Recently, I've had some clients turn to me for
help above and beyond copywriting and/or website design. Some
have been "newbies," others have been merely computer-challenged.
I don't claim to be a computer whiz or an Internet technology
genius by any stretch of the imagination. But over the years,
I have learned a thing or two and in most cases, I'm able
to offer guidance, suggestions, and general assistance. If
I'm asked to help in an area in which I have limited knowledge,
I'll take some time and research the web until I find the
answer.
I don't charge for performing these "extras."
Sure, it takes time away from my regular income-producing
activities and sometimes I have to come up with some pretty
creative "reasons" why a client's assignment will
be delayed, but I feel it pays off big-time in the end.
In today's world, helping others is becoming
a rare commodity. There are a number of reasons for this,
but ... are any of them valid?
You've all heard the old sayings: "What
goes around comes around," and "Do unto others ...
" Here's a couple of others: "Teach us to give and
not to count the cost" (Ignatius Loyola), and "When
I give, I give myself" (Walt Whitman).
Giving of yourself is just as much a part of
marketing as networking, advertising, cold calling, etc. Why?
Because it leaves a positive impression of you in the
minds of others. And when they need something done that falls
within your realm of talents and abilities, who are they going
to turn to? Or when they hear of someone who needs your services,
who are they going to recommend?
As online businesspeople, we're always looking
for ways to increase our income. We buy e-books that tell
us how to become a guru Internet marketer, we join affiliate
programs and promote other people's products so we can add
a few pennies to our own pockets, we become subscribers of
"members only" websites so we can learn successful
marketing strategies, and the list goes on and on.
I challenge you to try a novel approach. Try giving of yourself without counting the cost. You may
be surprised at the results.
Nan Yielding has nearly 10 years experience as an online business owner. She is the owner of Writing-Etc.com and offers internet marketing services and assistance to help website owners attract more customers and increase sales.
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