When it comes to hiring online experts, it is critical that you know who you are hiring and why they are qualified to be your advisor. This is an article I wrote several years ago, but it is equally valid today. Please follow my advice – before you listen to an “online expert.”
It happened again today. One of my students sent me a question about how to do something online. But in asking the question, she mentioned her ” personal coach” who was telling her how to set up her website. Naturally, her coach helps people get their lives together – but since when did she become an expert in online marketing?
And that’s what set off this rant.
It seems that anyone who has ever used a browser considers themselves an expert in online marketing. After all, they clicked on a pay-per-click ad, so they know how to “use” them. And therefore feel qualified to advise others on how to write ads, create an advertising budget, track response rates, and just generally do business online.
Then there is the “I can design it” group of experts. Sure, using WordPress or a web design program, anyone can create a website. But does that mean it’s a good website? A website that sells? A website that gathers leads and converts them into sales? No, but to listen to them you would think they were the world’s expert on this. In fact, they actually ask other people to pay them to give advice.
Please. Before you pay anyone to give you online advice, ask these questions:
1. How long have you been doing business online? Not just how long have you had a website, but how long have you been making your *living* online?
2. How many different businesses have you worked with online? Not how many ebooks have you bought, but how many different businesses have you advised, who have then gone on to be successful online.
3. How many subscribers do you have? How many have you helped others get?
4. How many products have you created and sell online? How many have you helped others create and sell online?
5. How do you track the results of your efforts?
6. How many different models do you use in putting together the strategy for an online marketing client?
7. What are your top 20 strategies for getting results online?
8. Have you worked with people who have information or content sites? sales sites? store sites? passive revenue sites?
9. How many autoresponder sequences have you written and/or reviewed?
10. What is the assessment process you go through to determine the appropriate strategies to use on a site?
When they can answer these questions for you, to your level of satisfaction, THEN you can consider hiring them to coach you to Online Success.
Until then, let me to invite you to join us at a real answers site for Online Business, created by an expert who has taught and helped thousands of people become successful online – Ask Jeanette Cates!
Great post Jeanette. That’s a wonderful list of questions to ask.
When I’m considering hiring someone (or purchasing their product) to help grow my online business, I subscribe to their list and follow them on social media. This lets me see the quality of their “free gift”, their autoresponder sequence, and how they communicate with their followers. These communications help me learn more about the person and determine whether their approach to business is compatible with me.
Steve
Hi Jeanette: I totally agree with everything you’ve said in this article. I’ve worked with only a few coaches and I can highly recommend them, but I got to thoroughly know them before signing on the dotted line. My experience has been that you have proven to be one of the best, most knowledgeable coaches in the industry. From the time I first met you at a seminar several years ago, to the adventures we’ve had over the years, to the coaching, teaching and programs I’ve received from you, you are still at the top of my list. I jumped at the chance to sign up for “Ask Jeanette Cates,” and I haven’t been disappointed. I sign on frequently to get the answers to my own questions as well as the answers you’ve given to others.