JULY 2003 Greetings & Salutations: This month, I have a ho'bunch of stuff from you ... my readers -- SO ... Instead of writing my usual editorial, followed by the good stuff, I'm just going to get right to the ... Questions & Answers, Comments & Other Good Stuff! Michael Chan responded to my article last month about the Economic History of the U.S. with some valuable information about his homeland ... "I hail from Singapore, the nation with whom your good leaders recently signed a Free Trade Agreement. "Singapore, unlike the mighty US, has not much of a domestic market to speak of (what kind of domestic market does 3 million people create?). Yet over the 38 years of our independence, we have achieved wealth enough to place us among the developed nations. We did this not because of our low wages (everybody complained that wages are high here). Neither is it because we have substantial natural resources (unless you count sea-water ... we've got plenty of those). We did it because we did what your predecessors did at the very beginning of your country's founding. "Singapore is an exporting country. -- But how does a country without natural resources export, you might ask? -- We began by being brokers and middlemen, and finally by being value-adders to the things coming through us (oil refinery, for example). -- My country recognized the importance of strong international trade and has always been a champion at the UN for that. "If truly the US can begin looking to export your goods, not just up the tech-curve, but down there as well, you would begin to see the strong economic recovery. "Singapore is always happy when the US is strong <grin>. A healthy trading partner means stronger trade growth, which in turn means more wealth for us all!!!" Thank You, Michael ... I am happy to share your comments with my readers.
JULY 2003
Greetings & Salutations:
This month, I have a ho'bunch of stuff from you ... my readers -- SO ...
Instead of writing my usual editorial, followed by the good stuff, I'm just going to get right to the ...
Michael Chan responded to my article last month about the Economic History of the U.S. with some valuable information about his homeland ...
"I hail from Singapore, the nation with whom your good leaders recently signed a Free Trade Agreement. "Singapore, unlike the mighty US, has not much of a domestic market to speak of (what kind of domestic market does 3 million people create?). Yet over the 38 years of our independence, we have achieved wealth enough to place us among the developed nations. We did this not because of our low wages (everybody complained that wages are high here). Neither is it because we have substantial natural resources (unless you count sea-water ... we've got plenty of those). We did it because we did what your predecessors did at the very beginning of your country's founding. "Singapore is an exporting country. -- But how does a country without natural resources export, you might ask? -- We began by being brokers and middlemen, and finally by being value-adders to the things coming through us (oil refinery, for example). -- My country recognized the importance of strong international trade and has always been a champion at the UN for that. "If truly the US can begin looking to export your goods, not just up the tech-curve, but down there as well, you would begin to see the strong economic recovery. "Singapore is always happy when the US is strong <grin>. A healthy trading partner means stronger trade growth, which in turn means more wealth for us all!!!"
"I hail from Singapore, the nation with whom your good leaders recently signed a Free Trade Agreement.
"Singapore, unlike the mighty US, has not much of a domestic market to speak of (what kind of domestic market does 3 million people create?). Yet over the 38 years of our independence, we have achieved wealth enough to place us among the developed nations. We did this not because of our low wages (everybody complained that wages are high here). Neither is it because we have substantial natural resources (unless you count sea-water ... we've got plenty of those). We did it because we did what your predecessors did at the very beginning of your country's founding.
"Singapore is an exporting country. -- But how does a country without natural resources export, you might ask? -- We began by being brokers and middlemen, and finally by being value-adders to the things coming through us (oil refinery, for example). -- My country recognized the importance of strong international trade and has always been a champion at the UN for that.
"If truly the US can begin looking to export your goods, not just up the tech-curve, but down there as well, you would begin to see the strong economic recovery.
"Singapore is always happy when the US is strong <grin>. A healthy trading partner means stronger trade growth, which in turn means more wealth for us all!!!"
Thank You, Michael ...
I am happy to share your comments with my readers.
Mark Ungvarsky had some comments about last month's article as well ... "A quick comment on your great article in the June, 2003, Business Lyceum e-Letter. -- What a great history lesson - thank you! However, I didn't see you address the all too real problem of extremely low wages offered by foreign markets to American manufacturers. Often it seems that the technology developed by U.S. manufacturers is exported but many times it's because the cost to produce goods is *so* much lower abroad. Are our manufacturers shooting themselves in the foot? Perhaps ... but the truth is that economics in our modern world is a tough nut to crack. The answers become more clear cut when we look back 25 or (even better yet) 50 years ago. The reality of the situation is that U.S. manufacturers are out to make a profit - as much profit as possible. That's why so many manufacturing jobs have been lost over the past decade and why we import so much. Costs and profits - pure and simple. Well, that's my take on it anyway. Thanks for such a stimulating article Jim - I always look forward to your newsletter." Thank You, Mark ... I agree with you ... that's why we need to quit exporting jobs & start exporting our products.
Mark Ungvarsky had some comments about last month's article as well ...
"A quick comment on your great article in the June, 2003, Business Lyceum e-Letter. -- What a great history lesson - thank you! However, I didn't see you address the all too real problem of extremely low wages offered by foreign markets to American manufacturers. Often it seems that the technology developed by U.S. manufacturers is exported but many times it's because the cost to produce goods is *so* much lower abroad. Are our manufacturers shooting themselves in the foot? Perhaps ... but the truth is that economics in our modern world is a tough nut to crack. The answers become more clear cut when we look back 25 or (even better yet) 50 years ago. The reality of the situation is that U.S. manufacturers are out to make a profit - as much profit as possible. That's why so many manufacturing jobs have been lost over the past decade and why we import so much. Costs and profits - pure and simple. Well, that's my take on it anyway. Thanks for such a stimulating article Jim - I always look forward to your newsletter."
Thank You, Mark ...
I agree with you ... that's why we need to quit exporting jobs & start exporting our products.
Brad Krueger wanted to know ... "I really enjoy your newsletter. -- Anyhoo, how does a person get started in getting voice-over work without already being a radio announcer, TV person, etc. -- Does one need an agent, etc.?" Brad: No, you don't need an agent ... to begin with. Just put together some tapes of you doing some commercial bits ... take them from commercials already running. Then, take your tapes around to the "advertising agencies" and "radio stations" in your area and mail them to ad agencies in the larger metro areas. -- Don't quote a price. Let them tell you how much they will pay. -- In the beginning, you might even have to work for free (or nearly free). Once you have done some real commercial work, you might want to find an agent - but - don't do it until you have done at least a minimum of 20 or so commercials; so they will have something by which to judge your work.
Brad Krueger wanted to know ...
"I really enjoy your newsletter. -- Anyhoo, how does a person get started in getting voice-over work without already being a radio announcer, TV person, etc. -- Does one need an agent, etc.?"
Brad:
No, you don't need an agent ... to begin with. Just put together some tapes of you doing some commercial bits ... take them from commercials already running. Then, take your tapes around to the "advertising agencies" and "radio stations" in your area and mail them to ad agencies in the larger metro areas. -- Don't quote a price. Let them tell you how much they will pay. -- In the beginning, you might even have to work for free (or nearly free).
Once you have done some real commercial work, you might want to find an agent - but - don't do it until you have done at least a minimum of 20 or so commercials; so they will have something by which to judge your work.
Paul Ellis had his own response to Gary Urban's question about newspaper inserts - BUT - be forewarned, what he suggest might well land you in trouble ... "I'm writing in response to a question in the June e-Letter. -- My response is... If you're running a business dependent upon local trade and you're wanting to put inserts in the local newspaper, why pay for them? -- Here's my idea... and, it works. -- It involves doing a little work, but we ARE in business, right? Not couch 'taters! -- Print up your really nice looking inserts or flyers right on your own home computer. Then, late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, make the rounds of the all night convenience stores and gas stations in your area. Spend a minute chatting up the clerk, they appreciate talking to someone sober at 3 am, then stick your inserts in the big Sunday papers they have for sale. If the clerk even asks what you're doing, tell them. They'll probably get a kick out of your creativity and initiative. Move on to the next store and repeat. -- If you see a paper box on a street corner, stick in a dime or quarter and fill those papers, too. So what if you spend a couple bucks to put the flyers in some papers. It's a lot less than what you'd pay the paper to do it. -- This trick works and the worst that can happen is a clerk asks you to stop. In most cases, they won't even notice what you're doing. I wouldn't recommend this in any high crime areas, but then, if your customers are IN high crime areas, you don't need to advertise, do you?"
Paul Ellis had his own response to Gary Urban's question about newspaper inserts - BUT - be forewarned, what he suggest might well land you in trouble ...
"I'm writing in response to a question in the June e-Letter. -- My response is... If you're running a business dependent upon local trade and you're wanting to put inserts in the local newspaper, why pay for them? -- Here's my idea... and, it works. -- It involves doing a little work, but we ARE in business, right? Not couch 'taters! -- Print up your really nice looking inserts or flyers right on your own home computer. Then, late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, make the rounds of the all night convenience stores and gas stations in your area. Spend a minute chatting up the clerk, they appreciate talking to someone sober at 3 am, then stick your inserts in the big Sunday papers they have for sale. If the clerk even asks what you're doing, tell them. They'll probably get a kick out of your creativity and initiative. Move on to the next store and repeat. -- If you see a paper box on a street corner, stick in a dime or quarter and fill those papers, too. So what if you spend a couple bucks to put the flyers in some papers. It's a lot less than what you'd pay the paper to do it. -- This trick works and the worst that can happen is a clerk asks you to stop. In most cases, they won't even notice what you're doing. I wouldn't recommend this in any high crime areas, but then, if your customers are IN high crime areas, you don't need to advertise, do you?"
Darryl Dean had an offer for you ... "I have 700 new Military Jackets to liquidate as a Closeout sale, from a U.S. Pentagon Uniform Contractor. These are NATO uniforms. -- If any of your readers want this lot they should send me an email ASAP. They should sell well on Ebay(!)" Okay, Darryl ... Let me know if you find a buyer.
Darryl Dean had an offer for you ...
"I have 700 new Military Jackets to liquidate as a Closeout sale, from a U.S. Pentagon Uniform Contractor. These are NATO uniforms. -- If any of your readers want this lot they should send me an email ASAP. They should sell well on Ebay(!)"
Okay, Darryl ...
Let me know if you find a buyer.
Marty Schirn was a bit puzzled ... "I have several more questions about real estate options. I admit I am becoming more interested in this, from your description. Here are my questions: (1) I confess I know virtually nothing about real estate. I've been a renter all my life and have never wanted to own real estate. Likewise, while I enjoy airplanes, I don't know much about them except the principles of how they fly. I know more about Diesel engines because I'm a rail fan. But I really don't know much about machinery in general. So my question is this: in purchasing options on these things, do I need to learn about them, so I'll know what the owners are talking about when they describe them? (2) I know that if I'm buying a piece of real estate, it's mandatory that I see it. If I'm buying options on real estate, airplanes, machines, etc., do I need to see them in person? (3) If I do not need to see these things in person, can this business be operated on a national basis, rather than just locally? -- Thank you very much Mr. Straw for your patience, kindness and answers to my questions. I appreciate it!" Marty: Using "Options" as such is NOT a business ... it is a way of doing business. You may take an option on anything that a willing seller will allow you to have an option on ... whether you have seen it, or not. The "rule" expressed throughout my report is ... Don't take an option on anything unless you already KNOW what you are going to do with the property. In other words, you don't just go around taking options on properties (real estate or otherwise). You only take an option on properties that you already know you either can sell; or have already sold.
Marty Schirn was a bit puzzled ...
"I have several more questions about real estate options. I admit I am becoming more interested in this, from your description. Here are my questions: (1) I confess I know virtually nothing about real estate. I've been a renter all my life and have never wanted to own real estate. Likewise, while I enjoy airplanes, I don't know much about them except the principles of how they fly. I know more about Diesel engines because I'm a rail fan. But I really don't know much about machinery in general. So my question is this: in purchasing options on these things, do I need to learn about them, so I'll know what the owners are talking about when they describe them? (2) I know that if I'm buying a piece of real estate, it's mandatory that I see it. If I'm buying options on real estate, airplanes, machines, etc., do I need to see them in person? (3) If I do not need to see these things in person, can this business be operated on a national basis, rather than just locally? -- Thank you very much Mr. Straw for your patience, kindness and answers to my questions. I appreciate it!"
Marty:
Using "Options" as such is NOT a business ... it is a way of doing business.
You may take an option on anything that a willing seller will allow you to have an option on ... whether you have seen it, or not.
The "rule" expressed throughout my report is ... Don't take an option on anything unless you already KNOW what you are going to do with the property.
In other words, you don't just go around taking options on properties (real estate or otherwise). You only take an option on properties that you already know you either can sell; or have already sold.
Alexi Neocleous , from Australia, emailed me wanting to know if I'd be interested in reviewing his new manual: "The Kaizen Marketing System: An Incredible Formula That Doubles Your Profits In 180 Days Or Less!" -- I said sure, I'm always interested in good marketing stuff. So he sent it through Ö and I must say, I was astounded. It has virtually everything a new (or experienced) business owner needs to know about how to make their business a tremendous success. BUT -- his headline ... "Discover How To Cause A Flood Of Eager To Buy Customers To YOUR Business... Using Little Known Marketing And Advertising Secrets Revealed On This Website!" ... and the title of the course ... are way too limiting. The course is just about the finest business primer I've ever read ... a complete masters course in how to "really" be in business. Do yourself a favor ... check it out, at: http://www.multiplyyourprofits.com
Alexi Neocleous , from Australia, emailed me wanting to know if I'd be interested in reviewing his new manual: "The Kaizen Marketing System: An Incredible Formula That Doubles Your Profits In 180 Days Or Less!" -- I said sure, I'm always interested in good marketing stuff. So he sent it through Ö and I must say, I was astounded. It has virtually everything a new (or experienced) business owner needs to know about how to make their business a tremendous success.
BUT -- his headline ... "Discover How To Cause A Flood Of Eager To Buy Customers To YOUR Business... Using Little Known Marketing And Advertising Secrets Revealed On This Website!" ... and the title of the course ... are way too limiting.
The course is just about the finest business primer I've ever read ... a complete masters course in how to "really" be in business. Do yourself a favor ... check it out, at:
Marc Hoover had ever'body confused ... "I posted a question on discussion boards but I guess everyone is stumped. -- Do you know anything about Ad brokering?? I want to set up with about 10-15 different papers and get good deals for customers. I am really interested in learning about this biz. I have posted on 2 boards and no one has anything. I can't really find a lot on the net. I read a report a few years ago but I can't remember the details. The main thing I remember is selling "leftover ad space" which is unsold ad space from the paper. I heard that this was the type to market. I just don't know the nuts and bolts of the biz. -- Can you refer me to any helpful sites or anything else?" Marc: You might call it "ad brokering" but ever'body else just calls it an "advertising agency." Just contact the publications you want to represent ... use a nice letterhead with "Marc Hoover Advertising Agency" ... "Ajax Advertising Agency" ... or some such ... ASK for their agency rates & about how & when they sell their "remainders" (that's unsold ad space). Do a search on "Advertising Agencies" to get all the skinny.
Marc Hoover had ever'body confused ...
"I posted a question on discussion boards but I guess everyone is stumped. -- Do you know anything about Ad brokering?? I want to set up with about 10-15 different papers and get good deals for customers. I am really interested in learning about this biz. I have posted on 2 boards and no one has anything. I can't really find a lot on the net. I read a report a few years ago but I can't remember the details. The main thing I remember is selling "leftover ad space" which is unsold ad space from the paper. I heard that this was the type to market. I just don't know the nuts and bolts of the biz. -- Can you refer me to any helpful sites or anything else?"
Marc:
You might call it "ad brokering" but ever'body else just calls it an "advertising agency."
Just contact the publications you want to represent ... use a nice letterhead with "Marc Hoover Advertising Agency" ... "Ajax Advertising Agency" ... or some such ... ASK for their agency rates & about how & when they sell their "remainders" (that's unsold ad space).
Do a search on "Advertising Agencies" to get all the skinny.
Charles Humphrey really wanted to know ... "If you were to pick just one business to start ( considering all the ones that you have been involved in from the very beginning), what would it be? -- I have tried a couple of businesses but reached a major impasse every time. Everybody always claims to have the best internet business, the best mail order business, the best real estate course, and on and on. I am at a time in life where I am going to see an astrologer to help me in determining my life purpose, but I know as well as you, that working a low-paying job is not the answer. I have researched businesses for quite some time and I figure that you have enough expertise that you know that there are businesses that you can start that are not affected too much by the economy. I also know that you know that this business would have the potential of setting a person free within three to five years. Anyway, your input is greatly appreciated and this would enable me to purchase the course from you that you feel would be most appropriate." Charles: Who is the most beautiful woman in the world?? -- Depends upon who's looking, doesn't it. Look around you. There are millionaires in every field of business endeavor. There are millionaire garbage collectors ... millionaire bankers ... millionaire shop keepers ... millionaire day-care operators ... millionaire internet marketers ... etc., etc., etc. As Albert Einstein said, "Anyone can be a genius, if they pick just one specific subject and study it diligently just 15 minutes each day." The same holds true in business. -- Just pick one specific business. Do it every day until you do it successfully. Most people don't fail, they just fail to stick with any ONE thing until they have mastered it.
Charles Humphrey really wanted to know ...
"If you were to pick just one business to start ( considering all the ones that you have been involved in from the very beginning), what would it be? -- I have tried a couple of businesses but reached a major impasse every time. Everybody always claims to have the best internet business, the best mail order business, the best real estate course, and on and on. I am at a time in life where I am going to see an astrologer to help me in determining my life purpose, but I know as well as you, that working a low-paying job is not the answer. I have researched businesses for quite some time and I figure that you have enough expertise that you know that there are businesses that you can start that are not affected too much by the economy. I also know that you know that this business would have the potential of setting a person free within three to five years. Anyway, your input is greatly appreciated and this would enable me to purchase the course from you that you feel would be most appropriate."
Charles:
Who is the most beautiful woman in the world?? -- Depends upon who's looking, doesn't it.
Look around you. There are millionaires in every field of business endeavor. There are millionaire garbage collectors ... millionaire bankers ... millionaire shop keepers ... millionaire day-care operators ... millionaire internet marketers ... etc., etc., etc.
As Albert Einstein said, "Anyone can be a genius, if they pick just one specific subject and study it diligently just 15 minutes each day."
The same holds true in business. -- Just pick one specific business. Do it every day until you do it successfully.
Most people don't fail, they just fail to stick with any ONE thing until they have mastered it.
Abu Sanusi had a minor problem ... "It's been some three months since we last communicated. I have a minor problem and as per your advice, I'm asking for your help/assistance/suggestions - whatever that can help me. -- A few weeks ago, I was able to secure an overseas sale of (xxxx). The customer wants two 20-foot containers and he's now requesting a Pro Forma invoice. -- I'm going to be honest and straight with you; this is my first break and opportunity and I haven't got a clue as to how I would word the invoice to protect my interest and ensure that I'm paid. Incidentally, shipment would be from New York and I'll be quoting the cost of the goods and the cost of freight separately followed by the total CIF landed in the foreign country. -- I would like him to pay through a commercial bank and may be give him a sixty-day period after shipment of goods. Also, I would rather he pays through his bankers to my bankers within the stipulated period. Your assistance or suggestions would be very much appreciated. A sample Pro Forma Invoice, to help me with the formatting, would also be very much appreciated. I want to look professional and maintain a good standard with my bankers and the customer. I look forward to hearing from you again. Abu: A "Pro Forma" invoice is just an invoice the importer uses to get his bank to issue the proper letter of credit for the purchase. You use your standard invoice ... the one you use in the U.S. ... with the various costs itemized (i.e., cost, freight, insurance, etc.). -- Then, after the costs have been itemized, you put in the payment terms ... payment by Letter of Credit, payable to (your name) at (your terms). When the buyer gets your pro forma invoice, he will take it to his bank to have the Letter of Credit issued in accord with the invoicing.
Abu Sanusi had a minor problem ...
"It's been some three months since we last communicated. I have a minor problem and as per your advice, I'm asking for your help/assistance/suggestions - whatever that can help me. -- A few weeks ago, I was able to secure an overseas sale of (xxxx). The customer wants two 20-foot containers and he's now requesting a Pro Forma invoice. -- I'm going to be honest and straight with you; this is my first break and opportunity and I haven't got a clue as to how I would word the invoice to protect my interest and ensure that I'm paid. Incidentally, shipment would be from New York and I'll be quoting the cost of the goods and the cost of freight separately followed by the total CIF landed in the foreign country. -- I would like him to pay through a commercial bank and may be give him a sixty-day period after shipment of goods. Also, I would rather he pays through his bankers to my bankers within the stipulated period. Your assistance or suggestions would be very much appreciated. A sample Pro Forma Invoice, to help me with the formatting, would also be very much appreciated. I want to look professional and maintain a good standard with my bankers and the customer. I look forward to hearing from you again.
Abu:
A "Pro Forma" invoice is just an invoice the importer uses to get his bank to issue the proper letter of credit for the purchase.
You use your standard invoice ... the one you use in the U.S. ... with the various costs itemized (i.e., cost, freight, insurance, etc.). -- Then, after the costs have been itemized, you put in the payment terms ... payment by Letter of Credit, payable to (your name) at (your terms).
When the buyer gets your pro forma invoice, he will take it to his bank to have the Letter of Credit issued in accord with the invoicing.
Erick Starren needed to know ... "Thank you, Jim, for your Business Lyceum and for your guidance. -- Two questions, please. (1) Last October you mentioned: "The "Big Mail" people are commonly referred to as the "Mail Order Inner Circle" ... mostly nickel & dime stuff, chain letters & ad sheets - but - I have found some of them very responsive to my "Get $1,000 - $5,000 Free & Clear ... within 30 days!" mailings. -- All you need to do is mail that flyer to all of the names & addresses in those "Big Mail" publications. -- Sometimes it works, sometimes it don't. " -- About those "names & addresses." Do you mean the "free mailing lists" printed in so many tabloids? -- (2) On that same subject, I recently read an article that advised mailing postcards rather than envelopes/flyers to non-in-house lists, to get the cost substantially lower. They act like specialized inquiry ads. It sounds reasonable, as the envelope/flyer package is $50/hundred and the postcards about $27/hundred. -- Have you had any experiences with postcards vs envelopes/flyers, good or bad, that you can share?" Erick: You send your mailers to both the people who offer Big Mails and the Free mailing lists. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't. Postcards are good for lead generation ... you simply print a short ad (like a classified ad) on the Postcard so people can respond for further information (best bet is to include an "information order form" on the postcard so they can just fill it in & send it to you in an envelope). -- Then you send them the sales flyer. On the other hand, postcards don't do very well if you try to "sell" something directly from the postcard message. -- It just like asking for money in a classified ad ... it only works if you have some perceived value that can be stated in a very, very few words. By the way, Postcards are an exceptional way to build an online business. -- Just print a short, snappy ad on a postcard with the URL of the product or service you are selling. Just be sure to have a way to capture their name & email address when they visit.
Erick Starren needed to know ...
"Thank you, Jim, for your Business Lyceum and for your guidance. -- Two questions, please. (1) Last October you mentioned: "The "Big Mail" people are commonly referred to as the "Mail Order Inner Circle" ... mostly nickel & dime stuff, chain letters & ad sheets - but - I have found some of them very responsive to my "Get $1,000 - $5,000 Free & Clear ... within 30 days!" mailings. -- All you need to do is mail that flyer to all of the names & addresses in those "Big Mail" publications. -- Sometimes it works, sometimes it don't. " -- About those "names & addresses." Do you mean the "free mailing lists" printed in so many tabloids? -- (2) On that same subject, I recently read an article that advised mailing postcards rather than envelopes/flyers to non-in-house lists, to get the cost substantially lower. They act like specialized inquiry ads. It sounds reasonable, as the envelope/flyer package is $50/hundred and the postcards about $27/hundred. -- Have you had any experiences with postcards vs envelopes/flyers, good or bad, that you can share?"
Erick:
You send your mailers to both the people who offer Big Mails and the Free mailing lists. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't.
Postcards are good for lead generation ... you simply print a short ad (like a classified ad) on the Postcard so people can respond for further information (best bet is to include an "information order form" on the postcard so they can just fill it in & send it to you in an envelope). -- Then you send them the sales flyer.
On the other hand, postcards don't do very well if you try to "sell" something directly from the postcard message. -- It just like asking for money in a classified ad ... it only works if you have some perceived value that can be stated in a very, very few words.
By the way, Postcards are an exceptional way to build an online business. -- Just print a short, snappy ad on a postcard with the URL of the product or service you are selling. Just be sure to have a way to capture their name & email address when they visit.
Ron Cowart wrote to tell me ... "Hiya Jimbo!! -- I hope this message finds you in good health! -- I can honestly say that we are doing well, with our web site! It has grown to the point that it keeps me busy ... on a daily basis! Currently hosting 179 downloads, that will change after this weekend, to 185+ downloads ... ALL with resell rights!! -- Feel free to visit anytime. Your comments are always welcomed!" Okay, Gang ... Check it out for your ownself at: http://www.softwaresellers.net
Ron Cowart wrote to tell me ...
"Hiya Jimbo!! -- I hope this message finds you in good health! -- I can honestly say that we are doing well, with our web site! It has grown to the point that it keeps me busy ... on a daily basis! Currently hosting 179 downloads, that will change after this weekend, to 185+ downloads ... ALL with resell rights!! -- Feel free to visit anytime. Your comments are always welcomed!"
Okay, Gang ...
Check it out for your ownself at:
Michael Silk had the old chicken & egg question ... "Can I get your advice? One of my biggest obstacles seems to be knowing where I fit into the marketplace (i.e. no clearly identifiable target). I most enjoy direct response marketing and copywriting ... and whilst I have `freelance' experience of writing copy and advising the client on setting up the direct marketing process ... I have no `on job' experience or marketing qualifications to talk of. (This doesn't bother me ... but seems to count me out in the eyes of the employer). My goal for this year is to have set up my own Information Marketing business, but in the meantime I need an income and would like to do what I most enjoy and be able to put my skills to a positive use. -- Do you have any suggestions on how I can best strategies my job seeking process and demonstrate that I can be of value to a business by bringing in new customers / clients through direct response marketing." Michael: Until you have "acceptable" credentials, the chances of you landing a job as a copywriter are slim - BUT - a great many top-notch copywriters got their start this way ... Take a job with an advertising agency, radio or TV station, newspaper or magazine "selling advertising." Advise your ad clients about "how" to use the medium you are selling ... create ads for them ... tell them about new approaches to advertising they might use. Sometimes, one of those clients will hire you ... or, just use what you create for them as a stepping-stone to more & better advertising clients & finally a copywriting career. Earn your stripes.
Michael Silk had the old chicken & egg question ...
"Can I get your advice? One of my biggest obstacles seems to be knowing where I fit into the marketplace (i.e. no clearly identifiable target). I most enjoy direct response marketing and copywriting ... and whilst I have `freelance' experience of writing copy and advising the client on setting up the direct marketing process ... I have no `on job' experience or marketing qualifications to talk of. (This doesn't bother me ... but seems to count me out in the eyes of the employer). My goal for this year is to have set up my own Information Marketing business, but in the meantime I need an income and would like to do what I most enjoy and be able to put my skills to a positive use. -- Do you have any suggestions on how I can best strategies my job seeking process and demonstrate that I can be of value to a business by bringing in new customers / clients through direct response marketing."
Michael:
Until you have "acceptable" credentials, the chances of you landing a job as a copywriter are slim - BUT - a great many top-notch copywriters got their start this way ...
Take a job with an advertising agency, radio or TV station, newspaper or magazine "selling advertising." Advise your ad clients about "how" to use the medium you are selling ... create ads for them ... tell them about new approaches to advertising they might use. Sometimes, one of those clients will hire you ... or, just use what you create for them as a stepping-stone to more & better advertising clients & finally a copywriting career.
Earn your stripes.
Rhonda Robinson was thinking .... "I read your newsletter - a great one I might add - for the month of June. You were talking about Exporting US products. -- My questions is: Couldn't I do the same thing as a finder and match buyers from foreign countries to sellers from the US? -- Example: I do some research to find out what countries want what and find a supplier in the US to meet that need. I would contact the supplier and ask if I found them a buyer for their product XX would they authorized a commission. And then I would just follow the steps in your finder course. -- It seems to me to work somewhat the same way." Yes, Rhonda ... I've made a ton of money doing it exactly like that.
Rhonda Robinson was thinking ....
"I read your newsletter - a great one I might add - for the month of June. You were talking about Exporting US products. -- My questions is: Couldn't I do the same thing as a finder and match buyers from foreign countries to sellers from the US? -- Example: I do some research to find out what countries want what and find a supplier in the US to meet that need. I would contact the supplier and ask if I found them a buyer for their product XX would they authorized a commission. And then I would just follow the steps in your finder course. -- It seems to me to work somewhat the same way."
Yes, Rhonda ...
I've made a ton of money doing it exactly like that.
What would YOU do? You suddenly lose all your money, along with your name and reputation, and only have your marketing know-how left. You have bills piled high and people harassing you for money over the phone. Plus, you have a guaranteed roof over your head, a phone line, and an internet connection for only one month. You no longer have your big guru name or JV partners. Other than your vast marketing experience, you're an unknown newbie. What would you do, from day 1 to day 30, to save yourself? Find out how 30 top-gun marketers would handle the situation. http://tinyurl.com/dv3v Just ONE of these 30 day money making Blueprints will help YOU create an extraordinary online income even if you have absolutely no money, no Website, no product, and your creditors are waiting to bite any moment! My, personal, day-by-day solution will knock your socks off.
You suddenly lose all your money, along with your name and reputation, and only have your marketing know-how left.
You have bills piled high and people harassing you for money over the phone.
Plus, you have a guaranteed roof over your head, a phone line, and an internet connection for only one month.
You no longer have your big guru name or JV partners. Other than your vast marketing experience, you're an unknown newbie.
What would you do, from day 1 to day 30, to save yourself?
Find out how 30 top-gun marketers would handle the situation.
Just ONE of these 30 day money making Blueprints will help YOU create an extraordinary online income even if you have absolutely no money, no Website, no product, and your creditors are waiting to bite any moment!
Claudio Xerez wanted to know the "secret" ... "My name is Claudio Xerez. I'm a Marketing post-graduate in Brazil. I've been online for one year trying to discover the secrets to succeed on the internet and during this time I've read tens of paid and free e-books, ezine articles, email courses, reports... In fact I've learned more about marketing in one year then in all my life, however there's something I couldn't understand and this is the reason I'm writing to you. -- Jim, every guru with small differences says that to succeed online you must: - create your own mailing list - chose the correct affiliate program or setup your own - follow up with your leads / prospects - have a good website - submit your website to search engines - be self motivated - follow some steps ... Of course every thing is true, but the way I see this is not so simple as it seems. -- Why not? -- Just because very few people who use these methods get really rich! -- I'm sure that there's a missing piece here. May be the last hidden secret to online success. Exactly why few people succeed and why so much people fail even using the best marketing strategies available. -- So according to your experience what's the missing piece to online success. -- Please tell me what you think is the hidden secret, the invisible line that separates success and failure online. -- I thank you in advance for your good will and your attention." Claudio: The "secret" missing link is NOT within the applications. It is, rather, within the individual studying those applications. I believe it was Andrew Carnegie who said that you cannot push anyone up a ladder ... they MUST climb for themselves. Having been "in business" for nearly 50 years ... and having published "how to make money" information for over 30 years ... I can tell you, for a fact, that fewer than 3% of the people who buy materials on making money ever take the time to do so. (SAD, but true.) It is within YOU ... not within the applications. You might enjoy my Free report at: knowledge.html Read it in good wealth.
Claudio Xerez wanted to know the "secret" ...
"My name is Claudio Xerez. I'm a Marketing post-graduate in Brazil. I've been online for one year trying to discover the secrets to succeed on the internet and during this time I've read tens of paid and free e-books, ezine articles, email courses, reports... In fact I've learned more about marketing in one year then in all my life, however there's something I couldn't understand and this is the reason I'm writing to you. -- Jim, every guru with small differences says that to succeed online you must: - create your own mailing list - chose the correct affiliate program or setup your own - follow up with your leads / prospects - have a good website - submit your website to search engines - be self motivated - follow some steps ... Of course every thing is true, but the way I see this is not so simple as it seems. -- Why not? -- Just because very few people who use these methods get really rich! -- I'm sure that there's a missing piece here. May be the last hidden secret to online success. Exactly why few people succeed and why so much people fail even using the best marketing strategies available. -- So according to your experience what's the missing piece to online success. -- Please tell me what you think is the hidden secret, the invisible line that separates success and failure online. -- I thank you in advance for your good will and your attention."
Claudio:
The "secret" missing link is NOT within the applications. It is, rather, within the individual studying those applications.
I believe it was Andrew Carnegie who said that you cannot push anyone up a ladder ... they MUST climb for themselves.
Having been "in business" for nearly 50 years ... and having published "how to make money" information for over 30 years ... I can tell you, for a fact, that fewer than 3% of the people who buy materials on making money ever take the time to do so. (SAD, but true.)
It is within YOU ... not within the applications.
You might enjoy my Free report at:
Read it in good wealth.
Last month ... Randall Sulhoff told me about a great idea ... "Every person you know can earn money in this business. You can hand out free golf tickets and invite people to play for $100,000 prizes. You can use your back office presentations to recruit and train new distributors. You can use your back office presentations to work at the corporate level with business owners and charities." SO ... check it out at: http://themvpnetwork.com/thelinks Well, this month ... Ben Barnes told me about another one ... "Here is an idea kind of like the one below with the golf tickets - only it's with plane tickets. -- Any business - that sells any product - can give away plane ticket vouchers as an incentive to buy. -- The online voucher program is only $30 a month. Imagine how many more products we can all sell giving away plane tickets with them." So, you can check it out, too, at ... http://www.businessinfoexchange.com
Last month ...
Randall Sulhoff told me about a great idea ...
"Every person you know can earn money in this business. You can hand out free golf tickets and invite people to play for $100,000 prizes. You can use your back office presentations to recruit and train new distributors. You can use your back office presentations to work at the corporate level with business owners and charities."
SO ... check it out at:
Well, this month ...
Ben Barnes told me about another one ...
"Here is an idea kind of like the one below with the golf tickets - only it's with plane tickets. -- Any business - that sells any product - can give away plane ticket vouchers as an incentive to buy. -- The online voucher program is only $30 a month. Imagine how many more products we can all sell giving away plane tickets with them."
So, you can check it out, too, at ...
Luis Arauz was wondering ... "What have your experiences been with selling info products during the summer months?" Luis: Some years ago, summer was down time ... slow sales ... time to create new products. Not any more ... sales are relatively stable throughout the year with minor dips over tax time (4/1-15) and the week before national holidays. SO ... we just keep on doing what we do every day, no matter the season. By the way ... Luis is one of my students and has written an exceptional report about earning Finder's Fees from the Internet. -- Here's his info ... You can now ... Earn Finder's Fees from the Internet! Since 1978, my Finder's Fee course has taught well over 30,000 people how to get paid the Finder's Fees they earn. Some of them have gone on to amass fortunes in the field ... before the Internet (as we know it today) even existed. With the advent of the Internet, many of my students have asked ... "How do I find Finder's Fee opportunities on the Internet?" Until now, I really haven't had an answer for them. Then, this contact ... one of my students ... sent me a review copy of his "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide." I couldn't believe it ... the "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide" is jam-packed with vital information for every 21st century Finder using the Internet ... where to look ... what to look for ... how to use the information sources ... how to gain knowledge of who you are dealing with. All in all, using the "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide" you will have online Finder's Fees as close as your keyboard. -- Beyond that ... You can choose from over 1,416,536+ potential Finder's Fees? It's absolutely true. You can really have immediate access to over 1,416,536 potential Finder's Fees when you use the "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide." As far as I'm concerned, anyone who wants to be a "real" Finder in the 21st century, must have this book. So, do yourself a big favor & order your personal copy, TODAY!! http://www.luisarauz.com/products/21cfletter.htm
Luis Arauz was wondering ...
"What have your experiences been with selling info products during the summer months?"
Luis:
Some years ago, summer was down time ... slow sales ... time to create new products.
Not any more ... sales are relatively stable throughout the year with minor dips over tax time (4/1-15) and the week before national holidays.
SO ... we just keep on doing what we do every day, no matter the season.
By the way ...
Luis is one of my students and has written an exceptional report about earning Finder's Fees from the Internet. -- Here's his info ...
You can now ...
Since 1978, my Finder's Fee course has taught well over 30,000 people how to get paid the Finder's Fees they earn. Some of them have gone on to amass fortunes in the field ... before the Internet (as we know it today) even existed.
With the advent of the Internet, many of my students have asked ...
Until now, I really haven't had an answer for them. Then, this contact ... one of my students ... sent me a review copy of his "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide." I couldn't believe it ... the "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide" is jam-packed with vital information for every 21st century Finder using the Internet ... where to look ... what to look for ... how to use the information sources ... how to gain knowledge of who you are dealing with.
All in all, using the "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide" you will have online Finder's Fees as close as your keyboard. -- Beyond that ...
It's absolutely true. You can really have immediate access to over 1,416,536 potential Finder's Fees when you use the "21st Century Finder's Fee Guide."
As far as I'm concerned, anyone who wants to be a "real" Finder in the 21st century, must have this book. So, do yourself a big favor & order your personal copy, TODAY!!
Elsie wanted to know ... "I read with interest your advertisement on the net. I am very keen to start my own business by import or export. However, I know it is easy to export from America but what about the import part? -- Who should I import it to? -- I would like to have a business from home but I will need to staff a group of staff just to manage the local distribution. -- Can you please let me know how I can do this?" Elsie: Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Instead of employing a staff of sales people ... sell the imports to already established sales companies, wholesale companies and retail stores. They will buy in quantity, rather than one at a time.
Elsie wanted to know ...
"I read with interest your advertisement on the net. I am very keen to start my own business by import or export. However, I know it is easy to export from America but what about the import part? -- Who should I import it to? -- I would like to have a business from home but I will need to staff a group of staff just to manage the local distribution. -- Can you please let me know how I can do this?"
Elsie:
Don't try to reinvent the wheel.
Instead of employing a staff of sales people ... sell the imports to already established sales companies, wholesale companies and retail stores. They will buy in quantity, rather than one at a time.
Codrut Turcanu says you can ... "Stop paying crazy monthly Fees for your Autoresponders, WebSite/Ad Trackers, Credit Card Processing and Affiliate Software! -- Get them all under one roof for one low discounted fee -- with unlimited use!" Go here for a 30-Day *FREE* Trial: http://um.bizmarketingsecrets.com Don't know if it has any value, so, check it out aces-high.
Codrut Turcanu says you can ...
"Stop paying crazy monthly Fees for your Autoresponders, WebSite/Ad Trackers, Credit Card Processing and Affiliate Software! -- Get them all under one roof for one low discounted fee -- with unlimited use!"
Go here for a 30-Day *FREE* Trial:
Don't know if it has any value, so, check it out aces-high.
Well ... that's it for this month. -- In order to make every issue responsive to YOUR needs, please send me your questions; or tell me what sources or resources you need to build your business; or give me any thoughts you want to share with your fellow members. Believe it or don't ... I ain't a mind-reader. -- If'n you doesn't tell me what you need, I may never touch upon the information, sources or resources you need. This is your publication for you to use to your benefit ... I am just your moderator. Until next month, keep well ... J.F. (Jim) STRAW Grande Panjandrum
Well ... that's it for this month. -- In order to make every issue responsive to YOUR needs, please send me your questions; or tell me what sources or resources you need to build your business; or give me any thoughts you want to share with your fellow members.
Believe it or don't ... I ain't a mind-reader. -- If'n you doesn't tell me what you need, I may never touch upon the information, sources or resources you need.
This is your publication for you to use to your benefit ... I am just your moderator.
Until next month, keep well ...
J.F. (Jim) STRAW Grande Panjandrum
Thought For The Month! "An idealist believes the short run doesn't count. A cynic believes the long run doesn't matter. A realist believes that what is done or left undone in the short run determines the long run." ~ Sydney J. Harris
"An idealist believes the short run doesn't count. A cynic believes the long run doesn't matter. A realist believes that what is done or left undone in the short run determines the long run." ~ Sydney J. Harris
Can you stump the old master? -- Betcha can't! Over the past 40 years (man and boy), I have made bundles of money in direct selling, service contracting, wholesale merchandising, entertainment (I was a professional Trumpet player, vocalist & Radio Announcer), freight forwarding, import/export, retail merchandising, warehousing, real estate, electronics manufacturing, finder's fees, closeout merchandising, financial brokerage, business consulting, steel fabrication, gold and coal mining, offshore banking, mailorder, writing, and publishing. -- That being the case ... No matter what business you're in ... whether you're just starting, well on your way, or at the top of the heap ... I've probably been where you are, done what you are doing. -- So ... Anytime you have a question about 'how' to do something in your business - or - if you have any comments about anything I've said in issues of this e-Letter; or if you want to add your 2 cents worth ... just "ask" me or "tell" me. Send your Questions, Comments or 2 Cents Worth to ... with "Question" - "Comment" - or, "2 Cents Worth" in the SUBJECT. If I, personally, don't have an answer to any question you may ask, I will contact some of the professionals in your field of endeavor (I will probably know one or more personally) to get the real 'skinny' for you. Note: If you want to ask a question anonymously just tell me so when you send in the question. -- Nobody but you and I will know who asked the question.
Over the past 40 years (man and boy), I have made bundles of money in direct selling, service contracting, wholesale merchandising, entertainment (I was a professional Trumpet player, vocalist & Radio Announcer), freight forwarding, import/export, retail merchandising, warehousing, real estate, electronics manufacturing, finder's fees, closeout merchandising, financial brokerage, business consulting, steel fabrication, gold and coal mining, offshore banking, mailorder, writing, and publishing. -- That being the case ...
No matter what business you're in ... whether you're just starting, well on your way, or at the top of the heap ... I've probably been where you are, done what you are doing. -- So ...
Anytime you have a question about 'how' to do something in your business - or - if you have any comments about anything I've said in issues of this e-Letter; or if you want to add your 2 cents worth ... just "ask" me or "tell" me.
If I, personally, don't have an answer to any question you may ask, I will contact some of the professionals in your field of endeavor (I will probably know one or more personally) to get the real 'skinny' for you.
Note: If you want to ask a question anonymously just tell me so when you send in the question. -- Nobody but you and I will know who asked the question.
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