I’m thankful for work – that I love.
I’m thankful for work – that I love that pays.
What are you thankful for this holiday? Please share in the comments below, and Happy Thanksgiving!
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