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My Journey to $10K Monthly...

Anything considered a "hustle" and not necessarily a CENTS-based Fastlane

Jfinley

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Great headline, but I'm not at $10,000 a month, yet!

Here's my documented journey from struggling Slowlaner 50k in debt to living the Unscripted Fastlane Lifestyle.

I'm going to fall back on using my current skills to promote local businesses and not be just another ME TOO agency. This combines all of my knowledge and skills into an industry that is growing with a solution in high demand.

Like MJ said, I don't want to be another "guru" online.

I want a real business that changes NO transforms the lives of those I work with.

Biggest push back I see is client management, but I'm not worried about that. Im customer service driven, can set clear expectations and have experience working with clients selling 500K plus homes as a former realtor and worked with snobby clients as a former Apple Sales Account Rep.

An agency was one of my past failures because I chased the money and not the solution. I was simply trying to be another ME TOO business without any unique position or added impact. My time expectations were wrong - I wanted success yesterday. This led to flawed judgement and perceptions about results and progress.

After reading TMF and Unscripted I realize when I made the shift from chasing money to providing solutions my motivation to keep going grew and time seemed to be a fallacy.

I'm creating this post to be accountable for my actions and to put my intentions out there. This is my daily action log.

First thing I did was decide on the initial startup costs including forming a business and all software needed:

Business Tools and Setup
  • CallRail - call tracking analytics and keyword tracking
  • Kartra - lead pages, automation, segmentation and email
  • GoDaddy Smartline - business phone
  • PipeDrive - customer relationship manager
  • Freelance Cockpit - Freelancer manager
  • Zapier Pro - automations and report building
  • Business Formation - LLC setup
  • UPS Business Address - physical mailing address
  • Spyfu - keyword analytical tool
Total Startup Cost Estimate: $500

Training & Education
On top of that are the initial cost of learning which I've invested in Adwords training such as:
  • Udemy top Rated adwords course - $10 (no brainer)
  • Perry Marshall's Ultimate Guide to Adwords (ordered on Amazon today)
  • Andy Black's Adwords Ebook - $300 (purchasing next week)

Getting Started:
This seems to be the toughest part. @Andy Black says it best: some people are doer's some are learners and some are teachers. At some point, I have to transition from a learner to a do'er.

The Approach

The approach has to be different. Im NOT cold calling business owners who are busy running a business and interrupt their workflow. I have more respect than that. However, I will approach these businesses when the decision makers are actively looking for a solution and identify themselves as potential clients.

This is done by getting around business owners in environments where they're not as defensive, expect to engage with others and are actively seeking to network, connect or refer business.

My goal is to land 1 paying client worth $1,000 in the next 90 days after completing my training. I'm a natural speaker and presenter so getting in front of targeted people is my winner's edge.
  1. Registering for the local chamber and networking at those events
  2. Attend meetup and BNI networking events to meet local owners
  3. Reach out to local groups and organizations to present a short training on something related to online marketing. Establish authority during the presentation and position my trial services to anyone interested or offer some type of consultation related to my presentation
  4. Use LinkedIn to make new connections and find ideal clients. Approach them with a targeted "try-before-you-buy" approach.
  5. Setup ad campaigns for local companies offering a free trial.

How NOT to sound like another ME TOO company:

UGH, this has been on my mind forever, but I think I figured it out. PLEASE chime in if you feel different.

The problem: business owners are bombarded daily buy agencies and many of them have been burned by so-called experts masquerading as marketing experts. They have developed a thick skin and their BS meters are on full tilt. They have low trust, high skepticism and low expectations.

They also get so much information and wrong info. They're told to build a funnel so they pay thousands and get a nice funnel and no new sales. Another agency says you need better Facebook Ads so they spends thousands on retainer only to get low quality leads or no conversions.

The Solution:

Screw the funnels, screw the technology and forget about the ads. We NEVER mention those words and only talk about what they truly want in the end - leads and sales. We don't bogg them down in the specifics and try to increase our value by making the process seem sooo hard and technical that our $5,000 monthly retainer is justified.

Offer free or discounted paid trials that FAVOR the client and give them the most leverage. This means taking on some costs of ad spend to send them quality leads and THEN close them afterwards.

Gain a new customer OR Lose current business and opportunities?
Every agency is trying to sell them on getting new customers. They're asking for money upfront or discounting their service. The client still has to hold ALL the risk while the agency gets paid regardless. Both the agency and the client hope for good results to further their relationship.

By offering leads up front without any costs I carry most of the risk and the client gets the benefit. If I do my job right (which means selecting the right client in the first place based on profit margins, possible ROI which includes CTR, ROAS and so on) the client will get 3-5 leads. NOW the tables have turned. They go from invest upfront and "possibly" gaining new customers to the idea of losing existing business IF I stop sending them leads.

A simple switch in the approach lowers their guard and give me a chance to win their business like it should be.

At the end of the day we will stand out for three reasons:

1. We deliver the exact results they want that increase their bottom line
. Our results are measurable, traceable and quantifiable.

2. We provide top level customer service far surpassing those our of competition and due to automations and technology we have the TIME to engage and build relationships with clients.

3. We deliver a congruent message that speaks the clients language without jargon like funnels, FB ads and automation (which can create a negative psychological state of mind when heard)

At the end of the day we deliver leads. How we do that is our secret sauce. All the client has to worry about is how to handle all these calls and inquiries.

COMPLETED ALREADY

1. Started the Adwords Certification and passed my Fundamental Exam. Now I just have to take another specialty exam. (took 2 hours. pass results below)

2. Purchased Adwords Book from Amazon

3. Slapped myself for being such a goober and trying to force my own wants and desires into my business instead of creating something that delivers a high impact solution to the right person with the right pains.

Thanks for reading. Check back DAILY for updates if that's okay.

Cheers







 
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Andy Black

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Great headline, but I'm not at $10,000 a month, yet!

Here's my documented journey from struggling Slowlaner 50k in debt to living the Unscripted Fastlane Lifestyle.

I'm going to fall back on using my current skills to promote local businesses and not be just another ME TOO agency. This combines all of my knowledge and skills into an industry that is growing with a solution in high demand.

Like MJ said, I don't want to be another "guru" online.

I want a real business that changes NO transforms the lives of those I work with.

Biggest push back I see is client management, but I'm not worried about that. Im customer service driven, can set clear expectations and have experience working with clients selling 500K plus homes as a former realtor and worked with snobby clients as a former Apple Sales Account Rep.

An agency was one of my past failures because I chased the money and not the solution. I was simply trying to be another ME TOO business without any unique position or added impact. My time expectations were wrong - I wanted success yesterday. This led to flawed judgement and perceptions about results and progress.

After reading TMF and Unscripted I realize when I made the shift from chasing money to providing solutions my motivation to keep going grew and time seemed to be a fallacy.

I'm creating this post to be accountable for my actions and to put my intentions out there. This is my daily action log.

First thing I did was decide on the initial startup costs including forming a business and all software needed:

Business Tools and Setup
  • CallRail - call tracking analytics and keyword tracking
  • Kartra - lead pages, automation, segmentation and email
  • GoDaddy Smartline - business phone
  • PipeDrive - customer relationship manager
  • Freelance Cockpit - Freelancer manager
  • Zapier Pro - automations and report building
  • Business Formation - LLC setup
  • UPS Business Address - physical mailing address
  • Spyfu - keyword analytical tool
Total Startup Cost Estimate: $500

Training & Education
On top of that are the initial cost of learning which I've invested in Adwords training such as:
  • Udemy top Rated adwords course - $10 (no brainer)
  • Perry Marshall's Ultimate Guide to Adwords (ordered on Amazon today)
  • Andy Black's Adwords Ebook - $300 (purchasing next week)

Getting Started:
This seems to be the toughest part. @Andy Black says it best: some people are doer's some are learners and some are teachers. At some point, I have to transition from a learner to a do'er.

The Approach

The approach has to be different. Im NOT cold calling business owners who are busy running a business and interrupt their workflow. I have more respect than that. However, I will approach these businesses when the decision makers are actively looking for a solution and identify themselves as potential clients.

This is done by getting around business owners in environments where they're not as defensive, expect to engage with others and are actively seeking to network, connect or refer business.

My goal is to land 1 paying client worth $1,000 in the next 90 days after completing my training. I'm a natural speaker and presenter so getting in front of targeted people is my winner's edge.
  1. Registering for the local chamber and networking at those events
  2. Attend meetup and BNI networking events to meet local owners
  3. Reach out to local groups and organizations to present a short training on something related to online marketing. Establish authority during the presentation and position my trial services to anyone interested or offer some type of consultation related to my presentation
  4. Use LinkedIn to make new connections and find ideal clients. Approach them with a targeted "try-before-you-buy" approach.
  5. Setup ad campaigns for local companies offering a free trial.

How NOT to sound like another ME TOO company:

UGH, this has been on my mind forever, but I think I figured it out. PLEASE chime in if you feel different.

The problem: business owners are bombarded daily buy agencies and many of them have been burned by so-called experts masquerading as marketing experts. They have developed a thick skin and their BS meters are on full tilt. They have low trust, high skepticism and low expectations.

They also get so much information and wrong info. They're told to build a funnel so they pay thousands and get a nice funnel and no new sales. Another agency says you need better Facebook Ads so they spends thousands on retainer only to get low quality leads or no conversions.

The Solution:

Screw the funnels, screw the technology and forget about the ads. We NEVER mention those words and only talk about what they truly want in the end - leads and sales. We don't bogg them down in the specifics and try to increase our value by making the process seem sooo hard and technical that our $5,000 monthly retainer is justified.

Offer free or discounted paid trials that FAVOR the client and give them the most leverage. This means taking on some costs of ad spend to send them quality leads and THEN close them afterwards.

Gain a new customer OR Lose current business and opportunities?
Every agency is trying to sell them on getting new customers. They're asking for money upfront or discounting their service. The client still has to hold ALL the risk while the agency gets paid regardless. Both the agency and the client hope for good results to further their relationship.

By offering leads up front without any costs I carry most of the risk and the client gets the benefit. If I do my job right (which means selecting the right client in the first place based on profit margins, possible ROI which includes CTR, ROAS and so on) the client will get 3-5 leads. NOW the tables have turned. They go from invest upfront and "possibly" gaining new customers to the idea of losing existing business IF I stop sending them leads.

A simple switch in the approach lowers their guard and give me a chance to win their business like it should be.

At the end of the day we will stand out for three reasons:

1. We deliver the exact results they want that increase their bottom line
. Our results are measurable, traceable and quantifiable.

2. We provide top level customer service far surpassing those our of competition and due to automations and technology we have the TIME to engage and build relationships with clients.

3. We deliver a congruent message that speaks the clients language without jargon like funnels, FB ads and automation (which can create a negative psychological state of mind when heard)

At the end of the day we deliver leads. How we do that is our secret sauce. All the client has to worry about is how to handle all these calls and inquiries.

COMPLETED ALREADY

1. Started the Adwords Certification and passed my Fundamental Exam. Now I just have to take another specialty exam. (took 2 hours. pass results below)

2. Purchased Adwords Book from Amazon

3. Slapped myself for being such a goober and trying to force my own wants and desires into my business instead of creating something that delivers a high impact solution to the right person with the right pains.

Thanks for reading. Check back DAILY for updates if that's okay.

Cheers






Ha. Chuckled at you slapping yourself.

Do courses and read books if you feel the need so you’re confident taking to folks.

However, the market doesn’t ask for any of the above.

Start by spending your money on diesel and coffe (look up the thread of that title).

And listen to the call with I had with @Contrarian.

And maybe the first (and second?) radio interview in my signature.
 

Jfinley

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Ha. Chuckled at you slapping yourself.

Do courses and read books if you feel the need so you’re confident taking to folks.

However, the market doesn’t ask for any of the above.

Start by spending your money on diesel and coffe (look up he thread of that title).

And listen to the call with I had with @Contrarian.

And maybe the first (and second?) radio interview in my signature.

Hey Andy, thanks for the link. I'm headed over to listen to the 45 min interview now. Already bookmarked.
 

Andy Black

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Also, and this is my personal opinion, but f*ck accountability.

If you’re doing it because you’re “accountable” then I’d suggest checking if your Why is strong enough.

Find a stronger Why...
 
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Jfinley

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Also, and this is my personal opinion, but f*ck accountability.

If you’re doing it because you’re “accountable” then I’d suggest checking if your Why is strong enough.

Find a stronger Why...

Lol so true!

Accountability wasn't the best word. Lets try:

"tracking my journey publically."

I learned from another post here that there are only 3 real motivators.
  1. The pain of my current situation
  2. My resolve to find a better way
  3. The steps I take daily to change my financial future.
This post is really to track my journey and have a record of my progress for others to see.
 

Andy Black

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Lol so true!

Accountability wasn't the best word. Lets try:

"tracking my journey publically."

I learned from another post here that there are only 3 real motivators.
  1. The pain of my current situation
  2. My resolve to find a better way
  3. The steps I take daily to change my financial future.
This post is really to track my journey and have a record of my progress for others to see.
Hmm... why does there have to be pain?

I’m happy. Nay, I’m “comfortable”. I still keep chipping away though. I’d say I’m driven.

Listen to the second interview in my signature. There’s two types of motivation:

Getting away from that’s tiger chasing you (e.g. getting out of debt).

... and some vision that pulls you. Something you can’t *not* do.

Not saying one is better than another because I suspect people are wired different.

Just think that when the tiger stops chasing you ... what will you do then?

HTH
 

Jfinley

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Hmm... why does there have to be pain?

I’m happy. Nay, I’m “comfortable”. I still keep chipping away though. I’d say I’m driven.

Listen to the second interview in my signature. There’s two types of motivation:

Getting away from that’s tiger chasing you (e.g. getting out of debt).

... and some vision that pulls you. Something you can’t *not* do.

Not saying one is better than another because I suspect people are wired different.

Just think that when the tiger stops chasing you ... what will you do then?

HTH

Motivations change over time. What motivates me now is the pain of my situation and knowing I have a skill set to change it. What motivates me is that I have the opportunity through this forum, to network with others and truly grasp the concepts in the books and learn from doers not teachers.

When this pain fades another motivation will arise.

One that arises out of sense of self-direction, legacy, impact on others, life meaning and my ultimate mark at leaving this world better than I came into it.

It's an evolving enigma.

I'm sure you've experienced it as well on your journey from start to finish. As you accomplish more what once was important loses it's value as you embrace bigger/higher vision goals.

But for right now, now...

I hate this job, I'm better than this, I have the skills to succeed, I'm teachable, I have 50k in "bad debt" BUT ready to use what I've learned to produce results now with the understanding I'm working towards something much bigger.

I feel like I'm fighting to prove something to myself more than anything. Who's right? The self that doubts and fears failure or the person I close my eyes and vision before laying to sleep at night, or he one who knows he can produce more and change his financial future?

There's motivation...trust me. It's real
 
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Jfinley

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The last two days have been eye opening.

Thanks to the feedback and bluntness of several users I was able to realign my focus. I've read soooo much over the last two days and this forum is truly GOLD!

Im not sure if I will be a PPC Agency, but having this knowledge will be helpful regardless of what business I'm in. What my agency offers is still being molded as I dig deeper into the needs of the market.

Here's an update for today:
  • Started part 2 of my Adwords Certification Program (5hrs left)
  • Picked up my copy of Ultimate Guide to Adwords from the post office
  • Made a list of the top 25 agencies in my city and starting to list their services, pricing structure, target market, and client intake process.
  • Used my current high ticket mastermind site as a dummy to go through their "consultation process" to learn more about how they work. Gathering data to find a true need in the market place.
  • Made a list of the top review sites. I'm going to sort the companies by marketing agencies and read the negative reviews to see if the customers can identify some potential opportunities to capitalize on such as service, communication, system and so on.
But more importantly,

I made a decision to stop complaining, whining, and making excuses. There's so much information in this forum that if anyone "truly" wants to be successful they can find a way. You just have to be teachable. '

I also came to terms that I've had really solid ideas in the past, but lacked the maturity, education, and most of all, the clear vision of who I was, what I wanted to bring to the market and the type of business I want to build.

It's getting clearer as I continue to narrow my focus and strengthen my resolve to see this through.

Take care
 

Walter Hay

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How NOT to sound like another ME TOO company:

By offering leads up front without any costs I carry most of the risk and the client gets the benefit. If I do my job right (which means selecting the right client in the first place based on profit margins, possible ROI which includes CTR, ROAS and so on) the client will get 3-5 leads. NOW the tables have turned. They go from invest upfront and "possibly" gaining new customers to the idea of losing existing business IF I stop sending them leads.
I only want to comment on this part of your post because I can tell you from experience that in both of my previous B2B businesses, providing free samples was a great starting point.

In the case of my industrial chemicals business I supplied a quantity of expensive product sufficient for them to do a production run, so there was no theory, just results. Sales were almost inevitable because I knew the product did what I promised, and beat the competition's product hands down.

For my B2B importing business prospects I often provided high class generic samples that cost me little, but they showed that we could supply something superior to what they were currently buying. Sometimes I outlaid quite a bit of cash on having a sample custom made for that company. That proved to be a major sales clincher.

Your idea of taking some risk and proving value before asking for money can make you stand out from the crowd. Go for it.

Walter
 

Jfinley

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I only want to comment on this part of your post because I can tell you from experience that in both of my previous B2B businesses, providing free samples was a great starting point.

In the case of my industrial chemicals business I supplied a quantity of expensive product sufficient for them to do a production run, so there was no theory, just results. Sales were almost inevitable because I knew the product did what I promised, and beat the competition's product hands down.

For my B2B importing business prospects I often provided high class generic samples that cost me little, but they showed that we could supply something superior to what they were currently buying. Sometimes I outlaid quite a bit of cash on having a sample custom made for that company. That proved to be a major sales clincher.

Your idea of taking some risk and proving value before asking for money can make you stand out from the crowd. Go for it.

Walter
Thanks Walter,

I can see how it can get costly making samples. When you know your stuff works you don’t worry about converting clients. You just need a chance to prove it.

That’s my philosophy.

I can create ads fairly quickly (30 minutes tops after initial client research), setup quick one-page sites, and setup a short automations like text notifications for leads and really WOW them without much effort.

Takes less than 1hr for any desired mini-project thanks to templates.

I guess I’m built a little different. I’m not afraid of work or taking risks on myself. Seems like you have the same mindset.

Thanks for posting.
 
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Jfinley

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Update: 7/7: Adwords Search Certification Passed!!
(photo attached)

Feeling pretty good tonight. I got off of work and dove deep into the last 3hrs of my Adwords course. I took the test and passed (barely) with an 81%. Now, I have to focus in on the key areas I struggled with. I have the Udemy Course here

I know having a certification isn't "all" you need, but it's mandatory for becoming Google Partner Certified.

I also:
  • Purchased a domain name to create my agency site. This should be done later, but I want to start going after easy website clients for portfolio building projects and for some extra cash.
  • Setup the hosting, email address, installed Wordpress, Setup plugins and installed The X theme found in the forums. I'll post a link when its all done. (bare minimum for now just to have something to placate clients.
  • Paid off one of my lowest debts on my credit report. It was only $116, but it felt good to just do something rather than nothing.

Progress is a process. Keep pushing!

Thanks for reading.
 

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Andy Black

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Well done.

What will you do to make a sale this coming week?
 

Jfinley

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Well done.

What will you do to make a sale this coming week?

I’m contacting business owners in the engineering, surveying, construction, and other B2B companies with horrible sites. This week I’m contacting as many as I need to land the first deal.

I’m creating a framework site for my top picks and sending them a demo copy. Follow up with a payment to finish the site and transfer files over. Then offer a small monthly maintenance retainer.

To Do:
  • Setup a one page site for my domain
  • Create an short email template to send site demo with a button on the site that says something like “Activate My Site.” This will lead them to a form and shoot me a notification via text so I can follow up IF I don’t close the deal on the first call.
  • Setup a short email campaign about the benefits of having a good site design with a call to action to activate their site and a link to their demo site.
  • Start contacting Businesses by Tuesday
My goal is to convert on the first call and if not allow the automated follow ups to prime them until they are ready.

Let’s Goooooooo
 
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Solrac

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The approach has to be different. Im NOT cold calling business owners who are busy running a business and interrupt their workflow. I have more respect than that. However, I will approach these businesses when the decision makers are actively looking for a solution and identify themselves as potential clients.
This seems like a cop out to not get on the phone and get results.

I cold call for a living (partially). It's the cheapest outbound I know, and it works 100% of the time if I want an answer and can get to a DM.

You're approach is no different than one thousand other guys out there that are afraid of the phone.

Why not call in?
 

Jfinley

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This seems like a cop out to not get on the phone and get results.

I cold call for a living (partially). It's the cheapest outbound I know, and it works 100% of the time if I want an answer and can get to a DM.

You're approach is no different than one thousand other guys out there that are afraid of the phone.

Why not call in?

Good morning to you too! I plan to call them. Sorry I didn’t make that clear.
IF they don’t convert on the first contact they’ll be put into my automated follow up system.

Basic CRM rules.
 
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Choate

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This is a conglomeration of a half complete, disorganized business plan across its various posts for "accountability" - an action fake. What is the value add you plan on bringing to your clients? What are the real, tangible benefits that you will bring to their business?

I see an Ad Words certification that you barely passed and a quick website that you are throwing together to show your potential clients. There is also a willingness to shoulder or share the initial costs of the ads (which, if not successful, is not going to be sustainable on your end).

If you wanted to hire a personal trainer, you probably wouldn't be comfortable picking the person who just barely passed their NASM exam a week prior and was getting into fitness for the first time. If you're talking with a trainer prior to hiring them, its going to become apparent how much experience they have whether you ask directly or can infer it from conversation. This is the same for the guy managing a good portion of your business' marketing budget.

I'm with the other folks on this. Figure out your value proposition, set up your website, pick up the phone, and whip out the spreadsheet. Start talking numbers. "This week I’m contacting as many as I need to land the first deal." How many is that? 30 per day? Or is it calling every minute of every hour on the east coast until business closes and then shifting your focus to the west coast to call for 3 more hours?

By calling businesses that need your help, you will learn more about their actual pain points and the value you can bring to them.

What do you need to do to make your first sale? Do you need CRMs and business phone numbers and a physical mailing address and a keyword analytical tool? I think its more important to figure out how you are going to build trust as the new guy on the block when this industry is so skeptical of the players already in the game.
 
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Jfinley

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This is a conglomeration of a half complete, disorganized business plan across its various posts for "accountability" - an action fake. What is the value add you plan on bringing to your clients? What are the real, tangible benefits that you will bring to their business?

I see an Ad Words certification that you barely passed and a quick website that you are throwing together to show your potential clients. There is also a willingness to shoulder or share the initial costs of the ads (which, if not successful, is not going to be sustainable on your end).

If you wanted to hire a personal trainer, you probably wouldn't be comfortable picking the person who just barely passed their NASM exam a week prior and was getting into fitness for the first time. If you're talking with a trainer prior to hiring them, its going to become apparent how much experience they have whether you ask directly or can infer it from conversation. This is the same for the guy managing a good portion of your business' marketing budget.

I'm with the other folks on this. Figure out your value proposition, set up your website, pick up the phone, and whip out the spreadsheet. Start talking numbers. "This week I’m contacting as many as I need to land the first deal." How many is that? 30 per day? Or is it calling every minute of every hour on the east coast until business closes and then shifting your focus to the west coast to call for 3 more hours?

By calling businesses that need your help, you will learn more about their actual pain points and the value you can bring to them.

What do you need to do to make your first sale? Do you need CRMs and business phone numbers and a physical mailing address and a keyword analytical tool? I think its more important to figure out how you are going to build trust as the new guy on the block when this industry is so skeptical of the players already in the game.

Action fake?

I'm taking action and getting things done! Results are in the progress being made daily. I don't need your accountability, but it would be great to share my journey with others.

Feedback is always great if you know how to deliver it.

Your negative tone and criticism hides the value in your post.

I know my numbers and time requirements. You read a quick overview of a big picture plan.

This community says start with what you know - skills. I'm a great web designer and systems builder....PERIOD

I'm learning adwords to further my skillset and provide more value in the longterm.

Remaking ugly websites is within my skillset and allows me to generate income while increasing my skillset in other areas.

Can I provide value building sites? Yes! We all know the value in that, so no need to go into detail there. That's my wheel house. I need a website to have something to show. Honestly, who would refute that? Just building credibility and displaying my portfolio.

Getting Adwords certified was a first step. Not sure why you're taking jabs at my results. Not too shabby for a start. But I KNOW that's just a start and means little to nothing without experience.

I have a vision that's working out, but it just takes time. One step at a time. Taking action is key at this point.

Everything you mention is valid when you take away the rabbit punches, but it is what it is.

Doing something is better than doing nothing. I guess I have to post some checks and client results to make y'all happy.

Coming soon. Stay posted!
 
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Late Bloomer

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Here's my documented journey from struggling Slowlaner 50k in debt to living the Unscripted Fastlane Lifestyle.

You're super detailed about tools, techniques, tactics, criteria. This is action-packed and interesting! I see how all of this maximizes your experiences so far. But... I have no idea what you actually offer, or who you offer it to! What is a Transformational Agency that charges $1,000? Who would pay for its services? What needs drive them to look for such a business? What do they get for their thousand bucks?

installed Wordpress, Setup plugins and installed The X theme found in the forums.

Is there a Wordpress theme literally called "The X theme" which is discussed somewhere on this site? Or is this a euphemism referring to something else?
 

Jfinley

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You're super detailed about tools, techniques, tactics, criteria. This is action-packed and interesting! I see how all of this maximizes your experiences so far. But... I have no idea what you actually offer, or who you offer it to! What is a Transformational Agency that charges $1,000? Who would pay for its services? What needs drive them to look for such a business? What do they get for their thousand bucks?



Is there a Wordpress theme literally called "The X theme" which is discussed somewhere on this site? Or is this a euphemism referring to something else?

It’s a theme I found on the forums here, but it’s too limited. My posts need a little cleanup.

Let me be more clear if that helps.

1. I want to build and manage an agency providing PPC services among others. I just learned AdWords, but I’m not even close to offering that service.

2. I want to design sites, build online systems, and connect software tools. I want to plan, launch and manage online businesses. Basically, take you from idea to full online system and manage it on retainer.

BIG PICTURE: you’ll hire me to create your online system, manage it and pay to drive traffic/leads without you EVER worrying about learning new software or lifting a finger doing anything technical. True set and forget service.

**Shoutout to @Real Deal Denver for helping me shape this vision. This was truly his idea. I was lost in the haze when I first posted. ***

For now, I’m focusing on creating websites while I learn PPC and consistently create positive ROI. My goal is to do the very basics to get started which is the:
  • Website wrap up being done later today
  • Payment system (done)
  • Email Follow Ups (done)
Domains, hosting, redirects and automations are all done. Just created a couple of tags and sequences with Active Campaign. When the site is done I’ll start calling tomorrow as planned.

This is all I need to call local businesses and follow up if they say no at first via email drip campaigns.

Easy stuff. Literally took me two days to setup.

Getting close.

I maybe all over the place, but I’m in the game! I don’t have all the pieces and probably never will. My chances of success are far better taking action than planning to take action.

At some point you just gotta do something...anything!
 

Late Bloomer

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I want to plan, launch and manage online businesses. Basically, take you from idea to full online system and manage it on retainer.

BIG PICTURE: you’ll hire me to create your online system, manage it and pay to drive traffic/leads without you EVER worrying about learning new software or lifting a finger doing anything technical. True set and forget service.

That makes sense! Thanks for the summary.
 
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