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Launching is a big deal for many business, but especially so for internet marketing and online businesses. While there’s a lot of talk about the “how” of it, what’s less often discussed is the economics of it. That’s what we tackle in this video.
As I say in the video, I’ve got lots of ideas for these but haven’t really been happy with the state of my recording studio. After watching Pam’s video on marketing tips the other day, I decided it was time to start practicing what I preach and just get it out there. I’d rather get this to you today than spend another few months worrying about how to produce it so that it looks professional. (In a bit of irony, over-production is a trait of some of the strategies that I’m characterizing.)
There are a few additional points I’d like to add – one of the downsides of video is that it’s easy to forget some important points:
- I’m not saying the Mega Launch Strategy is a bad one or saying it shouldn’t be used. The point of this video post is to give you some additional information and trends to consider as you decide how you want to launch products and build your business. It has plenty of advantages when done in the right way with eyes wide open.
- The cherry-picking of testimonials that I mention here is a common practice across industries.
- Some of these programs and formulas are quite good at teaching marketing and sales fundamentals. I’ve learned through time and experience that it’s often not the originators to be faulted, but the way in which others use, modify, and push the programs that we should be concerned about. Remember, how people use the tools is not an evaluation of the tool itself. (Click to tweet – thanks!)
One down, many more to go. Thanks for watching. 🙂
*LOVE* this, Charlie!!!! 🙂 (But I think you probably know that I would)
I thought you might. And, as you know, I’ve got a lot more to say about this. 🙂
We definitely need more alternative models. There’s nothing wrong with launches, but if it’s the only thing that makes up your business, that’s a rocky road.
It’s a very rocky road. It’s like I’ve said before, J – a product doesn’t make a business. Similarly, a product + a launch doesn’t make a business.
This rocked. I loved the random events (screensaver/phone ringing) during the video 😉
Thanks, Henri. I was really tempted to edit all of it out or re-record, but that would mean, realistically, that you’d never see it. Good enough = done. 🙂
I love the “quick and dirty” lecture. Felt like I was in college, again. I request more videos on the economics behind the online business world. 🙂
Hold on to your seat then, lil sis. With this and other encouragement, you’ll see more.
That was awesome, Charlie, thank you. Megan and I were just discussing this approach this week, and I can’t wait to hear more from you about this strategy, as it just seems so much more sustainable.
timely for me as I am opening TeachNow again soon and completely not done with the big launch model – I don’t like it, for me personally or for the world. It’s great to generate hoopla but the hoopla model long term isn’t good for anybody. It’s what wrong with our government, in part – every two years anyone? Let’s create and model sustainable ways to generate what we need – whole different story 🙂 And Charlie, you are adorable.
Great add about the government model, Jen. I’ve often been frustrated that as soon as someone gets elected, they start working to get reelected. How about focusing on the work and promises instead?
The same applies to us. Yet another way in which business isn’t a separate domain of inquiry and living.
Timely for me, too. I’m getting excited about next summer’s 3rd annual Book Breakthrough NYC (aka 2012) and yet wanting the program, the experience, and the people to come first–above the mini launches to support the promotion and sales. Also, I have to say, I love your “production.” Thanks for sharing and getting it out there. Role modeling in every way. 🙂
Thanks for the feedback on the production, Janet. It feels good to let a lot of the rest go. (No, this doesn’t carry over to the book or anything. 🙂 )
Hi Charlie: Now I know why I’ve been getting so dizzy. Somehow your launch and build strategy resonates with me more than the roller coaster approach.
p.s. love the old school “next slide please…”
Hi Charlie: Now I know why I’ve been getting so dizzy. Somehow your launch and build strategy resonates with me more than the roller coaster approach.
p.s. love the old school “next slide please…”
RE: next slide please.
There’s no reason we can’t have fun with it while we’re doing it, right?
Nice going, Charlie!
First, I adore the way you keep it real. Almost makes me hope you never get the kinks worked out.
Second, thank you for telling it like it is. I get angry when I see mega launch strategies being pushed to people without the business structures to make them work. And I know from experience that, even with a successful business base, launches don’t always work out the way you want them to.
Another aspect of launch and build that makes it appealing to me is that it relies on relationships developed over time between you and your just-right clients. Those relationships and the networks that form from them are the basis for ongoing and increasing sales. And because sales are based on relationships, you don’t need a mega launch to sell to the same people again.
Big love, Molly.
You know the odd thing? I personally believe it’s the kinks that makes things beautiful. It took letting the “production” go to remind me of this. On a principle level, if I had to choose between looking professional and polished or providing insights faster, I’d go with the latter. I’ve got a lot to practice here. 🙂
Hey Charlie!
Great Video, and very helpful –
I’m in the midst of an incremental launch and build of:
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And you put to words what I intuited/have observed with everything – I also love you keepin’ it real.
Just as with different types of lauch strategies, I enjoy the full spectrum from “raw and uncut” to “totally polished” – There’s room for all of us (no matter what our level of skillfulness in launches or video production)
Keep rockin’ it!
~Mathias