Desperate Times,
Desperate Measures...
are Destined to Fail!

Why is it that when times get tough, some people think they must take desperate measures and do whatever it takes to make a dime?

How many people do you know that cut their prices just to get the job? Does cutting prices really get the job that will be profitable? Or, does it just prolong the inevitable failure of someone who does not want to take the time to learn how to market themselves correctly?

How many of you turn your marketing needs over to a “professional” who doesn’t really have any more success than you do? Marketing professionals are a dime a dozen, and some of them (not all) prey on the inexperienced business person.

Today with just a little bit of research you can promote your business better than any printed media source of the past, present and future. For example newspapers, flyers, magazines, etc… All costing hundreds of dollars “for just one ad”!

Everyone knows or at least should know the Internet is the fastest growing media source for promoting any business. Almost everyone “thinks” it is too expensive or complicated; when nothing could be further from the truth.

As for expense, you can advertise in the Google or Yahoo-sponsored links programs for a couple dollars a day. And with a good ad campaign you can start getting quality visitors to your Web site possibly in minutes or at least only as long as it takes you to set up your sponsored links account.

Oh… don’t have a Web site? And you are in business? SHAME ON YOU!!!

The complication of the whole thing is only in your mind. If you have a real business and can file documents in a conventional filing cabinet, balance a checkbook and read and write; then you can manage a sponsored ad campaign easily.

The intimidation factor does set in for some people because there is a lot to learn beyond the basics. But all you need are the basics if you want to promote your own business. And with a little guidance from someone willing to help you, you can be as much a pro as some people claiming to be and charging hundreds of dollars.

Beyond sponsored advertising you should be involved with a local business network. Meetup.com is a great place to start your search and you should find many groups that are free to join. If there is no group in your area; no problem… that presents the opportunity for you to get one started. Check out Meetup.com for details.

Belonging to a professional network, whether local or national, is a good idea, since you can learn from others and display on your Web site credentials, showing you are part of something bigger than a one man show. Beware however, if you show you are part of a group and actually are not, you might as well flush your credibility (that you don’t have) down the toilet; and you are in violation intellectual rights making you prone to a lawsuite.

If you are thinking this is all well and fine but don’t have any idea where to start… try hooking up with someone in one of those networking groups that have the success you are looking for. Many of these people are more than willing to help you succeed if you give them a chance. Just be aware that their time is valuable and offering them a reasonable sum will make for a lasting and possibly a great mentoring relationship.

Don’t be desperate; make your own destiny by learning how to economically and successfully promote your business.

Feel free to ask me questions!

Mike Mehrle
is The Savvy Tech

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