My name is Matthew Bredel and as of March, 2007, I am a full-time, work-at-home internet marketer.
For close to 10 years, I worked for a defense company which was an OK job, but I was so uninspired in life and frankly, I needed some more money. That is when I first discovered internet marketing! Now I admit that I didn't start making thousands in my first couple of months (in fact, I lost my shirt!), but I finally saw the "internet light"...
(A quick digression from the Frustrated Affiliate Marketer)
So here I am, sitting in San Diego Airport waiting for my delayed flight on Delta to finally arrive (I really do not like Delta, but they are only one of two that goes directly to Atlanta). Thanks goodness for Free Wi-Fi at San Diego Airport. I am [...]
(A quick digression from the Frustrated Affiliate Marketer)
So here I am, sitting in San Diego Airport waiting for my delayed flight on Delta to finally arrive (I really do not like Delta, but they are only one of two that goes directly to Atlanta). Thanks goodness for Free Wi-Fi at San Diego Airport. I am getting ready to head off to my quarterly StomperNet Live event and the question I need to ask myself is: Are these conferences worth it?
- The personal cost?
- Having to leave the family for four days?
- Not getting much “real work” done?
And I am not just referring to StomperNet Live. There are tons of these conferences always going on. There are the Affiliate Summits and the Web 2.0 Seminar and eBay Live! and all of those Rich Jerk Playboy mansion seminars.
- Is spending the thousands of dollars to go to these things really worth it?
Well, you probably already figured my answered would be yes considering this is the fourth StomperNet Conference I have been to (and I recently just wrote about eBay Live). But what am I getting out this it?
Is it the speakers?
Actually, the speakers and content at most of these events are usually pretty good. I go there and learn quite a lot. And it is a great way to keep yourself current in the industry. Still, I could probably buy a video of the conference at a later date for a fraction of the cost.
Is it the “energy”?
I love this one! People always want to sell you on the “energy” that comes with going to the conferences. Yes, it does give you a bit of a mental pick-me-up and you do usually leave with the feeling that you are going to be a millionaire within the next 30 days (especially if you buy the 8 products that were pitched throughout the event). But still, energy is a bit over-rated. It may motivate you a little bit, but I really could do without it.
The Networking?
Bingo! And let me tell you, I am a fairly quiet person. I am not very out-going. I usually like to keep to myself. And being effective at networking does not mean that you need to go to a conference and try to meet everyone or give everyone a business card (I’ve tried it and it sucks…and people who do it to me kind of annoy me, too). I usually go into these conferences now with a strategic networking plan. From participating in forums, for example, I know the people that can help me and I want to meet. And once that person puts your name to a fast, things can grow fast!
I have discussed whether or not StomperNet was worth the $800/month in the past. If it was not for the conferences, no it would not have been worth it. But the relationships, partners and JV’s that I have established just through this program IS the reason why I no longer have a day time job. Those people who are members and do not attend are wasting their money. And next time you get an invite to a big conference, you may want to think twice about attending. Is $2000 worth the price to meet that one person who can take you “to the next level”?
- Matthew Bredel
|
Don't Buy Another Money Making Product Until You Watch These FREE Videos! |
Matt good post on conferences. There is a growing number of internet marketers who have had it with these highly overrated, overpriced conferences. What is wrong with this picture? $1,500 down and $500 per month for a coaching conference/program that almost promises you will earn $5,000 per month? This week one of the highest earning guru’s of these programs admits that a recent survey shows 96% of internet marketers make less than $500 per month. Not many millionaires in this survey?
Get this a new SEO home study course launch this week
guarantees each member a one-on-one session with their “star” teacher? Never mind they sold over 500 or more memberships. Nobody wants to say it, but most of this activity is a pressure-pot of “get rich quick” schemes.
September 14th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Hi Matt,
Great post! Thanks. Yes, we often get caught up with the hype of a conference and our expectations. I think that you have made the point quite clear about the networking with others. It means so much more to have participated in forums and then be able to put a face to the name. This other exchanging biz cards for exchange sake doesn’t work! The last conference I attended, some of us had the opportunity to pitch our idea/book to a professional. My experience was this: I gave my pitch, then I was asked: “Why are you here?” He then proceeded to tell me about the book that he had published and the whole thing left me feeling cheated. Cheated of my time, my energy, and my passion! But, hey, that’s okay, because what goes around, comes around. I continue to enjoy your reviews, Matt and your NetWebVideo membership site. Enjoy the conference!
September 15th, 2007 at 2:52 pm