• It’s amazing to me the number of business owners that think free is a terrible thing. What they don’t realize is it will do them good. Thanks for sharing this post.

    • Thanks for coming by this evening, Corrie ~

      I don’t quite understand it myself. But I’ve been aware for a long time that some marketers just can’t get away from thinking that “free” is equal to cheap or cheesy. It’s not! It’s actually a very smart marketing “ice breaker” and relationship builder.

      Hope you’re having a great weekend,
      Melanie

  • LOL! I just love your sense of humor, Melanie. Dental floss budget. HaHa! You always seem to make me smile and/or giggle, which today is a very welcome thing. It’s been a long week. Thanks for lightening up my mood. Hugs!

    • I know what you mean about a LONG week, Deb! This particular week has been EXTRA long and it’s finally Friday night. Just got home from work and looking forward to the weekend.

      Glad you got a little giggle today from my post! 🙂 If I can manage to lighten up anyone’s mood, I feel truly successful! Be sure to look for my post on Sunday (hint: it’s about laughter).

      Hugs back at ya!
      Melanie

  • Greta post Melanie,

    You are so right I use to think of free as something that people did not attach much value to when on the internet, but it could be the opportunity for a prospective client to sample you before they deiced to buy. Free is the first step and the know and like you process for a new visitor to your site.

    I will be sure to add an opt-in box to my site and offer something free that my visitors will enjoy.

    Kevin #blog30

    • And when you get that opt-in box on your web page, Kevin, you’re going to find my name in it!

      Free IS the first step. It’s actually a wonderful way for people to get to know us a bit better, examine our style and personality, and (hopefully) decide to continue the relationship!

      Have a glorious weekend,
      Melanie

  • There’s lots of free goodies and info out there and I love being able to get reports as a no-charge intro to what someone is offering. I also offer free gifts at my sites. I think people have come to expect that they will get something for nothing when they sign up at an optin list, so those who don’t like the “freebies” idea might want to rethink their marketing! 🙂
    Thanks for another thoughtful post, Melanie.
    Evelyn

    • Hey Evelyn!

      You’re right. Solo professionals who “discount” (FREE) are missing out on a prime time opportunity to begin that all-important relationship-building process!

      Write On!
      Melanie

  • annettenack

    RT @MelanieKissell: @JeanetteCates FREE Is Not A Four-Letter Word https://www.melaniekissell.com/2010/06/fr… #blog30

  • JeanetteCates

    RT @MelanieKissell: @JeanetteCates FREE Is Not A Four-Letter Word https://www.melaniekissell.com/2010/06/fr… #blog30

  • Melanie

    The concept of free is a beautiful thing. I know and hear from the guru’s telling others not to give the store away. What’s that all about. The more you give away then the more people find out about your service and they begin to know, like and trust you. Eventually, they will sign up for your services. I am a big proponent of free. I like to try before I buy and if I like I will spend money on you.

    • Jane ~

      It’s wonderful to meet another proponent of “free”. Anytime you give someone a chance to sample your work, you are putting yourself in a position to out-shine your competitors!

      LOVE that you’re incorporating audios into your blogging and marketing strategy – HOORAY for you! 🙂 You have a beautiful, engaging voice.

      Thank you for sharing your thoughts here today,
      Melanie