Don't forget to place your articles on your website. Include an easy way for your readers to request permission to use articles. This can include an auto-responder that sends text version of article to requestor or links to your email address or even a special link where someone can request permission to copy HTML code (if they're using it in an HTML ezine or on their website). This is yet another way those of use who enjoy writing can market with integrity.

For Publishers

Articles banks are for you if you don't like to write or are looking for additional content for your ezine, magazine, website, etc. With permission of article bank or authors, use these articles for free. Many of sites below contain both article banks and ezine directories. Some offer a special area where publisher can request articles or ad swaps. When you visit article banks, look for other services that site owner provides for publishers and utilize all their services.

For Authors and Publishers If you find yourself using an article bank over and over again, consider providing a link from your site to their site - maybe on a "recommended links" page. It's an excellent way to thank site owner for providing such a valuable resource.

Where To Find Article Banks

To view a very large list of article banks, visit http://www.coachmaria.com/articles/articlebanks.html

© Copyright 2002 All Rights Reserved. Maria Marsala, Business & Life Coach-Consultant. Maria works with successful individuals as they take their success to an even higher level. Subscribe to "Helping You and Your Business Grow" our free weekly online newsletter or download our free business start up ebook http://www.CoachMaria.com/ebook/download.html

....Well, ma'am if you'd like to ask your neighbors over, we can start at 10% off.

Step 1 is non-assaulting, establishing a relationship. Two will set them at ease-'great, I can find out fast and get rid of them.' Of course your job in step 2 is to get prospects interest enough to keep reading/listening. Be Quick, Catchy, and TO POINT. Step 3, as I said, verifies your common interest, and now you can tell/show customer how you CAN be of benefit. Step 4 will keep them interested and hold them accountable; customer will have incentive to keep appointment.

Use this method for your lead generation, lead followup(autoresponders), telemarketing, inquiries of any sort (including job search), cold calling, MLM affiliate contact, bulk mail; whatever your brand of sales entails. If you do it correctly, I PROMISE it works.

It must be STRESSED again that no script, written or verbal, needs to be executed exactly as is; if you follow BASIC rules, inject your own personality and style. I'm a firm believer that if you do, you will ATTRACT types of customers with which you can form good working relationships.

NOTES on OBJECTIONS: These hints are to help when in conversation. In email followup, objections are pretty well covered by repetition, clarification in your autoresponder series. 1) In step one a)...I don't have time right now Well, that's OK, when's a good time to reach you?? 2) In step two a)...we already have sidewalk cleaners I understand EXACTLY what you mean. Mrs. Sloppy had SidewalksRUs, until they actually saw their costs cut [insert greatest benefit to customer] by 30% with us! OR Great, have you tried Miracle Sidewalk yet [offer a related product or accessory-customer's Brand may not be following up!] b)...we don't need sidewalk cleaners [or I'm not interested] You know, that's exactly what Mrs. Sloppy said but now she's CONVINCED her roses smell better [point out an intangible benefit if possible] since we started cleaning for her. OR We do have a referral program. Who do you know looking for... 3) In step three ...I'm really busy right now. You know, I've been pretty swamped too. How's NEXT Thursday. I'll be back in area then. ...No OK, that's great. Your needs probably constantly change. Is it ok to followup with you in x amt. of time?

You'll generally get SOME kind of yes; if door is totally closed in your face, DON'T take it personally, and REMEMBER, you're one step closer to a sale.

Hopefully these tips will help your salesmanship grow, little by little. PRACTICE. If you do make calls, tape them. The first will probably be atrocious, but it WILL come easier with practice!

If you're using mail/email, you probably have a phone # associated with your lead. [Most] people are not monsters, and genuine sales offers are usually appreciated.

(c)Shelly Rich Friedling