I began my "AKB MarCom Tips" e-zine three years ago, when I'd just started my copywriting and marcom consulting business. I wanted an easy way to stay in touch with past associates, current clients, prospects ... just about everyone! And I wanted them to realize I really knew my stuff about writing compelling copy for Web sites, ads, brochures, etc. I wanted to be seen as an "expert" in their eyes, to encourage them to hire me and/or refer me to possible clients.

Well, it's worked far better than I'd imagined. Each year I gain tens of thousands of dollars in new business based on leads from my e-zine alone. And if you need to promote YOUR business (and/or yourself) to others, I highly recommend publishing your own e-zine.

Here are 5 darn good reasons why you shouldn't wait any longer:

1. An e-zine is a very CREDIBLE and SUBTLE way to promote your services or products.

Instead of simply *saying* how great you are (as in traditional advertising), an e-zine lets you *show* how great you are by sharing your expertise with your readers. (As my old journalism professor used to say, "Show me, don't just tell me!") You're avoiding simple bragging, and are instead offering useful information that demonstrates your knowledge. Bravo!

2. Publishing an e-zine positions you as an EXPERT in your field.

By showcasing your knowledge and skills, you're likely to attract more clients. And by sharing what you know well, you're saying, "Hey, I know my stuff! I'm an expert! You should listen to me."

And don't be scared of word "expert" -- you don't have to know EVERYTHING in world about your topic to call yourself an expert -- you just need to know a lot more than most people. If you make a living doing what you do, you're likely an expert in your own right. If you're still uncomfortable with that term, try on word "resource." Okay, feel better? ; )

Personalize your emails!

Whenever you send emails to your prospects or ezine subscribers, have their names appear on subject headings. This simple tip can easily double your earnings.

But wait, how are you going to get them to "willingly" tell you their names?

If you run an ezine (which is an absolute *MUST* for your online success), your primary goal is to get email addresses of your potential subscribers. Don't try to ask for their first names, last names, gender, age, or any other personal information.

With increasing number of online scams, it is not difficult to see why people hate to divulge their personal data, especially on their first contact. Why should they? They hardly know you. You should be happy if they are willing to give you their email addresses. Ask for anything more and they may not even subscribe.

"What Alan? I thought you just said we should personalize our emails? How can we do so without asking for their names in first place?"

You can, and you should ask for their names. But not on first contact.

An example always makes things clearer. Take a look at http://www.profitjump.com . You see that I only ask for email address of those who wish to subscribe. Once they enter their email addresses and hit "Subscribe" button, real action begins...