MarketingProfessor.com at Blogger

Official Google Blog: Went Walkabout. Brought back Google Wave.

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Fri, 29 May 2009 19:49:00 +0000

Official Google Blog: Went Walkabout. Brought back Google Wave.

This is a very worthwhile post to read, and watch the video, Google Wave has huge potential, and it is amazing what they have accomplished in a short period of time.

Enjoy!

Review Of YouTube Secret Weapon

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda) — Fri, 15 May 2009 20:18:00 +0000

Conversions from YouTube Exceed Google Search by 296%

I thought it would be easier to discuss it in a video (imagine that), so I created one and placed it below.

Feel free to share your thoughts and feedback below, or on the YouTube Channel.

Why a Pay per Click Campaign is Your Biggest Contest as a Copywriter

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Pay per Click (PPC) campaigns is a great and easy way to drive new leads to your website. However, what many users don’t realize is that these little ads are part of a competitive part of the internet world. The good news is, that with proper PPC tracking, as well as a few commonsense hints, PPC search engine placement will provide your potential customers with the ads that you want them to see. These tips will help you get the most out of your PPC campaign management strategy.

A Strong Headline Can Catch Your Next Customer

Just like a newspaper headline or a catchy television commercial, often the headline is the best way to hook a potential client. This all important part of a PPC campaign management plan should engage the reader’s attention. It should make the viewer sit up and take notice, and be relatable to what the person is interested in. In fact, a good headline is essential to both proper PPC search engine placement and effective PPC tracking. Above all, though, an effective headline should make the reader want to know more.

Keep Their Attention with a Great Sub-Heading

As soon as your PPC campaign has grabbed the potential client’s attention with a quality headline, your job as a copy writer is just beginning. The subhead needs to offer yet another morsel, another small piece of information. Often a subtle call to action, or a promise of questions answered can be a great way to hold the attention of your potential client. This often overlooked trick is also a great way to maximize the effectiveness of the PPC search engine placement of your advertisements.

A Relevant Domain Name Means More Potential Clients

If you’re dealing with Google Adwords, you know that they require that the domain name displayed in these pay per click advertisements must be the landing page of the company, and not take the reader to another page. It might not be the same with other popular ad networks, but having a solid and easy to understand domain name is a great policy no matter what. It’s a great way to not only brand your domain name, and make the most of the few moments of attention given by your potential client.

A Better Advertisement Means a Lower Cost for You

In most cases, the more you spend, the higher your position is with your PPC campaign. However, the better the advertisement, the better their performance and their placement will rise without spending much money at all. The PPC tracking provided by the search engines can be a great way to determine if your copy is making the cut. This can be a great motivator to write a great ad.

Remember, your next PPC campaign is most likely a contest with other copywriters. Your headlines should strive to catch the attention of the reader, and the sub headlines should hold their attention and convince them that a simple click is in their best interest. Finally, an intriguing domain name is a great way to convince a reader that your product or your service is the best for them. Knowing how to make the most of your PPC campaign management strategy is essential to making that first customer contact.

image credits to Davichi

Affiliate Marketing: PayDotCom vs. ClickBank

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:30:00 +0000

The decision to employ an affiliate marketing strategy should not be taken lightly. As the stability of the economy remains increasingly unpredictable, many of those trying to find legitimate ways to make money online are adding affiliate marketing strategies to their online marketing plans. As a starting point, examine these affiliate marketing tips for PayDotCom and ClickBank and see if affiliate marketing is for you.

PayDotCom. As a relative newcomer to affiliate marketing programs, PayDotCom has made some improvements over the offerings of ClickBank that may appeal to both seasoned and green affiliate marketers alike. Here are some affiliate marketing tips that offer a sampling of what to expect from PayDotCom:

Instant payment. Among the products available in the PayDotCom Marketplace, many have an instant payment option. Examine the availability of products that offer instant payment from each sale.
Choice of product. The PayDotCom Marketplace is the affiliate marketers’ superstore. Similar to its competitors, PayDotCom allows you to search its categories and subcategories for the affiliate product that best suits your customers’ needs. Here are a couple of PayDotCom product highlights:
- Physical and digital. Unlike its competitors, PayDotCom offers the choice of both physical and digital affiliate products for affiliate marketing.
- Stat tracking. Using promotion tools, you can track the stats of any and all of your affiliate products.
Blog Widget. As a registered affiliate, you are provided a PayDotCom widget you add to your affiliate marketing blog. Each time your customers click through your PayDotCom link within your affiliate marketing blog and make a purchase, you earn a commission.

Signing up with PayDotCom is free and simple. As an affiliate, you have the earning potential of up to 80% with PayDotCom sales commissions.

ClickBank. With a longer online history, ClickBank has created a larger affiliate base than its competitors. Check out these ClickBank affiliate marketing tips before finalizing your decision:

Recurring billing. For those products that become long-term money makers for affiliates, ClickBank uses some affiliate-friendly practices to maximize profits.
- No monthly fees. Neither initial nor monthly fees are imposed on affiliates.
- Guaranteed payment. Every sale is accounted for and payment is guaranteed.
Digital products. Explore the ClickBank Marketplace for products with which you wish to target with your affiliate marketing strategy. Choose your category and your subcategory, sort the results based on popularity, gravity, profit, or more, and you are on your way to success as an affiliate marketer.
Customer first. Conducting business online does not exempt you from a customer-first mentality. ClickBank provides opportunities to put the customer first and improve you affiliate marketing strategy results.
- Lower initial price. Attract your customers with an introductory price. You may increase subsequent pricing for recurring billing.
- Trial period. Offer your customers a maximum of 31 days to sample your product before rebilling occurs.

Whether you choose to sign up with PayDotCom or ClickBank depends upon you specific needs as an affiliate marketer. Regardless of your choice of program, it would behoove you to create and maintain an affiliate marketing blog to direct traffic to your affiliate product.

image credits to the half-blood prince

Internet Video Marketing Tips- How Youtube Subscriptions can be Marketing Gold

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 18:30:00 +0000

If you’re looking for a great way to get your marketing message across, take a long look at YouTube. This Internet video marketing tool has quickly become one of the most successful ways that you can bring more clients to your website. One of the best Internet video tips that you should take advantage of is the idea of encouraging Youtube subscriptions.

Internet Video Marketing Tips- The Pros and Cons of YouTube

As the explosion of online videos has spread, Youtube has ridden the wave with new features and easy use for both the publisher and viewer. One of these features is the subscription feature, which allows a viewer to be notified when their favorite publisher or producer has uploaded a new video. As a producer or publisher, you can use this easy video marketing tool as a way to get information about your new products and services out to the world.

Subscribing for Viewers

Once a viewer subscribes to a Youtube channel, they will get updates automatically whenever their favorite channel has a new video uploaded. This is important, because the subscribers to your Youtube channel will be able to get up to date information about what you can offer and how your company is changing.

Another great advantage to both the viewer and the producers is the interaction that can be created through Internet marketing videos. The subscriptions can be a great way for the subscribers to bring feedback and comments directly to you. What’s more, the more comments and feedback you have, the greater the likelihood of traffic being driven to both your YouTube channel and your website.

Subscribing as a Tool for the Producer

Just as your viewers can get up to the minute information about your products and services through subscriptions to your Youtube channel, this Internet video marketing tip can be a great asset to you as a producer. Whenever you upload new material, your subscribers will automatically be notified. And as your subscribers comment and talk about your features, they’re likely to encourage more visitors, and more potential clients to visit both your Youtube channel and your website. Of course, it should be remembered that the notifications aren’t always instantaneous. So, if your material is of a time sensitive manner, alternative notification systems might be warranted.

Marketing is Nothing without Content

One of the most important internet video marketing tips that nearly everyone underestimates is the idea that content is king. Your Youtube video doesn’t need to be sparkly or bear the mark of a big name Hollywood director. The most important thing is to make sure your content is not only friendly and approachable, but also easy to understand. It should encourage your current clients to not only talk about you with their friends, but also be a window inviting them to view your website.

Remember, the Internet can be one of the most versatile marketing tools available to a businessperson today. Youtube not only allows you to interact with your clients, it encourages a two way street of communication where anyone, past and future clients can become acquainted with your products.

image credits to Haerektik

Social Marketing Strategies: How Much of Your Public Profile Is Social and How Much Is Marketing?

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:30:00 +0000

All social networking sites have one thing in common: they all have a public profile for users to complete and share with other users. As a search engine marketing strategy, the more public profiles you complete the greater your chances of appearing in search engine results. As a social marketing strategy, what seems like simple social networking can be a serious social marketing plan.

Who, What, Where? Depending upon the social networking site, there are various amounts of information requested for a public profile. Those with a business twist, such as LinkedIn, focus on your professional side while those that are less formal approach, such as Facebook, prefer to include personal items like favorite quotes. Expect to find these common fields in your public profiles:

Name. As an online marketer, it is recommended that you use your full name as part of both your social marketing strategy and your search engine marketing strategy. Here are 2 reasons why:
- Hide and seek. Your followers and friends can more easily find you in a search. If your name is simply “John S.” you will be virtually impossible to find.
- For real. Your credibility is improved if you do not appear to be concealing your identity. Hiding behind a screen name or a first name only does not always look to be on the up and up.
Geographic region. Part of your social marketing strategy should reveal your whereabouts. Customers are often more comfortable networking with those of similar geographic and demographic backgrounds.
Employer/field. Including your employer or professional field can provide a boost to your search engine optimization strategy. For every public profile that asks for your professional information, the search engines return your profile results.
Web site. Having a web site is a must as part of your search engine marketing strategy. Including your web address in your public profiles gives you that many more opportunities to employ your social marketing strategy as you increase your audience reach.
Education. For those potential customers who are not yet familiar with your expertise, your education history is a vital statistic that enhances your social marketing strategy. By promoting your connection with your alma mater, your search engine search results have a greater likelihood of improving and increasing.

The information you provide in each of your social networking profiles becomes a possible result for search engines. By following common search engine optimization tips with your social networking profiles, you can maximize your personal search engine results.

As you join the multitude of social networking sites and fill out your public profiles, take into account your search engine marketing strategy and possible results returned. In addition, the fields you complete have a direct impact on your social marketing strategy by meeting the various criteria for memberships in relative social networking groups.

image credits to luc legay

What Your Twitter Profile Does for Your Social Content Syndication

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Regardless of your reasons for using Twitter for business, your Twitter profile is of utmost importance as a component of your overall Twitter marketing strategy. Your success through your Twitter marketing strategy may be measured by how well your social content syndication efforts meet their expectations.

Who are you? There are two means of identifying yourself that must be both carefully thought out and included in your Twitter profile to boost your social content syndication efforts:

Full name. Your name is the most important profile feature when using Twitter for social content syndication. It is your real name that is searchable by those who may not know your Twitter username.
Username. Your Twitter username should be an indicator of who you are and what you do. In 15 characters or less, your username should help your followers know your area of expertise, e.g. Iselltshirts (only if you sell t-shirts, of course).

Your name is your connection to the social marketing world. Make sure you take every step so anyone searching for you is able to find you, and follow you with ease.

More Info URL. Using Twitter for business is a practical move for syndicating your social content. However, you must take advantage of the URL field of your Twitter profile to make certain your social content makes its rounds. Use one of these addresses in your URL profile field:

Homepage. Naturally, you want to direct Twitter traffic to your homepage to spread your message in greater detail. Once your followers reach your site, you can promote your special offers and reveal your latest developments.
Blog. Redirecting traffic to your regular blog can extend the reach of your content and increase your audience.

Your homepage or blog is an extension of your professional self. Make sure your address is entered correctly by clicking on the link once it is posted to your Twitter home page.

One Line Bio. Here is where you can get creative. In 160 characters or less, you can give your followers a glimpse into your personality and your profession. Here are some suggestions about what to include in your one line bio:

Personal background. Let your followers know where you are from and how you got to where you are. Maybe share your education or previous employment history as a brief overview into how you got where you are today.
Professional objective. You may choose to be specific or general with how you present yourself as a professional marketer. Regardless of the path you take, avoid any text that is misleading or exaggerated.

Using Twitter for business is a user-friendly way to syndicate your social content without alienating your potential customers. With the limited space of 140 characters, your message must be genuine and appealing enough to generate a respectable following.

image credits to Peter Martin Photo

Must-have Elements for Your Internet Marketing Videos

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Internet video marketing tips abound when discussing how to make your video marketing strategy worthwhile. With YouTube leading the pack as a host for Internet marketing videos, your social marketing strategy must include certain elements to appeal to the broad video audience.

Viewer Benefits. Regardless of what the content of your video may be, there must be some kind of benefit for the viewer if you expect to convert video browsers into buyers.

What do have to offer? Neither exceptional graphics nor Nobel-quality composition will result in success for your video marketing strategy. What your video must contain is a specific benefit for your viewers.
How can your viewers get it? You have hooked your viewers with your titles and descriptions. Your Internet marketing videos piqued their interest and now, they want what you have. Use your video marketing strategy to lead your YouTube audience to your site for fulfilling your marketing promises.

The purpose of your social marketing strategy is to generate sales. The conversion from your Internet marketing videos comes from a specific viewer benefit revealed within 5 minutes or less.

Location, location, location. As on online marketer, you want to attract potential customers to your personal home page. Here are some Internet video marketing tips for using a video marketing strategy to generate sales:

Site address. Be sure your personal URL is included in your Internet marketing videos. Placement at the beginning of your video is a must since not every viewer will follow your message to the end.
Sight and sound. Take advantage of the medium and combine both video and audio prompts for promoting your home page. The more senses involved in the receipt of your message the more likely the message will hit home (page) with your audience.

Taking your social marketing strategy to YouTube is an easy video marketing step toward generating sales. Increase the possibility of conversion by providing your URL in each of your Internet marketing videos.

Call to Action. The attraction and retention of viewers’ interest are just the beginning to reaching your social marketing strategy goals. These Internet video marketing tips can help you make the sale close the deal.

Indirect. With your Internet marketing videos’ content you have presented indirect calls to action to viewers. Viewers have been asked to stick around and listen to what you have to say and what you have to offer them.
Direct. Get specific with your direct calls to action. Include:
- what you want them to do (“Find out how you can ….”)
- what they will receive in return (“Get your free ebook….”)
- where to go to follow through (“Visit www.myhomepage.com”)

The basic elements presented here are necessary for a successful video marketing strategy. Your potential customers must know how they can benefit, where they can find you, and how they can follow through to complete the conversion.

image credits to sous les paves

Butterfly Marketing 2.0: A Free Offer for a Limited Time

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:00:00 +0000

For only a few hours, starting on March 24, 2009, at 1pm, EST, membership to the well known powerhouse Butterfly Marketing 2.0 is free . Once you know the history of this groundbreaking product, including how it goes beyond normal membership tracking software, and what the newest version has to offer, you’ll want to be the first in line, since a there is a limited availability of only 5000 copies.

The Story Behind the Marketing Legend

In 2006, Mike Filsaime launched his Butterfly Marketing 1.0 for $997. Today it sells for $1997. This groundbreaking membership tracking software managed to automate some of the most fundamental marketing tactics, including landing page techniques, the help desk, the One Time Offer, and even an integrated affiliate programs designed specifically for customers. The strategies presented were easy to implement.

Unlike many of the other membership tracking software programs on the market today, this one is written with a marketing program in mind. In fact, quite a number of Mr. Filsaime’s fans can tell of the marketing success stories that were created by using this software. Once you take the first step and register for this software marketing program, you’ll be able to see videos of these stories on his blog after registering.

Is It Really Free Membership Software?

There are a number of new features that are introduced in the free membership database software. These include an improved Risk Free Trial model, new implementation technique for One Time Offers, easy to use One-Click up-sell technology, and even Twitter and Viral Inviter integration tools. These features make using this software not only easy but also allow you to use your marketing dollar more efficiently.

Of course, the idea that most likely attracted you was free membership software, especially if it is anything like the previous edition. Mr. Filsaime has updated the software, and is making it available for free for the first 5000 who place the order, but you must register first so you will be notified when the order page is available. The estimated launch time of March 24, at 1pm EST. After these sell out, all bets are off.

While the program is free, including the software CDs, and the updated manuscript, there are costs associated with shipping, and a monthly newsletter filled with the latest information in computer marketing. Shipping is approximately $30 for U.S. and Canadian residents, and international clients will spend approximately $40 to have the deal shipped to their door. When you think about everything that this software can help you accomplish, a small investment for shipping is worth it.

What to Expect

Once you place your order, and become one of the first 5000 participants, you’ll be able to access the software almost immediately. By registering today, you’ll get the specific order link so that you can be just one click away from the software program on March 24. That way, while the 5000 copies are going fast, you’ll be right there, ready to grab yours.

You’ll get the updated manuscript through a pre-launch blog provided once you register to order. While we can’t tell you if this fantastic deal will be around after March 24, you’re welcome to check out the registration page; chances are there might be something there to pique your interest.

As mentioned previously, the first 5000 participants in this event will get the marketing software for free, with your only financial obligations being the shipping, and the monthly newsletter. In addition, you will also have the opportunity to sign up for various other events, including a training session with Mr. Filsaime himself. They are great places to learn and connect with other business contacts. There is no doubt that this chance to get over $1997 worth of web based membership software is not something that any savvy businessperson can afford to pass up. Be sure to register today!

Legitimate Ways to Make Money Online: Doing What Others Say You Are Good at Doing

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 18:30:00 +0000

There are stories abound regarding legitimate ways to make money online. The trouble is finding out what you are good at before you can start doing it. How do you create a web marketing strategy without a starting point? Try listening to those around you to find out what you are good at doing.

Feedback. What others say about you can offer the guidance you need to find those legitimate ways to make money online that emphasize your abilities.

Skills. Legitimate ways to make money online do not always start with a marketing degree. Notice what others say about your proficiencies that are potentially profitable in various web marketing strategies.

Talents. Perhaps you have natural talent that can be incorporated into lucrative web marketing strategies. Legitimate ways to make money online can include such natural attributes as voice talent, musical inclinations, or a good photographic eye.

Listen to those around you and think of legitimate ways to make money online using the feedback they give you, whether formally or informally. Your web marketing strategy may be dependent on what others see in you.

Evaluations. Many employers take advantage of evaluations to gauge their employees’ strengths and weaknesses. Pay attention to professional assessments and include the results in your web marketing strategies.

Attention to detail. Being conscientious is a positive characteristic when seeking legitimate ways to make money online. Your web marketing strategy should be specific and detailed in order to guide your toward online marketing success.

Able to meet deadlines. Without being a slave to the clock, dependability is a plus when searching for legitimate ways to make money online. If you cannot be trusted to get the job done on time, your web marketing strategy and the skills you need to implement it are all for naught.

People oriented. Having a sparkling personality is just the thing for effective Web 2.0 marketing strategies. Transparency lends itself to more easily finding legitimate ways to make money online.

Constructive criticism may be able to lead you toward specific legitimate ways to make money online. Depending upon your skill set, your may tailor your Web 2.0 marketing strategy to maximize those attributes in high demand.

Observations. Come right out and ask those who know you best what they observe in both the professional and recreational setting to help identify legitimate ways to make money online that are most appropriate.

Passion. What do your friends and family see you at ease doing? Whatever it is, there are legitimate ways to make money online while loving what you are doing.

Balance. Create a web marketing strategy that balances your strengths and weaknesses as you zero in on legitimate ways to make money online.

Although legitimate ways to make money online are widespread, the challenge is matching them with what you are good at doing and a carefully crafted web marketing strategy. Listen to your fans and select legitimate ways to make money online that satisfy both you and your web marketing strategy.

image credits to Tim & Chrissie Home

PPC Campaign Management and Click Thru Rates

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Pay per click (PPC) campaign management is an undertaking that requires consistent, if not constant, supervision to ensure its success. For efficient PPC tracking, you must know and understand your click thru rate (CTR). Here are a few points to consider regarding click thru rates and PPC campaign management:

Audience. More often than not, the broader the audience, the lower the click thru rates. The more varied the people who are exposed to your ad, the lower your percentages will be that they will click on it. Keep these tips at the forefront of your PPC campaign management strategies:

Direct aim. Define and establish a target audience to improve the chances that your click thru rate will return the results you prefer.
Measure for measure. Your click thru rate only measures those who respond to the ad through the ad. It does not measure those who independently reach your site through self direction or even back links.

Simply having an ad does not guarantee higher click thru rates. There are strategies behind PPC search engine placement to avoid futilely placed ads that are of interest to few.

Keywords. For a prime result in PPC search engine placement, your ad must have certain keyword characteristics that attract your target audience. Try these keyword kicks on for size:

Full body flavor. Include keywords in your ad body. Limiting your keywords to the title will have searchers pass you over as they differentiate among the competition.
Dual purpose. Your ad must include text that is appealing to the one using the keywords to get the desired result. PPC search engine placement is important, but you must also use the terminology that matches that of the actual searcher.

Including keywords is only half the battle. The keywords must be incorporated into quality content that attracts the audience and compels them to click on through to the other side.

Call To Action. PPC search engine placement is not always the key to higher click thru rates. What you tell your customers with your ad can be the deal maker or the deal breaker when it comes to PPC campaign management.

Liven it up. Be brief yet specific is what you want your audience to do. Include action verbs that ask them to “Sign Up,” “Try,” or “Buy” what you are offering.
What makes you so special? Pinpoint the reason you are better than your competition and share it with your audience. Do not expect your visitors to delve into the subtle differences among your competitors.

Keyword sharing is a given among those with PPC ad campaigns. However, the way you use keywords can be the difference in having your target audience click through or scroll past. Be clear and concise with your ads to maximize your click thru rate.

PPC tracking is a necessary evil for any pay per click campaign. By following a few simple PPC search engine placement tips and rules of thumb regarding ad content, your PPC tracking tools should reveal the positive effects of careful PPC campaign management.

image credits to dcassaa

Business Blogs and Your Facebook Marketing Strategy

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 19:30:00 +0000

As the popularity of online social networking grows, small business owners are in a position to realize the need for a Facebook marketing strategy. The integration of a Facebook marketing strategy by business owners with traditional marketing schemes is available in the form of these two specialized blogging capabilities that go beyond your basic blog posts.

Facebook Marketing Strategy 1: Simplaris™ Blogcast. Through the Simplaris™ Blogcast feature, you can implement your Facebook marketing strategy with the promotion of your blog on Facebook that includes some basic features requiring little or no effort from you the small business owner.

Automatic updates. As part of the Facebook platform, your blog can be automatically updated with your profile.
Public display. There are three options for adding Simplaris™ Blogcast to your Facebook account:
- Profile. By clicking on the add-a-tab “+”, you can select ‘Blogcast’ for an addition to your existing tabs on your profile page.
- Info. In the same format as the Profile tab addition, Blogcast may be selected from the ‘Info’ page and added to your Facebook Info page.
- Custom. Along with ‘Photos’ and ‘Notes’, Blogcast has been given its own custom tab, making using Facebook for business easier than ever.
Limitations. In order for Simplaris™ to configure your blog to Facebook, you are required to enter its web feed rather than it web address.

Being technologically savvy is not a requirement for integrating Simplaris™ Blogcast into your Facebook marketing strategy. Simplaris™ as a viable component of your Facebook marketing strategy is an application focused more on the needs of small businesses rather than cosmetic technological features.

Facebook Marketing Strategy 2: NetworkedBlogs. A successful Facebook marketing strategy utilizes blogging through NetworkedBlogs. Included is a search option to take advantage of opportunities to connect with other bloggers with who also have created a Facebook marketing strategy to promote their similar interests.

Directory.
- Topic. Whatever your topic of choice, there is a category listed for browsing. Whether you wish to follow your fellow online marketers or need to keep track of your favorite sports, there is a blog for you.
- Popularity. If you do not know where to start, select ‘Popularity’ under the NetworkedBlog ‘Browse’ link. Based on your geographic region, the top blogs are displayed for your perusal and selection.
Discussion forum. NetworkedBlogs gives any user the capability of both creating and participating in discussion forums through the NetworkedBlogs home page on Facebook.
Facebook feature. Once a specific NetworkedBlog has been selected, you may choose to list your blog(s) on your ‘Info’ page and/or your ‘Profile’ page for others to follow your in your online social networking footsteps.
Limitations. NetworkedBlogs is not a blog-hosting site. It is a means of accessing blogs through Facebook to organize your blogs and blog feeds for quick and easy updates.

Formerly “Blog Networks”, NetworkedBlogs is a community of blog readers and writers who want to connect with one another and share their experiences. When developed as a part of your Facebook marketing strategy, NetworkedBlogs is a key way to take advantage of online social networking possibilities for a broader audience and higher web traffic.

image credits to yappyatwork

Email Marketing Strategy 2 Things You Must Know Of Your Subscribers

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:30:00 +0000

Average subscriber values (ASV) for an Internet marketing professional are those numbers that actually tell you if your email marketing strategies are working. Most often, ASV applies to email subscriber lists, but is not exclusive of other small business marketing registries.

Types of Subscribers

The value of a subscriber depends upon the direction of your campaign. There are often small business marketing plans that can only accommodate a particular niche of the whole Internet marketing population. By recognizing the value of certain target audiences, you can incorporate your search engine optimization methods to attract those groups and raise your conversion rates.

Demographics. Depending on your product or service, there may be a certain demographic group to which you direct your web 2.0 marketing strategy. Those who fit into the audience profile are the ones calculated into any average subscribe value (ASV).
Expertise. The value of your subscriber is directly related to the usefulness of your product or service. Subscribers are likely to have varying levels of knowledge. For example, subscribers considered to be experts may be web programmers or developers in search of a new browser add-on while other subscribers may be novices who need a quick how-to guide to customizing the browser toolbar.
Commitment. The length of relationship can affect the average subscriber value in the eyes of the small business marketing professional. Those subscribers with an established history may be more likely to be considered valuable to an online marketer; however, new subscribers reflect a potential value that cannot be ignored.

By recognizing not only the current value of established subscribers but also the future value of potential subscribers, adjustments may be made to such marketing tactics such as search engine optimization and web site design.

Types of Subscriber Value

Subscribers are valued in various ways for their contributions to your Internet marketing business. Obviously, active subscribers are those given the greatest consideration when evaluating average subscriber values (ASV) against email marketing goals. However, subscribers also have influence in other areas that give them an indirect value worthy of attention:

Email. Email is the primary tool when calculating your average subscriber values. Your email lists include your subscribers. Avoid discounting the email lists your subscribers have that consist of groups to whom they forward your emails.
Feedback. No matter how long your subscribers have been with you, they are of great value when they provide positive feedback supporting your products and services. Providing an outlet for posting opinions is a cheap and easy way to generate additional subscribers without any tedious list building.
Referrals. Word of mouth, or blog, is a highly valuable means of building email lists and increasing subscriber numbers. Although not necessarily measurable through conventional ASV calculations, the value of your subscriber willing to promote your product independently is priceless.

Average subscriber values (ASV) are key statistics in the development and implementation of online marketing strategies. Using email list building, search engine optimization techniques, and web site design strategies, the values of subscribers can be increased exponentially if the multiple means of active subscriber-ship are taken into consideration.

Image Credit to mikeblogs

Transparency and Truth in a Web 2.0 World… How to Build Trust

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:30:00 +0000

Utilizing an affiliate marketing strategy in a Web 2.0 world offers many additional opportunities for customers and potential customers. To set yourself apart as an affiliate marketer, you must establish yourself as an expert and potential customers must believe you are credible. Transparency is key to a successful affiliate marketing program. You must be careful to maintain a good reputation online using carefully thought-out strategies, but not manipulative tactics. Being open and above-board with your readers is the best way of establishing credibility. Don’t tell them; show them.

One way to illustrate your expertise and credibility as an affiliate marketer is to create and maintain a blog. Free services, such as blogger.com or wordpress.com, offer you a space to create your own blog with little experience needed. Blogging is one of the most important steps you can take to set yourself apart from other affiliate marketers. Just be sure to set yourself apart in a positive way.

Blogger.com

Blogger.com is a free blogging service. It is run by Google, so if you have a Google email account (Gmail) you can use that username and password to create your blog. If not, you can click on “Create your blog” to get started. You pick your blog name, and consequently your URL. With just a few clicks, you are ready to begin posting new content to your blog. The best way to show your credibility and expertise on your affiliate program is to begin posting about your industry. Set yourself apart as the expert in your affiliate marketing program and the customers will come. You can include links to your products within your blog posts. By establishing an affiliate marketing blog to attract the attention of search engines, you will draw a following of customers.

Wordpress.com

Wordpress.com is another free blogging service and is also quite easy to set up. Similar to blogger.com, you choose your blog title and the URL. In just minutes, you can begin posting original content to grow your affiliate marketing program. By adding unique content, you draw potential customers to your site through search engines. Your growth potential as an affiliate marketer is endless. Just be sure you are building a positive name for yourself because a negative reputation can spread much more quickly.

Search engines are constantly looking for fresh content so building a blog and posting original content will draw a following to your site – and to your affiliate marketing program. Remember that transparency is the key. Blogging allows you to build an actual relationship with your readers. Treat them fairly and they will become your customers. They are you greatest asset. The product you are selling may, and probably will, change over time, but your customers will stay with you and buy repeatedly – if they trust you!

image credits to galleryquantum

Social Marketing: How Google’s Friend Connect Can Impact Your FriendRank

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Google’s Friend Connect is the latest marketing tool in a long line of Google greats. As with all Google gadgets, Friend Connect keeps all Google tools tied together through one account. Now, small business owners may have yet another new social marketing competitor in Google’s FriendRank. Through social networking sites like Friend Connect, Google is able to see who has the highest number of contacts, related links, backlinks, etc. Here are just a few sources of data that may influence your worth via FriendRank:

Memberships. By joining social networking sites like Friend Connect, small business owners can improve their standing with Google’s FriendRank and improve their status in the social marketing arena. Both Friend Connect and FriendRank allow subscribers to make worthwhile connections with those of similar interests to positively shape the commercial attitudes of those who participate in the social networks.

Quantity. Your social marketing strategy can only be successful through networks with a significant number of members. By joining those groups with a large following, you can more effectively impact the attitudes and actions of fellow members.
Duration. Memberships that are not well-established indicate a newness that does not bode well for an enviable position with FriendRank. Long-term memberships tell FriendRank that you have made significant contacts and are a respected member of your various communities.
Type. By allowing universal logins with Google, Yahoo!, AIM, and OpenID accounts, Google’s Friend Connect broadens your networking capabilities. The kind of groups you choose to join can then influence your target ad appeal according to FriendRank.

Friend Connect simplifies the process of finding and making “friends” through multiple social networking sites. FriendRank then uses information from the groups you choose to determine place specific target ads. By tracking group memberships and activities, Google’s FriendRank will try to present the most influential members with the most appropriate advertisements.

Friends. Your mother always told you that you are judged by the company you keep. Now Google FriendRank is following through with her threat. Small business marketing strategies may need some tweaking to take into account the target audience of not only the business itself but also those advertisers who are doing some targeting of their own.

Number. With FriendRank, it is not just quality but quantity. Limited friendships mean fewer opportunities to have a lasting effect the behaviors within relative social networks and put a good word in for various products and services. Friend Connect can help you more efficiently find those friends that will add to your social marketing strategies.
Frequency. How often other members choose to add you as a friend can affect how popular you are with FriendRank. Some reports show that FriendRank will even go as far as using your friends’ names in their target ads to attract your attention to the otherwise obsolete advertising banners placed of various social media pages.

Being selective when choosing social networking sites is becoming more important in the social marketing realm. Rather than joining every site you can find, your small business marketing strategy must now take into consideration which sites will give you more credibility and a higher rank among online advertisers.

Publications. “Publish or perish” has resurfaced as the motto to live by. Now it relates to the social marketing arena and those who are affiliated with various social networking sites. What you say and where you say it can give greater credence to your online presence.

Articles. Say what you mean and mean what you say. And say it a lot. The more relevant articles you post the greater your chances of being judged an influential member of the online social marketing community.
Comments. Your opinion is valuable with FriendRank. Take the time to not only join various social media sites but also contribute to them. By posting comments that will be read and passed along to other members, you can impact the placement of target ads as well as the probability of others’ following your advice.

Small business owners have been encouraged to take advantage of the social networking sites to spread the word about their products and services available. Sharing their expertise through the written word now carries more weight with those like Google’s FriendRank, who want to know who is reading, what they are reading, and where they are reading it.

Social marketing has been elevated to a whole new level. As the old saying goes, it is not what you know but who you know. By scanning the information from social media sites like Google Friend Connect, Google’s FriendRank can create target ads that will most efficiently affect the likelihood of generating business. As a small business owner, you are under the watchful eye of others to see how effective your online presence is to advertisers.

image credits to Binkiexxx

Video Marketing: The Three C’s for Small Businesses

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 22:15:00 +0000

As anyone involved in small business marketing knows, attracting and keep customers is paramount to success. The latest and greatest invention for small business entrepreneurs is establishing a video marketing strategy. Although there are many advantages to marketing with video, there are Three C’s to which you may refer when deciding whether to delve into video marketing for your small business.

C-No. 1: Cost.
The A-number 1 priority for small business marketing professionals should be the cost of advertising. With video marketing, your advantages include:

Competition. As a small business marketer, you are able to increase your visibility among larger, more prominent competitors. By participating in the video marketing game, you are keeping the playing field even, regardless of the size of the team.

Cut-backs. As the economy continues to decline, it is to your advantage to find more productive ways to spend your advertising dollar. By reducing your traditional advertising methods and increasing marketing with video you are able to remain competitive without jeopardizing your financial future.

As small business marketing plans continue to adjust to the demands of a weakened economy, video marketing continues to open doors for those small business competitors who need an innovative yet cost-effective means to get their message to the masses.

C-No. 2: Contact.

Through easy video marketing, you are able to establish personal contacts more easily without the demand of one-to-one exchanges. Marketing with video can open up other avenues as they relate to your small business contacts:

Search engines. With video marketing, you increase your search engine results to include additional marketing strategies. A higher search engine results position results in an increase in web traffic and potential customers.

Links. Take advantage of the linking capabilities available through the internet. By networking with sites of similar or related content, you can expand your number of contacts exponentially.

Make every effort to develop efficient means of making and keeping contacts to both increase and maintain web traffic. Video marketing can help you connect with the broadest of contacts through search engine indexing and link building.

C-No. 3: Coverage.

Forget demographics for a moment and realize the coverage potential video marketing has for your small business. Video has a universal appeal for any audience you wish to target.

Local. Take advantage of the video craze and enhance your local marketing strategies with the support of marketing with video. With your knowledge of the local marketing landscape you can increase your reach and enlarge your customer base with an effective method of getting and keeping your customers’ attention.

Global. There are obviously certain limitations to small business marketing and a global economy. Through online video marketing, you are able to reach those customers who might otherwise never know of your existence.

Although not all of the potential customers you reach with video marketing are within earshot, they are all within virtual reach with personal messaging through video marketing.

Video marketing is an established and efficient means of connecting with any audience. With video marketing you are not confined to a specific audience; rather, you have the open field on which to play. Marketing with video opens the door to a broader target audience and increases the amount of web traffic simply through the universal appeal of the approach.

image credits to punch for lunch

Blog Marketing: Give Your Small Business a Boost with a Business Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 19:00:00 +0000

The Ins and Outs of Business Blogging

Business blogs are yet another tool in the small business marketer’s informational cache. As is the case with any approach to internet marketing, blog marketing has a few ins and outs that must be addressed.

The ins:
- Easy to use. Business blogs are not unlike any other weblog. With the overwhelming abundance of blogging technologies available, all you need for a successful blog is a computer, a mouse, and a complete thought.
- Easy to produce. Small business marketers generally do not have the available funds to contract with an internet designer or software developer to promote his or her business. Blogs are the most cost-efficient way to convey a copious amount of relevant information without the investment of advertising.
- Easy to manage. All that is required for managing a business blog is regular updating. Because you do not have to learn the lingo found in the secret world of web designers, you can quickly and easily keep your customers informed through your blog.
The outs:
- Necessity of time. As is the case with any small business activity, there is a time factor involved with the maintenance of a business blog. The best way to manage your blogging time is to create a schedule of regular updates and follow it.
- Necessity of material. What if you just do not have an update for your business blog? Try these tips when short on material:
  - Short of making something up, find relevant links and post a few comments on how they relate to what you are marketing.
  - Answer some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). If they are frequently asked, they deserve a reply.
  - Post a picture or video of the week and add your own caption or comment.
- Necessity of self. Some small business marketers may find blogging too informal or “unbusiness-like.” Quite the contrary. Through your blog, your customers can get a glimpse into the brains behind the business, making you more real and your information more meaningful.

Me, The, and FREE: What Could Be Better than FREE?

As a first-timer, a “newbie”, to the business blogging world, it is best to seek out the most user-friendly weblog publishing site. There are many from which to choose, but some are more widely used than others, making them a more likely place for searches among those searching for specific business information.

Great Google-y Moogly. Blogger is Google’s version of the free weblog. The greatest thing about Blogger is that it is automatically linked to other Google gadgets that you and your customers may subscribe to, such as Google Friend Connect or Google Reader.
The Three Ws.
- WordPress. WordPress may be found in two forms: WordPress.org and WordPress.com. WordPress.com is managed by the developers of WordPress created to make blogging as simple as possible without the drudgery of learning coding and other challenges of technology not embraced by the general user. WordPress.org is designed for the user planning to use a web host (perhaps your own domain) and has the luxury of time to invest in blog maintenance.
- Wetpaint. Wetpaint is a source of opportunity for anyone wishing to join a broader community of information swapping. By creating your business blog through Wetpaint, you can join the mix of social networks and discussion forums and increase your web traffic and customer base.
- Weebly. No, Weebly is not the internet product of Weebles. Weebly is a hosting service that is geared toward the simpler side of blog-and-forum sites rather than the social side. They offer the basics of design templates as well as the drag-and-drop feature for adding site content.

Business blogs are not brain surgery, but they are an essential component of the successful small business marketer. With user-friendly formats and blogger control of content, business blogs are a great low-cost alternative to expensive web site development and maintenance.

image credits to Leonie²

Video Marketing Online: Keywords Are a Key Step to More Website Traffic

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Video marketing has become the number one priority in 2009 for internet marketers who are searching for an increase in website traffic. When implementing video into your online marketing strategy, it is important to remember that keywords are vital to getting more website traffic and longer website visits. Take into account these suggestions for maximizing keywords in your video marketing strategy:

Tip 1: One is the loneliest number.

Although the selection of keywords is crucial to generating more website traffic, do not limit yourself to just one or two general words. Brainstorm the keywords that directly relate to your site and broaden them to include synonyms and other similar terms.
Make your keywords specific for your targeted customers. If you really want to generate sales results, choose several appropriate keywords that will attract genuine customers rather than those who are just window shopping.
Use keyword combinations that give your customers more opportunities to access your site and your video. Using these "long tail keywords" as opposed to single words will multiply the number of search results returned through the search engines.

Tip 2: Variety is the spice of life.

Even a minimal amount of keyword research can result in more website traffic. Which keywords are “hot” and which keywords are not? Using obsolete or unfamiliar keywords will certainly not generate visitors to your site.
Utilize keyword research tools, such as Google’s AdWords, to find out which keywords are the most used in internet searches. Knowing how potential customers are searching can enable you to follow their patterns and increase website traffic.
Take advantage of commonly misspelled words. With spell check software and search engine keyword optimization, many people are not conscientious about the correct spellings of their searches.

Tip 3: Role play.

Approach internet marketing videos from the perspective of the customer. It is the customer you want to attract; therefore, consider why a potential customer might visit your site and list all keyword possibilities that a customer would use to search for and find you site.
Maximize video marketing by creating a video the customer wants to see. Combining ideal keywords with a video supports what your customer has searched for. If your keywords include coffee, coffee beans, and Starbucks, a video about English tea would not only confuse the potential customer but likely guarantee the customer would never return to your site.
Use video marketing to the advantage of the customer. With the right keyword selection, the customer is directed to your site for a video that offers something for his or her efforts: first glimpse at new product on the market, the opportunity for a limited time offer, etc.

The right keywords can make or break your attempts to increase website traffic to your site. No video marketing strategy is complete without thorough keyword research prior to integrating video marketing into your web site. The more research you are willing to put into keyword selection, the more website traffic you will receive in return.

image credits to Fray Bentos

Video Marketing Online: Easy Tips to Increase Website Traffic with Videos

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:30:00 +0000

The majority of online video viewers fall into the 25- to 35-year-old demographic group making internet marketing videos a strong outlet to reach potential customers. In May 2008 alone, an average of 85 videos a month were watched by 142 million U.S. Internet users and by 2012 there will be an estimated 190 million video viewer audience online.

This is a significant observation because marketing is shifting to online videos and businesses are wise to shift their marketing efforts accordingly to get more website traffic and capitalize on the online video marketing trend. Currently more than 40% of video viewers watch clips five minutes or less such as TV shows, movie trailers, news and jokes.

Adding videos to videos sharing sites can drive quality traffic to your site and potentially convert interest into action. Selling your products, positioning your brand or gaining exposure is the name of the game to increasing revenue. Think beyond the normal infomercial when developing your video - get creative since the most popular online video content isn’t average material. In a YouTube dominated world, original videos get passed on the most – think about the demographic of online video watchers and create a video to speak to that audience while staying true to your brand.

Because of technology today, easy video marketing can be an inexpensive way to engage a potential customer and develop an audience who you wouldn’t normally target. The online video market is massive and eager for new content - you only must lead them to your site.

Get more video marketing tips and learn how to increase your website traffic with videos by visiting our site.

image credits to Colin Johnson

A Video Marketing Plan... Are You Ready?

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 22:50:00 +0000

So, you have perfected your social marketing plan, have you? You’re involved in blogs. You have a network of like-minded internet associates you communicate with regularly. You’ve established yourself as someone qualified to speak on topics in your niche area of expertise. Now, you’re ready to just sit back and rest on your laurels, right? Well, not so fast. If you have done all those things, then you are proficient at using the web to drive traffic to your website and interest to what you are offering. But, are there other social marketing strategies you can employ to further enhance your reputation and drive further traffic to your website? Is a video marketing plan in your future? Read on to discover how using video marketing strategies might increase your web traffic tenfold.

Viral Video... What is it?

When most computer users hear the words virus or viral they cringe with bad memories of lost data, locked up computers and general havoc. But, if you create a social marketing strategy based upon the concept of viral video you just might be pleasantly surprised. By definition a viral video is one that is uploaded to a social networking site, like You Tube, and suddenly “catches on” with users there. One person spreads it by posting it, or a link to it, in an email to all his friends. Those friends love it and soon the video has spread exponentially, like a virus, all across the internet. And, guess what… time after time these popular videos are embedded with someone’s video marketing plan, that is, a link to their website or some other contact back to the creator of the video. So, by using social marketing strategies, a business or enterprise or entrepreneur will drive new contacts to his/her site. Viral videos often get thousands, even millions, of internet hits in just a few days. What about it? You could stand that kind of exposure couldn’t you?

Video Marketing Plan... Where do you start?

How’s this for a smart aleck answer - start at the beginning. No, that’s not really a wisecrack. It’s just a statement of fact. The first step of implementing your social marketing strategies is to have, or invest in, a decent video camera that you can use to create the newest and best viral video out there. No, it doesn’t need to be a $1,000 to $2,000 dollar camera that could produce theatre quality video. In fact, you might already own one good enough to do the job. If not, $100 to $200 will get you in the game quite nicely. Do a little homework. Get a decent camera capable of delivering quality internet video for a reasonable price. With a good camera, your social marketing plan is off to a good start.

In the next installment we’ll discuss how to make a viral video that will captivate audiences and send your video marketing plan to the top of the charts. Just keep in mind these few pointers as you begin implementing social marketing strategies.

* It’s free - Where else can you get this kind of exposure, at any
price?

* It’s creative - Your video marketing strategies show who you are, and how
effectively you communicate your greatness.

* It’s fun - Seriousness is not the key of viral video… enjoyment is. A
video social marketing plan gets more results with a laugh than it does with a
sermon.
image credits to Sherman Tan

SEO Techniques #2: Keywords Are King

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 18:28:00 +0000

The first step in a search engine optimization strategy is to take a close look at your website and evaluate the words it uses. To do this you need to think like a savvy internet searcher and answer a few basic questions:

* What words would someone enter into a search engine, like Google or Yahoo, if he or she were seeking what your website offers?
* Are there catch phrases that describe your specific site’s content?
* What can you do to make your site receive a higher rank on the search
engine results page?

To make your site more appealing to search engines let’s take a look at
one of the vital search engine optimization tips – using keywords efficiently.

Understand How the Search Engine Works

Search engines are becoming more exotic and sophisticated. They are different from each other in that each one has a very unique set of algorithms that control how they seek answers to the search question typed in by the searcher. By definition an algorithm is a series of mathematical instructions used by the search engine to arrive at a specific conclusion, i.e. the answer to the searchers question. Although not entered as a question each search made is asking the search engine to find specific data, the answer, to the searcher’s entry. The search engine will literally scour the internet to find words matching the entry. As you see on search results pages, each word of the searcher’s entry are highlighted, with the highest ranking going to those with the words most closely like the search, and closest together in the text of the website. So, you must concentrate on the use of keywords in your website to obtain a high level of search engine optimization.

Choosing Correct Keywords

Your site is unique. It’s one of a kind, at least to you. But to the search engine it is one in a million. To make your site attractive to the search engine try a few search engine optimization techniques related to keywords:

* Study your site thoroughly. Keywords should flow naturally in the text of your site. Search engines are quick to detect stilted or unnatural text designed simply to use specific keywords. Be focused on making your site au naturel.
* Pick your keywords carefully. Don’t get stuck in a rut. Use current, up-to-date keywords directly related to what your website offers.
* Do not over use keywords. Search engine marketing is enhanced by quality keyword usage – not by quantity.

Go ahead. Analyze your website with particular attention paid to the keywords you are using. A little editing of your site might increase web traffic significantly. In SEO keywords are king. Properly placed in the text of your website and in the title of your main title page keywords can be catalyst to getting your site on track. They can catch the eye of the search engine as it scans the web. With proper, relevant, apropos usage they can elevate your website in the search engine's results page. And that is what search engine optimization is all about – getting more visitors to your site!

image credits to xjy

Use SEO To Improve Your Ranking After Getting Indexed

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 14:30:00 +0000

Getting indexed is a vital part of your search engine optimization strategy, but it is the first step of the journey. After you have become successfully indexed don’t drop the ball. Your next SEO technique concerns improving your ranking on search engine results pages. When a search is made you want your website to be front and center on page number one of the results if at all possible. To increase web traffic you will want to employ some fresh ideas to get your site noticed by search engines. Here’s a few to consider.

Increase Your Online Presence

The best way to get noticed online is to be there. Not just on your website. Be there in different places at different times all across the internet, particularly in areas that are pertinent to your little niche of influence and expertise. Consider signing up forums or getting involved in communities in your field. A quick internet search will probably reveal several, if not an abundance, of these sites where participants are chatting about the very things that interest you. So, get going. Make a name for yourself! And, while you are doing it, don’t forget to drop in links to your website. This is an effective search engine optimization technique, since the engines will see these as back links to your site, which has the added benefit of giving you a higher ranking in their search results. As you answer people’s questions and make interesting postings on these forums and communities you present yourself as knowledgeable in your field, which adds to your credibility. So, become an expert. After all, you are, aren’t you?

Keywords Unlock Your Website

Remember this: keywords come with a caveat. Your site needs to use them in a very natural and unobtrusive way. And they need to be winners. Try putting some serious thought into the keywords you use. Are they different? Or, are there a hundred, or a thousand, or a million other sites using exactly the same keywords? To get the search engine to notice your site and to rank it higher than competing sites use compelling keywords. Use keywords that narrow the focus to your specific talents. A keyword like “author” would give the search engine thousands of possibilities, but using “mystery author” might just get it to rank you highly on its results page. You can bring your search engine marketing to a higher level with well thought out keywords.

Directories Give You Exposure

Another great search engine optimization technique is to write articles and share them on article directory sites and on content sharing sites. These specialized websites allow you to post your writings in categories apropos to your specific interests and to those of its users. The mystery author above will find plenty of possibilities for sharing his or her talents on sites like these. Normally you can append a little biographical blurb to your article which can include a back link to your website.

Bingo! The article itself catches the search engine’s eye, and the back link further enhances your visibility to the engine. Remember, the more legitimate occurrences you offer the engine the better your ranking in its results. But, note the word “legitimate.” Avoid the temptation to share articles that are already on your website. Search engines do not like duplicate content. They thrive on originality in various locations. Write unique articles which are informative, interesting, readable, and likable by the site’s visitors. Also, make sure to employ a proper keyword density of around two percent of the text. Articles with too many keywords send up red flags to the engines, which might actually hurt your search ranking.

As you apply your search engine optimization program you will want to evaluate your success along the way. Begin by measuring web traffic prior to using your SEO techniques. This gives you a baseline to relate to. Then, as you implement various techniques, measure your traffic periodically to determine the effectiveness of certain strategies you are using. If you notice more increase in web traffic from article directories than from forums, then reevaluate your postings on the forums. Decide how to make them more effective for maximum search engine optimization.

image credits to Sven Werk

Pump Up Your Blogging with an Email Strategy

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 21:24:00 +0000

Blogging was founded on the principle of engaging in a conversation, yet one of the earliest and still most popular ways to have a conversation on the Internet is email. This makes blogging and email natural marketing partners. If you are looking for a way to boost your business blogging objectives you need to bring email to your small business blogging or corporate blogging marketing plan.

One of the earliest challenges of blogging was alerting readers to new posts. Unlike the typical website, blogs make web publishing a snap. The simplicity of blogging makes for a dynamic and high frequency of new and valuable content, but how do your readers know?

Using Email and Blogs Together

RSS and blog ping servers were designed to help solve this problem. They have arguably done a great job, but they still have not eclipsed the popularity of email. Email, in contrast to an RSS reader, is a multi-use communication tool. It is the foundation of most people's communication with friends, family, and work colleagues. I might read my RSS reader a few times a day. However, I will be in my email all day.

This is precisely why email is an important opportunity for any blogging initiative.
If you want a consumers attention--use email. If you want instant traffic--use email. If you want to stay top of mind--use email. Email marketing is the secret gem of online marketing. You need to plug it into your corporate blogging plan. It can raise your small business blogging efforts to a new level.

In addition to simple alerting your readers to new blog posts email can be a tool to engage your subscribers. Injecting unique content, email only tips, and special incentives can pave your way into the "sacred" marketing place--permission based email marketing.

Blogging Can Be a Sales Agent for Email

Email also gives you the opportunity to pre-qualify customers or drive them deeper into the buying cycle. An email can only hold so much content effectively and your audience may be overly broad. However, when you combine email with a business blog you can direct them to additional information or purchase. Likewise, using email you can test a variety of concepts and messages in email(s) and let the customers funnel themselves into appropriate sales channel(s).

Email + Blogging = Big Results

Combining these two powerhouses in Internet marketing can be the boost you need for your business. Never leave your business blogging to do all the heavy lifting. Blend in email marketing to drive traffic and engage readers. These blogging tips and email techniques will make monetizing your web publishing or building up your sales leads very easy to accomplish.

image credits to Joey Rozier

Outsource Your Email or Autoresponder Service for Better Results

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 21:28:00 +0000

Email marketing is increasingly one of the toughest marketing techniques to get right, but when executed well is still a hands down leader in effectiveness. The key to that direct email marketing success is execution--reliable email delivery and credibility. For these key components to a successful email marketing strategy I go straight to a reputable email or autoresponder service provider.

You can attempt to reliably deliver email messages and avoid spam filters on your own. However, it is a short cut I do not recommend. It is likely to end in frustration, poor results, and possibly expensive CAN-SPAM (compliance) fines.

Message Delivery

Reliable and consistent delivery of emails is probably the trickiest part of email marketing. Even the most legitimate, permission-based direct email marketing is likely to land in spam filters without professional help.

An autoresponder service spends 100 percent of their time and resources on understanding the latest email technologies and regulatory compliance. This is their value to the process freeing you to put 100 percent of your focus on the email campaign design and sales content.
A service provider can also add value by providing you the latest in email marketing tips, email conversion, and small business email marketing success strategies.

Reputation, Trust

Credibility, reputation, and trust are important concepts in any small business email marketing strategy. Giving your small business email marketing a professional look and feel can do as much for email conversion and response rates as the content itself. Simply, using a reputable autoresponder service like ConstantContact, iContact, or AWeber can increase credibility with the consumer.

Service provider strictly adhere to current rules and regulations around email marketing. Their services can help keep you on top of things like: opt-in requirements, appropriate company contact information, and unsubscribe compliance.

Making delivery on your email, building trust, and doing it consistently are integral parts of email marketing success. Outsourcing those duties to an email or autoresponder service is one of the smartest email marketing tips you can follow.

image credits to photobunny

Engaging Subscribers, 3 Strategies that Improve Your Email Marketing Success

noreply@blogger.com (Marketing Professor) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 18:35:00 +0000

Email marketing is more than blasting email and hoping for a reaction. Even getting a great autoresponders service and building a few great emails is not enough. To get real, meaningful email conversion you need to engage your subscribers--this is what makes real direct email marketing.

Small business email marketing is where a lot of great email marketers get started. Small business owners know the power of engaging the customer personally. That is precisely the strategy you want in your direct email marketing. Optimizing email conversion has to be the main objective.

Here are some email marketing tips with get you on that path to success:

1. A Friendly Face

When that email lands in your customers inbox they are unlikely to remember you. So, unless you are a celebrity you had better put a friendly face on it. You be the judge of this common mistake. Are you likely to open any of these sender's emails?

info@bademail.com
do-not-reply@bademail.com
admin@bademail.com

I didn't think so. You just expedited your email campaign to the trash bin or spam bucket. How about these equally suspicious characters?

John@bademail.com
Joe@bademail.com
Jane@bademail.com
Sally@bademail.com

Are you seeing the pattern? A good autoresponder service will guide you around these common gotchas. The bottom line is make your email marketing messages as much like your every day emails, as possible. Use a real name from your company. It doesn't have to be your email address, but it should have a real name. Getting good email conversion typically is helped by adding a last name to the address as well. Also don't forget this common mistake--make the email address match any email signature in the body of the email.

2. Subject, Make it About Me

Subject lines are the keystones of email marketing strategies. There are lots of email marketing tips to improve your email conversion, but here are some of the basics:

Use their name
Remind them of email list or opt-in source
Be descriptive and direct about the content
Don't use high spam words like money, cash, mortgage
Make it brief

Sometime you can't make all of this work together, but good testing will help you get the right combination and approach for your email list.

3. Opener, Don't Waste Time

If the email is open your corporate or small business email marketing plan is working. Be careful though. This is when many email marketers get sloppy.

Give you customer immediate clarity. Give me benefit and value. Give me a reason not to trash it with the other 200 emails in my inbox.

Start with an immediate benefit statement then tell them briefly what is to come. We used to call these Johnson boxes in the classic sales letter days. Often a small offer or freebie can entice a consumer to the next step.

Making your direct email marketing work is all about coaxing your prospect to the next step of action. These email marketing tips are a great way to build that framework for consistent email conversion.