It is next to impossible to monetize something on the Internet. You can try to stir up controversy and sometimes you can try the direct marketing approach. Unfortunately the approach below only works if you have shaved your head bald and your customers are all named Joey. Fortunately, my hair has grown back somewhat and there are other, better ways to do marketing.
First, don’t try to be something you aren’t. I wish I could write romantic fiction because if you are good at that you can make a lot of money. I don’t have the chops for it. You’ll note that none of my books are romantic fiction though I have dabbled with children’s fiction and young adult horror. The reason I have written fiction books is because I think (and I have been told) that I am pretty good at it. Well, I’ve actually been told that my first book was kind of quick and the second one is better, but they both are part of an overall series. But I digress….
Second, There is money to be made if your niche is big enough. Everybody is good at something. The question is can you monetize what you are good at. If you are good at more than one thing, like I am (ahem, hey it is my blog and I can leave modesty at the door), try and pick the one or two things to focus in on so you don’t waste your energy.
Third, expect to be an overnight success after several years of work. It is rare that you will get the instant monetary recognition or even fame that you want right out of the chute. Remember, people may be tickled by a novelty but will they stick around and buy anything from you? Only if you can show them that you have something to say that hasn’t been said before or you are showing them how to make some money.
Fourth, watch your costs in terms of money and time. Sure it is fun to be able to take an ad out in the American Super Bowl if you have a few million dollars. Will that really translate to sales though? The flip side is all that time you are using to make domino art, as cool as it looks, will it help you get gigs setting up falling domino exhibitions around the world? You can be the judge of that stuff yourself.
Fifth, whatever you do, be prepared in your business to be able to work the market so you don’t end up having to close up shop so early. And be sure that you don’t end up having so small a niche that you will be limiting yourself in your market.
Unless your market is everybody who has a name of Joey.
Questions or comments? Please post them below.
Kim Greenblatt
This profitable blog talks about getting attention, keeping attention and monetizing it!