The Success Center

Are You a Blogger?

This is a post that started on my new Tumblr blog – “The Road Ahead.” I feel like it’s pretty relevant to a lot of you who are reading this and wanted to share a bit more on the subject. Since my article, “3 Money-Making Magazine Strategies for Blogging Success,” posted at Problogger.net, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from new bloggers on blog strategies and the like. If you want to be successful at blogging there are 5 main things you’ve got to do;

1. Define Your Niche – There are literally, millions of blogs out there. Carve your own slice of the pie and make yourself stand out. For The Success Center, I’m focusing on subject matter that will help Christian entrepreneurs. Why? Christians face more intimate struggles that hit spiritual nerves so problems cut deeper. And Entrepreneurs have many roads to success but finding the right path is critical to staying on it. Put the two together and you’ve got plenty of topics to write about!

Update: A great way to define your niche is by defining what you’re passionate about. I read a book on writing and the author said, “write what you know and not what you think you know.” When people pick up that you actually love what you’re writing about that increases your authority in your niche.

2. Post Consistently – There’s an eternal war raging between bloggers about post frequency, but honestly … it doesn’t matter as long as you’re consistent with it. Seriously, it doesn’t matter if you post every day or once a week. Just do it on a constant basis so people can judge accurately when you’re going to post. I post 3 times a week at The Success Center. But, with the debut of “Inside the Success,” my radio & web show I’m seeing now that the postings will definitely increase on a regular basis.

Update: Consistency is key in establishing reader relationship and “conditioning” blog surfers to become regular blog readers. They expect something from you and when you deliver it on a consistent basis they’ll reward you with their loyalty. I try to write a post on Monday and Wednesday, start a poll on Tuesday, end it on Thursday, and post a video on Friday. It seems like a lot, but the polls and videos are the shortest post, but still give readers something to interact with. And when I post on Monday and Wednesday, that’s when I give them something really to “think about.”

3. Create an Editorial Calendar – If you’re trying to blog for money then take it seriously. It doesn’t get any more serious than planning out your posts. Trust me, it helps to be organized. I try to plan out my posts at least a week in advance. Do I always stick to the calendar, absolutely not, but it helps me to stay organized and to give my readers something fresh every week.

Update: Here’s a 17 minute video showing you exactly how I create an editorial calendar for my blog.

4. Find a partner – For some of you this may work and for others you’ll want to fly solo. I’ve found it so useful to partner up with different people on many projects. I’m particularly grateful to have a partner in, Yolanda who writes news/success profiles for me here. She’s great and I’m lucky to have her. Partnering is a good idea to lessen the load for one thing and to give readers a different style and voice for another. Here at the Success Center, it works well. She has been teaching me a lot about people I really didn’t know, such as, the article she did on Valerie Daniels-Carter.

Update: Yolanda doesn’t work with me too much lately. We’re friends and I see her often, but she really doesn’t have time to help as much as she would like. And that’s ok. It’s important when finding partners that you come to a middle ground of what’s expected and what’s not. I wasn’t paying her so I didn’t expect her to write for me every day or even every week. However, when she did, I was grateful and she produced great content.

5. Stay Dedicated! – There are going to be times when you’re not going to get a lot of traffic. When you’ll wonder if anyone is reading your blog at all. But, you have to stay dedicated. You’ve got to keep at it. If no one reads your articles, keep churning out “grade A” quality posts so you’ll be ready when they do read them.  Barack Obama once said,

“Making your mark on the world is hard. If it were easy, everybody would do it. But it’s not. It takes patience, it takes commitment, and it comes with plenty of failure along the way. The real test is not whether you avoid this failure, because you won’t. it’s whether you let it harden or shame you into inaction, or whether you learn from it; whether you choose to persevere.”

This is the exact kind of attitude you’ve got to have when starting any endeavor. (Especially blogging)

6. Network! – You’ve got to network with other bloggers, read, comment, and share other people’s information if you want to get looked at yourself. Share information on twitter, connect with people on facebook, and engage in the comments section of your favorite blogs. That’s the true key to blogging success!

7. Join a Secret Blogging Alliance – Darren Rowse picked up on this trend in his post, Let me Show You Inside a Secret Blogging Alliance. The idea is to get together with a couple of your blogging buddies, comment, and share each other’s posts. This idea is very good for beginning bloggers without a support system in place.

This list is not all-inclusive. What other advice can we come up with to help anyone become a successful at blogging? What things do you do to get your blog noticed? Please share your comments below!

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Need Help Growing Your Business?

In April 2009, Facebook, the social network of choice by over 300 million users, became cash flow positive. After 5 long years Facebook, Inc. finally turned a profit. Twitter is poised to finally make a profit this year with the launch of it’s @anywhere platform only 4 years after its debut. How long will it take for your business to become “cash flow positive?” . . . only time will tell. It’s what you do before that time that prepares you for success.

My Blogging Short Story

I’ve been blogging for a year now and I have yet to turn a profit from my online endeavors. Yes, I’ve made a little money here and there from Google Adsense and success coaching specials that I’ve run, but the fact remains; I don’t make enough to cover my expenses and go full-time. However, that’s definitely something I’m working towards.

You may not have the capital you want, the cash flow you desire, or that downtown office by the ocean you’ve dreamed of, but neither did the founders of Facebook or Twitter early on!

Today, I want to share a few things that I’ve done, am doing, and think you should do before your business generates a sizable return on investment. Here are 4 easy ways to grow your online business. . .

Establish Your Brand

A brand is what a potential customer thinks of before they dial your number, sends you an email, or requests your services. It’s not just a slogan or eye catching logo, it’s the problem the customer thinks you can solve for him or her before they meet you face-to-face. Facebook’s brand is that which connects you with people you care about [or don't know for that fact] and Twitter’s objective is to help you share what’s happening anywhere in the world. How can you establish your brand? I’m glad you asked!

Offline – Web 2.0 is flourishing and web 3.0 has its foot in the door, but don’t forget about “old fashioned” methods of branding that will never retire.

• Create a Logo – Your logo should be your business incarnate [Figuratively speaking]! It’s an image of what your business represents. A custom logo is best for trademarking and a “template” [or pre-designed] logo is cool for temporary use. I hear, Logoworks does good design work, so check them out if you need one.
• Nice Business Cards – Yes, people still pass out business cards so, yes, you still need them. It’s a snapshot of who you are, what you do, and what you have to offer. Try having yours printed double-sided and include where people can find you online such as Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, etc. Add a picture of yourself and make it harder for people to toss your card into the trash.
• Google Voice Number - I used Google Voice to secure my own name as a phone number—> 1-415-ROD-KRBY Is it because I’ve got a big-head? Not at all! It’s simple, if you stick your name everywhere, people will remember it [and you] easier than any catch phrase you can come up with. I’ve got friends that can’t remember my local phone number, but they remember my business number at the drop of a hat.

Online – The web is a breeding ground for success simply because you can create your own opportunities. Establishing your brand online is no different. Here are a few tips on what to do.

• Secure Your Name as a Domain – Remember the last offline tip I gave? The same rule applies here as well. My domain name is rodkirby.com because when people look to be successful online [or off] I want them to find me. Get it? To brand oneself you have to be consistent in your delivery.
• Start a Blog – Blogging is a great tool that can reinforce your brand by helping you to expand your message, start conversations, and grow community. Of course, you can start a free WordPress blog. But, I highly recommend dropping a few bones and self-host your blog. When you spend money on your site you’ll be more serious about it becoming successful. Check out the guys at Woothemes for awesome WordPress blog templates to get you started [proud affiliate link - where do you think the Success Center's look came from?!].
• Set-Up Outposts - You’ve got a blog – and that’s nice – but, where are your readers? An outpost is where you go to reach blog readers, potential customers, and make connections. Get on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Digg, Delicious, etc. Don’t go over-board and join every site, but pick at least 2 that you’d be willing to invest some time in developing relationships there. I highly recommend jumping on the twitter band-wagon for connecting, sharing, and building community.
• Need Help? Download my free e-book, The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Twitter Success, for help maximizing Twitter for your business. Are you a real estate professional and new to social media? Download Naomi Trower’s e-book, Social Media Marketing for Real Estate & Mortgage (aff link) This book is actually pretty awesome for real estate professionals and social media newbies alike. Check out my video review for more information.

Generate a Marketing List

Why tire yourself out going door-to-door asking for sales when you can build a list of people that want to hear what you have to say? Marketing lists aren’t new, but the way you build them determines how successful you’ll be with them. You could buy a list from a marketing company that will deliver you one based on your target market (sales results will vary). Or, you can start your own. Here’s how;

• Start a Newsletter – Establish a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly newsletter and give your best advice, tips, or “how-to’s.” I use Constant Contact (aff link – signing up will get you and me a $30 credit added to our accounts.) as my email marketing provider of choice. They even have a tool that lets me capture contact info from my computer when I’m at events.
• Create an E-book – It’s super easy to do and you can gain new email contacts by offering it at the point of subscription for your newsletter. Read 7 Lessons Learned from a Successful E-Book Launch for my best advice on creating one. Also, check out 10 Steps to Success with E-Book Publishing from my bi-weekly newsletter.
• Host a Seminar or Workshop –  Feeding a man by teaching him to fish has always been more valuable than simply feeding him. Feed participants knowledge, wisdom, and understanding and they’ll gladly give you their contact information.

Build Credibility

When I transitioned from being a graphic designer to speaking and coaching I didn’t have any clientele. So,I built credibility by volunteering my time, energy, and resources and I was paid in testimonials. Twitter didn’t become a credible service until it debuted at the SXSW conference in 2007. By the time, Oprah sent her first tweet the service was a credible global phenomenon. But they did it by offering the service to the public for free and letting users make it their own. Follow Twitter’s example and build your own credibility before your business goes before the global spotlight.

Quick Tip #1: If your clients or customers are signed up with Linkedin have them write you a testimonial after using your product or service.

Quick Tip #2: Record video testimonials for greater effect and to use Youtube to post them on your website or blog.

Create buzz

Become your own PR and marketing machine and get some “buzz” going for your business. It’s not hard but it’s not easy either, here are a few suggestions;

Offline

• Reach out to the Local Media Outlets – Contact radio stations, TV stations, newspapers, magazines and offer your expertise on specific subject matters. Become a valuable asset by offering story ideas and becoming a credible source for information.

Online

Reach out to Your Networks – Writing guest blog posts or being interviewed on blogtalkradio can extend your reach, generate traffic, and win you new fans. These activities increase your credibility and are viral forms of word-of-mouth marketing.

Quick Tip #1: Don’t save your best work for your own blog, offer it to other blogs (big ones and small ones). The more links that point to you in a search engine the easier it is for others to find you.

Quick Tip #2: When being interviewed relax and be yourself, stay on topic (no rambling!), and speak in sound bites. These are the keys to a great show and will get you more interview requests.

Final Thoughts

Facebook and Twitter weren’t always house-hold web 2.0 names, but they stayed in the trenches before they became profitable. You’re going to have to do the same with your business. Did I miss anything in this guide? What would YOU add? How are you maximizing online social networks and offline tools to grow YOUR business? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Flickr Image by Mark Belluci

Hey, pro-bloggers! Hey, small business owners! Hey, speakers! Did you know there are actually a ton of ways you can market your business or brand? Before Facebook and Twitter took the fold, people actually used to meet each other face-to-face, pass out fliers, or tell their friends to spread the word about their business for them [seriously, it's true!]. And, for all you “old-heads” who don’t know what a “tweet” is . . . then get with the program!

So, before we do a little exploring of these methods of marketing, I want to open this up to you. Which method of marketing generates the most customers, sales, connections, referrals, etc. for your business? Have you explored other methods that are listed here are stuck with one tried-and-true method? What are your thoughts on marketing your business in general? Do you find it easier to make a sale on Twitter than buying a 30 second TV spot? Cast your vote in the poll and explain your answer in the comments below!

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Overwhelmed with Social Media?

Yesterday, in a poll, I asked, Do You Ever Feel Overwhelmed with Social Media? I can already guess a couple of the answers, but I’ll share the results with you all next week. The fact of the matter is, if you’re an entrepreneur and you’ve just created a Facebook account, started your first blog, and still don’t know what Twitter is . . . you’re probably overwhelmed with social media. There are probably a ton of things that you haven’t discovered and once you do you might feel like it’s all too much to handle. But fret not my friend! You’re not alone and it’s actually not as bad as you think.

Before we take a look at some ways to help you manage your social media activities, let’s explore why you’re doing it in the first place. I call it . . .

Square One

This is the cornerstone of your social media and networking activities. In order to make a return on investment one has to first understand why he or she wants to invest in it. I’m sure you’re thinking, “to make money, Rod, duh!” Money is fine and dandy, but what if I told you that by engaging with people online you could get something better than money? That’s right! What could be better than money? How about someone’s trust and favor? What about building a relationship that could net you the repeat business of that one person and all of their friends? This is the simple yet powerful truth of social media.

Someone’s influence online can be just as or more effective as a 30 second advertisement on Television. In traditional media you only have a limited time to catch a prospect’s attention and pitch them your product or service. By maximizing social media time becomes your friend and not your enemy. The longer you build a genuine relationship with people the easier it is for them to trust you which is the equivalent of gold and silver. If you want to learn more about building relationships and trust in social media I highly recommend Chris Brogan’s new book, Trust Agents: Using the Web to Build Influence, Improve Reputation, and Earn Trust. For the uninformed, Chris is a rock star of social media and has built a loyal following through his blog and social media activities.

Now that you have a better understanding of why you’re engaging in social media in the first place let’s move on to . . .

Square Two

The first building block of social media is actually networking with like-minded individuals. That’s where Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Myspace, Ning sites, and other networks come in. I highly recommend Facebook for building deeper relationships, Twitter for instant communication, news, and sharing, and Linkedin for an overall professional web presence and business networking.

Tip#1 - Don’t join everything!

There are some that would disagree with me on this, but I believe you should only join a site that you’re going to devote time to actually being on. When people reach out to you on sites that you’ve joined but don’t maintain you’ll reach back too late and miss opportunities. I recommend that you choose 3 main sites that you’ll be able to update easily and maintain. My top three picks are Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin for the reasons specified above.

Tip #2 - Create a Social Media Plan!

Having a Facebook page or a Twitter account is great and all, but don’t forget that they’re still platforms for marketing yourself, blog, products or services. So include social media into your marketing plan. Go at it with a plan and set realistic goals like generating web traffic, increasing your email newsletter subscriber base, or sell X amount of product units per month.

Tip #3 -  Integrate social media tools!

No matter where you are or what you’re doing you’re able to update your blog, your Facebook page, or Twitter status in a matter of minutes. That could be via phone, computer, or even email. Learning to integrate tools on a regular basis is the key to maintaining your sanity with it all. Maximize web applications like;

• Ping.Fm – This site updates all your social networks and blogs at the same time. It really takes the hassle out of logging in and doing it all “manually.” Note: When update all your status at the same time, you loose the “engagement” element that makes social media work so well for business. You’re there in spirit but not there in presence. I only use this service for letting my networks know of new blog posts or universal messages. I stay active on my social networks beyond using it to keep my level of engagement high.
• TweetDeck – Excellent desktop application that allows you to manage your Twitter, Facebook, and now, your Myspace accounts at the same time. Each account is managed in a window all within the application. Very versatile tool that allows you go beyond the Twitter website’s functionality and keep the same functionality of the Facebook and Myspace sites.
• Google Reader – If you’re new to social media, you’ll be reading a lot of websites and blogs that can help you increase your wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in that area. Read them all in one spot via RSS (Really Simple Syndication). In short, RSS allows a website to send new articles to RSS reader programs. Which means, you’ll get new stuff without having to visit every website in your bookmarks! Visit Google’s Reader site, Subscribe to The Success Center, and you’ll instantly start receiving new articles when they’re published. Also, you can Follow Me in Google Reader where I share lots of articles that I find helpful and informative.
• Google Calendar – This is a great tool to help you organize your blog posts, web content, events, and life in general. I’ll explain more on it in Tip #5.
• Web Browser Extensions + Plugins:
  1. The Hootlet – Once you’re on twitter you’ll want to share news, articles, blog posts that you write, etc. instantly. Hootsuite is a browser based twitter manager with a twist, they actually track your tweets. So you’re able to see how many people click on a link you shared that goes back to your website. I don’t use Hootsuite’s website for my twittering (as I use tweetdeck now) but I do use their “Hootlet” browser plugin that allows me to share on twitter from my browser. It’s extremely useful.
  2. Facebook Share Button – Similar to the “Hootlet”, you can also grab the Facebook share button which works with any web browser as well. Just as the name implies you’re able to share any content with your Facebook network no matter what browser you use.
• Mobile Applications:
  1. Blackberry – I’m a “crackberry” user and abuser so when I’m out and about and I need to send a quick update, I use Ubertwitter. It allows me all of the functionality of the Twitter mobile website plus, retweeting, search, following, and unfollowing. Facebook App – The Facebook application has come a long way. It gives you access to your Facebook “stream” with status updates, pictures, etc. One unique feature is it syncs up your friends with your phone book so you’ll have numbers at the touch of a button plus their profile pic. Unfortunately, you can’t access your in-box, but you are able to send messages. Viigo – This priceless tool allows me to get all of my Google Reader feeds (or websites) on my phone. So I’m never disconnected or out of the loop when it comes to the blogs and websites I subscribe to. It also has a twitter client built into the app for easy updating, weather, news, and more. Give it a try. WordPress for Blackberry – I actually just found out that there’s a WordPress app for Blackberry in beta. I haven’t used it yet, but will definitely give it a try.

  2. Iphone – Tweetdeck – same functionality as the desktop version . . . smaller package. Facebook app – I hear that the blackberry and Iphone versions are a bit different, but none-the-less, a valuable tool for staying connected. WordPress for Iphone – yep, you can blog away while you’re on a long plane ride, at a meeting, or even live event.

Tip #4 - Invest a hour a day

If you’re a super busy entrepreneur, like most are, try penciling in a set time of day that you can relax and write a blog post, respond to comments on Facebook or Twitter, and share information that you find on the web. I’ve been a web junkie since I was born so I’m on the net “working” for hours at a time naturally. If you’re more strategic and structured than me then a set time might help you to develop good social media habits.

Tip #5 - Plan out your website or blog content

I can’t stress enough how important it is to create an editorial calendar for your website or blog. Most entrepreneurs create a “static business card” of a website and all this does is tell people who you are, what you do, and what you offer. If you really want to build relationships and earn sales, teach people something unique and share it with the world. This is the essence of blogging. Some of my clients take to it extremely fast and others are like, “how in the world do I fit this into my daily routine?” The answer is two-fold; first see Tip #4 and second, plan out your articles in a monthly calendar. This will keep you organized, on-track, and you won’t be stuck trying to figure out what to write. Here’s a short video explaining my process for creating The Success Center’s editorial calendar. I use Google Calendar to schedule my posts. This keeps everything organized and  I can also access my calendar on my phone while I’m mobile.

These 5 tips are a reflection of the strategies I’ve employed to help me manage and maximize social media for my business. Don’t feel overwhelmed by the amount of tools I’ve listed. A tool is only as useful as it’s handler makes it. Somethings will work well for you and some won’t, they key is to test, try, and try again. What tools do you currently use that should of been added to this list? If you have a handle on social media, how are you managing it? And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to cast your vote in the poll below.

Flickr image by Gary Hayes

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Yesterday, I had the privilege of interviewing social media expert, Naomi Trower. As mentioned in that interview she published a new e-book, Social Media Marketing for Real Estate & Mortgage. In the video review below I’ll show you what I like, what I don’t like, and give you a short preview of what’s in store if you decide to buy it. This is not a paid review, however, I am an affiliate marketer so affiliate links abound (I wouldn’t endorse a product or service unless I thought it would benefit you in some shape form or fashion).

Watch the review and let me know what you think in the comments below. Also, if you decide to purchase it I’d love to hear if any of Naomi’s strategies work for your business.

Pros

• Easy to read
• Well Designed
• Well Organized
• Loved the diagram showing Naomi’s social media “calendar”
• Tons of great techniques to use for all small business owners, not just real estate professionals
• Voice of the book is written from a friend giving another friend advice
• Sections give basic and advanced strategies for maximizing social media
• Nothing too overly complex – great for beginners

Cons

• Wish it were a little longer
• Active Rain section wasn’t as extensive as the Facebook, Twitter, or Linkedin sections

Final Score – 4 out of 5

Great e-book with a ton of expert advice. Excellent for beginning and intermediate social media users. Advanced social media marketers will enjoy the SEO sections and advanced tips given for Linkedin and Facebook. Definitely worth the 19.99 price tag. Buy it today if you’re ready to take your business to the next level with social media.

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Naomi Trower

I had the pleasure of chatting with real estate and mortgage professional/social media expert [and good friend], Naomi Trower. Naomi has a passion for writing and social media and has satisfied that desire with blogging and social networking.

She has been blogging for 1 year with her fitness blog and 2 years with her internet business blog which was transformed into her current social media blog for real estate and mortgage professionals. Naomi is a frequent guest blogger on The Social Media Examiner blog and a slew of other sites.

Today, we chat on all things social media marketing and her new e-book, Social Media Marketing For Real Estate & Mortgage (Aff link). Check back tomorrow for a full review of her e-book.

In this interview you’ll learn;

• Why your blog is critical to your social media marketing plan.
• How to use Twitter “the right way” and build a following.
• Strategies to create a “rockin” Facebook Fan-page.
• How to make your Linkedin profile SEO (search engine optimization) friendly.
• And more!

Have any questions for Naomi on maximizing social media for your business? Leave your thoughts, comments, and questions below. Don’t forget to check back tomorrow for a full review of Naomi’s new e-book, Social Media Marketing For Real Estate & Mortgage (Aff link)

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

Continue Reading

Are Your a Master Marketer like Obama?

This is a continuation of Mike Holmes’ post, The Barack Obama Guide to Marketing Success

Barack Obama’s presidential campaign set new standards for social media marketing. If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur don’t take his example lightly . . . you might just become president of the United States. Or, at the very least, gain new customers, make new connections, and generate a sale or two.

Here are 7 lessons on marketing successfully using social media, Barack Obama’s way. . .

Lesson #1: Go Where Your Market Is

If you’re going to use social media as your marketing platform of choice then you’ll have to know where your target market networks. If your market is the entire United States like Obama then you might want to set-up accounts on every major social network. However, my advice is to start networking locally on at least 3 major networks and branch out from there [if necessary].

Namechk Service

Look at the graphic to the left. Using a service called, Namechk, we can easily see that the username, “BarackObama” has been secured for around 90% of all major social networks (secured accounts are highlighted in red). Use this tool to see if your name is available wherever your potential customers are and start building your brand.

Are Your Engaging with Your Market?

Lesson #2: Engage with Your Market

The Obama campaign had a dedicated staff of 30 people to head up his social media/networking campaign. What this equated to was, someone being there at all times to answer inquiries, reply to questions, update content, and interact with people across every major social network.

Tip: Don’t just set up social accounts and forget about them . . . set up a command post! Publish frequent/fresh content and engage with people that respond to your brand. You may not have a staff of 30 but you can still monitor your brand by using tools such as Tweetdeck and Hootsuite which allows you to update multiple accounts at once.

What does it really mean to engage? Here are a few tips;

• Post quizzes
• Put out polls and surveys – do you have a WordPress blog? Give Poll Daddy a try. The folks that made WordPress created it so you know it’s cool.
• Offer contests
• Start conversations
• Jump into other people’s conversations related to your brand, product, or service
• Offer advice
• Do free online consultations
• Share content related to your brand, product, service, or that which is helpful to your market
• Include your network in major decisions such as article titles, website design, or other elements that impact your business. Doing so allows others to interact with your company and brand on a deeper level.

My.BarackObama.com

Lesson #3: Give the keys of Your Brand to Your Fans

One of the key strategies that the Obama campaign implemented was the way they established Obama’s brand of ‘Change’ and let their followers “play with it”. They set up the social network, my.barackobama.com which became a “myspace” for his supporters.

The plan was definitely more effective than they could have anticipated. The site allowed people to start groups and share media which lead to offline activities; such as volunteering at events, rallying, and the spread of Obama’s name. How can you harness the power of social media for your brand in this fashion?

• Start a ning social network of your own and allow followers to interact with each other and spread your brand.
• Start a Facebook fan page, post exclusive content, and encourage your fans to share the content with their Facebook friends. Need a little help? Here’s a great article from The Social Media Examiner Blog about, How to Better Engage Facebook Fan Page ‘Fans’
• Got a WordPress blog and want to jump-start your own social network? Download the Buddypress plugin pack and let readers become members, set-up profiles, forums, blogs, and more!
  Note: this plugin used to only work for WordPress MU installs, but now works with standalone WordPress installations . . . so go crazy . . .

Barack Speaking

Lesson #4: Create Value for Your Market

Obama didn’t just let his supporters organize events for his campaign . . . he attended his supporter’s events! According to Wikipedia, “On February 2, 2007, Obama attended a rally at George Mason University organized by “Students for Barack Obama,” a group that began on Facebook, with several thousand in attendance.” His initial acknowledgement of the group and presence at their event created value, grew his market share, and instilled loyalty into everyone in attendance. You can do the same by organizing:

• Tweet-ups - if you have an active Twitter following take the conversations offline and organize a meet-up at a local restaurant, bar, library, or other venue.
• Webinars, tele-conferences, seminars – these events can be very inexpensive or swing the other way depending on how you set it up. Whichever method you pursue, give out valuable information, answer tough questions, and connect with your followers, fans, and market on a totally new level.

Remember, value is anything that enhances how your target market experiences your brand, product, or service. Don’t limit this concept to just organizing events. This could be anything from how you consistently deliver quality content to offering free stuff on your blog. Want to know more about creating value? Read my article, What’s Your Value Proposition?

Lesson #5: Build Your List by Offering Value

Remember Getting This Text?

Remember when you got news that Obama was set to tell the world who his running mate was via text message? The only requirement being you had to sign-up for his website to be the first to receive the news.

Word of the text message revealing hit every social media outlet such as Facebook, Youtube, blogs, and more. Garner the same buzz over a product or service announcement by building your list in the same fashion:

1. Offer an Item of Value for an email sign-up

2. Make sign-up easy – don’t ask for too much information

3. Selling a product? Offer a sneak peak, free sample, or exclusive review for an email sign-up.

4. Offering a service? Give out an exclusive discount or coupon for email sign-up.

5. Be creative and don’t put a limit on how you create value for your followers, fans, or supporters. It’ll only breed loyalty to your brand.

Form Strategic Alliances

Lesson #6: Form Strategic alliances

The Obama campaign hired former facebook founder, Chris Hughes who was the online organizer for the campaign and the genius that made Obama’s brand shared, tweeted, and socially effective.

Needless to say, I wouldn’t be writing this article if it wasn’t for Chris joining the Obama team during the campaign days. By forming this strategic alliance, Obama was able to go where no other candidate had been before [and succeed]. Follow his lead by forming your own strategic alliances:

• Guest Blogging – Look for guest blogging opportunities from influential bloggers in your network. Doing so will gain you new readers, grow your blog’s community, and increase your web traffic substantially.
• Use Linkedin – Forge partnerships with like-minded entrepreneurs on Linkedin. If you and someone else offer complimenting products or services [meaning, they work well together not compete against each other], why not partner and advertise to the same market? Linkedin has great features that connect you with these kind of groups and entrepreneurs.

Barack Music Video

Lesson #7: Use Video and Extend Your Reach

The screenshot on the left is a music video produced by the Obama campaign that went viral only hours after it’s release on Youtube.

It’s impossible for Obama to spread his message everywhere all the time but the video did exactly that for him. Video enables people to experience you, your product, service, or message in a totally different way. Here are a few ways you can maximize it for your marketing plan:

Produce a webshow – Highlight your customers, capture testimonials, answer questions, or take live callers. These are just some of the things you can do to create your own show and deliver value to your market.
Record your speaking engagements – By using some standard video editing software you can package your speaking videos into free products or sizzle pieces for events. This will build your credibility as well as garner interest from whomever you give it to.

Final Thoughts

Entrepreneurs can learn a lot from a man that ran his presidential campaign in such an unprecedented way. He connected with millions of people via blogs, social networks, videos, or wherever people gathered socially online. Barack’s team ultimately created this content for the campaign, but the real magic is how he empowered, encouraged, and inspired people to use and share what was put out. What else can we learn from Barack when it comes to social media marketing? How did his campaign engage with YOU across various social networks? Add your two cents in the comments section below.

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Are Your a Master Marketer like Obama?

This is a guest post by Mike Holmes and will be continued by Rod Kirby in next week’s installment.

Entrepreneur’s can learn a lot from Barack Obama when it comes to marketing their businesses.

Was it because AdAge named him Marketer of the Year?

No…

Was it because he raised $639 million in campaign contributions, nearly doubling McCain’s $335 million?

No…

Was it the way he used Web 2.0 to galvanize and speak to thousands?

No…

What was it then?!

Easy… his follow up strategy.

What??

Nobody can dispute it: he ran a phenomenal campaign!! He literally transformed that six letter word: CHANGE. He had millions of volunteers–and, during his campaign, those volunteers received text messages and emails from him on a regular basis.

But then he won.

Now what?

He could’ve done like most political campaigns: “Thanks for the memories.” “Thanks for your support.” “Wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am…you really helped ME a lot!” But he didn’t do that. Instead, he keeps in contact through his website and maintains those forged relationships. He hears his supporters voices, concerns, and ideas. They still have their leader and he his followers. So when it comes time for re-election he won’t have any trouble drumming up support!!

Take Care of Your Supporters

One day Jesus was met by thousands of people–He taught them,  healed them, and welcomed them. After a while He “called His disciples to Him and said, ‘I have compassion for these people; they have already been with Me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.’” [1]

If Jesus were like most marketers, He would’ve said, “Well thank you everybody for supporting Me; I hope you guys get home safe…ummm…I’m pretty much done here…you guys’ve helped a lot. Thanks!” Instead of that, He fed them with seven loaves and a few fish. And after “they all ate and were satisfied.” [2]

Take care of supporters!

Don’t just use them and throw them away! Keep in contact, hear their opinions, listen to their ideas, receive their feedback, and etc. Don’t send them away hungry lest they “collapse on the way.”

What do you think?

1. Matthew 15:32 (New International Version)
2. Matthew 15:37 (New International Version)

Mike Holmes

Mike Holmes is the author of I Shall Raise Thee Up: Ancient Principles for Lasting Greatness. He’s also a blogger that writes on business and leadership development from a Biblical perspective. When he’s not writing blogs or speaking he can be found writing bios in the third person. Check out his website/blog here. Mike is also working on his second book: “Biblical Stratgies for Marketing Success.”

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

Continue Reading

Need a little balance in your life?

As I stated in Monday’s post, my life has changed significantly since I’ve been in a new relationship and things have changed on my job. I asked God, “How do I find the right balance of time to spend in my relationship, with family, friends, and my business?”

His response to me?

—————— Spend time with me and I’ll show you —————————-

That blew my mind.

For months I had been so wrapped up in my own agenda, head-over-heels in my new relationship, and working constantly that I had not spent as much time with the Lord as I should have. Sometimes, as Christians, we can get caught up in just living  life that we forget the one who brought us life in the first place.

Last Friday I went to Creflo Dollar’s 2010 Change Experience Convention and it changed my life! Creflo spoke on how we should honor the Lord with our time and our tithes (Read why tithing is a part of my proven secret to business success here). You see, if we honor the Lord (which means to let His word weigh heavy on our hearts in every area of our life) then we’re in position to be honored (blessed!). It was in that moment that I realized that I had not honored God with my time, instead, I put everything else before Him.

Remember, Matthew 6 and 33 (King James Version)? It reads,

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

If you’re married with a family, a single mother, a corporate over-achiever, a small business owner, or a combination of all the above, put God first and He’ll create the balance you’ll need to succeed.

How do we put God first and honor Him with our time?

Get into Your Bible

I’ll admit that I’m not the most dedicated Bible reader. But, when I get into it . . . I get in to it! The Bible is God’s love letter to us, His living Word, and contains everything we need to succeed in life and business. Open it up and read what He says about you and every situation you encounter.

Pray and Fast

You’ll see a lot of these next tips include prayer. That’s because, it’s the gateway to communication and communion with God. When you pray and fast (disregard certain foods and liquids for a specific time period) you make your spirit more sensitive to hearing from the Lord. This opens up blessings for your life, family, and business in ways that you could not have gotten otherwise.

Pray and Speak the Word

After you pray, find a couple of scriptures that pertain to the areas of your life that you want God to prosper, and speak them out loud. Doing so enables God to move on your behalf and perform for you in ways you can’t imagine or think. Can’t find time to manage your family and your business (which is growing fast)? Apply the Word and watch God give you the supplies, help, and resources you need to make it work!

Pray and Write

Writing is an awesome way to receive instructions from the Lord. I’ve got tons of journals with business ideas, strategies, and other things that have come to me. Journaling is a great tool that will help you archive the wisdom, knowledge, or understanding God drops in your spirit.

Read Inspirational Books

I just finished reading Creflo Dollar’s 8 Steps to Create the Life You Want: The Anatomy of a Successful Life (Faith Words) [affiliate link] and now, I’m looking for my next book. Reading is a great way to spend time with God because He allows the wisdom that He’s given others to minister to you. Put down the fiction, the murder mystery, or the sleazy love novel for a bit and you’ll see awesome results in your life!

Set aside Worship Time

Listening to music is a great way to spend time with God because He ministers to us through song as well. Put on your favorite gospel or inspirational song and just meditate on where you want God to take you in life. I promise you there’s nothing more liberating than to just worship and love on God freely like this.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with family duties, running your business, working your job, or all the above – honor the Lord and He’ll honor you. This simply means that He’ll bless you to handle it all by bringing in needed help and supplies or give you tactics and strategies to see it through. If you’re looking for practical steps to maximizing your time, go back and read 6 Ways to Maximize Your Time and Get More Done. However, this article lays the foundation for success that goes beyond your own strength and capabilities. What are your thoughts? Share them below.

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading

Last week, I explored the concept of how fear can hinder your success. Because of fear, we limit God in moving on our behalf which limits our success. Sometimes we don’t believe in the vision He’s given us and we place a cap on what can or can not happen in our lives. Well, today, I want to present proof that there really is NO excuse for any of us to NOT become successful in the thing God has called us to do.

Watch the video below and tell me if you’re not inspired!

If Ephren can make a million dollars at age 16 there really is no excuse for any of us to not make our own dreams come true. So, are you limiting your success? What’s holding you back from achieving all that God placed on your heart to accomplish? Sound off in the comments below.

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Continue Reading