22 replies to this topic

[Ignoramus]

Hi Rolf

Sounds like we're coming from the same place - though we might be a bit further up the learning curve.

We are a UK company too.

I wouldn't presume to offer you advice - I'm no expert - but if you can't wait for the book I'd be happy to share our experiences with you.

One thing I can say with some certainty is this. Basic marketing principles apply just as much to internet marketing as they do to other forms of advertising and selling.

When we started we threw a bunch of keywords into Adwords, bid for decent positions, took all the defaults they offer and waited for the traffic. Traffic we got - lots of it. Lots of traffic but not many customers. Ouch.

We're a lot wiser now !

[rolf]

Thanks Ignoramus (Something seems so wrong about addressing you as Ignoramus ), I don't want to hijack this thread but I'd certainly be interested in any insights you can offer.

What you've described is about as far as I got with it before exceeding the budget and turning my attention back to more profitable activities. It's on the 'must try again' list right now, but I'm too tied up with other aspects of the business to give it any attention at the moment.

Joe: just a thought about your potential target markets - if Ignoramus and myself have both been in this position then there must be many others in the same position too, maybe without the will/budget to have another go some time? Anyway, not teaching you how to suck eggs but possibly a useful insight for marketing.

[LeftoverJoe]

Joe: just a thought about your potential target markets - if Ignoramus and myself have both been in this position then there must be many others in the same position too, maybe without the will/budget to have another go some time? Anyway, not teaching you how to suck eggs but possibly a useful insight for marketing.

Rolf, Thanks for your comments and your support. I appreciate your insight too, and I would always be open to suggestions and advice as success doesn't come from doing things in a bubble and hoping people see things the same way as you do.

I am glad that this thread has had a pretty positive response so far, and I am definitely encouraged by it. Based on what you, and others, have said, I may go in for a slower, more basic approach first. I could cover all of the pitfalls, unfortunate errors, etc., that one should watch out for, along with all of the best practices for setting up a solid campaign from the get-go. Then have a separate section that was all about advanced tactics, learning and adapting from what you've seen in your particular campaigns. etc.

I love the idea of having an e-book version available as well. Being able to quickly search for, and access, the exact information you need in a few seconds would be really handy. Thanks for the suggestion!

Have a good one!

Joe

[Ignoramus]

Hello again Rolf

I had a quick peek at your site to see what business you are in.

We are in different markets but have much in common. Specifically..

1. We are both in business to consumer sales.
2. Our target market (my assumption) is within the UK.
3. Our websites are designed for online sales.

I think our experience could be useful to you when it gets up your 'must try again list'.

However, before proceeding, I share your concern about hijacking the thread.

Perhaps the moderator would like to decide whether this discussion is appropriate.

Where art thou moderator ?

PS. We have three cats so you may have just got a customer !

[Jill]

Perhaps the moderator would like to decide whether this discussion is appropriate.

Sounds like a perfect time for you two to move to PM...

[Ignoramus]

Thanks Jill.

A final thought for LeftoverJoe...

You might consider including a short chapter about selecting an SEM/SEO consultant if a reader decides they need outside help.

We get quite a few calls of the "bung us a grand guvnor and we'll guarantee you first page on Google" variety.

Again, if you inexperienced, these people can sound quite convincing.

[Srvwiz]

Let me add something to it.....when you are releasing the book - I would like to have the copy - please leave a PM for me.....

[LeftoverJoe]

Igno - thanks for that idea! That would be a great addition. Thanks, I have heard far too many stories from new clients that have either talked to, or unfortunately bought services from, those types of sods.

You got it, Souravamant, check your PM.