The steps in this post are pretty simple, no rocket science here. But, for giggles, I wanted to see how I stacked up against their HOW TO.
There are five pieces of advice given in the article; Become an Expert, Cultivate Super Users, Ensure People Can Find You on the Web, and Offer Ad-Funded Payment Options.
Become an Expert
This may be a good time to answer the frequently asked question about “What do you do?” The short answer is I build software. The long answer is, I’ve been in the technology industry for over 20 years. I’ve worked for large companies, and I’ve worked for boot strap startups. I have filled many different roles, and have a love hate relationship with many of them.
I can say I’m an expert in my field, and I know I can do a better job showing you. The article uses YouTube as an example of a place to show off your talents, and I have to agree. I don’t use YouTube in that manner, but I am going to try and make an effort to utilize it more. I can also stand to do more blogging. Services like Twitter and Facebook have pulled me away from blogging. So it’s my own fault.
You can always learn more here.
Cultivate Super Users
OK, so this piece of advice works well if you have a product, but what if you’re a freelancer? What if you don’t have a tangible product that others can gloat about?
I understand the person when a project is completed to a clients satisfaction they will be happy and tell a few people, but it’s nothing like a few million people gushing about your cool service or widget.
I’m trying to change that by doing less freelancing and more product development. Software and Information products. Something I can offer customers, which will allow me to cultivate super users.
Ensure People Can Find You on the Web
This isn’t a problem for me. Google my name or company and you’ll be directed to the right resource. Since I run a virtual company, I have no physical address. Maybe that is a con for freelancers?
Offer Ad-Funded Payment Options
Again, this is really a benefit for a company offering a product. I’m also not keen on this “buy something from someone else and get my widget for free”. I want to think my products have more value than that. Besides, I don’t have the marketing channel in place to manage this.
Wrap Up
Of all the advice this article lays out, the one thing of value to me was the Become an Expert, which isn’t really something earth shattering or new, it’s just a reality check.
There has to be something better than this. A good solid plan. Share with us your budget mindful marketing ideas.
