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Welcome to this edition of Weekly VA Marketing Tip! This series is specifically designed to help virtual assistants avoid marketing insanity. Every Monday, my posts will prompt you to accomplish one specific marketing action to promote, brand or position your professional virtual business.

Implement these tips each week and I guarantee you’ll sustain your marketing momentum, increase credibility and visibility in your field, build stronger relationships, boost your ‘know, like and trust factor,’ get more ideal clients looking for you, and have a consistent marketing game plan for your virtual assistant business.

You might even start to like marketing!

Turn It Into A Blog Series

Now that you’ve written a Top 5… or How To… article and shared it with the world, you’re ready to leverage that one article into a blog series.

You may be wondering: Can’t I just post my entire article to my blog?

Of course you can! It’s your article and you can do whatever you want with it. In fact, I post my articles here all the time.

However, my goal is to help you branch out and spin off all your marketing efforts into as many streams as possible — without it just being a copy ‘n paste, verbatim, repeat version of your initial piece.

Breaking your article down into a multi-part series allows you to chunk the original article topic into a specific, narrowed topic of its own and go into detail.

The goal is to demonstrate your expertise. Your article proved you have overall general knowledge of your topic and a broad understanding of your audience.

A blog series will allow you to break each main point down, delve deeper and really show your audience you know what you’re talking about — that you are the expert.

You’re showing you not only have “breadth,” but you also have “depth” as an online administrative professional. Your target market will start seeking YOU out, as opposed to someone else.

Turning your article into a multi-part series also helps you gain consistency in your blogging, even if just for the length of your series.

So, how do you turn your article into a blog series?

Say, for example, your article heading was:

• How Real Estate Agents Can Use Social Media To Get Known Locally

And let’s say the main points of your article were:

• YouTube
• Twitter
• Facebook

You need titles for your blog posts.

I would call my blog series Using Social Media To Gain Local Real Estate Clients and separate each point with a colon (i.e. Using Social Media To Gain Local Real Estate Clients: YouTube). OR I may create 3 blog headings:

• How A Real Estate Agent Can Use YouTube To Get Known Locally
• How A Real Estate Agent Can Use Twitter To Get Known Locally
• How A Real Estate Agent Can Use Facebook To Get Known Locally
• (Come up with as any blog titles as you did main points in your article.)
  

Again, I am NOT a headline expert and the point is not to come up with the MOST compelling title (although it helps). I’m just saying: Don’t get stuck with trying to make it perfect… Get it done!

Write one blog post per title  you came up with. Open Notepad and:

• Write your first blog post. Save it.
• Write your second blog post. Save it.
• Write your third blog post. Save it.
• (Write as many posts as you did titles.)

You don’t need to write a 500-word article if it’s not coming to you. Come up with 3 tips for each blog post and write a few sentences per tip.

1. Open your blog program.
2. Copy and paste the title and text you came up with for your first blog post.
3. Choose (or create) an appropriate category and come up with a few tags.
4. Enter links and images if you like.
5. Spell check/Proofread.
6. (Hold your breath) press the Publish button (or schedule it to go out this week).

Repeat steps 1 to 5 for each of your blog posts, only instead of publishing them this week, schedule them to be published 1 week apart.

As a final step, promote your link on Twitter and watch it get retweeted!

Don’t put it off! The return on this marketing strategy far outweighs the effort you put into it. And I promise, it gets easier the more you do it!

Let us know how you do!

Have an awesome week!

It’s raining and gray in Montreal today, with a forecast of rain through the weekend. Perfect weather to curl up with a cup of tea and a good book. And I have just the one!

I know, I know… you’re saying “No, not another book! I still have 3 others on my desk, just begging to get read!” (I feel your pain. My desk has 2 semi-read books and 5 more to crack open. Oh yeah, and one on my night stand.)

Just indulge me, OK? You can thank me later.

I LOVE everything Mitchell Lewis Ditkoff and his company, Idea Champions, comes up with (in case you hadn’t noticed, I’m a stalker). His book Awake at the Wheel: Getting Your Great Ideas Rolling, is no exception.

It’s a story about inspiration, ideas, taking action and applying the lessons in your life. Don’t fear — it’s not about systems,  processes, lists and all that boring stuff. No one tells a story quite like Ditkoff. He takes you through the life of Og the caveman, as Og follows his instincts, leading him to invent the wheel. It’s fictional, of course, and that’s what makes it so awesome.

That’s all I’m going to say, ’cause I don’t want to ruin it for you.

It’s a small book — perfect for a quick, powerful and inspiring read over the weekend. Ditkoff’s clever and witty style will have you wishing for more. You can easily read it in 3 hours, depending on how many kids are running around (my general formula is to add 1-2 hours per child).

Read it; I promise you won’t be disappointed. In fact, I’ll read it (again) with you this weekend.

Let’s talk about it on Monday!

Here are some of my stalker links (I’ll add more as I do more cyber-prowling):

• Awake at the Wheel (official book website with a bunch of extras)
• The Heart of Innovation (Idea Champions blog)
• Small Business Big Ideas Podcast (Lissa Boles from True Callings interviews Mitchell Lewis Ditkoff)

Now that we are back to a “normal” routine (hubby’s back at work, kids at daycare) and I’m home with Jasmine trying to work between naps and feedings, I’m finding it difficult to avoid distractions. And there are, oh so many distractions!

The usual suspects are: social media (tweet, tweet), email, internet, baby care and — can you guess??? — blogging.

With the (extended) end-of-month deadline for my Designing a Compelling 30-second Intro v2 guidebook looming over me, I’m feeling the pull of distractions even more. Does this ever happen to you?

Here are 3 ways I use to eliminate (or diminish) distractions:

• Close my speakers. This made a huge difference, because programs, like Outlook, Twhirl, Vision Board, make a sound when updated. If I don’t hear it, I’m not lured into stopping my work to check it out.
• Close all windows on my PC except what I’m working on. For my guidebook, that means keeping only these programs open: MS Word, Notepad and Visual Thesaurus. Everything else gets closed. Out of sight, out of mind.
• Close my PC. This is the most extreme measure, but must be done when I’m in crunch mode. I work much better with pen and paper anyways. I’ll print notes, close my PC, take a notepad and favorite pen, set myself up on the kitchen table and write away. When I’m done I go back to my office and type what I wrote. It may not sound efficient, but I save time by not fooling around on other things.

My latest procrastination-beating tool is Havi Brooks’ Procrastination Dissolve-o-Matic (Havi is my current flavor and I’m stalking following her work closely). She teaches a super quick technique (something you wouldn’t expect) to immediately get you into action. I’ve had her book for a week and it’s worked wonders.

Finally, if I’m really resisting doing whatever it is I need to do (and I don’t feel like doing anything about it), I simply stop pretending to work and try not to beat myself up over my lack of focus and discipline. I’ll get up, play with Jasmine, walk to the store or give in to whatever distraction I’m avoiding. I know I’ll do better next time, so there’s no use white-knuckling it.

What are your culprits? How do you overcome them?

The Top 4 No-Brainer Shortcuts to Achieving Expert Status, Fast!

Independent service professionals often ask me how they can become a sought-after expert in their field, especially if they are just starting out. The secret lies in getting others to perceive you as an expert in your field. To achieve this, you must BE (and believe you are) an expert. After all, if you don’t believe you are an expert, how can you convince your audience that you are?

Done over and over again, the following four shortcuts will help cement your expertise in the eyes of your target market and potential clients, and keep you on their minds whenever they think of the topic that you specialize in.

1. Writing. There is no status-building strategy as effective and as cost-efficient as writing. Don’t let the common excuse of, “I’m not a good writer,” stop you from tapping into this credibility-boosting opportunity. I’m not necessarily the best writer, but I know that the more I write, the better I get. I also know that my audience cares more about content than about proper writing protocol. There are many different writing avenues that will get your name out there, such as:
   • Blog. This is my favorite form of writing, because I’m the kind of person who writes the way I speak. Blogs allow me to take a fun, conversational tone and to attract people who appreciate this approach. Write at least one longer post per week about the topic that you specialize in, that you can use as an article.
   • Article marketing. Submit your articles to online submission sites (like ezinearticles.com) to attract traffic back to your website.
   • Newsletter. Capitalize on your hard work by sending your articles to your mailing list as a newsletter. Many email broadcasting services are free when you have a small list, and are affordable as your list grows.
   • Other options. Write press releases about your new products and services, e-books that solve a problem your target market deals with; write a printed book, white paper or special report; contribute as a guest author on someone else’s blog.

   The key to using this status-building shortcut effectively is VALUABLE CONTENT. Avoid being overly general or blatantly promoting yourself; instead, inform and educate your readers, and be laser focused on their needs and concerns.

2. Speaking. Being a speaker instantly supercharges your status as an expert; it boosts your visibility and credibility and you become a sought-after and skilled professional. It is another highly effective and inexpensive strategy, and it’s another time to let go of the excuse that you’re not good enough to do it. Speaking does not need to mean giving a 45-minute keynote address in front of 500 people. Here are some simpler and less intimidating ways for you to gain expert status by speaking:
   • Volunteer to give a 5-minute presentation at local networking venues like Chambers of Commerce and Rotary Clubs.
   • Apply to be a speaker at online trade shows or expos.
   • Accept opportunities to be interviewed on radio shows or podcasts.
   • Teach a class at your local library.
   • Host a monthly teleclass.
   • Record 10-minute audios and post them to your blog, send them to your mailing list or submit them as a podcast.

If there are no events for you to speak at, create your own speaking opportunities:

The key to using speaking effectively is (can you guess?) VALUABLE CONTENT. Make sure you provide your audience with informative and educational content about a topic that they are interested in.

3. Information Products. In order to be perceived as an expert, you must consistently provide the information that your target market is searching for. Information products are the best way to give your audience this information without you having to actually “be” there.
   • Ebooks
   • Audio recordings
   • Membership sites that offer exclusive access to a variety of products
   • Special reports
   • Guidebooks
   • Ecourses
   • Tutorials
   • Teleclasses
   • Live training events
   • Coaching programs

Information products may include:

The possibilities are endless. While VALUABLE CONTENT is also the key to this strategy’s effectiveness, you will want to offer products in a wide range of price points (from free all the way to your big-ticket item).

4. Accessibility. This shortcut may not seem obvious, but as soon as you make yourself available, visible and accessible to your target market, you gain respect and people will seek out your advice. This doesn’t mean spending your day giving away your expertise on the phone or in emails. Instead, tap into the social networking scene. Let your “followers,” “friends” or “fans” know what you’re up to by updating your status. Post surveys. Answer questions relating to your field. Join groups where your target audience hangs out.

Showing up, in real time, and participating in these interactive forums will not only remind your audience that you are an expert in your area, but will also help you to gain the “know, like and trust” factor that is needed to cement your expert status.

Remember that the first key to gaining expert status in the eyes of your target market is to believe in your own expertise. Use these four strategies to share your knowledge in your own unique way, and you’ll be the first one your audience thinks of when they’re looking for an expert in your area.

© 2008 Cristina Favreau. All rights reserved.

ABOUT CRISTINA
Cristina Favreau specializes in teaching independent service professionals who struggle with marketing, so they get more visibility, build their credibility and increase their self-confidence. Get her complimentary “12 Mistakes To Avoid in Your 30-Second Intro” ecourse at http://www.cristinafavreau.com/index.htm

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER OR WEB SITE? You’re welcome to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered, including the “ABOUT CRISTINA” info above. Please send a copy of your reprint to web (at) cristinafavreau (dot) com.

This post was created thanks to today’s Back To Blogging inspiration.

On August 23rd, 2006 I published my very first blog post called Are You Biting Off More Than You Can Chew. It seems so long ago…

The person responsible for me starting a blog is my best friend, Eve Leonard. She was my newsletter editor and would constantly say things like “Your style of writing is perfect for blogging,” “You write the way you speak, which is perfect for blogging,” and “You’re always finding neat stuff on the internet. You should start blogging.”

I figured I couldn’t preach about the effectiveness of blogging as a marketing strategy without having one myself. I bit the bullet and started The Savvy Entrepreneur (a name not entire approved by Eve, since she hates the word “entrepreneur”).

I was so nervous, putting myself out there in such a public way. What if I ran out of interesting things to say? What if I say something really stupid and can’t take it back? What if nobody likes me?

But it was also strangely exciting. WOW! My own words on the World Wide Web for all to see.

I’m sure most will agree that blogging is a form of therapy.

At the beginning, I was taking in as much information about promoting a service-based business as possible, so my blog served as an outlet to not only share the information with you, but to process the information in my brain and learn.

Now I like to blog more about: things that irk me; marketing strategies to avoid; defining the lingo; discussing common challenges; things that make me laugh; inspiring quotes; interesting events and helpful resources.

I’m sure this blog has more evolving to do… Hope you stick around for the ride.

What would you like to see more of here? What would you like to see less of?

Summer is over, baby is born, hubby is back to work and kids are in daycare. So there are no more excuses… I’ve been slacking off long enough.

This blog has been sorely neglected, with only a minimum of posts (have you at least been enjoying my weekly Savvy Snippets? Please say yes! ). I’m ready to get back on track.

Helping me this month is Crissy Heron Gipson from IndieBizChicks. Today marks day one of her Back To Blogging 4 week program (it’s free). I received my daily inspiration email and I’ll be posting soon.

Won’t you join me and get back to blogging too?

I’m in… Are you?

Blog Action Day 2008 Poverty from Blog Action Day on Vimeo.

… on my blog, that is.

Last week, a post I had written in August 2007 had been reposted as an April 2008 post.

It was brought to my attention a few days ago that my RSS feed is going out with questionable link ads at the bottom of each post.

To top it off, as I was looking through my Google Alerts this morning, I noticed a ping back to my blog with a post called Are You Pissing Off Your Clients? That was a saved blog post in my drafts. I had written it after an upsetting situation with my pediatrician. I wrote a rough draft — I was still quite sour about the whole situation — so I saved it for a future post, waiting to cool off and tie up all the point into a lesson on customer service.

Looks like someone (I could use a stronger word, but I’m going to be nice) has hacked into my blog.

In doing research, I noticed I’m not the only one. Seapegasus Blog talks about a New Blog Spammer Hack that lets spammers put hidden text on a blog’s RSS feed. I’ve lost a dozen subscribers this week alone and I think this has something to do with it.

So while I figure out how to fix this, please be patient and know that I’m not suddenly endorsing enlargement pills nor am I inviting you to watch the latest celebrity s.e.x video.

Anyone else dealing with this? Solutions are welcome!! If you’re running a blog on WordPress, I highly recommend you change your admin password, just in case you’re next!

A great way to get people to read and comment on your blog is to actively involve the reader. It’s something I’ve been struggling with (you know, searching for THE perfect idea).

Well, Chris over at GenuineChris.com came up with such an idea. His blog is not for everyone; I like him ’cause his style and personality resonates with me (he talks my language).

Chris uses his blog as a public platform to bare himself completely. He shares very specific goals (with projected completion dates), achievements (posting actual numbers) and is very open about challenges he’s facing. He takes it one step further by stating clear consequences then tapping into his readers to keep him accountable.

Chris has just kicked it up a notch with his latest installment, Project Tranparency: Go to the Gym or $25.00 (check out his post for all the gory details).

Personally, I’m hooked (it’s actually a little more like stalking!). I check his blog numerous times a day, making sure he posts audio proof that he went to the gym. I send him daily emails and/or comment on his blog. I’ve even set a recurring reminder in Outlook so I don’t miss a single chance at getting $25.

Maybe I’m just twisted, but isn’t that the kind of readers you’d like to have on your blog — people cheering you on, keeping tabs on you, and who are hooked, line and sinker?

I want blog stalkers followers too, but I’m not sure I’m ready (willing?) to put myself on the line to the extent Chris has! Maybe that’s what I need to start doing!! Hmmm….

How have blogs drawn you in? What did it for you? How long did it last? What are you doing (or have done) to keep readers coming back for more (PLLEEAASSEE don’t say the obvious — I want some original ideas here).

PS – Want to keep tabs on Chris’ progress too? Subscribe to his blog feed by clicking here.

In doing research for my upcoming special blogging report, I’ve come to realize that (gasp!) not all bloggers view blogging the same as I do. To me, blogging is all about creating a conversation, opening the lines of communication and encouraging honest discussion.

I’m floored by how many blogs — many by well-known and so-called marketing experts — demonstrate the most blatant form of blogging arrogance and snobbism I know of — turning off comments (willfully or in ignorance). OK, so some bloggers keep trackbacks turned on. Whoop-de-do. Is that supposed to make me feel better?

Am I the only one who thinks, when comments are turned off, it turns from a blog to a pulpit?

It’s totally subliminal, but the tone of the blog suddenly turns condescending and dismissive. Not allowing comments on your blog — ever — tells me that what you have to say is more important than what anyone else has to say. You’re also sending the message that what you say is the final word on the subject (even if it’s true, it’s just plain not nice).

How sad. I certainly hope it won’t turn into a trend.

When I visit a blog that doesn’t allow comments, I tend to leave and I erase it from my memory (you know, removing the site from my Bookmarks, blogroll and any other references I may have).

Am I way off the mark? Am I being too harsh? Maybe I’m just tired…. Nah, it really gets on my nerves.

If you don’t allow comments on your blog, please explain, ’cause I really don’t get why you’re blogging.