Usually, success in an online business depends upon
selling outstanding products or representing really
good affiliate plans. But just as important in getting
people to buy from you is your business image. In this
article we will look at how to define that image and
sell yourself to help your potential customers decide
to buy your products.
There are several things to think about when
developing your online image. But it's no different
from preparing a resume or a personal history. You'll
want to look at your education or training, work
experience, and your life experiences, and how all of
this defines you as an individual in such a large
marketplace.
We start with education, because that's the point
where our lives began to take a definite shape. Think
about what part of your education relates to who you
are. Is it the favorite grade school teacher who
unlocked your ambition to learn? Or is it special
talents your high school studies or extra curricular
activities revealed?
Remember, your personal level of education not so
important. It's how your educational background helps
define who you are and how well you can help others
online.
Next, start thinking about your life experiences. What
large events in your life like being married or
single, raising children, and maintaining long-time
friendships helped shape you? What would you change or
keep the same assuming you'd have control over such
matters? What have you gained from your experiences in
life?
Then examine your work history. What occupation did
you start out in? (This includes what has been
traditionally known as "home maker", or household
manager, if you will.) What various skills did you
obtain? What other occupations have you had? What
things about traditional employment brought you to the
Internet looking for income?
Now try to decide how your education, life
experiences, and work experience translate into your
online goals. In general, how much income do you
expect to replace with income from online? What do you
think your niche market is? (This is defined by what
type of customer you focus your business on.) How does
your business fit into the large scheme of Internet
marketing?
Okay, you say, now I have a handle on who I am. I have
an image. What do I do with it? How is it going to
help me sell products?
Well, announce it to the world. Tell people who
you are.
Work up an online resume or an "About Us" page for
your site. Include key points from your
self-searching. Make yourself into a real, live human
being with whom your customers can do business and
enjoy visiting again and again.
Publish your name, address, phone number, and email
address. You needn't worry about being swamped by
phone calls and letters. In five years online I've had
one customer ever call me, and it was not to complain.
I've had one letter, and it was for more information.
Emailing is so much easier and it saves long distance
rates and postage. (I don't have a toll free number
yet, so it's their nickel to call me.)
Provide a self-photo. Without undue cost, "put your
best foot forward" by having it taken professionally.
It should be the "real you", not some computer
enhanced alter ego that portrays you better than you
actually are. Don't be afraid to update the photo
regularly to show you developing in your career.
Finally, let's talk a little about being professional.
I'm not referring to how you phrase your sentences or
how fancy your vocabulary is. Instead, I'm
recommending you try to be realistic - confident
without hype and humble without putting yourself down.
In short, be yourself.
In your comments and publications avoid sarcasm. Some
people may catch the humor while others may be
offended by it. Don't issue ultimatums like, "If
you're not willing to [so and so], then you don't
belong in this business." These folks are your
prospects or have signed up under you. They are
expecting your help and example, and you wouldn't want
to push them away from making a decision to buy.
When all is said and done, what you say and do online
brands you to those with whom you come in contact. It
would be far better to take time to brand yourself in
a positive light than to leave your image to chance by
neglecting your online presence.
About the Author
Brian Moore publishes 'BizOps Secrets', a complete
ezine resource for online success. Subscribe and receive
a free 5 line classified ad. Here's the address:
mailto:addmeplease@sendfree.com. AllPro BizOps, Proven Business Secrets That Work Online
http://www.allprobizops.com