You can also use the Search Engines to see what comes up. Just enter interesting terms into Google (like "Internet Marketing") and view the sites you are offered. Don't pay for anything - at least until you've done a little research to see if the product on offer is worth it. A question in a forum would get you good opinions. And don't forget the ad-words boxes on Google pages. The people who place these have enough faith in their product to pay for visitors, so they are surely worth a look."

NEWBIE: (excitedly) "This sounds cool, but I need a little more practical advice. Like - How do I get money from all this?"

ME: "You're still missing the point. Money *will* come, but make friends first. Profits are made with affiliate programs, products you have created or have resell-rights to, and possibly services you provide. They are all potentially lucrative.

People will be wary of buying from you until they know you. And with the market as it is TRUST is essential. I'm sorry to labour this point but it is very important.

Place your offers strategically at your website, and in your e-mails, but always second to the help, advice and friendship you offer. Give things away - software, ebooks, articles etc. Things like this do wonders for your image. And when you do "sell" it is more about persuasion than blatant in-your-face `Buy This!` advertising.

Copywriting is the way you persuade your `friends` to buy. This is maybe the most important skill you can learn and it comes with practice. Appeal to their *wants* (not their needs) and give plenty of reasons why your product will improve their life. As a famous copywriter said - sell the Sizzle and not the Steak!"

NEWBIE: "I think I get the point now," (laughs). "But can you tell me straight, with no bull, is this just a paper exercise or does it really work? Do YOU actually make money on the Internet, or do you profit from others dreams?"

ME: "Hey! I object to that!" (also laughs). "No, seriously - I do make money. I don't make hundreds of thousands, I don't make enough to retire to some carribean island (yet!), but it is a nice second income. It most certainly is NOT a dream. It's a reality.

You have to go with the flow sometimes, and you have to chalk up bad results to experience. Some things that work well for you may suddenly collapse and you need to start again, but it's all a learning experience. You are always learning. Always!

Spend carefuly. Don't jump into the latest so-called money-spinner, unless you're 100% sure, and make friends before you sell. Or rather, `persuade to buy`.

Find the path you like. Invest the profits, or at least some of them (I know it's hard, but resist the temptation to spend). Running your own business is something many people aspire to, and with the advent of the Internet it's NEVER been easier."

NEWBIE: "Hey, thanks! I don't know it all yet but I'm raring to go. I sure appreciate all your help."

ME: "No problem. Just remember, when you are on a roll be sure to help others yourself. See the business as a long term venture that includes short term rewards, if you know what I mean. I hope I'll be hearing from you in the future. Be seeing ya!"

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