Internet Marketing Takes Patience

Going, Going, Gone. Internet Marketing Too Fast for Newbies to Catch On?

Absolutely not. I can't say how often I've heard people get discouraged after their foray into online promotion and Internet marketing didn't go the way they had hoped it would. It's a totally understandable sentiment but it really does frustrate me. I've never seen an instance where I believe the person throwing in the towel had really given it their all and/or had really done themselves justice.

There's more revenue being poured into online advertising and more money being spent online on retail and b2b than ever. That spells more PPC opportunities, sweeter affiliate deals, and all around more inventory and more niche markets for newcomers to charge into.

For the most part, I think managing one's own expectations poorly is at the root of many of these failed attempts that I've witnessed. They read Blog posts by someone like Markus of PlentyofFish.com who has a phenomenally successful site and is just an all around bright guy… then assuming that they're going to be on the quick path to that level of success. Having grand aspirations and goals is NOT a bad thing. In fact it's a great motivator that can help you get there. But, it's the lack of instant gratification that can occur if a person new to the online marketing landscape, Internet auctions or otherwise, doesn't strike gold with their first website, pay per click campaign, or other pursuit of web revenue.

My suggestions for avoiding this pit that often swallows up would be Internet success stories whole (and forever):

• Start with optimistic, but also realistic goals. Goal planning is essential, so break them up into a 2 week goal, a one month goal, a 3 month goal, a 6 month goal, and a year goal, or something similar.
• Reward yourself for hitting the mark as you pass these landmarks. When you miss the target stop and learn why; don't scold yourself harshly or lose optimism, just learn from it and readjust your future goal timelines to ensure that you have a fair amount of time to accomplish them.
• Determine an amount of time that you can dedicate to your Internet marketing endeavors. Make sure that this amount is enough to accomplish your goals and agree with yourself that you can actually maintain or increase that pace. Stick to it!
• Ration a certain amount of time to spend each day or each week on related forums, blogs, and other places where you can communicate with your peers, those participating in related endeavors. Take every opportunity to meet people. Your knowledge may be limited at first but as it grows take an active role in helping anyone that you can. Keep an open mind and keep an eye out for those who consistently offer sage advice to members/visitors. Find out if they have a Blog, newsletter or where else they frequent. Grow your network of information and resources.
• Start a Blog. I say this because as you're going, putting your thoughts and processes on (digital) paper can really help you put things in perspective when you look back and see just how far you've come. It's also a great way to meet people and even generate some revenue at some point when you attract visitors.
• Try to stay focused. There are a million and one opportunities (at least) on the web and chances are that as you expand your horizons by networking, reading, and participating on blogs and forums you'll find opportunities that seem to have the potential to eclipse your current projects in revenue, profitability, etc. Don't be afraid to embark on new opportunities but just be wise enough to know that you've got to stick with things and not jump ship from project to project leaving nothing but half-assed ventures in your wake. Have follow through.
• And lastly, via a P.F. Chang's fortune cookie from last night: "Don't spend time day-dreaming. Be Productive".

What advice would you give to those just starting to etch out their place in the Internet marketing world?

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