If you have been around Internet marketing, you know that list building is critical to your online success. How many times have you heard it said, ‘the money is in the list’? And because, as Internet Marketers we are so wrapped up in list building online, we often overlook a great source of targeted leads. By doing so, we are leaving money on the table!
Instead of just building your list online, why not build your list OFFLINE?! Here are some list building ideas that will increase your lead list faster than you can blink your eyes!
Meetup Groups
Meetup.com is a hotspot for leads for ANY business! Simply go to www.meetup.com to find groups that your target market is using. Before you go to a Meetup, contact the organizer. Tell them who you are, and ask if there is someone in the group that you should know. Your goal is to connect with the right amount of people, as you will want to meet with them one on one at a later time.
Not only should you attend a Meetup group, but start your own! This alone puts you in a position of authority. Whatever group you start, make it a ‘beginner’ group. A beginner group will draw people to you that want what you have. An expert in your field will not necessarily come to your group. Give free or low-cost classes, and have a sign in sheet and collect business cards. Voila! List building has just happened!
TIP: Meetup.com also has a sponsorship feature that allows you to add advertisements to your group. Use that to promote any relevant affiliate offers.
Networking Events
Networking Events don’t get the recognition they deserve. If you do it right, networking events can be a great source of leads.
For a while I ran a networking group for Moms in business… The one thing I was very much against is the 30 second pitch… Getting in front of the group to introduce yourself and what you do. Trust me, more than likely the people will not remember you and you have failed to do one of the most important things that offline networking should succeed in and that is building a connection and a relationship.
The way my group worked is by acting more like a “Mastermind” group. Business owners would discuss issues in their business and ask for advice. Not only did this allow them to find and provide solutions for the other networkers in the room but true relationships were built. People truly got to know each other and each other’s expertise. You do business with people you know and trust right?
Speaking Engagements
Usually people start running in the other direction when it comes to speaking. There is no better way to have an impact on a large number of targeted people than with speaking engagements. Seek them out!
By overlooking offline list building opportunities, you are cutting out what can be a significant revenue source. You can build a following offline and then invite them to follow you online. Many successful marketers have followed this model and are generating six figures and above. Get out in your community and get connected!
To Your Success,
Tereza