January 28, 2006
Before we get into all the practicals of marketing an online business, I want to encourage you with a few thoughts that a lot of people that I have talked with throughout the years struggle with concerning business in general, and an internet business specifically.
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These things deal with the struggles and doubts we all have as human beings. So whether your considering starting an online business, are just getting one going, or have been running one for a while but have been disappointed with the results, these things I am about to mention are inner struggles that all of us go through.
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Let’s slay a few of these before we get into practical issues. If you don’t, they will endlessly be in the background of all that you attempt, and in many cases can cause you to give up and quit, right at the possible point of victory!
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When things don’t go as you have hoped, here is usually the first thought that will come to you: “I am not smart enough to do this.”
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In reality, this is probably the least valuable asset that is needed for business success. The web site I ran for years had to do with this subject completely. It talked about those who became fabulously successful in their chosen fields, and yet had very little formal schooling at all.
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For example, did you know that Bill Gates never had a college degree? Neither did Steve Jobs, Edith Wharton, or Thomas Edison. It isn’t how intellectual you are, but simply knowing how to do things the right way.
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You cannot go around chasing every ‘new’ thing that comes around. You must build something of your own. This something must have a unique value, something that will help people in a way that makes them think of you when they want it.
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It is when you explore and discover what that is, that you can then explore how to grow that into profits through your own products or services, advertising, and affiliate programs.
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This is called your Unique Selling Proposition. I recently wrote about that here and here.
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Read it until you get it, and then do it. If you do, you will have an advantage over nearly all of your potential competitors. Most aren’t aware of this, and if they are, won’t take the time to do it. There is no business in the world that this doesn’t apply to.
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So before even thinking about what type of marketing will work for you, you must develop what it is you want to market. There is no marketing around that can make something out of nothing, at least not long-term. Marketing without a USP is just that.
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So what is your next step? Read this and do it!
