1. They don't collect enough leads or prospect data because most of their marketing is NOT focused on lead generation. 2. Their websites are ineffective because they are not set up effectively to collect, sort, and follow up on large numbers of leads. 3. They do almost the exact same marketing as ALL their competitors. They are afraid to take a risk. 4. They do NOTHING to set themselves CLEARLY apart from others in their marketplace. But still they say “We have the best customer service...yeah, yeah, yeah,...don't they all say that. 5. They keep doing what they have always done because it's easier than changing to a more systematic approach that would actually work. Meanwhile their market share is sinking faster than an elephant in quicksand. I got more... just ask.
Very good list you have there clevermarketer. I especially like that you mention reason #1 and #2. I can't tell you how many websites I visited and do not see some sort of opt-in form or it's hidden somewhere on the site and not easy to find. Also, I personally think it's a mistake to concentrate so much on your product and service when you first start off instead of focusing on generating leads to your site FIRST and building your customer base. You can have a great product, but without putting the efforts and time into generating leads, it will just sit on the store shelf collecting dust. Thanks for sharing!
All are well made points clevermarketer. We are inherently resistant to change because it feels so darn uncomfortable, not realizing that change is the gateway to progress. Be creative. Don't do exactly what the other guys are doing because you will get the same results as the other guy: mediocre. Be bold, daring and not afraid to make mistakes because fear of making mistakes is what separates the average or failure in IM from the innovative thinkers. Ryan Biddulph
i agree with all. many times it comes down to the business owner just being lazy. not following through with a plan because its all doom and gloom right now. IM is like any other business, it requires hard work.
Often you'll find business owners don't follow up leads very well, they just focus on getting the leads but never converting them in to proper sales that generate revenue for the business.
haveseo Regarding your question on point #2.. When people visit your website typically it's because they are interested in the topic, product or service you have to offer. They are a potential customer and you must find out their identity so you can convert them to a paying customer. You need multiple ways to collect their information (specifically Name and email). For Example: If you are offering an information product give them a sample to download after they have entered their name and email. As Newbizblogger so aptly put it you must build your database before you can think about making sales. As for point # 3 which kind of ties in with #4. How many times have you seen the same type of ad for similar products or service from different companies in the same place. They say "We better advertise here becaues our competitor is". They become just another option for someone to randomly try. You must think outside the box to find new ways of appealing to your target market so when they need your service you are the one they call. It's not always easy. It takes time plus trial and error to find what works the best for your particular niche. Hope this helps, let me know if can help you further.