Is This Launch Myth Costing You Big Time?

Quick question: when you hear the world “launch” in the context of your business, what do you think of?

If you’re like many solopreneurs building a business online, you think of a Launch-with-a-capitol-L: affiliate partners all promoting for you, a list of thousands, hitting the “send” button on the fateful email with the link to your order page and your inbox overflowing with orders as the stampede of hungry clients hits….

Well, I hate to be the one to burst any bubbles, but… it doesn’t quite work that way.  As you may know all too well if you’ve ever tried to launch a new program and didn’t get the results you were expecting.  (Believe me, I have been there, done that.)

I think of a launch this way: A launch is simply a marketing campaign to enroll your desired number of clients into your upcoming program. You can substitute selling a product for enrolling a program, if that’s what you’re up to.

The myth I see so many spirit-rich entrepreneurs falling for is that you have to have all this “stuff” (a big list, JV partners, affiliates out the wazoo) to have a successful launch.  This belief costs them BIG time: waiting until they have a bigger list, putting all their eggs in the launch basket (otherwise known as “If this doesn’t work, I’m screwed!”), spending lots of time/energy/money when there’s an easier way, and more.

Here are 3 things you DO need in order to successfully fill your next program:

1.  A decision to create the outcome you want and a commitment to serve your clients. As with manifesting anything in your business and life, a successful launch requires you to make a clear and powerful decision.  Your decision should include:

• How many clients do you want to serve?
• At what investment point?
• How much money do you want to create?
• When will your program be full?

You want to be very clear about these numbers before you get started.  As with Bold Goals, be realistic and stretch yourself.  Remember that not every launch has to be a big payday – if your goal is to just enroll a few clients in a slow month, that’s fine!  But make a decision, and be sure it includes numbers.

2. A group of people with whom you are in conversation. No, you don’t need a big list to successfully fill a program!  What you DO need is people to talk to.  The good news is, you can get into conversation with people right away, even if you don’t have a list.

To start, reach out to the key people in your existing network (and you DO have a network, even if it’s only friends and family to start).  Next, select some key networking events where your clients are sure to be.  Line up some opportunities where you can connect with people and share your message. Recognize that every gathering is an opportunity to share your message in an authentic way.

If you do have an existing list and communicate with your peeps regularly (think once per week), great!  If you’re not in touch with them very often, now is the time to start.

Yes, this might mean getting over being shy or a fear of emailing too much.  Which leads me directly to the 3^rd thing you’ll need for a successful launch…

3. A willingness to move beyond your comfort zone. Otherwise known as “getting uncomfortable.”

Are you willing to send that extra email to encourage more people to sign up for your preview call, or are you afraid you’ll upset someone (or they’ll all unsubscribe)?  Are you willing to have an open, authentic 1-on-1 conversation with a potential client to find out if your program is a fit for them?  Are you willing to pick up the phone and call the client you know would benefit and would love to work with, and invite them personally, from the heart?

If you want to fill your programs, you MUST be willing to go beyond where you stop and do what it takes.  Remember, you’re not asking your peeps for money for nothing – ultimately, your program is about being of service to them.  When your “come from” is one of service, and you act boldly and with sincerity, you can take fearless action and remain in the utmost of integrity.

© 2010 Elizabeth Genco Purvis.  All Rights Reserved.

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Elizabeth Genco Purvis, “The Marketing Goddess” teaches spirited solo business owners and conscious entrepreneurs how to attract an abundance of clients, income, freedom and satisfaction in their business while staying true to their values.  Visit MarketingGoddess.com to claim your copy of “Grow Your Business With Spirit And Soul,” a 7-part audio workshop with everything you need to begin attracting more clients right away.