So off go coded emails with my 'latest hot offer'. For several days I post same offer testing different headlines, and adding essential 'this is a limited offer', just to cover myself - I didn't want this to be too successful and get inundated with hundreds of people.

And? Well I hit a hot spot. I got several new clients directly from those adverts and have had to introduce a waiting list!

Infact having discovered need out there, I'm getting some software written which will allow people to edit their own websites with no knowledge of html (the language of internet). Once that comes on stream, there won't be a limit to number of new clients that I can take on.

So do you get message?

*** Know exactly what it is that your product/service is offering potential customers, so that: ***You can discover what is lacking in your offer that is holding potential clients back from buying from you, because then: ***You can become an even better 'solution provider', and increase your business and customers satisfaction.

It doesn't matter whether you're competing with loads of other people selling same thing, infact that's great!

======================================== Sidebar: What do you mean? The more people promoting same thing means that prospects can get used to product/service name. It becomes familiar. Considering that most people don't buy anything till sixth or seventh approach, you're still in with a great chance especially as you are adding something extra to deal. =======================================

Whatever you are selling, find a way to be 'unique', in either presentation: don't use same adverts/leaflets as everyone else - delivery: repackage, add something extra - or customer service: faster, better refund (risk reversal) policy. In fact make up your own. That's really unique!

And to prove a point, I must compete with several thousand people with my web hosting affiliation. But now (as far as I know), none of others can compete with my offer.

• Don’t send any types of unsolicited boxes.

Nothing you send should be covered or concealed. The recipient should be able to tell right away that they have received a promotional item.

• Don’t put restrictive endorsements such as “Personal” or “Confidential.”

Instead make every effort to make your mailing look as innocent as possible.

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Direct Mail advertising is still one of best ways to gain new customers and keep your old customers!

Consider these facts:

81% of Americans read a newspaper.

96% have a phone.

98% have a TV.

100% HAVE A MAILBOX.

If you want to stay ahead of this economic decline you must continue using direct mail advertising.

If you want to increase your direct mail advertising response rates you must put following Do’s into action.

----------------- Do’s:

• Do send postcards -

Of different types of direct mail pieces available following performed best in category for pieces immediately read: #1 Postcards (76.1%) #2 Letter-size envelops (74.3%) #3 Flyers (67.6%) #4 Catalogs (67.1%) (USPS)

• Do attach magnets, phone cards, or other promotional items to postcards –

Studies show that a typical sales call costs a company more than $300. Direct Mail with promotional products like magnets, phone cards, or non-magnetic items attached can decrease cost of securing a single sales appointment by almost 65%. (USPS)

Trade show traffic increases nearly 300% when a pre-show direct mail piece includes an attachable, such as a magnet, phone card, or non-magnetic item. (SAAGNY)

• Above all else… Do use common sense.

Imagine yourself in your prospects shoes. When you are looking down at mail on your doorstep, do you kick it out of way or does an innocent looking post card and a free refrigerator magnet catch your eye?