It seems to be completely mad when you look at it from the perspective of cash generation, but there is a very effective trend evolving on the internet - Give your content away for free.

Some of the internet industrys’ top Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Gurus are strong proponents of this philosophy.

In 2004, John Reese, a web entrepreneur and online marketing specialist made internet history - he made over $1mn in 24 hours. On his website, milliondollarday.com, he outlines how he achieved it. The main points that he outlines are:

1. ABUNDANCE - giving away lots of free content, often
2. ALWAYS OVERDELIVER - always give more than is expected
3. ANTICIPATION - anticipation increases response
4. GENEROSITY - give something above and beyond what is expected
5. SOCIAL PROOF - give customers feedback channels for the product - this encourages confidence in other consumers
6. FAITH - believe in yourself, and what you are doing

Take what you will from these six key motivators. Bear in mind though, that it made John Reese a millionaire in 24 hours!

The systematic dissemination of free content builds credibility and makes people think “If they’re giving this great content away for free, then what is the product I’m buying? It MUST be good!” Try it, and follow up with some paid products.

Another SEM guru, Ben Mac, suggests always thinking two products ahead. But that’s another article!