Category: Online Business Advice

What is a Nofollow Link and How to Use It Effectively

Carlos

Navigating the digital world often brings you across the question “what is a nofollow link,” especially if you’re dealing with websites, blogging, or SEO (Search Engine Optimization).

Despite its somewhat technical nature, understanding nofollow is crucial whether you’re a website owner, a blogger, or simply someone who wants to get the hang of how the internet works.

In simple terms, nofollow is a tiny piece of code you can add to a hyperlink to tell search engines like Google, “Hey, don’t count this link in your rankings.” Why does this matter? Well, links are like votes of confidence in the eyes of search engines. Sometimes, however, you might want to include a link without giving it your full endorsement. That’s where nofollow comes into play.

In this post, we’ll unravel the mystery behind what a nofollow link actually means, why it’s important, and how you can use it. We’ll even walk you through adding nofollow to your own links, whether you’re coding manually or using a platform like WordPress. So if you’ve ever scratched your head wondering what is a nofollow link, keep reading to get all your questions answered.

What is a hyperlink?

Before we dive deeper into understanding what “nofollow” is, it’s crucial to grasp the basic concept of a hyperlink. A hyperlink, commonly known just as a “link,” is essentially a gateway or a shortcut that takes you from one webpage or online resource to another. Think of it like a door in a building; you open it, and you’re suddenly in a different room. In the digital world, you click a hyperlink, and voilà, you’re on a new webpage.

Links are the building blocks of the internet, connecting millions of web pages in an intricate web. When you read an article and see blue or underlined text – like this one – that’s usually a hyperlink. Click it, and you’re off to explore related content or additional information. Hyperlinks are fundamental for the user experience, making navigation simpler and more intuitive.

But not all links are created equal, and this is where our main question, what is a nofollow link, begins to take center stage. In the world of SEO and website management, the type of hyperlink you use can have significant implications. We’re about to explore how adding a simple piece of code like “nofollow” to a hyperlink can affect your website and its relationship with search engines.

By understanding hyperlinks, you set the stage for a deeper comprehension of what a nofollow link is and why it’s important in the broader context of web development and SEO.

What does “nofollow” mean?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what a hyperlink is, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: what is a nofollow link?

In its simplest form, “nofollow” is a small piece of code that you can attach to a hyperlink to tell search engines like Google not to give any special importance to the link when they’re figuring out rankings.

It’s like saying, “I’m providing this link for information, but I don’t necessarily endorse it or think it should affect the site’s search engine ranking.”

To get a bit technical but still straightforward, when you add “nofollow” to a hyperlink, you’re essentially adding the attribute rel="nofollow" within the HTML code of the link. Here’s an example of what a link with the nofollow attribute added to it looks like:

<a href="https://example.com" rel="nofollow">Example Site</a>

This signals search engines to ignore the link when they’re calculating the authority and relevance of the page it’s pointing to.

So, why should you care about what “nofollow” means? Because it has significant implications for SEO, website trustworthiness, and how your site interacts with others. Understanding “nofollow” allows you to better manage your online content and its impact on search engine performance.

Why use “nofollow” links?

You might be wondering why anyone would want to use “nofollow” links in the first place. After all, if links are like votes of confidence for a website, wouldn’t you want every link to boost your site’s standing in search engine rankings?

The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, and there are specific scenarios where using “nofollow” makes perfect sense.

Sponsored content

If you’re hosting sponsored content on your site, it’s a best practice to use “nofollow” links when mentioning the brand that’s paying the bill.

This tells search engines that while you may be benefiting from the link (perhaps financially), it shouldn’t have an impact on the sponsored site’s ranking even though you might be sending them traffic.

This keeps you in good standing with search engine policies, ensuring a transparent relationship between you and your sponsors.

User-generated content

If your website has a comments section, forum, or any feature where users can add links, employing “nofollow” is a safeguard.

This way, you protect your website from linking to potentially spammy or low-quality sites that could hurt your own ranking.

Links you don’t want to endorse

There might be situations where you want to provide a link for informational purposes, but you don’t necessarily want to endorse the linked content. In such cases, a “nofollow” tag is like saying, “Check this out if you want, but I’m not vouching for it.”

By now, the importance of understanding what is a nofollow link should be quite clear. In the next sections, we’ll look at how to actually implement these links on your website, ensuring you’re in complete control of your site’s relationship with search engines and other sites.

How to add “nofollow” in HTML

So you’re convinced that you need to use “nofollow” links in certain situations. Great! The next logical question is, “How do I add a nofollow attribute to a hyperlink?” Don’t worry; it’s simpler than it sounds, even if you’re not too familiar with HTML, the basic language that structures webpages.

Step-by-step guide to manually adding “nofollow”

  1. Locate the link in HTML: Open the HTML editor where your website’s code resides, and find the hyperlink you want to modify. It will look something like this: <a href="https://example.com">Example Site</a>.
  2. Insert the “nofollow” attribute: Now, add the rel="nofollow" attribute to the link. After this modification, your link should look like: <a href="https://example.com" rel="nofollow">Example Site</a>.
  3. Save and test: Save your changes, and then preview the webpage to make sure the link still functions as it should. The user experience won’t change; only the way search engines interact with the link will be different.

That’s it! You’ve successfully told search engines to not count this particular link when determining the rankings for the page it points to.

In the grand scheme of things, understanding what is a nofollow link and knowing how to implement it are valuable skills for anyone involved in website management or blogging. Up next, we’ll look at how to accomplish the same task if you’re using WordPress, so stay tuned!

How to add “nofollow” in WordPress

If you’re using WordPress, adding “nofollow” links becomes even more straightforward, thanks to the platform’s user-friendly interface. You don’t necessarily have to dive into HTML code to get the job done, although that option is available too. Here’s how you can go about it:

Using the WordPress editor

  1. Open the post or page: Navigate to the post or page where you want to add a “nofollow” link and open it in the WordPress editor.
  2. Find the link that you want to alter: Simply click inside the link. A small options box will appear.
modify link
  1. Set it to nofollow: Click on the small pencil icon, then on Advanced, and tick the box next to, “Search engines should ignore this link (mark as nofollow)” and lastly click on Save.
what is a nofollow link - how to set it
  1. Save the post: Click on the main Update button to save the post/page along with your modified link.

Using a plugin

There are also several plugins available for WordPress that make it easy to add “nofollow” attributes to links.

For example, one plugin simply called External Links lets you manage all your external and internal links. You can add custom icons to appear next to the links, set attributes like nofollow, noopener, ugc, sponsored, and more – based on your preferences.

Manually in HTML

If you’re more comfortable working with HTML or need to add “nofollow” in a specific part of your template, you can always switch to the ‘Text’ view in WordPress and add rel="nofollow" to your links just as you would in straight HTML (we covered this method a couple of lines above)

By following these simple steps, you can effectively control how search engines interpret the links on your WordPress site. Whether you are a coding novice or a seasoned webmaster, WordPress offers multiple paths to understanding and implementing what a nofollow link is in your digital strategy.

When not to use “nofollow” links

While “nofollow” links have their specific uses and advantages, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are situations where using a “nofollow” attribute might not be the best choice or could even work against your goals. Let’s look at some scenarios where it’s advisable to avoid using “nofollow.”

Internal links

Generally, you shouldn’t use “nofollow” attributes for internal links – that is, links that go to other pages within your own website.

Internal linking helps search engines better understand the structure and content of your site, aiding in better SEO performance.

High-quality references

If you’re linking to trustworthy, high-quality external websites that offer valuable additional information to your readers, using a “nofollow” attribute can be counterproductive.

Search engines often view these outbound links as a sign that your content is well-researched and valuable, which can positively affect your own ranking.

Understanding when not to use “nofollow” is as crucial as knowing when to use it. Misusing the attribute can lead to missed opportunities in improving your site’s SEO and credibility.

In summary, while a nofollow link is a handy tool in your web management toolkit, it’s essential to wield it wisely to make the most out of your online presence.

Conclusion

By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of what is a nofollow link and why it matters in the world of web development and SEO. From the basics of hyperlinks to the nitty-gritty of adding “nofollow” in both HTML and WordPress, we’ve covered the ground to make you well-versed in managing your site’s link strategy.

Remember, using “nofollow” judiciously can enhance your site’s credibility and SEO performance. Don’t hesitate to review your current and future links to see where implementing or avoiding “nofollow” could benefit you. It’s a small step, but one that can have a significant impact on your website’s success.

If you have any questions on what is a nofollow link, let us know in the comments.

The post What is a Nofollow Link and How to Use It Effectively appeared first on NIO.

What Is a Niche: Plus a Roadmap to Finding the Perfect One

Carlos

What is a niche? If you’ve ever wondered about starting an online business, building a website, or diving into ecommerce, you’ve likely stumbled upon this term. Yet, many people find it puzzling.

In the simplest terms, a niche is a specific area or topic that you focus on, allowing you to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Think of it like choosing a major in college; rather than studying every subject out there, you specialize in one you’re passionate about. That’s what finding your niche is all about – becoming an expert in a smaller, manageable segment of a larger industry.

Understanding what a niche is can be your golden ticket to success in the digital world. This post will walk you through the basics of what is a niche, why it’s critical to pick a good one, and how you can go about finding the perfect niche for your business. So if you’re ready to gain clarity and focus in your business or project, keep reading.

What is a niche? The basics

So, you’ve heard the term thrown around in various conversations about business, but what is a niche really?

To put it simply, a niche is a specialized segment of a broader market. It’s the specific area you decide to focus on within a larger industry.

For instance, if you’re in the health and wellness industry, a niche could be “organic skincare products for sensitive skin.” Or if you’re in the tech industry, your niche could be “laptop accessories for remote workers.”

Why having a niche is beneficial

“Why can’t I cater to everyone?” – you might be wondering. While it might be tempting to cast a wide net, targeting a specific niche is usually more advantageous for several reasons:

  1. Less competition: By focusing on a niche, you can avoid going head-to-head with larger, more established businesses. You’re not competing with every skincare brand; you’re competing only with those making organic products for sensitive skin.
  2. More authority: Specializing in a specific area allows you to become more of an expert in that field. When people need advice or products related to your niche, you’ll be top-of-mind. The narrower your focus, the easier it is to become an expert, which in turn makes people trust you more.
  3. Focused marketing: Generic marketing can be a colossal waste of resources. Knowing what is a niche – your niche – means you know exactly who you’re talking to. This makes your marketing efforts far more focused and effective because you can tailor your messaging to a specific group.
  4. Higher customer loyalty: In today’s competitive marketplace, long-term sustainability is a major concern for businesses. When people find a brand that caters to their specific needs or interests, they’re more likely to stick around. This can lead to higher customer retention rates and even word-of-mouth referrals.
  5. Better resource allocation: With a defined niche, you can better allocate your time, effort, and money. Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, you can invest in becoming the best in your specific area. Rather than casting a wide net and hoping something sticks, you can direct your efforts toward activities that genuinely benefit your business and customer base.

Having a niche is like having a roadmap for your business; it tells you where to focus your efforts for the best chance of success. In the sprawling landscape of online business and ecommerce, understanding what a niche is and finding yours can be like finding a compass – it might not dictate your ultimate destination, but it certainly helps you head in the right direction.

Different types of niches

Understanding what a niche is can be your first step towards carving out your own space in the market. But before you dive in, it’s crucial to realize that not all niches are created equal. There are various types of niches you can consider, each with its own set of opportunities and challenges.

Here’s a breakdown:

a) Industry niches

When people think of niches, they often think of industry niches. These are the broad categories like health, tech, fashion, or travel. Within each industry, there are countless sub-niches you could specialize in.

For example, in the health industry, you could focus on “mental health,” “diet and nutrition,” or even more specialized areas. There’s basically no limit when it comes to going deeper and deeper into industry niches. Niches like “keto diets for busy professionals” can be great if you have the right knowledge around this topic.

keto diets as a niche

b) Demographic niches

A demographic niche targets a specific group of people defined by characteristics like age, gender, income level, or education.

For example, you could be in the tech industry but focus on software solutions for senior citizens. Or perhaps you sell fitness equipment, but your niche is stay-at-home moms.

c) Psychographic niches

This type of niche focuses on behaviors, values, or lifestyle choices. You’re not just targeting “dog owners”; maybe you’re targeting “urban dog owners who value eco-friendly pet products.” Psychographic niches can be incredibly specific, allowing you to connect on a deeper level with your potential customers.

d) Geographic niches

Sometimes your niche can be defined by a geographical area. Local businesses often use this approach, but it can also apply to online ventures.

For instance, you could focus on providing legal consultation services specifically for startup businesses in Austin, Texas.

e) Mixed niches

Why limit yourself to just one type of niche? Many successful businesses combine elements from different niche types. For example, you might focus on eco-friendly yoga mats (industry and psychographic) for men (demographic).

As you can see, the concept of a niche can be as broad or as specific as you make it. The key is to choose a type that aligns with your interests, expertise, and the audience you wish to serve. Understanding the different types of niches out there can provide you with a clearer vision, helping you to define your own unique corner of the market and truly understanding what is a niche.

How to find your niche

Alright, so you’re sold on the idea that understanding what a niche is can be a game-changer for your business. The next logical question is, “How do I find my own niche?” Finding your niche is like discovering your own sweet spot in the vast world of business. It’s a blend of what you’re good at, what you enjoy, and what people are willing to pay for.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find yours:

1. Research potential niches

Before diving in, do your homework. Make a list of your interests, skills, and areas where you have some level of expertise or knowledge. Then, research to see if there’s demand for these areas. Useful tools for this research might include Google Trends, keyword research tools, and even social media discussions.

2. Analyze the competition

Once you have some ideas, take a look at who’s already out there doing what you want to do. Understanding the competition can help you find gaps in the market, areas where you can offer something different or better.

You can also try emulating some of their actions but put your own spin on it. In this way, you’re basically using your competition as source of research.

3. Identify market gaps

Look for what’s missing in the current offerings within your chosen field. Are there questions that aren’t being answered? Problems that aren’t being solved? Identifying these gaps can provide you with specific opportunities to carve out your own niche.

4. Utilize tools and resources for niche research

There are various tools available online that can help you find a niche. Websites like Amazon or even platforms like Reddit can offer insights into what people are looking for and talking about. Tools like Semrush or Ahrefs can provide data on keyword search volume and competition.

ahrefs will help you discover what is a niche

5. Validate your idea

Before you go all in, it’s crucial to validate your niche to ensure there’s a real demand. You can do this by conducting surveys, creating a minimal viable product (MVP), or even doing some test marketing campaigns to gauge interest.

Finding your niche is not something that happens overnight, and it may require some trial and error. However, taking the time to understand what a niche is and how to find yours can be one of the most rewarding and impactful business decisions you’ll ever make. Once you’ve found your niche, you’ve essentially found your business’s unique place in the world, setting the stage for all the growth and opportunities to come.

Mistakes to avoid when choosing a niche

By now, you’ve learned what is a niche, its different types, and even how to find one for your business. But before you set off on your niche-finding journey, it’s important to be aware of some common pitfalls. Choosing a niche is a pivotal decision, and getting it wrong can cost you time, effort, and money.

Here’s what you should avoid:

  • Picking a niche solely based on passion: While it’s great to be passionate about your niche, passion alone may not pay the bills. Always conduct thorough research to ensure there’s a demand for what you’re offering. Remember, your niche should be at the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, and what people are willing to pay for.
  • Ignoring the competition: It might seem appealing to pick a niche with no competition, but that could be a red flag indicating there’s no market for it. On the other side of the coin, diving into an overly saturated market without a unique value proposition is equally problematic.
  • Overcomplicating things: Sometimes people make the mistake of choosing a niche that’s too narrow or too complicated. Your niche should be specific but not so laser-focused that you box yourself into a corner with no room for growth or diversification.
  • Failing to validate the niche: One of the biggest mistakes you can make is failing to validate your niche before investing significant resources into it. Use surveys, test campaigns, and minimal viable products to ensure there’s genuine demand for what you’re offering.
  • Ignoring your skill set: While it’s tempting to jump into a profitable niche, ignoring your own skills and capabilities can lead to failure. Always choose a niche that aligns with your skill set, or be prepared to invest in acquiring the skills you’ll need.
  • Overlooking trends and market changes: Markets evolve, and what’s profitable today might not be tomorrow. Always keep an eye on market trends and be prepared to pivot or adapt your niche as necessary.

Conclusion

Understanding what a niche is and how it can benefit your business is the cornerstone of long-term success. A well-chosen niche helps you stand out in a crowded market, target your marketing efforts effectively, and build a sustainable business model.

From the basics and different types of niches to finding your own and avoiding pitfalls, we’ve covered the crucial aspects to guide you on your niche-finding journey.

Now, it’s your turn to take action! Conduct your research, validate your ideas, and carve out your unique space in the market.

In case you have any questions about what is a niche or the process of finding your own, feel free to speak up in the comments.

The post What Is a Niche: Plus a Roadmap to Finding the Perfect One appeared first on NIO.

20 Best AI Web Design Tools: Website Builders, Image Tools, Etc.

Carlos

The quest for the best AI web design tools is more relevant in 2023 than ever before. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, it’s redefining various industries, including web design. Gone are the days when you needed to spend hours perfecting your website’s layout, choosing color schemes, or optimizing user experiences. Today, AI tools can automate many of these tasks, providing highly efficient and aesthetically pleasing results that even seasoned designers would applaud.

But with the plethora of options available, how do you choose the best AI web design tools for your needs?

In this post, we’ve curated a list of top-performing AI-based design tools that are both user-friendly and packed with powerful features. Whether you’re a professional designer or a high school student dabbling in web development, these tools offer a streamlined approach to web design that can save you time and effort.

So, let’s dive in and explore how these innovative tools are changing the face of web design as we know it.

Here are the 20 best AI web design tools available today:

10Web

10web ai web design tool

10Web is an all-in-one platform that leverages AI to simplify website creation and management, making it one of the best AI web design tools of them all.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to revamp an existing site, 10Web’s AI Website Builder can generate content and images tailored to your needs. The platform also offers an AI Ecommerce Website Builder, automated hosting powered by Google Cloud, and a PageSpeed Booster to optimize your site’s performance.

With a focus on user-friendliness, 10Web also provides a drag-and-drop editor and a variety of premium widgets to customize your site. It’s a versatile solution for businesses of all sizes, offering everything from AI-generated marketing strategies to SEO-optimized content creation.

AI Website Builder by Hostinger

Hostinger's AI Website Builder

Hostinger’s AI Website Builder is a comprehensive platform that enables you to create a website in just a few simple steps. The AI-powered tool takes your brand name, website type, and business description to generate a custom site tailored to your needs.

It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a drag-and-drop editor for easy customization. Additional features include built-in AI tools like an AI Logo Maker and AI Writer, as well as SEO optimization tools. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no coding skills.

Pricing starts at $2.99 per month, and 24/7 customer support is available to assist you at any time.

Wix ADI

Wix ADI web design tool

Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) is a streamlined website builder that uses AI to create websites quickly and efficiently. Hosted on the all-in-one Wix platform, ADI works by asking you a series of questions about your business and the type of website you need. It then scans the web and social media to gather information about your brand, using this data to generate a website that aligns with the brand’s colors and style.

While it offers less customization compared to its counterpart, the flagship Wix Editor, Wix ADI is ideal for those looking to get a website up and running in a short amount of time. You can still make basic changes to the style, add sections, and edit content as needed.

GitHub Copilot

GitHub Copilot

GitHub Copilot serves as your AI-assisted coding partner, seamlessly integrating into your preferred text editor. Trained on a vast dataset of code (billions of lines, they say), this tool can interpret natural language prompts to offer real-time coding suggestions in multiple languages.

It’s designed to accelerate the development process by automating repetitive tasks and boilerplate code, allowing you to focus on more complex problems. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just getting started, GitHub Copilot can adapt to your project’s context and style conventions, making it a versatile AI web design tools for any coding endeavor.

Copilot is especially useful for those who are coding in unfamiliar languages or frameworks, as it provides contextual suggestions based on the project you’re working on. GitHub Copilot offers different pricing plans to suit individual developers and larger organizations.

Zoo

Zoo image tool for AI web design

Zoo by Replicate is an open-source playground for text-to-image models. It offers a variety of AI models capable of generating photo-realistic images based on text input.

Whether you’re interested in creating art or realistic images, Zoo provides different models like “stable-diffusion” and “DALL-E 2” to suit your needs. These models are trained on extensive datasets and fine-tuned for high-quality output.

With a simple interface, you can easily input text and see the generated image in real-time. It’s a versatile tool for anyone interested in exploring the capabilities of text-to-image AI models.

Framer AI

Framer AI website design tool

Framer AI earned its spot on our list of the best AI web design tools due to its ability to help you generate and publish websites in a matter of seconds. It uses artificial intelligence to create unique combinations of layout, copy, and styling based on the details you provide.

You maintain full control over the design, with the ability to tweak elements to your liking. The platform also offers a built-in copywriting feature that enhances your website’s text.

With Framer AI, you get access to unlimited projects, free templates, and an active community of users. It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows and offers a range of tutorials to get you started.

Generative Fill by Adobe Photoshop

Generative Fill is one of the cool new features of the fan favorite Adobe Photoshop suite. It allows you to quickly create or modify images using simple text prompts.

Powered by Adobe Firefly generative AI, this tool gives you the ability to add, remove, or extend content in images. Whether you’re looking to change a background, update an outfit, or add new objects, Generative Fill makes it possible in just a few keystrokes.

The feature integrates seamlessly into Photoshop, allowing you to fine-tune AI-generated additions on separate layers. It’s designed to save you time while offering high-quality, photorealistic results that require minimal editing.

NVIDIA Canvas

NVIDIA Canvas is an AI-powered graphics app that transforms simple brushstrokes into realistic landscape images. This can be a great AI web design tool for you whenever you’re in need of a quality background image, for instance.

Designed to speed up concept exploration, the tool allows you to create backgrounds quickly so you can focus more on tuning up the rest of your design. The app offers a palette of real-world materials like grass and clouds, and its AI model instantly turns your shapes and lines into stunning visuals. You can also customize your image with various styles and materials, and even create 360° panoramas.

Mixo

Mixo is another AI-powered website builder designed to help entrepreneurs quickly launch and validate their business ideas. With just a brief description, Mixo can generate an entire website, including stunning landing pages, in seconds.

The platform also offers built-in email waiting lists and subscriber management tools, making it easier to connect with your audience and gather valuable feedback. Whether you’re pre-launching products, running beta tests, or simply validating new ideas, Mixo provides all the essential features you need.

LeiaPix Converter

LeiaPix Converter is a unique one among our best AI web design tools. It allows you to transform your standard images into captivating depth animations.

The tool is designed to be user-friendly, requiring you to simply sign in and upload your images to start the conversion process. While the website is sparse on details, the focus is clear: to elevate your visual content from mere seeing to a more immersive feeling. Ideal for those looking to add a touch of 3D magic to their websites.

AutoDraw

AutoDraw is a really cool web-based tool that takes your rough drawings and helps you transform it into what you actually wanted to draw in the first place. It basically makes you more talented at drawing.

The platform is designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to start drawing. As you sketch, AutoDraw’s AI algorithms recognize your doodles and offer suggestions of professionally drawn versions that closely match your input. This makes it easier for those who may not be artistically inclined to create visually appealing drawings. With options to download and share your creations, AutoDraw is a convenient tool for quick sketches, whether you’re designing a logo or just doodling for fun to put something original on your website.

Restore Photos IO

Restore Photos is an AI-powered platform that specializes in fixing old and blurry photos. This can be a great web design tool whenever there’s a given photo that you really want to use in your design, but the photo is of sub-par quality.

The process is straightforward: upload your old photo and let the AI work its magic to produce a restored version. The service is entirely free and has received positive reviews for its speed and effectiveness. Powered by Replicate, Upload, and Vercel, Restore Photos is a go-to solution for anyone looking to breathe new life into their dated photographs.

Spline AI

Spline AI is bringing the capabilities of artificial intelligence to the realm of 3D design. The platform allows you to generate 3D objects, animations, and textures simply by using text prompts. Whether you’re looking to create a grid of cubes or add physics to a scene, Spline AI aims to make the design process faster and more intuitive. You can also modify objects, apply materials, and add lighting to your creations.

The tool is currently in its alpha stage, with a waitlist for those interested in early access. Ideal for web designers who want to experiment and collaborate in real-time, Spline AI offers a new way to bring your 3D ideas to life.

Vectorizer AI

Vectorizer AI is a tool that specializes in converting bitmap images like JPEGs and PNGs into scalable vector graphics (SVGs). The platform uses AI algorithms to analyze and process your image, transforming it from a grid of pixels into geometric shapes.

This allows the resulting vector image to be scaled without losing quality. The tool is currently in its beta stage and is free to use. It supports a variety of input and output format. Ideal for those who need high-quality vector images for their website design but only have the rasterized versions of the graphics, Vectorizer AI aims to make the conversion process quick and effortless.

60sec.site

60sec.site is a no-code website builder that enables you to create a landing page in just one minute. The platform uses AI to generate content and design based on your brief description of a product, service, or idea.

It offers built-in features like email collection forms, SEO optimization, and various call-to-action options. You can also integrate your landing page with popular tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Pixel. With a focus on speed and simplicity, 60sec.site is ideal for entrepreneurs and marketers looking to quickly validate business ideas or promote products. The platform offers both free and paid plans, starting at $10/month for advanced features.

VMake Video Enhancer

VMake Video Enhancer is an online tool designed to upgrade the quality of your videos. It uses AI to automatically upscale video resolution, adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and sharpness.

The platform supports various video formats like MP4, MOV, and M4V. Once your video is processed, you can preview the enhanced quality and choose the file format for export.

VMake aims to improve brand perception and customer engagement by delivering high-quality visuals. Whether you’re looking to restore old videos for website use or optimize new ones, VMake offers a straightforward solution to enhance video quality and make your brand stand out.

PhotoEditor.AI

PhotoEditor.AI is a free, AI-powered photo editing platform that offers a range of features to enhance your images. The tool allows you to remove unwanted objects, text, or even people from your photos with just a few clicks.

It also offers a face enhancer to eliminate blemishes and wrinkles. The platform supports multiple image formats like JPG, PNG, and WEBP, and allows you to download the edited images in high-quality resolution. It’s accessible on both web and mobile, making it convenient for editing on the go, too.

AirBrush AI

AirBrush AI Headshots offers a quick and affordable solution for generating professional corporate headshots without the need for a physical photo shoot. The platform uses AI algorithms to create high-quality headshots, complete with a variety of backdrops and clothing options.

Important note; this tool doesn’t generate fake personas, but instead uses your actual pictures to give you a better looking profile picture based on them.

The process is simple: choose a headshot style, upload your selfies taken in different settings and expressions, and receive your headshots via email within about 60 minutes. The service is versatile, suitable for team pages, LinkedIn profiles, business cards, and more.

DreamWave AI Headshots

An alternative to the previous tool on the list, DreamWave AI Headshots is a platform that offers natural-looking AI-generated headshots in just two hours. Developed by a team of experts from MIT and Google Brain, the service aims to provide high-quality headshots without the artificial look commonly associated with AI.

The platform is currently offering a limited-time deal of $39 for 60 photos. Users have praised the platform for its realistic and flattering angles, as well as its ability to save time and money compared to traditional photoshoots. With over a million AI headshots created, DreamWave is becoming a go-to solution for those in need of professional-looking headshots.

Jasper AI

Jasper AI is a versatile content creation tool designed to assist marketing teams and businesses. While it’s not an AI web design tool strictly, all websites need content, and this is where it can come incredibly handy.

With a focus on brand voice, Jasper can generate on-brand content for various niches and types of websites and blogs. Users have reported significant time savings on first drafts. The tool also offers collaboration features, allowing teams to work together in real-time.

Jasper’s AI engine pulls from multiple models, including OpenAI’s GPT-4, and can be customized to include SEO and grammar optimization. With robust security features and a large community of users, Jasper aims to be a reliable and effective tool for content creation.

Conclusion on the best AI web design tools

The landscape of web design has been significantly transformed by the advent of AI tools, making it easier than ever to create stunning websites, enhance images, and even generate professional headshots. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, these tools offer a range of features that can save you both time and effort.

From all-in-one platforms like 10Web and Hostinger’s AI Website Builder to specialized tools like Generative Fill by Adobe Photoshop and NVIDIA Canvas, there’s something for everyone. While some tools focus on speed and efficiency, like Wix ADI and 60sec.site, others offer more customization and advanced features, such as GitHub Copilot and Zoo by Replicate.

The key takeaway here is that AI is not just a buzzword; it’s a practical solution that’s reshaping the way we approach web design. So, if you’re looking to step up your web design game, these best AI web design tools are definitely worth exploring.

The post 20 Best AI Web Design Tools: Website Builders, Image Tools, Etc. appeared first on NIO.

5 Best Cheap Ecommerce Platforms for Small Sellers

Carlos

Finding the best cheap ecommerce platforms is essential for small businesses, individual sellers, and creative minds who want to showcase and sell their products online without spending a fortune.

These platforms provide an entry point for those who are new to the online selling world or those operating on a tight budget. Whether you’re an artist, a designer, or simply looking to turn a hobby into a profitable venture, the best cheap ecommerce platforms can offer you the tools and features needed to grow and succeed.

In a market saturated with options, identifying the right platform that fits your needs and budget can be challenging. From customizable storefronts to powerful analytics, different platforms offer various capabilities. This guide will explore the five best cheap ecommerce platforms that combine functionality, ease of use, and affordability.

Our selection caters to a wide range of needs, whether you’re building your first online store or looking to expand an existing one. Let’s dive into these cost-effective solutions that can help you launch your online business without breaking the bank:

1. Shopify Starter

Best cheap ecommerce platforms: Shopify Starter

Shopify Starter, our first and most affordable pick, is designed for business owners who sell products on social media platforms or those who don’t need a standalone online store on Shopify.

This plan was introduced by Shopify to target those who want to transform their existing sites and social media profiles and have the ability to sell products directly from them.

With Shopify Starter, you’ll get a “buy button” that can be added to your existing sites, along with a Start theme that can be used immediately, though the theme can’t be edited. This makes it great for anyone who has an idea of what to sell but isn’t sure how to go about it, or those planning to build a customer base from their social media followers. It’s a great place to start if you want to leverage your existing online presence.

Some of Shopify’s core services, such as order management, allow you to receive, manage, and fulfill orders efficiently. Fast and secure checkout, complete reporting tools, and Shopify Inbox are some other useful features you can access. Additionally, Shopify Starter supports the Shopify Markets feature, a borderless management tool that helps you sell to an international audience.

Overall, the setup process with Shopify Starter is simple and does not require extensive technical knowledge in ecommerce website building. The learning curve is shortened, enabling even those with limited experience to create a decent online store.

Key Features

Online stores are built on social media apps or personal websites, instead of a Shopify-hosted domain

If you need your ecommerce store to be hosted on Shopify, you’ll need to upgrade from Shopify Starter to the Basic Shopify plan as the Starter plan only allows you to sell your products on social media platforms, messaging apps, or on your own website.

Offers shipping, storage, and packing

Using the Shopify Fulfillment Network, you can store, pack, and offer a two-day shipping delivery to your customers anywhere in the world.

Has support for an unlimited number of products

You can list and sell as many products as you want using the Shopify Starter plan.

Monetize bio links on social media websites

Sell in minutes by creating a Linkpop page that channels your social media followers to your products through your profile’s bio link.

Track business performance using reports

The Shopify Starter plan allows you to track all analytics as it has an analytics page, customer behavior reports, product analytics, live view, marketing reports, acquisition reports, and finances reports.

Provides inventory reports

The inventory report shows you the inventory for a month and allows you to monitor the percentage of products sold per day.

Pricing

Shopify Starter starts at $5 a month with a 5% transaction fee cost when you use Shopify Payments. While it’s a good plan for anyone planning to start, it does come with its limitations.

For example, unlike with options such as the Basic plan, you won’t have an online store where you can build a brand around your product. Nonetheless, this is still a great option for anyone who simply wants to sell their products through platforms they are already comfortable using.

In fact, given that you get Shopify’s functionality for a very small fee, this is overall our no.1 selection for the best cheap ecommerce platforms available in 2023. 🏆

2. WordPress/WooCommerce

Best cheap ecommerce platforms: WooCommerce

When it comes to all sorts of websites, it’s hard to overlook WordPress, the leading website platform of them all. No surprise that WordPress offers a powerful ecommerce solution as well. WooCommerce – it’s what it’s called – enables you to convert your website into a fully fledged online store. Furthermore, if you also host this setup on Bluehost, the combination is reputed as one of the best cheap ecommerce platforms available today.

Here’s more context: WooCommerce is a fully customizable plugin that turns your WordPress website into an ecommerce store, offering extensive tools and functionality to build, customize, and scale your business. You can manage orders directly from your WordPress dashboard and enjoy other features like automated tax calculations and live shipping rates.

Together, WordPress and WooCommerce provide an extensive infrastructure and numerous capabilities, including convenient payment options for both you and your customers. You can integrate secure payment gateways like Stripe, PayPal, Amazon Pay, and others into your WooCommerce store. WordPress also offers SEO tools to market your products, making it a powerful combination with WooCommerce’s offerings.

However, the setup process for WordPress and WooCommerce can be less intuitive and may require a slight learning curve. Before installing both platforms, you have to set up and pay for domain and hosting from Bluehost, a step that some might find inconvenient.

While this setup may not be as simple as Shopify Starter, the advantages of using WordPress, WooCommerce, and Bluehost far outweigh the disadvantages. With a plethora of extensions and capabilities, it’s an ideal option for many looking to create a robust and customizable online store.

Key Features

Ecommerce store hosted on a custom domain

A WooCommerce store is built on a WordPress website that’s powered by any hosting company like Bluehost.

Provides shipping labels and international shipping

Print domestic and international shipping labels for all your deliveries and ship internationally using carrier partners all over the world.

Display an unlimited number of products

WooCommerce currently has no limit on the number of products you can list on your store.

Use secure payment gateways like PayPal and Stripe

Receiving payment doesn’t have to be an issue as you can integrate mainstream payment platforms into your WooCommerce store.

Offers website analytics to monitor performance

WooCommerce is integrated with Google Analytics, allowing you to understand your audience better like learning what channels drive the most traffic.

Uses multi-channel inventory management

Take advantage of the multi-channel inventory management from Google, Amazon, eBay, and Walmart extensions to manage your products.

Pricing

  • WooCommerce: Free
  • WordPress: Free
  • Bluehost for online store: $9.95 a month. Complete online store, website analytics, and shipping labels, but no multi-channel inventory management.
  • Bluehost for online store + marketplace: Online store website, website analytics, shipping labels, and multi-channel inventory management.

Overall, WordPress + WooCommerce + Bluehost steals the spot as the most powerful among our best cheap ecommerce platforms. 💪

3. Ecwid

Best cheap ecommerce platforms: Ecwid Online

Ecwid is a Software as a Service (SAAS) product that also doubles as a cloud-based ecommerce platform, designed to help you sell your products online without the need to build an entire ecommerce site. It can seamlessly integrate with your already existing platforms such as WordPress, Wix, social media platforms, and marketplaces.

With Ecwid, you can set up a catalog of products for sale, list prices, sort products into appropriate categories, and add appealing photos of your items. The platform design also ensures that it integrates well with your store’s theme and design, maintaining a cohesive look and feel.

Beyond the standard ecommerce features, Ecwid goes further by offering custom development options, such as adding more features to your store using Ecwid’s API or configuring a custom payment gateway. For paid users, additional perks are available, such as ShopApp, a feature that allows you to turn your store into a downloadable mobile app.

As one of the best cheap ecommerce platforms, Ecwid stands as a great starting point for those looking to grow their business. Its combination of simplicity, functionality, and customization options ensures that you can stay focused on your business while enjoying a versatile and user-friendly ecommerce experience.

Key Features

Allows you to create a free website with the Instant Site feature

The Instant Site feature allows you to create a free website loaded with ecommerce features on Ecwid. You can always connect a custom domain to your free website later on.

Offers shipping services and dropshipping

Ecwid offers shipping with its international carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx along with dropshipping services.

Add an unlimited number of products

You can add products and product images into categories, and also highlight specific products as you deem fit.

Sell products across social media platforms

Ecwid allows you to sell and integrate your store on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Sales statistics and reports to monitor online store metrics

Ecwid not only provides reports and sales statistics for you, but it also integrates with Google Analytics to show you the exact number of traffic your online store is getting.

Offers inventory tracking and management

You can track the inventory of all products and connect your account with Katana, an inventory management software.

Pricing

Ecwid’s cheapest paid plan starts at $12.50 per month paid annually, and $15 per month paid monthly. This plan comes with great features but it also limits the number of products you can sell in a month to 100.

This limitation means that the plan might not be an ideal plan for a large store. Also, you won’t get their POS service which is only available for their unlimited plan.

If you are looking for something free, there’s a free-for-life plan for all users. However, it limits the number of products you can sell in a month to 10.

4. Square Online

Square Online

Square Online is another one on our list of the best cheap ecommerce platforms. It’s a clever website builder that serves as a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to build online stores quickly. It’s especially suitable for small businesses such as retail stores, services, nonprofits, and restaurants, combining elements from platforms like Shopify Starter and WordPress.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or integrating with an existing website, Square Online has you covered. For beginners, the platform offers a complete experience of setting up an ecommerce store, including domain services, email addresses for your website, and no-code customization features that are perfect if web development isn’t your strong suit.

If you already have a website, Square Online provides seamless integration, enabling you to utilize their platform without leaving your site. It also offers a physical store option in addition to your ecommerce store, thanks to the Square Point of Service (POS) system that allows you to operate both seamlessly.

Other notable benefits include Square Online’s payment processing platform, offering the ability to receive payments through PayPal. An advanced reporting feature and the abandoned cart feature are also available.

Additionally, Square Online offers a Forever Free plan, complete with SEO capabilities and tools to monitor your search engine traffic. This plan follows a self-serve, customer ordering style and comes filled with standard ecommerce features, making it a highly accessible and feature-rich option for businesses of all sizes.

Key Features

Integrate with a popular payment gateway

Achieve smooth transactions with international and local customers by integrating the PayPal payment gateway into your online store.

Comes with pickup, delivery, shipping, and real-time shipping

Product shipping is done using carriers like USPS and FedEx to deliver products anywhere in the world. Not many of the other best cheap ecommerce platforms have this.

Showcase an unlimited number of products

Square Online has no limit on the number of products you can list on your online store.

Allows you to sell on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook

By default, Square Online integrates with Instagram. There’s a separate integration for Facebook and Pinterest to your online store, allowing you to boost social media sales.

Advanced reporting on ecommerce metrics

The report feature of Square Online gives you detailed insights into the trends and dynamics of your ecommerce store.

Provides basic inventory management software

The basic inventory management system of Square Online allows you to keep a clear count of products that are in stock.

Pricing

The cheapest paid plan for Square Online starts at $12 per month with a standard 2.9% + 30¢ charge per transaction. It’s a pocket-friendly plan for most business owners looking to start slow and scale their businesses with time.

There is a free plan that allows you to sell unlimited goods online if you are not interested in setting up a website.

5. BigCartel

BigCartel Online

BigCartel is an online store builder specially tailored for artists, designers, musicians, and other creative sellers looking to build ecommerce storefronts to showcase their goods. Whether you’re an artist eager to share your creations or a musician selling merchandise, BigCartel offers a platform that’s both lightweight and feature-rich.

Unlike some of the other best cheap ecommerce platforms such as Square Online, BigCartel doesn’t charge commissions. Instead, they operate on different subscription packages that sellers can choose from based on the number of products they sell. Essentially, as your business grows, you’ll pay more, aligning the cost with your needs.

While BigCartel shares similarities with other cheap ecommerce platforms, it stands out with some unique offerings. For instance, it allows you to build your domain, set up hosting, and customize your store. Though it may present a slight learning curve similar to WordPress, the steps required to create a site and start selling are relatively short and straightforward.

Even for a platform known as one of the more affordable options in the market, BigCartel packs a ton of surprising features. These include powerful analytics, inventory management, and the use of custom domains. Overall, BigCartel offers an efficient and focused solution for creative sellers, providing all the essential tools and more without breaking the bank.

Key Features

Connect a custom domain

All plans allow you to build your ecommerce store on a custom domain of your choice.

Provides payment integration with PayPal and Stripe

Allows you to conduct seamless transactions with your international customers.

Offers shipment tracking

Provides the option of shipping your products worldwide, along with shipment tracking.

Can list up to 500 products

BigCartel has the potential to list up to 500 products in an online store.

Sell on a variety of social media platforms

You have the option of linking your ecommerce stores to Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Tumblr, and Instagram to make sales.

Real-time stats to track business performance

BigCartel integrates with Google Analytics to show you the in-depth traffic metrics and real-time stats of your ecommerce store.

Offers inventory tracking

Allows you to track all products that are currently in stock.

Pricing

BigCartel’s cheapest plan is called Platinum and starts at $9.99 per month. The plan allows you to sell up to 50 products in a month with no listing fees. It also comes with the core features needed to run your store.

There’s a free tier that allows you to sell your products. The plan, however, comes with certain limits such as you can only sell 5 products per month and add one image per product.

Conclusion on the best cheap ecommerce platforms

Navigating the world of online selling can be overwhelming, but with the best cheap ecommerce platforms outlined in this guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision!

These platforms cater to diverse needs, providing robust features without a hefty price tag. From artists to small business owners, there’s a solution that fits every budget and ambition. Now that you have a clearer understanding of what each platform offers, it’s time to take action.

Choose the one that resonates with your goals and start building your online store today. Embrace the opportunity to expand your reach and grow your business online! Which is your favorite of these best cheap ecommerce platforms?

The post 5 Best Cheap Ecommerce Platforms for Small Sellers appeared first on NIO.

Are Standing Desks Worth It? Is the Hype Real? Pros and Cons

Carlos

Are standing desks worth it? 🤔 It’s a question that’s been on the minds of many, from busy professionals to students seeking a more comfortable study space. With the surge in remote work and a growing focus on health and productivity, standing desks have become a popular alternative to traditional sitting desks.

But are standing desks worth the investment? Do they truly provide the health benefits and increased energy that manufacturers claim? Or are they just another trendy office accessory that might soon be forgotten? This post will delve into the world of standing desks, examining the pros and cons, scientific research, and real-life testimonials to help you decide if a standing desk is the right choice for you.

Whether you’re curious about the hype or seriously considering making the switch, we’ll get to the bottom of the question: are standing desks worth it? By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

What is a standing desk?

A standing desk, also known as a stand-up desk, is a desk designed to allow a person to stand up comfortably while working or performing various tasks. Unlike traditional desks where you sit in a chair, standing desks are set at a height that enables you to stand and work, offering an alternative that can be beneficial for those who spend long hours at their desks.

Here’s a real-world example of a standing desk:

are standing desks worth it? a standing desk example

Types of standing desks

Before getting into the more specific aspects of the question, “are standing desks worth it?”, let’s list some of the most common types of standing desks that you’ll find out there.

Standing desks come in different varieties to suit various needs:

  • Adjustable standing desks: These desks allow you to switch between standing and sitting positions. You can easily adjust the height of the desk to match your comfort level, making them a flexible option for those who want to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. For example, IKEA is known for manufacturing affordable desks in this category.
  • Fixed-height standing desks: Fixed-height standing desks are set at a constant height and are designed specifically for standing. They are a less versatile option and are best suited for those committed to working in a standing position. Example:
standing desk example
  • Converters: These are attachments that can be added to a regular desk to transform it into a standing desk. Converters are a cost-effective way to try out the standing desk experience without purchasing a whole new desk.

Typical uses in various settings

Standing desks are finding their way into various environments, including:

  • Offices: Many professionals are turning to standing desks to break up long periods of sitting, which can lead to health issues. They are becoming a common sight in modern office spaces.
  • Home offices: With the rise of remote work, standing desks have become a popular option for home office setups. They allow for a more dynamic workflow and can be integrated into various room designs.
  • Educational institutions: Schools and colleges are beginning to explore standing desks as a way to promote better posture and more active learning environments.
  • Specialized work settings: In places like labs, studios, or manufacturing areas, standing desks can offer specific ergonomic benefits tailored to the unique demands of the job.

Understanding what a standing desk is and the different types available will help you evaluate whether it might be a suitable addition to your workspace. As you consider the question “are standing desks worth it?” this foundational knowledge will guide your decision-making process, whether you’re seeking increased comfort, improved health, or simply a change in your work routine.

Are standing desks worth it? Benefits of standing desks 👍

Standing desks offer various advantages that cater to different needs and preferences:

  • Health advantages: Using a standing desk can lead to posture improvement and reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting, such as obesity and cardiovascular issues. Some studies even suggest potential weight loss benefits through increased calorie burning.
  • Increased energy and productivity: Many users report feeling more energized and focused when standing, leading to improved work efficiency and creativity.
  • Customization and ergonomics: Adjustable standing desks offer flexibility, allowing individuals to find the perfect height and positioning for their unique body type and preferences.
  • Environmental and space efficiency aspects: Some standing desks are designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing eco-friendly materials. Their compact designs can also aid in maximizing workspace.

Are standing desks worth it? Drawbacks of standing desks 👎

While there are clear benefits, standing desks also come with certain drawbacks:

  • Possible health concerns: I know we’ve just told you that standing desks have some health advantages, however, there’s also the dark side to it. If not used properly, standing desks can cause leg or back strain. Proper setup and alternating between sitting and standing can mitigate these risks.
  • Higher costs: Quality standing desks, especially adjustable models, can be more expensive than traditional desks.
  • Potential compatibility issues: The integration of a standing desk into existing office or home furniture may require additional adjustments or investments, leading to potential compatibility challenges.

In summary, while standing desks offer appealing benefits, especially in terms of health and productivity, they are not without drawbacks. Considering both aspects is vital in determining if a standing desk is the right choice for your specific situation.

How to choose the right standing desk

Selecting the right standing desk requires careful consideration of various factors, aligning with your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

  • Height: Opt for a desk that fits your height. If you’re considering an adjustable desk, make sure it has a wide enough range to suit both your sitting and standing preferences.
  • Materials: The material should be sturdy and of high quality. Desks made from solid wood or metal with a stable base can provide long-lasting durability.
  • Cost: Standing desks come in various price ranges. Consider your budget, but don’t compromise on quality. An investment in a quality desk can pay off in the long run. The average range of prices out there is anything from $200-$800 for a basic desk.
  • Features: Think about extra features like built-in cable management, storage options, or compatibility with accessories. These can add to the functionality of the desk and enhance your work experience. And, of course, the most sought after feature out there being a motorized standing desk – one that lets you adjust the desk’s height with an electric motor.
  • Where to buy and what to look for: Many retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar, offer standing desks. Research reviews, ask for recommendations, and consider trying out the desk in-store if possible. Look for warranties and a good return policy as a sign of the manufacturer’s confidence in the product. Again, IKEA stands out as a reputable seller that will also offer you a good warranty.
  • Consideration of individual needs and preferences: Think about your specific work routine, the equipment you use, and any particular health or ergonomic needs. A standing desk that aligns with your daily workflow will provide the most benefit. Think of things like shelves, space for storage under the desk, etc.

Choosing the right standing desk is more than just picking the first option you come across. It involves understanding your personal preferences, assessing your workspace requirements, and balancing quality with cost. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a standing desk that fits your needs, enhancing your comfort, productivity, and overall work experience.

Conclusion on whether standing desks are worth it

In weighing the question, “are standing desks worth it?” we’ve explored the various benefits, potential drawbacks, scientific insights, and personal experiences related to these innovative workspaces.

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, as individual needs and preferences play a significant role. Standing desks can offer notable health and productivity advantages, but they might not be suitable for everyone.

If you’re considering making the switch, assess your specific situation and consult with professionals if needed. Investing in your comfort and well-being is a worthwhile endeavor, so take the time to explore the options and decide if a standing desk is the right choice for you.

The post Are Standing Desks Worth It? Is the Hype Real? Pros and Cons appeared first on NIO.

15 Best AI Marketing Tools Available Today

Carlos

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, the best AI marketing tools are becoming indispensable allies for savvy marketers. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just dipping your toes into the online business landscape, leveraging the power of artificial intelligence can transform the way you engage with your audience.

These innovative tools are designed to automate, analyze, and enhance various aspects of marketing, from content creation to customer engagement. The best AI marketing tools not only save time but also provide valuable insights that were previously difficult to attain. By utilizing AI’s intelligent algorithms, businesses of all sizes can create more personalized and effective marketing strategies.

This post will dive into 15 of the most remarkable AI marketing tools available today, shedding light on their features, benefits, and why they are considered among the best in the industry. Even if you’re not an expert in marketing, this exploration will guide you to understand how AI can amplify your marketing efforts. Stay tuned as we unravel the potential of these cutting-edge solutions!

Best AI marketing tools of 2023

IMAI

IMAI (Influencer Marketing AI) is a comprehensive tool designed to make influencer marketing more approachable and efficient. It lets businesses and marketers find and analyze over 260 million influencers, providing both general and detailed information about them.

With IMAI, users can easily search for influencers, set up campaigns, and track their progress. It also integrates with common ecommerce platforms and offers personalized features to suit individual marketing needs. The platform’s user-friendly dashboard helps even beginners in managing and optimizing influencer campaigns without fuss.

Jasper

Jasper is a versatile AI writing tool that’s tailored for marketers. Utilizing advanced AI technology, including GPT-4 and a specialized learning model, it can produce various types of content to meet marketing and sales needs.

What sets Jasper apart is its ability to integrate SEO features, making it useful for creating search engine-friendly content. Key aspects include Surfer SEO integration, which helps in writing SEO-optimized content, Jasper Chat for a conversational-style interface, and Jasper Art that lets users create images from text prompts. It’s a practical tool for anyone looking to enhance their online content.

Surfer SEO

Surfer SEO is a tool that helps you fine-tune your content to match what’s working best in search engine results. By analyzing top-ranking pages, it gives insights into what your content should include, such as specific terms, content length, and the number of images.

Some standout features are the ability to score your content against top articles, localize your content by selecting country-specific SERPs, create detailed content briefs, and utilize a feature called Grow Flow that continuously searches your website for content improvements. It’s a valuable tool for anyone aiming to boost organic traffic.

tinyEinstein

tinyEinstein is one of the best AI marketing tools specifically crafted for Shopify store owners, focusing on automating essential marketing tasks. It replaces traditional email providers and marketing managers, offering cost-saving benefits while boosting sales. Users can select from three options such as marketing assistant, specialist, or growth manager to suit their needs.

The automation process sends consistent on-brand messages, freeing up valuable time each week. By drawing on strategies from significant ecommerce brands, tinyEinstein allows businesses to save a substantial amount in expenses by providing an all-in-one solution. Plus, with a friendly onboarding process, users can start automating their marketing in just a couple of minutes.

First Line GPT

First Line GPT is an AI tool aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of cold emails by adding personalized, automatic first lines. It works by scraping LinkedIn data and utilizing advanced prompts to create personalized introductions for each prospect, with the capacity to generate up to 3000 lines per month for $49.

By adding these tailored first lines, businesses stand out in crowded inboxes, thereby increasing the likelihood of replies. First Line GPT asserts that personalized emails can nearly double open rates and boost reply rates by 60%, as they resonate with the recipient’s interests and background.

Startup.ai

Startup.ai is one of the best AI marketing tools designed to spark innovation among entrepreneurs by analyzing market trends, consumer behavior, and industry gaps. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or new to the entrepreneurial world, this tool helps you generate unique startup ideas and corresponding solutions in mere seconds.

With the subscription economy projected to grow significantly, Startup.ai offers a golden opportunity to tap into this trend. Created by Relitronic, the tool’s user-friendly interface makes it accessible to all. Through its advanced algorithms, Startup.ai not only identifies market opportunities but also provides personalized insights, empowering you to turn creative ideas into thriving businesses.

Flick

Flick AI is a social media assistant tool. It simplifies the process of brainstorming, writing, and scheduling social media content. Offering a 7-day free trial, users can explore its features like AI idea brainstorming for unique content concepts, AI caption writing for personalized captions, and easy Post Scheduling for timely sharing.

Its additional functionalities such as auto-suggested hashtags and hashtag search and manager help in content management and increasing visibility. Built with a focus on social media, it offers round-the-clock support and an effortless setup. Trusted by over 100,000 content creators and marketers, Flick AI helps enhance social media presence by saving time and improving results.

Ocoya

Ocoya is an AI-powered tool designed to elevate the game for social media managers by not only scheduling posts but also assisting in content creation.

Going beyond traditional scheduling tools like Buffer or Hootsuite, Ocoya adds features such as a visual post creator and an AI writing assistant. Key features include AI-driven content creation to ensure engaging posts, a vast library of templates for designing images, cross-platform scheduling from a single dashboard, and ecommerce integrations for crafting product-based marketing materials. Ocoya offers an all-in-one solution for a more efficient and creative social media management experience.

Lately

Lately is an AI-driven platform focused on content repurposing, aimed at resonating with your audience and brand voice. This intelligent tool utilizes an AI writer and social analytics to understand your audience’s preferences and creatively transform existing content.

Not only does it help in content creation, but Lately also schedules your posts at optimal times for your followers. Key features include the ability to import long-form content and turn it into shareable social media posts, publish content across multiple platforms, intelligently create content from existing material or even a URL, and provide a comprehensive social analytics platform. Lately is all about making your content marketing work smarter for you.

Business Generator AI

Business Generator AI is a unique one among the best AI marketing tools. It’s designed to generate custom business ideas based on user inputs. By answering a set of questions that cover various facets of a business, including target customers, revenue models, technology, industry, competition, and more, users receive a tailored business concept.

Options range from different customer bases (B2C or B2B) to diverse revenue structures like subscription, advertising, or commission. It also factors in competition, initial investment, expertise level, environmental considerations, and regulatory compliance.

This AI marketing tool can be ideal for entrepreneurs and startup founders, as it provides an intelligent way to explore fresh business opportunities, turning the brainstorming process into a streamlined, guided adventure.

AISEO Slogan Generator

AISEO Slogan Generator is a free, AI-powered tool designed to craft catchy and memorable slogans for businesses, regardless of size.

By entering a company description, users receive unique slogans tailored specifically to their business, with support for 25 different languages and options for short, medium, and long lengths.

The tool also offers various templates to kickstart the creative process and enables users to select slogans targeting their specific services, products, or more general themes. Beyond just slogans, AISEO Slogan Generator has the added benefit of assisting in generating SEO-friendly longform content and uncovering new marketing ideas that resonate with the brand.

Pineapple Builder

Pineapple Builder is an AI-driven website builder tailored for businesses, streamlining the website creation process. With its AI-powered tools, users can create a custom website with a single click, selecting from lots of template variations that come in a handful of distinct styles.

The platform allows users to integrate various elements, such as payment processing and newsletters, and provides resources like CMS integration and analytics. Customization is user-friendly, with a simple drag-and-drop editor, and the AI assistant can craft landing pages perfectly aligned with the business and target audience.

Otter AI

Otter AI is a transcription service utilizing artificial intelligence to transcribe live meetings accurately, aimed at aiding marketers and professionals. Unlike traditional note-taking, Otter listens to meetings, captures important slides, and generates detailed meeting notes, complete with timestamps and contributor identification.

Otter AI eliminates the need for separate documents for each meeting and enhances collaboration. Key features include real-time transcription, the ability to capture slides and presentations, searchable and timestamped notes, integration with popular meeting platforms, and a centralized storage space for recorded meetings. Otter AI streamlines the meeting process, freeing up time for more valuable work tasks, which is what makes it one of the best AI marketing tools around.

Rapidely

Rapidely is a social media content creation tool that leverages GPT-4 to help entrepreneurs and social media professionals efficiently generate content. Designed with modern needs in mind, it offers features like managing multiple accounts, team collaboration, and smooth workflow management.

The tool includes a monthly calendar generator for planning posts, and a carousel maker for quick on-brand carousel creation. One unique feature is the captivating content function, crafting personalized captions to match your brand’s voice. Additionally, Rapidely keeps users current by providing access to the latest sound trends for Reels, aiming to enhance social media engagement and relevance.

AI Suggests

AI Suggests is a versatile AI-powered tool designed to assist content creators, marketers, bloggers, influencers, and businesses in generating unique and original content. It offers over 20 templates to inspire various content types, including Instagram captions, video and blog titles, product descriptions, and more.

The tool enables users to create or enhance marketing campaigns and ad copy effortlessly, all while offering support and the ability to save essential documents. It’s SEO-friendly, allowing users to generate headlines, titles, meta descriptions, or keywords tailored to their blog content needs.

Conclusion on the best AI marketing tools

In the bustling landscape of modern marketing, AI marketing tools have emerged as game-changers, simplifying complex tasks and elevating strategies. As we’ve explored in this post, these tools provide a competitive edge, whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting in the field.

The potential to automate, personalize, and innovate has never been more accessible. Don’t let this technological advantage pass you by. Embrace the future of marketing by investing in the best AI marketing tools that suit your needs. Your next successful campaign could be just a click away! Explore these tools today and take your marketing to the next level.

The post 15 Best AI Marketing Tools Available Today appeared first on NIO.

GetResponse vs MailChimp vs SendinBlue vs Sendy vs MailPoet

Karol K.

If you’ve been following the site for a while, you know that I’ve been a MailChimp user since … well, since the very beginning of my online adventure.

Over time, though, things have started to get difficult. I mean, MailChimp is still cool and all, but sending my emails for free has become rather troublesome.

But hold off on that for a minute … I will give you the entire story later down the page.

In short, what I have for you today is my take on:

The top 5 email marketing platforms of 2015

In this post, you will learn:

  •  what the top 5 email marketing platforms of 2015 are and why (my subjective opinion) ,
  • how they stack up against each other,
  •  what are the pros and cons of each ,
  • which is the easiest to use,
  •  which is the cheapest platform out there ,
  • which is the best for someone just getting started with email marketing,
  •  which is the best when your list has grown over the 2,500 subscribers mark ,
  • which is the best for operating at scale.
Okay, you’ve seen the headline so there’s no point having you wait any longer. The top 5 is:

GetResponse, MailChimp, SendinBlue, Sendy, and MailPoet

(Scroll to the conclusion / comparison table)

You might be wondering why I’ve chosen these five solutions for my review/comparison… “Where’s AWeber? Where’s Constant Contact?” Okay, I hear ya, but my reasoning is this:

Although there are a lot more viable solutions for anyone who wants to start experimenting with email marketing, the 5 presented here are significantly different from each other in the way they work.

They all have a place on the market, and each will cater to a different kind of user.

In other words, read on to find out which is the right email marketing tool/solution for your specific business, website, and for your individual preferences.

GetResponse

getresponse logoGetResponse has a special place in my heart due to the fact that they are a Polish company that has taken the email marketing space by the storm, becoming one of the worldwide leaders.

But that’s not the only reason. GetResponse delivers truly world-class solutions for anyone who wants to get into email marketing. Their brand is not only about the tool, but also about various resources and education/training that you can jump on.

But let’s get to the nitty-gritty. GetResponse has clear pricing options based on the number of subscribers you have. Particularly:

Subscribers  Emails Price
1 000 – $15,00
2 500 – $25,00
5 000 – $45,00
10 000 – $65,00

Unfortunately, there’s no free plan, but they do offer a free 30-day trial (even though this is not openly advertised on the website, you can find the landing page via Google easily).

The good thing about GetResponse plans is that no matter which plan you select, you can send an unlimited number of emails (which isn’t the case with some of GetResponse competitors, as you’ll see in a minute).

Also, paying annually gets you 18% off, and if you run a non-profit, you get an automatic 50% off whatever plan you select. Overall, it does seem like GetResponse has thought of every possible type of customer with their pricing options.

getresponse ngo offer

Let’s look at how it plays out for a couple of possible scenarios:

GetResponse cost:

For a new list:

If you’re just starting out then GetResponse will cost you $0 for the first month, and then $15 / month if your list is less than 1,000 subscribers. You can send an unlimited number of emails on that plan.

For 2,500 subscribers: 

In this scenario, your GetResponse bill grows to $25 / month, but you still get to send an unlimited number of emails. This gives you much room for testing. Quite frankly, no matter if you message your list twice a month or twice a day, the bill is still $25.

For 7,500+ subscribers:

Your GetResponse bill is now $65 / month. Still, unlimited emails.

Features:

  • Create multiple types of subscription forms: standard forms, exit pops, scroll forms, shake boxes, etc.
  • 500+ web form templates to choose from.
  • HTML-based email template editor for advanced users.
  • Responsive email designs. This means that your newsletters are going to look great on every device (mobile and desktop).
  • Drag-and-drop email creation tool.
  • Landing pages. You can create, edit, and publish landing pages straight from GetResponse. There are more than 100 mobile-friendly templates available, a nice drag-and-drop editor, and a set of optimization tools.
  • A/B testing. Run split testing campaigns and see what converts better (huge feature for optimization).
  • Autoresponders. AKA. email marketing automation. Send triggered emails, follow-up messages, or anything else based on your subscribers’ activity.
  • Tracking and stats. Allows you to monitor your results.
  • Inbox preview. You can see what your email message is going to look like on the most popular email clients and devices.

Overall, GetResponse gives you all you can ask for when it comes to growing your list, building, sending and tracking your email.

GetResponse is also the most education-centered solution on this list. Right after you open an account with them, they invite you to join their free daily sessions (tips on how to grow your email list), where they share lessons, video tutorials, presentations, and tasks for you to complete (like a normal course).

 Who’s GetResponse best suited for: 

  •  Startups and small businesses that want to have all aspects of email marketing handled in one place, by one tool/solution. 
  •  GetResponse also presents good potential for growing alongside your company due to their affordable rates on every step along your list growth. 
  •  Perfect for non-profits. No one else on this list gives you 50% off if you’re a non-profit. 
  •  Great if you’re going to be contacting your list multiple times a week, regardless of that list’s size. For example, contacting your list of 1,000 subscribers every day of the month is going to be the cheapest with GetResponse (when it comes to hosted email marketing solutions). 
Go to GetResponse

Go to top

MailChimp

mailchimp logoLike I already mentioned at the beginning of this post, I’ve been a MailChimp user since the very beginning of this site. And I have to admit, MailChimp has a great editor (to build your emails/newsletters with), great reputation (it’s an established company in this market, handling all types of customers, from sole-proprietors to big corporations), and a wide range of features.

However, there’s also a downside.

And that is the cost of working with MailChimp. Let’s take this step by step:

To begin with, your MailChimp account is free, which is great. It basically allows you to get off the ground and start learning your craft in the world of email marketing.

But then, once you’re above the 2,000 subscribers mark, your MailChimp bill is going to grow quite a lot. Here’s the math:

  • Getting to 2,000 subscribers is free = $0 / month, $0 / year.
  • Having 2,001 subscribers is $30 / month, $360 / year.

That is a huge jump … there’s just no other way to say it. For many businesses, switching from $0 to $360 / year is just too huge of a gap. For me also.

More than that, MailChimp also has some ridiculous pricing models in the 2,000-3,000 subscribers range. Particularly:

mailchimp pricing

Yep, you’re reading this right … that’s $5 for every 100 subscribers.

Anyway, MailChimp also gives you a pay-as-you-go plan. In other words, instead of paying a monthly fee, you pay only for the emails that you actually send.

On paper, this option sounds great. In practice, though, not so much.

For example, if you have a list of just 1,000 people, and want to message them once – just once – it’s going to cost you $20. If you want to message them, say, twice a week for a month, that’s $160 / month. And that’s provided that you buy your “email credits” (MailChimp’s pay-as-you-go email currency) for $0.02 a piece, which means buying at least $100-worth of them.

In short, MailChimp … not the most cost-effective for a growing list.

MailChimp cost:

For a new list:

Until you grow your list to 2,000 subscribers, MailChimp is going to be entirely free for you. On that plan, you can send up to 12,000 emails a month (e.g. you can email your list of 2,000 subscribers a total of 6 times per month).

For 2,500 subscribers: 

  • If your list is not more than 2,500 subscribers then your MailChimp bill is going to be $30 / month. The good thing here, though, is that you can send unlimited emails.
  • For 2,501 subscribers, the price grows to $35 / month.

For 7,500+ subscribers:

Here, MailChimp gets quite expensive. For up to 10,000 subscribers, you have to pay $75 / month.

Features:

  • Flexible design and great newsletter building tools.
  • Drag-and-drop email building.
  • Email automation, and advanced tools for automated marketing. Allows you to target customers based on their behavior, preferences, previous sales.
  • Advanced analytics and reporting. You can see everything there is to know about your audience and how they interact with your emails.
  • Great mobile apps. Both for managing your campaigns and tracking your stats.
  • Integrations with multiple third-party apps and tools.
  • Split testing.
  • Custom subscription forms creation, and much more.

If I’m honest, MailChimp is the top league when it comes to the number and the quality of the features they offer. But the price tag makes them a tough choice for a bootstrapping business owner.

 Who’s MailChimp best suited for: 

  •  Bloggers, startups, local businesses, and small business owners that don’t want to invest in email marketing just yet. The free plan allows you to do that. 
  •  Business owners that want the top-of-the-line features and price is no object to them. 
  •  Great for whoever is going to work with a list of less than 2,000 subscribers and not messaging them more frequently than 6 times a month. 
Go to MailChimp

Go to top

SendinBlue

sendinblue logoSendinBlue is a newcomer to the email marketing space. The company was born from a web agency that wanted to cater to their own customers, and solve their email marketing needs. Over time, SendinBlue has evolved to a full-fledged email solution that’s opened their doors to the public.

The area where SendinBlue really stands out is their pricing model. To say it simply, SendinBlue is a solution that will grow with you, and give you the exact plan that you need and can afford.

sendinblue pricing

For example, when compared to MailChimp, SendinBlue is a lot more cost-effective, and especially if you have a list of around 2,500 subscribers. More than that, SendinBlue doesn’t actually pay attention to how many contacts or even individual lists you have. For example, having 10 lists with 250 people on each will cost you just as much as having one list with 2,500 subscribers. This isn’t always the case with the other providers.

Let’s see how that works:

SendinBlue cost:

For a new list:

There’s a free plan with SendinBlue. It doesn’t restrict the number of subscribers you can have, but it does limit your daily emails to 300, and your monthly emails to 9,000. What this means in practice is that SendinBlue is a good solution for those of you who are just starting out and want to experiment with email marketing for free. So, new list = $0.

For 2,500 subscribers: 

  • The math here is a bit tougher to do. SendinBlue doesn’t limit your number of subscribers at all. What it does look at, however, is the total number of emails you send.
  • Having the above in mind, if you have 2,500 subscribers and you want to message them twice a week (so 20,000 emails in a month), it’s going to cost you $7.37 / month.

For 7,500+ subscribers:

If you have 7,500 subscribers and you want to message them twice a week (60,000 emails in a month), it’s going to cost you $39 / month.

Features:

  • Responsive design builder – allowing you to build responsive email designs, smartphone-friendly, and with no HTML knowledge required.
  • Drag-and-drop newsletter builder.
  • Have unlimited number of people on your email lists. SendinBlue doesn’t restrict you in any way.
  • Autoresponders and trigger marketing – email sent based on your subscribers’ behavior and previous actions.
  • Good and clear reports and analytics.
  • Real-time tracking.
  • Heat maps showing how your subscribers interact with your newsletters.
  • Subscription form creation tool.

Overall, SendinBlue offers more than enough to get your email marketing efforts going and allow you to keep things on a budget at all times.

The email designs that SendinBlue lets you use are easy to grasp and render well on most devices and screen sizes. In other words, SendinBlue is email marketing simplified.

 Who’s SendinBlue best suited for: 

  •  Small business owners that want to test the waters and see what’s possible with email marketing. The free plan is great for that, especially since it doesn’t restrict any functionality. 
  •  Businesses that want their email marketing solution to be able to grow with them. The pricing progression is clear and easy to follow. There also aren’t any huge jumps in pricing like with MailChimp … everything is gradual. 
  •  Businesses that have a handful of email lists instead of having one main list. With SendinBlue, emailing one list costs just as much as emailing 10 lists. 
Go to SendinBlue

Go to top

Sendy

sendy logoSendy has one huge advantage over everything else on this list … sending one email with it costs just $0.0001. This is around 100x to 200x cheaper than the other solutions on the market.

That being said, Sendy is also very different in other areas. First of all, it’s not an online solution (hosted tool) like the others. In fact, it’s a stand-alone software tool that you have to install on your web server (similarly to how you install WordPress). After that, Sendy connects to your Amazon SES account and sends the emails through there.

When it comes to the features that Sendy offers, all the basic stuff is there, but not as advanced as what GetResponse, MailChimp, or SendinBlue have to offer. In other words, if you’re going to go for Sendy, you’re doing it for the price, not for the high-level features.

Let’s break things down:

Sendy cost:

For a new list:

Getting the Sendy software itself is $59 (one-time payment). Then, you need to get a hosting account from a third party (starts at $5 / month). After that, sending a single email is just $0.0001. For example, if you have 1,000 people on your list, and you want to message them twice a week, it’s going to be just a silly $0.8 / month (+ hosting + the software).

For 2,500 subscribers: 

Same as above, you have to pay for the tool (one time) and for the hosting (every month). Then, if you have 2,500 subscribers and you want to message them twice a week (20,000 emails in a month), it’s going to cost you $2 / month.

For 7,500+ subscribers:

Similarly, if you have 7,500 subscribers and you want to message them twice a week (60,000 email in a month), it’s going to cost you $6 / month.

Features:

  • You can manage multiple lists/services/brands. Sendy doesn’t pay attention to what number of lists you have hosted.
  • All email sending is done through Amazon SES.
  • Good-looking and clear reports. No fluff, just the info you need and nothing else.
  • Automatic bounce, complaint and unsubscribe handling. Great for campaign clean-ups.
  • Autoresponders. Having autoresponders for this low price is really incredible.
  • Basic email creation tools – editor and HTML templates.

 Who’s Sendy best suited for: 

  •  Businesses that send a lot of email on a daily basis. Nothing beats Amazon’s pricing, and with Sendy, it’s always going to be the cheapest solution. 
  •  Re-sellers. With Sendy, you can white-label the tool and make your own email marketing solution available to the world. Great if you run a design/development agency and work with clients directly. 
Go to Sendy

Go to top

MailPoet

mailpoet logoFinally, we have MailPoet – an email marketing solution that’s quite different from anything else.

First of all, it’s a WordPress plugin. This means that you need to have your own WordPress site first, and only then you can install MailPoet and use it to send your email messages.

The installation is standard in terms of WordPress, so there’s nothing particularly difficult during set-up.

Even though the main plugin is free, there are also premium plans if you want to unlock some of the additional features. The main restriction is that the free version of MailPoet limits you to 2,000 subscribers (just like MailChimp).

The good news is that you get to send unlimited emails to those 2,000 subscribers. The bad news, though, is that you’re sending the emails through your web server, which isn’t always the most optimized solution.

For instance, even though MailPoet doesn’t restrict the number of emails you can send, your webhost may do so. And in extreme cases, you sending too much email could lead to your web host banning you from the server (you’re going to have to research this before doing anything radical).

MailPoet cost:

For a new list:

That’s $0 for a list up to 2,000 subscribers. The only thing you have to pay for is your standard hosting bill.

For 2,500 subscribers: 

If you want to have more than 2,000 subscribers, that’s $8.25 / month.

For 7,500+ subscribers:

It’s still $8.25 / month. In fact, Sendy doesn’t restrict the number of subscribers above the 2,000 mark. Once you’re a paid customer, you get to keep unlimited number of contacts on your lists.

Features:

  • Drag-and-drop newsletter editor.
  • Automatic blog post notification emails whenever you publish anything new.
  • Autoresponders.
  • Good stats: opens, clicks, unsubscribes. (More with the premium version).
  • Drag-and-drop subscription form builder.
  • Mobile-friendly newsletter templates.
  • Over 70 templates available for your newsletters.
  • Automated bounce handling for good list health.
  • List segmentation and categories.

 Who’s MailPoet best suited for: 

  •  Only site owners that have a good web host that can handle the load of sending email. (Important!) 
  •  Good for those who want to have everything handled in one place – within their WordPress site – and not have to use third-party tools. With a solution like MailPoet, you don’t have to go anywhere to manage your email lists and campaigns. 
  •  Good for small lists and business owners that want to minimize their costs managing such lists. 
  •  Your MailPoet account is going to be associated with the brand of the website where it’s installed – since it’s a plugin. This means that using it for more than one list/purpose can look weird. 
Go to MailPoet

Go to top

Conclusion

Here’s a direct comparison and my scores for each platform.:

GetResponse MailChimp SendinBlue Sendy MailPoet
Cost * 4/5 0/5 5/5 10/5 3/5
Ease of use * 5/5 5/5 4/5 2/5 3/5
Features * 5/5 5/5 5/5 3/5 4/5
Extra perks/tools * 5/5 4/5 4/5 1/5 2/5
 TOTAL POINTS  19/20 14/20 18/20 16/20 12/20
GetResponse
MailChimp
SendinBlue
Sendy
MailPoet

Some comments:

  • Cost – Even though the scale is 0-5, Sendy is simply above the competition here, so it got a 10. MailChimp, on the other hand, is just too expensive.
  • Ease of use – basically all of the tools are easy to use once you get a hang of them. However, when it comes to a first-time user – someone who knows nothing going through the door, GetResponse and MailChimp are the leaders.
  • Features – Summing up my overall impression of the range of features and possibilities with each platform.
  • Extra perks and tools – things that you get as a cool addition/bonus … education, landing page builders, special offers, etc.

So that’s me. But what do you think? Have you found the right tool for you and your business on this list? Is it GetResponse, MailChimp, SendinBlue, Sendy, or MailPoet? Feel free to let me know if there’s anything I missed.

LOOKING FOR SOME ONLINE BUSINESS ADVICE FOR NORMAL PEOPLE? ... JUMP IN.

LOOKING FOR SOME ONLINE BUSINESS ADVICE FOR NORMAL PEOPLE?

...

JUMP IN.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

GetResponse vs MailChimp vs SendinBlue vs Sendy vs MailPoet | NIO

13 Successful Entrepreneurs Share How to Gain Confidence When Starting an Online Business

Karol K.

13-featured

Confidence When Starting an Online Business

kk-2

Getting started in the online was a bit tough for me.

It was 2009 or so, and all of my friends already had nice jobs and paychecks, while I was still sitting in my mom’s apartment, trying to figure things out on my own and find my place among my online mentors.

I carefully analyzed every piece of online business advice I could find and dived into almost every “next big thing” tactic that the gurus were trying to sell.

My results? Few and far between. I was making next to nothing, and if it hadn’t been for my mom who was very understanding, well, life would have been difficult for me.

Obviously and not surprisingly, I wasn’t confident at all about what I was doing.

I started thinking that maybe I don’t have what it takes, that maybe I should abandon the web, put together a CV and send it out to a couple of places, so maybe I could catch up to my friends and secure myself a nice shiny job too.

But for some reason I decided to keep going.

I probably had some internal resistance telling me that “a job” wasn’t the right path for me or something.

Along the way, I stumbled upon Sylvester Stallone’s story. It taught me two things: (1) my situation was, in fact, nowhere near tough yet, and (2)  failure is just a step towards success .

I can’t explain why this particular story resonated so well with me, but it helped me regain my confidence and stop worrying about all the small and big failures I was experiencing. I knew that if I dedicated myself to doing something for long enough, eventually it would pay off.

And it has.

However. Looking back, I can honestly say that I spent way too much time running on willpower alone instead of having the right tools and mindset in place. And although it has worked for me, this can’t be the optimal way of finding your confidence.

Relying on luck is never a good strategy, and you can easily run out of your willpower much sooner than you’ll find any success.

Therefore, what’s a better solution? And is there a road-map to confidence when running an online business?

I believe there is, and that we don’t have to be wandering in the dark endlessly until successful.

So this brings me to the actual topic of this whole blog – finding confidence when running an online business.

I’m aware that I can’t give you a road-map to confidence all on my own. It’s way beyond me. After all, I’m just one guy, and no matter what I say, it will still be just one guy’s perspective.

That’s why I reached out to 13 generous experts from various niches and asked them specific questions on the topic.

Before we start, let me just be honest for a minute and say that I’ve gained an incredible amount of insights on entrepreneurship and finding confidence when going through these answers and preparing them for publication. I am very happy to be able to deliver this resource to you, and I’m also more than certain that you will get just as much value out of it as I did!

Let’s welcome the experts:

John Lee Dumas John Lee Dumas
Entrepreneur On Fire
Jaime Tardy Jaime Tardy
Eventual Millionaire
David Risley David Risley
Blog Marketing Academy
Yaro Starak Yaro Starak
Entrepreneurs-Journey.com
Danny Iny Danny Iny
Firepole Marketing
Cliff Ravenscraft Cliff Ravenscraft
Podcast Answer Man
Natalie Sisson Natalie Sisson
The Suitcase Entrepreneur
Bogdan Condurache Bogdan Condurache
ThemeFuse
Ruben Gamez Ruben Gamez
Bidsketch
Demian Farnworth Demian Farnworth
The Copybot
Adam Connell Adam Connell
Blogging Wizard
Mike McDerment Mike McDerment
FreshBooks
 
Bamidele Onibalusi Bamidele Onibalusi
Writers in Charge
 
arrow-down2
The road to becoming a confident online entrepreneur

325
SHARES

map1

Step #1: Finding the right mentors

Some people say that getting business advice from our friends or family isn’t the best of ideas (unless they are entrepreneurs). However, when we’re just starting out building our “thing,” it is rather difficult to find knowledgeable people who would invest some trust in us and share valuable information (on top of the cliche “create quality content”).
How to find people worth paying attention to? People who can give us this much needed confidence boost, who will get us going and motivate us to take action. And what’s probably even more important, how to get them to pay attention to us? Can they really have that much impact on our confidence and therefore our businesses?
Jaime
Jaime Tardy
Finding a mentor has been HUGE in my life.

I was constantly on the lookout for people that were where I wanted to be.

I would do whatever I could to reach out, talk to, seem eager and know how much I valued and appreciated them.

One of the biggest problems mentors have (as told to me by many millionaires!) is that they give advice, but then the person listening doesn’t DO the advice.

arrow-l

One of the best ways to get them to pay attention to you is to DO what they say!

And then tell them you did it, and how much of an impact it made.

And yes – they can have a HUGE impact on confidence. My first mentor made me cold call 50 people a day. He was like – you’ll get used to it! And I would never have pushed myself that much because it seemed too scary. He changed my life!

john wide
Bamidele Onibalusi
Bamidele Onibalusi

I think the best way to start is by quoting the bible verse that says “By their fruits you will know them.”

I believe this is critical, because I recently ventured into fish farming here in Nigeria and quickly realized that success in the business mainly has to do with who you learn from; various people have various “secrets” to success, and the failure rate is generally high, but why I really followed my teacher was because of the results he is getting; he has the biggest fishes and makes the highest profit of everybody else I know (sometimes his profit is up to 150% in 6 months).

Follow your mentors based on the results they are getting
However, most of the others who are very opinionated about “what works” and what doesn’t are barely getting results; they have really small fishes, profit margin is low if there is any, etc.

Determining who is worth paying attention to is simple; look for someone getting the kind of results you are getting, and follow the person until you are getting your desired results.

Once you’ve determined the leaders you want to follow, the most effective way to get them to pay attention to you is to …

reveal your PASSION to them

If you are really passionate to succeed, you will give it everything it takes and you won’t care how difficult or ineffective it seems. Leaders see that, and they are ready to support those who have that kind of passion; look for tips they share freely online, passionately utilize these tips to get results, and showcase your results to them, letting them know it is thanks to them, and tell them you will like to learn from them in a closer way. This can be very effective!

Getting advice and support from the right people can impact your confidence as well as ability to succeed; sometimes, it is often the no. 1 most important factor.

map5

Step #2: Making your vision clear

The way I see it, problems with confidence are often connected to our lack of clear vision as for what we want to achieve (and how we want to achieve it). In other words, because we don’t have the right goals set, it’s not clear to us what to do next. This prevents us from getting stuff done and building our confidence along the way.
How to go about setting the right goals? How can someone get over the initial vague idea of “think about what you really want to achieve and make it your goal?” How to be specific and create goals that motivate rather than discourage?
risley
David Risley
The best way to get those goals is to break it down like a hierarchy.

Start out with with the big, grandiose goal that you have.

Then, beneath that, break it down into sub-goals or purposes.

Then you define plans to achieve those purposes.

And the plans are broken down into programs, projects, etc.

When you do it this way, then you can step back and see that the little tasks you’re doing are in alignment with the larger plans, and hence your purpose, and your goals. This allows you to get specific for what you’re shooting for (very important), but also know that everything has a direction to it.
natalie
Natalie Sisson
Note. In her answer, Natalie refers to the concept of “Painted Picture,” which was originally introduced in a book titled Double Double: How to Double Your Revenue and Profit in 3 Years or Less, by Cameron Herold. Natalie teaches us why creating our own Painted Picture will help us get our vision cleared and our goals nicely defined.
Enter Natalie:
A Painted Picture is a clear vision of where you want your business to be, three years from now.

He [Cameron Herold] suggests you get out of your office or normal working domain (which for me is never normal) to actually write it.

It’s a really interesting exercise to go through each section of your business (and your life), writing out your vision in the present tense.

It’s powerful too. It’s as if you’re already there and you can visualise what the future looks like…which is the whole point.

It got me all jazzed up reading about what I wanted my business to become. Even though I’m not there yet, seeing it written down on paper, just gets me excited.

It took me about two hours in total and it was challenging, and also fun. I mean you get to let all your inhibitions go and dream up a grandiose vision for what you really want your business and life to look and feel like.

Natalie also shares:

When we ONLY focus on our vision for our business and our life, then it makes it much easier to do everything in our power to make that vision a reality.

Each of our goals we set, and the strategies and objectives that support them, suddenly become so much more doable, because we have the big picture staring us in the face.

We have the WHY we’re doing what we’re doing. Then we do everything in our power to stay true to it.

Bogdan-Condurache
Bogdan Condurache
I believe that it was Benjamin Mays who said:

“The tragedy of life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goals. The tragedy lies in having no goals to reach.”

This is perfectly true for me and talks about setting any kind of goals for yourself, be it small or high-sky. Of course, setting the goals high-sky will make it very hard to achieve them and will probably discourage you along the way, so I wouldn’t actually recommend that, but from my personal experience the key is to set intermediate goals or step-by-step goals, which are easier to achieve and will motivate you just enough to keep going.

I can actually share a bit of personal experience from my own career path: after graduating college and getting a major in Financial Banking & Insurance, I decided I don’t really like this field of work and wanted to do something in the graphic design business, which was just of a hobby for me at the time. This was something I have never studied seriously, and I didn’t know a whole lot about the industry, but I felt that this is what I really wanted to do and my long-term goal should be to have my own graphic design studio and be successful at it.

So …

I started splitting this long-term goal in smaller pieces

… knowing that this would take a lot of time and effort to get there, but having an achievable goal in front of me would motivate me just enough to keep going.

This got me to my first goal which was learning the trade, that I have achieved mainly by getting an internship job with a graphic design firm and also studying design tutorials and online classes. After a few months, I have learned the basics and “stolen” a few tips & tricks from my colleagues, so it was time to move on, setting a different goal.

Along the 7 or 8 years that had taken me to finally achieve my goal, I have set and achieved a lot of different goals, like: “getting a better paid job,” or “trying to be more creative” and “getting more creative responsibilities” and so on, until the skills, confidence and experience had all build-up enough to start on my own. Also, meeting cool creative people with the same drive as me, has finally helped me bite the bullet and co-found ThemeFuse (and PixelKit later on). Of course, this is a goal that I now consider an intermediate one, as I have moved past and set higher expectations, but still taking them one step at a time.

So, in my opinion setting smaller goals is the right way to achieve a bigger, high-sky goal.

Setting smaller goals is the right way to achieve a bigger, high-sky goal.
Click To Tweet

Also, it’s very important that you have passion for what you plan to do, because without it, just setting the right goals will never be enough.

map5-rev

Step #3: Going for a minimal viable product or not?

Nowadays, it seems like we’re witnessing a major product launch every week, or a success story that’s extremely impressive. As a result, we trick ourselves into thinking that whatever we aim to create has to be huge, has to have a ton of features and offer a ton of benefits. But then we lose our confidence when we find out that building something huge also takes huge time and huge resources.
How to overcome this? Should we go for a minimal viable product instead? Is it really that effective? And can we gain confidence by building a very simple solution for just one pain first, and then expand over time?
Demian

Demian Farnworth:

Much better to build the audience first. That way you can learn what they need and then give it to them. Most people and businesses have it backwards. They build the product first and then try to find the audience. Of course, there are exceptions. Regardless, do your market research.

Adam-Connell
Adam Connell
The problem with creating a product with a huge number of features is that sometimes we can overcomplicate our offering.

I’ve seen too many start-ups that roll out a product where it seems like even the founders aren’t exactly clear on how the product can be of value.

I’m talking about the kind of sales pages where you look and end up thinking “Yeah, but how is this going to help me?”

 
Sure, the copy comes into it but when you’re trying to solve too many pains all in one go, you can end up tripping yourself over.

I believe the best way to start off is to:

Step #1

Identify the biggest pain point …
Step #2

… Solve it first.
You will be clearer on who the product is for and that will reflect in how you position the brand.

The bonus here is that creating the product will take up fewer resources and you will accomplish it quicker.

You will be able to get feedback quicker and get early adopters on board.

This makes things easier for you in a personal way and also financially.

You can then shape the rest of your product roadmap around the bigger picture that you have envisioned for your product (as well as customer feedback).

When you’re trying to solve too many pains all in one go, you can end up tripping yourself over.
Click To Tweet

Ruben

Ruben Gamez
I like the idea of starting with a smaller goal as a starting point. With Bidsketch, my original goal was to learn how to make money from a product. I went very niche because of this and planned to apply what I learned to the next product. Once I accomplished my initial goal, I realized that I could continue growing the product, so I simply set a new goal. I’ve done this four or five times now.

For me, this approach of smaller quick wins keeps me focused and motivated.

I think too many people aim for huge goals with unrealistic timelines. You obviously should have a goal that motivates you, but keep in mind that your goals (and approach) will change over time.

Mike McDerment

Mike McDerment

The answer to something like this isn’t binary – it’s about philosophy and approach and context, more than hard and fast rules.

It’s also about psychology – let’s start there.

Whenever you encounter something overwhelming – and there are lots of those things in a start up – you need to take a step back, and focus on what you can control.

… you need to take a step back, and focus on what you can control …
You can’t control what other people are going to do. You can’t control the fact that your competitors are massively outgunned in terms of resources, but there are things you can control – like managing to your next milestone. Stay focused there – however seemingly insignificant that milestone may seem because execution is just about everything when you are a startup.

WRT to philosophy, I think there are a bunch of ways to approach this. Philosophically, I think you want to play to your strengths. So when you are small, chances are any users you have are early adopters – people that found you before anyone and take pride in that. This kind of audience is encouraging and supportive as a rule – it doesn’t take as much to convince them like a mainstream audience.

The consequence: you will be celebrated (and you should celebrate progress), whereas the big guys need you to blow their mind or it’s like, “who cares?” and the difference is entirely about audience maturity and the philosophy and approach you apply to assessing your progress as a result.

map5

Step #4: Get only the essential education that you need

Every online business owner tries to learn and acquire new skills every day. But at the same time, we often lose our confidence when we realize how much there is to master and how seemingly insignificant we feel.
Do we need to be spending hours every day acquiring knowledge in order to become confident? Or is it actually a trap because we will never feel competent enough? How to tackle this and how to seek the truly essential education we need?
danny iny
Danny Iny
cliff

Cliff Ravenscraft

I think that acquiring knowledge is important and helps us bring additional value to those who follow us. However, I don’t see a direct correlation to how much knowledge you have to the amount of confidence that you have.

Many people suffer from what we like to call “Imposter Syndrome.” The fear that we are not competent enough come from the fear that others know more than we do and that we will be judged for where we are in the journey of our area of expertise.

I believe that everyone can confidently step out into this world, no matter where they are in the journey, and avoid the “Imposter Syndrome” by simply focusing all communication in these four areas.

Area 1
Start with what you have experienced so far in this area of expertise. Tell people “your story.”

In many cases, the more mistakes you’ve made, and and you share with your community, the more relatable and likable you will seem to those who are fellow strugglers on the journey.

Of course, you should also share your successful experiences as well. Don’t worry about those who will be offended by your sharing, telling you that you sound boastful. The fact is that sharing your success stories, and giving the details on how you succeeded, will do much to encourage and inspire others.

Share the challenges that you are facing now. Don’t pretend that now that you have a platform in this niche that you no longer face challenges. By sharing them, again, you are being more relatable to those who follow you. Also, there is a great chance that many, who are further along in the journey, may reach out to help you overcome those challenges.
Area 2
Area 3
Share what you are learning right now and how you plan to implement what you are learning.

Obviously, this means that you are actively learning new things. I make it a point to read books that are devoted to my personal and professional development. I listen to podcasts from experts in business, social media, technology, etc. I’m always learning something new. Being a great student of life makes you a great teacher for your community.

Share what you hope to accomplish moving forward. DREAM BIG DREAMS. Know where you want to go. Have a destination in mind. This is the only way that you will get there.

Also, if you don’t know direction that you are heading, why should anyone follow you?

Area 4
By focusing on sharing those four areas of your life, you can lead with great confidence! If you are always true and honest about those things, you can not be considered an imposter. Just be yourself and know, for sure, that many will criticise you for that.

You don’t need to spend hours a day, every day, gaining more knowledge to become competent and confident enough to deliver a message. You just need to grow some thicker skin and then put that skin in the game.

yaro

Yaro Starak
In my life as an entrepreneur true confidence has only come from achievement.

Tangible outcomes are what drive motivation. Of course learning is necessary – and some of the best education comes from the projects that don’t succeed – so you have to find a balance.

The best advice I can offer is:

Always acquire knowledge that is directly correlated to an outcome you are working towards today.

Only study what you need to know to solve today’s problems, and put into action what you learn immediately.

If you are unsure of what path to take, then the problem you have is a decision making one. You must study what you need to know in order to make the decision of what path to take.

map5-rev

Step #5: Master the craft of planning

Lack of confidence leads to procrastination, and that sometimes leads to complete inaction. Unfortunately, the enormity of the project at hand – building a business – literally paralyzes many entrepreneurs.
How to master the craft of planning? How to create a good plan that breaks down a large project into doable chunks? Are there any quick hacks we can implement to feel confident about executing our plan one step at a time?
Adam-Connell

Adam Connell
I’m a firm believer that anyone can accomplish anything that they put their mind to, whether you lack self-confidence or not.

The key is passion; we have to believe in the product we create.

When planning out your project you need to break it up into smaller tasks and create a complete road map for your project. They need to be manageable otherwise they may start to become tedious.

It’s important that the plan is as thorough as possible, consider everything from creation to marketing and growth while considering the possibility that you may need to react quick to demand in future if your product takes off.

Consider a time frame but keep things realistic and allow yourself some room to manoeuvre.

Try not to let falling behind schedule phase you, you cannot account for everything and sometimes things don’t go to plan.

But, if you can consider potential road blocks before they happen and account for them you will make things a lot easier for yourself.

Prioritize your tasks but be prepared to re-evaluate these as your project progresses.

Most importantly, try to make things as easy as possible, consider what tools are available to make managing the project as easy as possible and think about how you can make your business as process driven as possible. You will love how much more efficient processes can make your business, you need them in place early on.
… try to make things as easy as possible …
Ruben

Ruben Gamez
I like to keep things simple, so my plans aren’t very detailed. I usually start with a goal and then work backwards from there. From a high level, what do I need to accomplish this goal? I end up with a rough idea of what needs to get done, then spend some time prioritizing.

At that point, I add about two weeks worth of tasks to my active list and only research as the need comes up – not weeks before the project has started, but right as I’m working on those specific things. The only exception might be with risky tasks. For online businesses the biggest risk is building something that people don’t want to pay for. So it’s probably a good idea to make your first task testing your assumption that people want to pay for whatever you’ll be providing.

Anyway, going back to planning, the idea is to move as quickly as possible and stay focused. I do this by creating a high level plan, prioritizing things that matter while delaying ones that don’t (like a business account), testing assumptions, and breaking down my work into four hour tasks (maximum one day tasks).

curve-under

Bamidele Onibalusi

Bamidele Onibalusi
I would first advise not to become too obsessed with planning, as that alone can deter you from your main goal of getting things done.

I believe the most effective way to go about this is by breaking down each task into the smallest possible task that will take the smallest amount of time necessary. Once this has been done, you should start working on the most rewarding tasks, that will deliver the quickest results.

Seeing these results will motivate you and give you confidence to proceed with your other tasks.

map5
Bonus round!

map1

Defeating confidence problems

What were the main confidence problems you experienced in your career and how did you overcome them?
John Lee Dumas
John Lee Dumas
risley
David Risley
Not having promotions work as well as I had hoped. Hey, it happens. The best way to overcome it is to have something pulling you forward so you don’t stop. For me, its my family.
Jaime
Jaime Tardy
I wasn’t confident in my value at first – and I had a hard time asking for what I wanted. Like when I found my mentor, it took all of my strength to send the first email to him!
Demian
Demian Farnworth
Thinking I could compete with the big boys and girls. You cure that insecurity with hard work, training, education, and experience. Everyone starts at the bottom.
Bogdan-Condurache
Bogdan Condurache
During my career as a graphic designer, I have encountered many times what I would call “feedback fright”. What I mean by this is getting a bit uneasy about showing the client a pitch or a design proposal that I have have been working on. Lack of confidence made me doubt my initial feeling of “wow, this is great stuff” and made me start questioning the whole design style, idea, execution, etc. “What if the client will not like this?” or “What if the idea is too bold or not bold enough?” are questions that fuel the “feedback fright” syndrome and can influence your work in a bad way, because what happens is you start changing the proposal without a real reason, making it worse actually.

I have somewhat overcome this (I still experience it from time to time) by making sure the foundation of my work is sound and that I personally like the outcome – because if you don’t like it yourself, there’s a big chance no-one else will like it either. Also, getting better at your job and accumulating experience will increase your confidence, so even if someone doesn’t like your work and gives a bad feedback, you can fight back with good arguments and ideas that come from experience and gut feeling, challenging the client’s feedback. I know this is very specific stuff, from a specific industry, but maybe you can extrapolate it to a more general business model.

cliff
Cliff Ravenscraft
My greatest confidence issue that I’ve faced in my business was pricing. Especially when I’m offering a new product or service that I’ve never offered before. Questions like, am I good enough, will believe believe I’m worth this price, etc?

I overcame these fears by putting my new products out there with a price that was just beyond my comfort zone and allowing my clients to tell me that I should be charging much more than I charged them. In every product or service I’ve ever offered, I’ve ended up more than doubling the price of what I originally charged. It was putting myself out there and not failing that gave me the confidence to grow in this area.

yaro
Yaro Starak
My main confidence issues originally stemmed from being so different to everyone else around me. All my peers went on from school to university to jobs. I had no desire to get a job, and I knew I wanted to be my own boss, but without any local role models it was difficult to believe I could pay my bills with my own business one day.

I have to admit during the first few years out of university I was very lost and had little confidence. However as I started to get results and slowly generated enough money to live independently I realised what I was doing was so much better than anyone else around me. Eventually I became proud of being an entrepreneur, and people came to me asking how I did it.

I learned an important concept I call the “success ladder,” which is one tool that can give you confidence, step-by-step, as you strive towards full independence as an entrepreneur.

The success ladder is a simple idea – you celebrate each step forward and use it as the building block for the next step. When you apply this principle every day, you see how the small tasks you complete lead to bigger results. It becomes stronger and stronger as more results come your way, until you reach a point where you feel as if your results are inevitable – a very powerful form of inner confidence.

Danny Iny
Danny Iny
map5-rev

Getting instant confidence

What would be the one thing to do right now to gain some instant confidence in your business?
Demian
Demian Farnworth
Shoot low. Set some easy to achieve goal. Knock it out, and do it again. Those small success will build your confidence.
Jaime
Jaime Tardy
One thing I LOVED to do, was to have all of the kudos, testimonials, etc in one place. When I wasn’t feeling confident I would go back and read those. They were amazing people singing my praises, and while I was hard on myself – it was easy to see how much value those people got out of working together.
Bogdan-Condurache
Bogdan Condurache
The one thing i did was to make sure we built a product that people need and want. If you have something that people want, in our case great looking and perfectly working websites, you build a client base that appreciates your work and buys your stuff. And with this appreciation comes confidence, you start feeling more secure, more sure of your decisions and ultimately more successful. As i said earlier, having great foundations, like passion and skills for what you do, is the key to being confident and having a successful business.
yaro
Yaro Starak
Do something. I learned a long time ago that you must focus on output – on creation, not just consumption. Consuming things, whether education, or entertainment, will not lead to an outcome. Only creating things for the consumption of other people leads to the results you want, so get out there and create something for other people.
risley
David Risley
Generate your first dollar. From there, it gets easier.
Mike McDerment
Mike McDerment
This is a tough one – it really is a question that varies company by company, person by person, day by day. The answers for me have evolved over the years because the measures of progress have. To begin, it was customer validation in the form of feedback. Then it evolved into watching product usage, and eventually in time it was revenue added. But normally what gives me confidence are subjective things. For example, I get fired up when we hire someone awesome and see them getting ramped up on our business. That gives me confidence, because I know a super capable performer is going to be applying themselves to making FreshBooks a great company for other FreshBookers and our customers.
map5

Being a successful entrepreneur

Is it possible to be a successful entrepreneur without being confident?
John Lee Dumas
John Lee Dumas
Mike McDerment
Mike McDerment
One of the best things I ever read – sadly I can’t remember where – is that every “successful” person has had moments where they have doubted themselves and felt like a failure at the very moment the world is exalting their “success.” I know I’ve had moments where everyone around me thinks “this is a big success” and is patting me on the back, but for me it’s not like that – all I can see is the work ahead and it’s daunting.

So I guess what I take from this is, successful or not, we are all human – we have moments of doubt and fear. I think there is a tendency to believe this is not true of “successful” people. What I’d say to those who aren’t feeling confident is, that those internal demons are a source of motivation. Control them. Channel them. But don’t for a second think you are the only one. You are not the only explorer of the terrain you are on, and as lonely as the path of building a company can be, you have to keep that in mind and just focus on what delivering on the things under your control.

Adam-Connell
Adam Connell
I believe it is.

In some cases I’ve known people to turn their lack of confidence into a positive attribute and go on to do great things purely by striving to do better.

And for others, the confidence comes along when achieving success.

Wow, that was a lot of information to take in all at once! I’ll let you process this in peace, but remember to take action on what you’ve learned here as soon as possible.

Also, are there any confidence issues you’re experiencing right now? What one thing are you planning to do ASAP to solve this issue?

 In the meantime, don’t forget to share this with whoever might consider the information inspiring. 

More cool resources just like this in your inbox.
+ Exclusive content not available elsewhere.

Similar articles

13 Successful Entrepreneurs Share How to Gain Confidence When Starting an Online Business | NewInternetOrder.com

3300+ Words Worth of Non-Obvious Marketing Tactics That Work

Karol K.

3300-featured

3300-featured
Shhh! …

What follows is something you surely haven’t heard before! In order to truly grow your business you need to:

Step #1
Step #2
Step #3
Step #4
Step #5

Okay okay, just kidding. These – and similar ideas – have truly been beaten down to death on the web as it is. Really, how much Facebook marketing advice does the world need?

But I digress, so let’s get back on track!

 
… scroll down for 14 non-obvious marketing tactics that work …
What I have for you here is a set of marketing tactics that are hopefully not that obvious. (Although, it’s very likely that you’ve heard of some of them before.) But what’s more important is that not all of them come from me.

I’ve been kind of fascinated with this topic lately. So I’ve decided to do a bit more research and find some truly inspiring stuff, which I can then expand upon and share here. So, the ideas themselves are something I’ve stolen from the likes of Neil Patel, Forbes magazine, Jeremy Clarkson, John Jantsch, and a bunch of other people.

1. Be a true-blood guy (or gal)

mma

Everyone’s way too nice on the web these days if you ask me!

No, wait. This doesn’t sound right.

Anyway, what I mean is that there’s a general belief circulating around that we should always be nice to all people (no matter what they say about us) and that if we have a critical – yet not fact-based – opinion, we should keep it to ourselves.

Bollocks.

This works against the one thing we probably all want to achieve – getting our personal brand across.

For the life of me, I can’t remember who said it, but it was something to the tune of:

‘People come for information, they stay for personality.’ – Who said this?
Click To Tweet

And the problem is that if you want to be all things to all people, you will probably end up attracting no one.

Jeremy_Clarkson
Jeremy Clarkson (twitter) is a great example here. He’s built the popularity of his show – Top Gear – to a worldwide phenomenon. Do people watch it for the cars? Sure, some of them do. But most of them watch it because it’s incredibly entertaining, and cars just play a supporting role (Oscar worthy role, but still).

For example, here’s what he once said about Sarah Jessica Parker:

“People think ‘oh she must be pretty, she’s on television’. She isn’t – she looks like a boiled horse.

Did he offend some people? Probably so. Did he make thousands of people around the world laugh? For sure.

So what I’m trying to convey is this: Be real. If you want to say something, say it. It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission.

More cool resources just like this in your inbox.
Let’s grow our businesses together!

2. Create products and give them away for free

salesman

I should clarify. If you’re in the physical products business then it’s probably more difficult to give those away for free. Like, for example, giving away shoes or refrigerators. But in the digital market, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t.

Let’s take a look at what happened with Quick Sprout a while ago. Previously, the site’s homepage was the blog (I think). Now, there’s an online SEO tool.

Neil – the founder of the site – said that the tool cost him $100,000, yet he decided to make it available for free.

Wow!

And yes, he did make it profitable eventually. Neil has a great funnel set up in the background. In short, everyone who visits the tool is also exposed to Neil’s Pro membership.

qs

Although Neil is clearly far ahead, I can mention a small success of my own too. It’s my Social Share Starter plugin. Since its release, it has generated hundreds of new subscribers and opened a couple of doors for me in terms of WordPress software projects.

“Free is the most powerful word in the English language.”

3. Break the pattern by publishing unusual content

pattern

At one point, virtually all websites hit a plateau and become predictable.

And don’t get me wrong, in a way, predictability is a good thing, especially if your content is predictably exceptional.

However, introducing something new every once in a while and breaking the pattern, so to speak, can work even better.

Here are some ideas:

  • If you’re known for publishing ultra-long content, publish an image post with a quote on it and no additional text whatsoever. See how it goes, how many shares it gets, and so on. Like this one:
you are right
  • If you’re mainly publishing text-only posts, try investing in an infographic.
  • If you’re publishing just your own perspective on things, try inviting someone who has a reputation in your niche and do an interview.
  • Need more ideas? Try either of these 52.

The idea behind this is to check if what you’re currently doing really is the best use of your publishing calendar, and if maybe your audience would actually resonate with something else even more.

This knowledge is something you can only get through experimentation. No case study on the web will give you reliable data whether you should or shouldn’t try Technique X in your content game.

4. Focus on just the essential info and invoke curiosity

curious

We often feel the urge to go into incredible detail when describing our services, products, or the thing we do for a living in general.

As it turns out, this doesn’t always work. Actually scratch that; it rarely works. The thing is that people don’t really need all that information when making a purchase decision.

For example, consider the following. Do you know what components your iPhone was built with? Do you know what’s the processor, who’s the RAM manufacturer, how many mAh does the battery have, and so on?

Most likely, unless you’re an iPhone freak, you have no clue, yet you still wanted to buy it when it came out.

Your clients only need to know the essentials – how your product is going to enrich their lives.
It’s a similar story with all kinds of products. Your clients only need to know the essentials – how your product is going to enrich their lives.

And it’s not just me talking here. Neil Patel reports this to be the case as well. At one point, he shared that changing the landing page on his private site from long-form, in-depth content, to just the essential short form has given him 318 percent more leads.

It’s kind of sad, but people really don’t care about us or our stories. The only thing they want to know is how your content can benefit them. (Or maybe that’s not sad at all?)

5. Dedicate just as much time to writing your headlines as you do to writing your content

headlines

Okay, I’m exaggerating a bit. But please bear with me.

It’s a known fact in the world of publishing that headlines account for around 80 percent of a given publication’s success.

What this means in plain English is that headlines are more important than content. And it makes sense when you look at it.

At the end of the day, if your headline isn’t a success, no one will even get to your actual content.

So here’s what I encourage you to do:

Write 25 different headlines for every piece of content you create.

Sounds crazy, doesn’t it?

This is not my idea, and to tell you the truth I was also shocked when I first saw it.

The reasoning behind it is that writing the first 5 headlines is ultra-easy. Writing the next 10 gets difficult, but you can still get through it. However, writing that final 10 will get you bleed through your fingertips.

It’s those final 10 headlines that can give you some gems – things that are not obvious at all. Things that you’d have never come up with if you hadn’t used all the common ideas on the first 15 headlines.

The secret is that people tend to resonate with things that break certain patterns.

6. Steal ideas from Reddit

reddit

Reddit isn’t called the front page of the internet for no reason. It’s also the best way to waste a Saturday afternoon, but that’s another story.

Reddit is an extraordinary source of content ideas that are interesting to people at this very moment. Now, I don’t encourage you to steal content in any shape or form. But I do encourage you to steal ideas. So if something works on Reddit, maybe it can work in some other form on your site as well.

Here’s how you can implement this:

  1. Look for things that are fast growing in popularity.
  2. Try identifying something about them that you would be able to do or present better.
  3. Release your own version.

I know that such a description is a bit generic, but I leave it up to you to find exact applications.

I will give you an example though. Here’s a popular entry from Reddit’s DIY section: http://imgur.com/a/fD4e4. It’s a guitar-shaped cat playground. The idea is great. The execution is okay-ish. But for someone in the carpentry business, building something that’s of better quality shouldn’t be a problem.

7. Invest in relationships with potential clients by doing free work

free hugs

First off, I like getting paid for what I do just as much as the next guy. That being said, it’s kind of impossible to make every hour of your work billable, especially if you’re just starting out.

The big problem here is trust, or lack thereof.

In other words, people don’t really trust your expertise enough to pay you for your services if you’re new to the market. To overcome this, you can do either of two things:

(a) Offer your services really cheap – so your clients don’t have to trust you all that much because the investment is small.
Not recommended.
(b) Offer your services for free.
Recommended.
The trick here is that if you start by offering your services cheaply, you will find it very hard to increase your rates later on – the clients will resent it.

On the other hand, if you start offering your services for free, people will understand that it’s not a permanent thing, and that you are likely to ask for money pretty soon.

However, what’s different now is that you’ve already built trust with them and proven that you can deliver results. This entitles you to ask for higher rates.

Speaking from my personal experience, offering free advice is what got me most of my initial freelance writing gigs. I talked about it in one of my guest posts at Be a Freelance Blogger.

8. Be a show off

ferrari

Note. Showing off isn’t in all people’s nature. And there’s nothing worse than a pretender who wants to show off but doesn’t really know how or why, so they just end up looking cheesy. So in short, if you don’t feel confident showing off, please skip this point.

Showing off is a very interesting marketing and promotion method. On one hand, it’s very easy to appear like a jack ass who’s just bragging about a new watch or some other gizmo. But on the other hand, it can reinforce your message and present a specific persona that resonates with your audience’s wants.

This can work especially well if you’re in the coaching business, or in consulting. The idea is to make people think, even subconsciously, “Hey, this guy has what I want to have. Maybe if I listen to what he has to say, I’ll get there too!”

Whether it’s a valid thought or not is another thing.

9. Reuse your existing results

recycle

During the course of your online career, you will naturally have better and worse days, better and worse content, that’s only natural.

But there’s always a small set of posts or articles that did exceptionally well and gave you big recognition. Maybe they even continue bringing consistent traffic through Google today.

So first of all, by all means, go out and find those articles. And then reuse them as a marketing tool.

A man much wiser than me once said that it’s easier to improve something that already works, than it is to build up something that doesn’t.

I couldn’t agree more!

Here’s what you can do exactly to reuse some of your best content:

Step #0

Well, you need to identify this content first. So go to your Google Analytics or Clicky (my preferred tool) and see which posts are the most visited ones on your site. Also, check for your most commented posts (you can sort posts in WordPress by the number of comments) and the ones that have brought in the most social media shares (you can do this via the Social Metrics plugin).
Make sure that there’s a specific call to action under each of these posts/pages. Either invite people to join your newsletter, download your thing, or buy your product (whatever it is you do).
Step #1

Step #2

Erase all distractions from the page. I encourage you to focus on convincing the visitor to do one specific thing. For example, if that thing is newsletter subscription then try making the subscription form the only possible route out of the page. Get rid of sidebars, and if it’s possible, get rid of the top menu as well.
Build additional internal links from other posts on your site to those that bring the most results. This way, you should be able to improve those results even more. After all, your popular stuff is popular for a reason, so if you manage to get more eyeballs on it, people are likely to start sharing and resonating with it more than with your average post.
Step #3

10. Guest post with a purpose

writing

Guest blogging is a very popular promotion method these days, I give you that. However, not many people use it as an actual element of their business.

Here’s what I mean. Every day, I see tens of guest posts where people link to their generic websites (from the bio boxes) or social media profiles. I’m sure this gets them some traffic and recognition. But at the same time, they’re leaving a lot on the table.

(I need to be honest with you and admit that I was just as guilty of doing this as anyone else.)

To give you a good example of things done right, consider this post by Milica Pantic. She explains how she makes money from guest posts directly.

In short, it’s all about these four main elements (in that order):

mitz
  • Picking what you want to promote with your guest post.
  • Deciding what you can write about to pre-qualify the people that are your target group.
  • Figuring out how you can point them to what you want to promote.
  • Finding the best place where to publish your post to reach the exact target group you’re looking for.

The main reason why guest posts are great for this sort of promotion is because you get to position yourself in front of any audience you wish. You just need to find the right website. There aren’t many advertising methods that give you this opportunity.

11. Try local offline marketing

mainstreet

Everybody’s hot about promoting their businesses on the web these days, and rightfully so. However, we shouldn’t forget about all the offline possibilities that are still there and can work exceptionally well.

What’s even better, oftentimes, they are really cheap to execute too. Literally, all you need is some creativity and a bit of time on Saturday.

Here are some of the cleverer things I heard people doing:

Leaving stickers in random places like bars, cafes, public spaces, basically anywhere where other people hang out.
Using chalk to advertise on sidewalks.
Donating branded bookmarks to libraries.
Leaving branded pens at places like banks, post offices, or any other place where people sign their names on pieces of paper. The idea is that the staff won’t notice everyone’s using the wrong pen…
Using sticky notes wherever it makes sense around town.
Printing out beer coasters and leaving them in your local bar.
Leaving your business cards everywhere. Trying places like public bulletin boards, restaurants (along with your tip), inside books at the library, and of course, when you meet a new person.

12. Find, and get on board with existing giveaways

giveaway

The web is chock full of various giveaways these days. And this is especially valid for all kinds of digital products. Be it plugins, WordPress themes, short e-courses or memberships, e-books, icon packs, you name it. People are ready to give them away left and right.
find giveaways that are related to your niche, then add one of your products to the giveaway
What you can do to capitalize on this trend is find giveaways that are in some way related to your niche and website. The best case scenario is finding something that’s directly in your niche, but if that’s not possible, then go one step up.
For example, if you’re in dog training, there might not be a specific dog training giveaway going on, but there probably are some giveaways or even contests focusing on dog owners in general. Maybe someone’s giving away leashes, treats, or some other dog-related stuff.

There’s nothing holding you back from picking one product from your own offer, and adding it to the giveaway. That way, you’re piggybacking off the giveaway’s popularity by itself. It requires almost no marketing on your part whatsoever.

Of course, the difficult part is contacting the giveaway’s managers and convincing them to include your stuff.

13. Supervise everything

supervise

Granted, this is a very counterintuitive piece of advice.

In today’s world, countless experts preach the idea of outsourcing and finding other people to do some of your tasks for you. (By the way, I’m generally preaching it too.)

But the thing we need to keep in mind is that we shouldn’t ever let anyone take over a whole department of our business for us.

For instance, let’s use content as an example. When you first started out, you likely created all of the content yourself. But as you grow, you might get tempted to invite other people on board – to hire help. This is all great and it’s actually the direction you should aim for. However, you should still be the person who’s making the top-level decisions.
be the person who’s making the top-level decisions
The thing is that as you build up your site’s presence, people come and identify with your content. They come to read “you” primarily.

This is a relationship very easy to lose if you disconnect yourself from the publishing process later on. Whoever you hire, will always have their own ideas and ways of handling things. And while you do want to get the most out of their expertise and skill, you need to be very careful not to lose that unique touch that only you can provide.

And this goes for all kinds of tasks you’re doing in your business.

So all of my rambling boils down to this:

Be the decision maker. Don’t assume that others will be better at it than you.

14. Be persistent

persistent

Let’s end this list with the simplest advice possible, yet at the same time, something that makes all the difference in our marketing efforts, and basically in anything we do in life.
Being persistent is what makes you successful.

Not talent.

Not hard work.
(If hard work paid off, slaves would be the richest people on the planet.)

Not connections.

It’s persistence.

You maybe know this story, but let me tell you about Michael Jordan.

Jordan was not accepted on his high school basketball team. This may not sound like a big deal, but what it actually means is that he was not a talented kid. I mean, clearly, no trainer in the world would say no to a talented young player who wants to be on their team.

Yet despite not being talented he became the biggest star in basketball history.

He did it because he was persistent.

Michael Jordan at Boston Garden
He even summarized this in one of his famous quotes:

I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.

Let me end this post with this. If you don’t believe me, believe Michael Jordan.

Be persistent. Fail forward. Fail to succeed.
Click To Tweet

More cool resources just like this in your inbox.
Let’s grow our businesses together!

Photo credits: superwebdeveloper / CC BY 2.0, Steve Sutherland / CC BY 2.0, wwarby / CC BY 2.0, ankakay / CC BY 2.0, stevenritzer / CC BY 2.0, mhauri / CC BY 2.0, gfreeman23 / CC BY 2.0, lydiashiningbrightly / CC BY 2.0, alisonchristine / CC BY 2.0, Hedgehog Fibres / CC BY 2.0, mario-mancuso / CC BY 2.0, jdhancock / CC BY 2.0, http://www.freevintageposters.com/2013/01/the-adam-forepaugh-sells-brothers_15.html

Similar articles

3300+ Words Worth of Non-Obvious Marketing Tactics That Work | NewInternetOrder.com

1 Simplistically Simple Way to Simplify Your To-Do List (Hint: It Involves the -P-)

Karol K.

simplify

simplify

I need to confess something to you.

Remember the big comparison feature I did on the top productivity / to-do tools out there?

Well, shortly after publishing it, I went all the way back to full caveman style, handling my to-do lists on paper. You know, as in dead trees. Not an app called Paper or whatever.

So yeah, pretty offline. Actually as offline as it can get.

But why?

 

The superiority of paper

Quite randomly, I stumbled upon this video by Neville from AppSumo -»

His method – using just a legal pad – seemed like an efficient and interesting one, so I’ve decided to give it a go.

And boy was I in love with it from literally task one!

If I were to point out a single reason why paper to-dos still manage to be more efficient than apps, it would have to be the simplicity of paper.

When you look at it, a to-do list shouldn’t have a big learning curve. You should just be able to use it right away because in the grand scheme of things, the to-do list itself is not important. It’s the tasks that are listed on it that are important.

Paper is something everyone can use, and with some general guidelines, they can use it very effectively. There’s very little learning curve.

 

The problems with apps

Apart from the steep learning curve of most apps, there’s also something that’s potentially even more problematic.

And that is the implied encouragement to cramp your list with 10-20 tasks at a time (for a single day’s worth of work).

It’s the design of the screen, the structure, and the functionality that encourages us to do so.

Paper has very little learning curve. #to-do #productivity
Click To Tweet

Just look at the following example. It’s my all-time-favorite app for to-dos – Remember The Milk (by the way, it’s still THE top app in my opinion, so if you’d like to stay with apps, I strongly encourage you to test it out):

rtm

This’s been taken on a 1920p HD screen. Just notice how much space there is. The app is literally begging for you to fill it out with more and more tasks.

This isn’t healthy.

And it sure as hell ain’t productive.

There’s no such problem with paper. You can only fit so much stuff on a piece of paper.

 
 

Why you shouldn’t have too many tasks on your list

So you can pretty much already see where I’m going with this whole message. It’s this:

 

The main idea is to not have too many tasks on your to-do list.

 

I don’t know why that’s the case; maybe it’s human nature or something, but chances are that if you have 15+ tasks on your list, you will do almost next to nothing during that day.

But if you have just, say, five then you’re very likely to take care of them all.

 
 

“But Karol, I have to do more during my day than just five things!”

-says you.

Okay, I get that … but you’re wrong.

And please don’t get all defensive with me; I was there too!

I too thought that I needed to handle 15+ things at the minimum each day, or the world would stahhppp!

However, every interview and every podcast I listened to kept trying to teach me otherwise. I mean, there were all those successful business people on the air talking about pretty much the same productivity method again and again. It went something like this:
 

Have just one crucial task per day – the task that needs to be done no matter what. And apart from that have only 2-4 more side tasks.
Don’t do anything that doesn’t get you closer to your goals, and don’t add more tasks after you’re done with the initial set.

 
Now here’s the thing – and also the thought I had in the back of my head – if those uber-successful people can build their legacy on just 3-5 tasks per day then why can’t I, damn it?!

Or maybe I can?

Eventually, and inevitably, I’ve decided to give this a go. And guess what, it does work!

I’m way more productive doing just 3-5 tasks every day than I’ve ever been trying to plan for 10+.

Join the #productivity challenge – just 3-5 important tasks every day, no more!
Click To Tweet

 
 

The paper to-do solution

So finally, after friggin’ 700 words of introduction, here’s one of the two productivity solutions I want to share with you.

(The other one will go live as a guest post shortly, I will keep you informed. I know that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, so I want to give you two alternatives. Both paper-based and both effective.)

The one I have for you here is called:

 

the daily action cards (or the daily task cards)

 
The idea is to follow the process that’s used in most restaurants. I know, weird, but hear me out.

In a restaurant, there’s often an area called the pass. It’s where the final plating is done, and it’s also where you can find the check rail. Looks like this -»

rail
So with the daily action cards, we’re creating something very similar. Here’s my actual setup with the task rail:

 

card2
card1
Each card represents a single (yet not all that simple) task. When the task is done, the card can be discarded or kept for reference.

Let’s break down an individual card:

 

task card
Here’s the download link for the printouts (no opt-in … but please do opt in if you like this stuff; I have way more goodies waiting on the other side).

It’s a PDF. Just print it out on a standard A4 sheet of paper. Each page holds 6 cards.

cards5

 Looking for some online business advice for normal people
and more resources just like this one? Jump in. 

By the way, when doing my research, I found that Dave Seah designed something similar a couple of years ago. Feel free to check it out if my version is not 100 percent up your alley.

Similar articles

1 Simplistically Simple Way to Simplify Your To-Do List (Hint: It Involves the -P-) | NewInternetOrder.com