Is your attention span less than a goldfish?

My emails aren’t getting opened… much less read!

This is an all too common issue for anyone trying to promote and sell via email marketing. People just aren’t responding to email marketing the way they once did.

There are many reasons for the lackluster results…

• People are on overload with the amount of information vying for their attention.


• There are many more distractions than in the past.


• People’s brains have literally been rewired due to technology.


• Email deliverability is much less reliable than in the past.

Here are a few questions to consider specific to email deliverability…

• Is the email address correct?


• Has your recipient’s email address changed?


• Is the recipient’s mailbox full or has their account has been disabled?


• Does the recipient have a SPAM blocker that prevents virtually any message sent in bulk to be blocked?


• Is your messaging engaging?

In addition to the common reasons related to email distribution there is also the issue of attention span.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, The Associated Press, the average attention span for adults online is 9.5 seconds. That’s literally less than goldfish.

If you’re feeling like people are not paying attention to what you are sending out, writing, saying or shooting on video, they probably aren’t.

The shocking truth is that people’s brains have literally been rewired due to technology.

On any given day we tweet, we post on our Facebook wall, we watch dozens of videos, we read dozens, even hundreds, of emails and we spend hours researching on the Internet.

All of this is impacting how our brains function. Nicholas Carr, author of The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brain, writes that our attention is seized by the Internet only to be scrambled by it.

According to an article in the Huffington Post; MRI research has shown that the brains of Internet users who have trouble controlling their craving to be constantly plugged-in exhibit changes similar to those seen in people addicted to drugs and alcohol.

When most people try to unplug for even a day, they tend to experience withdrawl symptoms similar to alcoholics and drug addicts.

This is frightening information and yet, information we can benefit from knowing. Here’s why…

If you continue to send information out as you did in the past, you are likely noticing a huge drop in open rates. Today, more than ever, you have to immediately grab people’s attention.

As you prepare your emails think through your subject line. Is it one that will spark the curiosity of the recipient? Is it engaging? Does it indicate the full message will solve a specific problem?

Once people open the message does it immediately grab the reader’s attention?

Not only have online attention spans dropped to mere seconds, the attention span during live, in-person presentations have dramatically dropped in the last couple of decades to less than ten minutes. This requires that speakers and presenters have pattern interrupts every few minutes if they want to keep their audience members fully engaged.

This would include audience participation, mini breaks, incorporating visuals into your presentation and demonstrations that require attendees use different parts of their brain. Moving from critical thinking to creative thinking can keep people’s attention.

Acknowledging the dramatic drop on how long someone pays attention to whatever we are doing is essential to addressing the issue. To pretend this issue doesn’t exists will put your messaging in the category of Dinosaurs…extinct.

Is your attention span less than a goldfish?

My business has gone to the dogs

We’ve all heard how important it is to niche what we do and who we do it with. Yet, a great many businesses are so flipping general in what they do they continue to flounder from day to day.

Then there are those who are so clear on what they do, who they do it for and why they do it, business literally comes out of the woodwork.

Something else almost every entrepreneur has heard is that it’s so much easier to do something you’re passionate about in business than to do something strictly for the money.

It’s true. When you find your niche and you do what you’re passionate about, you can weather the storms that are inevitable in virtually any type of business.

Case in point…Over the past couple of days I’ve been at the Women In the Pet Industry Conference. I’ve met dozens of entrepreneurs who are incredibly passionate about the businesses they run.

Many have their businesses set up to raise awareness about issues specific to animals. Whether it be dogs, cats, horses, birds, ferrets, goats or any of the other animals we have an affinity to, there are those who are overt about their love and passion for animals, and there are those who have businesses outside of the animal industry who continually contribute through a portion of their profits going to causes to improve the quality of the lives of our furry friends.

I’ve spent the past few days realizing how blessed I am to be one among many who love animals and have a commitment to doing what I personally (and professionally) can to raise awareness and funds for those whose life work is directly connected to the animals.

Between those in attendance, millions of dollars are generated yearly in their respective businesses and nonprofits.—money that goes to benefit our furry friends. Yet, there is so much more to be done. It’s truly a never-ending process.

On Friday, I was the opening keynote speaker for the conference. I succeeded in inspiring those in attendance to play at the highest level to do all they can to fulfill their mission with animals. Not only was the group incredibly responsive, we managed to raise a lot of money for some very worthy causes. More on that in a future post.

For now, I want to do a huge shout out to Shawna L. Schuh for creating such an incredible conference to bring together so many movers and shakers, who are incredibly passionate about the well-being of animals. When I think about how much is being done for raising awareness by each and every person here, it blows my mind.

With everything from solopreneurs to huge corporations being represented at this conference, this is business at its best.

My post wouldn’t be complete without recognizing the efforts of Yvonne DiVita—2015 Woman of the Year in The Pet Industry. As one of the founders of Blog Paws, Yvonne has worked tirelessly for years to create the largest community of pet bloggers. Blog Paws holds an annual conference that brings together bloggers from around the globe, who are also committed to the well-being and awareness about the needs of every type of animal.

Between Shawna and Yvonne, these two women are powerhouse entrepreneurs, who have overcome incredible odds to create a voice for the animals through their businesses.

They have shown, by example, that it takes more than simply having an idea, and that in order to make positive changes in the world you absolutely must put the idea into action.

Congratulations to Shawna for the success of the 2015 Women in the Pet Industry Conference! You knocked it out of the park.

And congratulations to Yvonne for being the well-deserving recipient of 2015 The Woman Of the Year In the Pet Industry.

I love and respect both of you! Keep doing such an amazing and PAWSOME job! You are a blessing.

My business has gone to the dogs

#1 mistake experts make that blocks their visibility

Have you noticed how the more visible experts are the more opportunity they seem to have? This doesn’t happen by chance. It likely happens by design… for some experts.

For many experts, it’s a huge part of their overall marketing and sales strategy. For others, they simply show up from day to day, do what they are extremely passionate about, and it seems fame and fortune follows them wherever they go.

Imagine being able to tip the scales in your favor by incorporating strategy with simply showing up to your passion. This is a winning combination that can and WILL make you a force to be reckoned with.

Here’s the rub though… with visibility comes responsibility. Sure, not everyone would agree with this, but since I’m the one writing this post, this is the perspective I am sharing.

With the resources we have available to us today, virtually anyone can be a Rock Star in their industry, market and online community. Again, the more visible you are the more opportunity presents itself.

Yet, the #1 mistake countless experts make is doing nothing and then they wonder why opportunity seems to evade them.

Here are just a few of the many ways you can increase your visibility, thus increasing your opportunity.

• Blogging


• Guest blogging


• Radio interviews


• Podcast interviews


• Joint venture partnerships


• Speaking at industry conferences

To get the most from your efforts it pays to be consistent. With so many BSO’s (bright shiny objects) vying for our attention, it’s incredibly easy to get sidetracked and derailed from our vision.

The simplest way to avoid this is to schedule time in for your visibility efforts. Another thing that will assist you in staying on track is to focus on one thing at a time until it’s done. For example, doing this blog post. I could easily get derailed by checking email, seeing who posted on Facebook, looking at a quick video on YouTube or any number of things that “take just a minute.”

Those things that take just a minute suck us dry. According to an article on Time.com “nearly 50% of American employees say they work for only 15 minutes before becoming distracted, while 53% report wasting an hour or more a day because of disruptions. From constant noise to overflowing in-boxes to feeling fatigued or stressed, almost anything can cause people to lose focus.”

That’s huge.

So what’s the solution. As unsexy as this is, discipline and focus. Simple as that.

We can always find those things that take up our precious time and justify the distraction. Bottom line is this; if you say you want to achieve a certain level of success, then it’s up to you to not let anything get in your way. By anything, I’m referring to the piddly ass things that are always going to be there.

Obviously, if there’s a family emergency, that’s a whole different conversation, but for the run of the mill, everyday activities that are not life or death, they can usually wait.

Want to learn more? Join me for …

Create Rock Star Visibility that Generates Six Figure (and Multiple Six Figure) Revenues Webinar

Monday, July 13th at 10 a.m. Pacific.

Check this out…

Can you do what you love, love what you do and make a great living at it while impacting a global market? Absolutely. Men and women are doing this every day.

One of the most profitable ways to build your business is to be a recognized thought leader who stands apart from the crowd by turning your expert knowledge into money making products and services.

The time has come for you to make a great living doing what you love while making a difference in the lives of people around the globe.

Click here to join in. It’s FREE.

#1 mistake experts make that blocks their visibility

9 reasons millions know and love Joel Comm

If you’ve been online for any length of time, you’ve likely heard the name, Joel Comm. Acknowledged as one of the most influential experts online, by far, Joel Comm is one of the most recognized names in the space of Internet Marketing.

Yet, some newbies (and even a few old timers) in this space may wonder why Joel seems to be “so lucky” to be seen everywhere.

Ever wonder what Joel’s secret is? Wonder no more… here’s why:

1. He’s been around for a long time. (okay Joel, it does mean you’re getting older and aren’t we all 😆 )

While most people were still wondering if they should get online, Joel was laying the foundation for an incredible virtual foot print. A Google search of Joel’s name brings up information dating back 20 plus years. He’s got a “Big Foot” imprint.

2. Joel Comm has consistently delivered great content  for decades in various ways on a number of platforms. He didn’t settle for just one thing, but rather, has his fingers in many pies. He is always willing to put new information to market.

3. He’s connected with, and joins forces with, others realizing there’s power and influence in the right partnerships. Evidence is his recent book launch of the most recent version of Twitter Power. There was a period during the launch where images of people reading his book were popping up all over the Internet. This certainly wasn’t by chance, but rather it was due to a community of influential thought leaders rallying around Joel to make people aware of this information filled book.

4. Joel Comm loves what he does. Regardless of what he’s doing, Joel always seems to be enjoying himself. He has a definite, “can do” attitude. No matter what the outward evidence, Joel has the innate ability to see beyond the physical into the unseen and unknown.

5. He pushes the envelope with many of his ideas. While lots of people might have an idea and then stop short of implementation due to fear of criticism, Joel jumps in with both feet knowing not everyone will like his ideas, but also knowing millions of people might. Therein lies the secret to his success.

Case in point – iFart Mobile. The app was launched in December 2008 by Infomedia, a technology company owned by Joel. Apple’s acceptance of iFart Mobile appeared to mark a change in the company’s policy towards humorous apps.

Once the app took off it seemed to be everywhere. Kathie Lee and Hoda demonstrated the iFart on the Today Show. How’s that for powerful messaging?

6. Not everything he’s done has been on target, but doesn’t let that stop him. I’m sure Joel would be more than happy to share some of his “not so sizzling” ideas with those who say “he’s so lucky” to prove luck is not about doing nothing and opportunity just drops in your lap. Luck is about jumping on opportunity, creating opportunity and keeping in motion.

Yet, for each idea that didn’t work, he learned something, refused to let this stop him and found a way to keep going. A rare quality indeed.

7. He rarely, if ever, rests on his laurels. When some people think they have “arrived” by publishing one book, Joel has several bestsellers to his name.

Additionally, he is always coming up with more valuable ideas and information to literally make the world a better place. Some might argue that the Fart App didn’t make the world a better place, but when you think of how healing laughter is and how many people laughed because of this one tiny app, I rest my case.

8. Joel won’t be heard saying, “Oh my gosh, this is going to take so much work. How will I ever get this done?” but rather, “This is going to take effort. Let’s put a plan together and start working that plan?” (Okay, this is my own conversation of how I imagine Joel’s self talk goes and I know I am likely spot on)

9. Regardless of whether Joel is presenting to a crowd of thousands, or a few dozen, Joel delivers his message with humor, passion, quirkiness and transparency.

While many talk about living with complete authenticity, Joel is doing it. He’s not waiting for permission nor is he trying to please everyone. Joel seems to live with the belief that life is far too short and you have to go for the gusto… today!

You don’t have to wait for the stars to align, the moon to be in the 7th house, permission from someone else, or everything to be perfect to play full out. Nope, you have to do it today.

Evidence of this is Joel’s recent talk at Mile High TedX talk. Speaking to a packed house of 2,200 people, Joel edutained the audience like few experts can. (Educated and entertained. A must do with today’s short attention span experienced by most adults)

No question about it, Joel Comm earned the right to be on this stage.

While many people fantasize about this type of opportunity, thinking that if they put it on their vision-board, meditate about it, apply Law of Attraction strategies to the outcome, Joel is out doing the footwork. That’s not to say he may not have meditated on it, visualized, and tried a few attraction strategies, but the most important thing he is doing is daily footwork.

He’s also saying YES! to various opportunities while giving 100% to each and every one regardless of how big or small.

So the next time you wonder why people like Joel Comm seem to have been born under a lucky star, realize that luck is when opportunity and preparedness meet.

Joel certainly was prepared when the powers that be from the Mile High TedX talk came a knocking for him as he will be when other opportunities show up.

Imagine being able to sit in an audience to hear the latest and greatest from Joel. Here’s the really cool thing… you don’t have to imagine. You can! Joel will be the keynote presenter at The Impact Event

In addition to Joel, you will enjoy hearing from dozens of other “rock stars” like Brian G. Johnson, Tom Beal, founder Ken McArthur, Linda Sterling, David Hancock and more including yours truly, me.

Best part of all… the early bird investment is incredibly reasonable and all speakers are very approachable and willing to spend time with everyone throughout the conference.

Would love to see you there. Click here to reserve your spot today with the Early Bird Special Pricing

Be warned! The early bird pricing will end any moment now. Don’t let this happen before you get your seat reserved. Click here!

 

 

9 reasons millions know and love Joel Comm

Podcasting is a GREAT way to gain visibility

You’ve got the book. You’ve got the speech. You’ve got the expertise, but very few people know you exist. It takes more than simply having the “thing” to be successful. You also need the visibility.

Years ago there wasn’t much competition online. Seems like whatever an expert introduced to market was a novelty and people ate it up. It was also much easier to stand out because of the fact there were very few people vying for people’s attention.

Today, this is definitely not the case. Today, your message is likely, unless you position it correctly, to be one among many, literally getting lost in the shuffle.

You have to also find ways to be viewed as more than a commodity. One way is to let your personality shine through. For example, I’m very transparent about my love of animals, my involvement with rescue issues and my passion for power walking.  Click here to see what I’m currently involved with.

A great way to move from commodity to exclusivity is to get visibility and as much as you can, for you, your message and your point of view. Why? Simple. The more visible you are, the more you are unique to the “middle of the road” experts, the more people will turn to you for solutions they seek.

You have numerous options to position your point of view and perspective.

PODCASTS

This is one of my favorite strategies to get in front of my community. Leveraging podcasting can give you an incredible marketing edge that can substantially increase your online visibility, build a loyal following and increase lead-generation and client-conversion rates.

You can certainly host your own show or, if you want incredible market reach, why not be a featured guest?

Want to learn how to become an in-demand expert on podcasts? Join my good buddies, D’vorah Lansky and Doug Foresta for a FREE webinar

Expand Your Reach and Increase Your Credibility by Being

Featured on Other Peoples’ Podcasts!

Takes place Monday, May 11^th at 3 p.m. Eastern. Click here to register..

 

GOOGLE HANGOUTS

Hangouts are fast becoming a favorite of many experts, who not only want to build solid connection with their community, but also to get great SEO.

Hangouts have a very low startup cost and yet, a very high perceived value when done right. A few things to keep in mind when either hosting or participating in a Hangout is what viewers see in the background.

Whatever is within view needs to be consistent with your branding. In other words, no unmade beds in view.

TELESEMINARS

An all-time favorite, teleseminars are once again on the rise in popularity as a great way to reach a market with a strong message. There are plenty of free services for anyone on a limited budget.

YOUTUBE VIDEOS

Although some videos get no traction at all, many have been known to get hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands and even millions of views. With over four billion views per day, it’s no wonder smart entrepreneurs are using YouTube as a huge part of their promotions strategy.

To get lots of traction, add short videos on a fairly regular basis to your subscribers. After all, if they subscribed obviously they want to see more of your videos.

MEDIA RELEASES

There’s no shortage of people saying that media releases are a thing of the past. This is absolutely not true. There is plenty of call for well-structured media releases.

An eye-catching media release can get the attention of writers, publishers, journalists and freelancers for trade journals, magazines, blogs, podcasts, and other publications that cover your industry. Don’t underestimate the power of a well thought-out media release.

BLOGGING

The best part of blogging is that you have complete control over what you write about. There are virtually no barriers to entry on stating your perspective and point of view. You can be as low-key or as controversial as you want.

GUEST BLOGGING

For anyone seeking lots of exposure to a specific market, guest blogging is a great choice. Guest blogging also increases your credibility. After all, when you are a featured expert on someone else’s blog, you are considered an expert right out of the gate.

ARTICLES

Going the same route as media releases, there are plenty of people who claim article marketing is dead. Article marketing is alive and well.

Actually, writing and distributing lots of articles is one of the best ways to gain visibility, position your expertise and reach more of your market.

JOINT VENTURE PARTNERSHIPS

When you partner with other experts on their campaigns, or yours, you are again positioning your expertise in a very effective way.

Imagine what kind of traction you can get by partnering with anywhere from six to twelve experts promoting one another. It’s a powerful way to jumpstart your visibility.

SPEAKING

Although not an online strategy, speaking at industry conferences is a highly valuable way to stand out. Not only are you an assumed expert, there likely will be online promotions by the conference coordinators, thus giving you even more visibility and credibility.

SUMMARY

Visibility is absolutely essential for any expert who wants to be viewed as more than a commodity. To achieve the greatest result for your efforts, have a well thought-out plan, commit to consistency, and be willing, in a big way, to be completely who you are.

The more you are authentic and transparent, the more you will build a following of raving fans.

Here’s one thing you can do to skyrocket your visibility to get in front of your sweet spot clients. Join my good buddies, D’vorah Lansky and Doug Foresta for a FREE webinar

Expand Your Reach and Increase Your Credibility by Being Featured on Other Peoples’ Podcasts!

Takes place Monday, May 11^th at 3 p.m. Eastern. Click here to register.

 

Podcasting is a GREAT way to gain visibility