Good post Tech.

Using a report can be a good way to get started.

As you get a bit more savvy about how to help brick and mortar
businesses with their online marketing just talking to the owners
working out where they're at and what their marketing challenges
are (or what they think they are) will get you a far higher response.

It will also get you a lot more referrals.

Every business owner wants a solution to what they perceive is
THEIR unique problem.

So you have a much higher chance of success just getting an owner
to talk about their "unique" problems then suggesting solutions you
can implement for them with very little work on their part.

Ultimately it doesn't really matter though.

If you talk to enough business owners you'll soon get all the clients
you need.


"At the end of my report my pitch is I will set up the software and email tools and give you 3 ways to build a list from your existing store traffic. I'll write the promotions to the list...and do list nurturing...etc. And I'll work on a commission basis. Turnkey...he just has to say yes.

"I charge an upfront fee of $500 to make sure he is serious. And if he balks at the $500, ask for $1000 in restaurant gift certificates (which cost him around 30%-35% in actual food costs) and will bring him new customers anyhow.

"It's great. His restaurant is full. His customers are happy. I'm happy.
And I make about $2,000 a month from this one guy for around 10 hours of work. (And I'm a VIP at the restaurant)"


Helping business owners use their already existing client foot traffic to
create a list is a very powerful marketing strategy and while it's really
obvious to anyone in online marketing circles it is usually a revelation
to a business owner.

So the owner will usually see you as a living breathing marketing genius
if you suggest it.


Asking for free products or services when you're just getting started
(like the restaurant vouchers in this example) is a great way to get
your foot in the door, get some experience and build some credibility
with real live clients.

You're also improving your lifestyle. I eat free at my local restaurant
too.

Again great post tech.

I'm sure many of the other members of the copywriting forum could
add some insights like this.

Kindest regards,
Andrew Cavanagh

P.S. It would also be great to hear more stories from professional
copywriters on their early struggles in the industry.