JL Forums

I recently read a thread at another forum where two members were arguing with each other about what the "best" way to market online is. The thread was rather tempestuous, and provoked me to make a post at that forum that I wanted to share here as well.

Do you want to know the "secret" to success at business? Here you go:

Produce great stuff and sell it to people.

I've made so many mistakes in my business. I've done so many things wrong. I didn't hire help soon enough, I didn't outsource soon enough, I didn't learn how to market like I should have. I didn't read much at all for years, actually.

What I did do was read forums, see what people needed, and build it. After it was built, I listened to what my customers said they wanted it to do. If enough people wanted it, I did it.

Am I successful? I was recently able to create a project for the sole purpose of hiring people in this down economy. So far I've been able to employ about 30 people from it. My goal next year is at least 100 people. To me, true success isn't how much you've gotten for yourself, but how much you've done for others.

I'm not telling you that to brag or make you think I'm some great guy. Quite the opposite! My point is that despite the many, many mistakes I've made on the marketing side of things, I have achieved success beyond my wildest expectations. You can, too.

Don't get me wrong. Marketing is important. If nobody sees your product you won't have any buyers. So you have to get the word out. But getting the word out is so much easier if you have a great product, and you've got a much better shot at long-term success. That's because word of mouth will make up where your marketing skills fall short -- but only if your product stands out above the rest.

So don't worry about the mistakes. You'll make them. I sure did. And don't waste all of your time chasing the "next big thing" or the latest "hot marketing method."  Just remember to always...

Produce great stuff and sell it to people.

Now go get to work.

"Produce great stuff and sell it to people."

I love it! That should be the new slogan for everyone in 2012.

Personally, I wish product creators would follow your footsteps and beta test a product or service before releasing it to the public.
It's a great strategy because you're acquiring new customers at much lower cost and you're literally diminishing all sales barriers. Who can say no to a free test drive, right?

Most importantly, the beta testers don't have to wonder about a vicarious video promotion because they are actually using the product or service first hand.

Great post, Jon!

That was excellent wisdom impartation and unselfish sharing of much needed message for all hearers; especially the Internet/Online environment.  I feel your strong spiritual energy, for which I applaud you...forward speed.... Many Thanks, I am encouraged.  James G.   

Nice one Jon...

I'm moving away now from product development into Offline Marketing (web services to small businesses...) however the same rules apply, even more so...

If you are trying to work in a local area, building a reputation for quality products (websites) and services (marketing...) gives you a massive advantage. People talk... and business people talk a lot...

Anyway, great post Jon

To everybody's massive success...

Steve
[snip: no personal links in the body of the post please]

To me, true success isn't how much you've gotten for yourself, but how much you've done for others.

That's the message I can relate to.  Thanks.

I produced great products but i really don't know how to sell...

Are they great because your customers are telling you they are great, or do you just think they are great? That's an important question.

Short but inspiring post.
I have wrote down my goal in my special book called "Dream Book"