The third skill is something you probably already know how to do… the ability to do online research.

From a ‘marketing mindset’ perspective online research takes on a different spin. Rather than searching for information online, you are searching for marketing opportunities online.

Let’s look at an example… say your client offers a program for acupuncturists to build their businesses. You could search online for opportunities for your client to expand his business… find organizations that cater to acupuncturists, discussion groups on topics of interest to acupuncturists, other people/companies that provide a complimentary service that your client could potentially partner with.

The key here is to ask yourself “who/what can I find online, that could possibly help market my clients business?”. And with the internet the possibilities are almost endless.

Another great online research tactic is to offer a survey. Using a tool such as the ASK Database, you could set up a simple survey webpage for your client. For an example of this go to http://www.eggville.com/.

And if you are interested in trying ASK Database out, just click here http://growyourvabiz.com/ask

So let me ask you…

Do you have basic website maintenance skills? If not, are you willing to take the time to learn them?

Could you setup a simple ‘list building’ website for any of your current clients?

What kind of online research could you do to come up with some marketing opportunities for your clients?

On that note, let me issue you a challenge for this week… pick one of your clients and commit to finding them 5 potential marketing opportunities online. This could be a list of organizations related to their niche, a list of publication, discussion groups, etc.

Then craft an email to the client with a note that says “I thought of you and you business and thought you might like to know of these opportunities to perhaps sell more of your services.” Watch what happens and see if it isn’t true - you can literally change your client’s perception of your value, with a single email.