Every year, I like to give my “semi-famous” predictions for what will be HOT in the next year. And A LOT of people take these predictions very seriously (because they are usually correct!).
Last year, my big 3 predictions were 1) The rise of the personal brand, 2) The year of Continuity Income, and 3) More opportunities for “done for you” programs.
And yes, I think they were all spot on too!
So, without further ado, let me take out my crystal ball and start with the first prediction for what will be BIG in 2012 …
THE YEAR OF THE BULLSHIT ENDS
I’ve been saying it for years and now the shift is finally happening.
The old-school, antiquated model of “extracting” money from people is almost dead. It’s on it’s last breath.
With so many people connected to social networks where word spreads in seconds (both good AND bad), the days of creating shitty products without people noticing are over. When you screw them – they will tell EVERYONE, and the jig is up, my friend.
And that’s only from the customer perspective. The government, attorney generals, FTC and even merchant account providers are watching very closely.
It used to mean “marketing” was for selling products/services that HELPED people. But sadly, it has become a game of making as much money as humanly possible as the only goal. Short-term thinking.
And now the game will finally end.
I don’t care if your market is “internet marketing” “fitness” “real estate” “coaching”… it doesn’t matter.
If you are not providing value and thinking about this as long-term relationship building – you are dead. Plain and simple.
Don’t believe me?
Ask any “guru” who used to routinely pull off $2 million dollar launches at will. Now, they are lucky to bring in 1/8 of that on a launch.
Sure, it’s still a lot of cash – but it will continue to get smaller and smaller.
And the lucky one’s who do pull off a big launch, just ask them about their refund rates. Remember, it’s what you KEEP that matters!
So with the big shift happening, more and more will realize the old model of launch & screw is over. They will be looking to either get a “job” or change their business practices.
In fact, I just got a call from a huge $300 million dollar “coaching” company who sees the writing on the wall and wants to hire me to train their staff on building a “relationship” business. They relied on the old ways – but those ways will be over by the end of 2012. And whatever does remain will be a shadow of it’s former self.
YOUR INTEGRITY 2012 CHECKLIST
Look, I’m human and continue to screw up all the time. But I always try to do the right thing – and here are some simply ways to make sure your business is left standing at the end of 2012 and beyond..
- Never promote a product you haven’t tested or you don’t think will benefit your customers
- Never, ever lie to your list. Never. They will forgive you for a lot, but not for lying.
- Be prolific. Email, blog and post to your social media pages at least 4X per week. If you don’t have time for it, then don’t try to build an online business. There are no excuses.
- Offer solid money-back guarantees.
- Put the risk on yourself. Offer free and $1 trials so people can test your programs out for themselves.
- Align yourself with other TRUSTED people in your marketplace. Interview them. Review their products. Speak at their events.
- The 10X rule. If you sell a program, it should be worth AT LEAST 10X the cost. No exceptions and never skimp on value.
- Respond! If people comment on your blog or Facebook page, give them the courtesy of a reply.
- Never sacrifice the trust of your list by promoting a product for commission only.
- Be transparent and show them what goes on “behind the scenes”.
- If you are a “small” one-person business, be honest and use that to your advantage. Don’t pretend to be what you are not.
- Learn to say NO more. As you become more successful, the more opportunities will appear. Be diligent in what you say no to.
- Stay away from negative people and places. Some niche discussion forums can be like poison.
Ok, so there you have it.
My first prediction for 2012 is the year the bullshit finally ends.
COMMENTS? AGREE? DISAGREE?
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P.S. And yes, if you want to run your business the “right” way, click here.
Great post Ryan! Love it! And it’s so spot on- I read years ago in a book predicting future trends and one of the trends will be HONESTY imagine that- if you want to make it in business then honesty will be something you must have!
Thanks for the post!
Beverly
Thanks Beverly.
The time is right and I love seeing trends too.
Ryan
I always look forward to your predictions Ryan – glad to see you’re kicking them off again :)
I must say, one of the things I admire about you is your “prolificness”. You are very consistent and reliable with your content and I think that goals a long way in building relationships with your audience.
On a subconscious level, it creates trust because you become dependable.
Great stuff man!
Hey Stu,
When’s the next Predictions interview series from YOU? They were always fun.
Maybe you should release an old one and call it: “Were They Right?” (I’m sure they’ll be a few funny predictions in there. Maybe a compilation/edit?) Time is right…
Happy holiday to you and the fam!
Howard
Thanks Stu!
It’s funny, but I really think when you love what you write about, it comes easy. I look forward to hitting Starbucks every morning to start blogging.
BTW, I used to love your New Years calls!
Ryan
That’s cold hard truth Ryan,
I don’t take on clients who just want the same old worn out “over-hyped” sales copy. They not only have to have a good product or service, but also value their clients as people not just numbers. The cream rises to the top, the crud gets wasted!
It is definitely the truth Ian.
Keep on the path…
Ryan
Ryan,
Great post as always and I really hope you’re right on 2012 being the end of b/s…
It’s very hard in the IM space starting out (and even in other niches like stock trading where I began) because as a newbie you feel that you need to be “hypey” in order to see success. I’m sure it’s hard for a lot of people to resist this.
I’ve also been disheartened this year to see several high profile IM marketers who I DID respect start to promote complete trash. Obviously, I won’t mention any names but it just goes to show that people can fall off the wagon at any point. I guess the temptation for high converting, low value-added offers is just too much for some people!
It’s people like you (still the minority unfortunately) that show you CAN do well by being truthful and delivering real value. Keep it up Ryan, you’re a great inspiration :-)
Rob
Hey Rob,
You definitely do NOT have to be hypey to sell.
In fact, when everyone is doing the same thing – it’s a perfect time to give a different message to STAND OUT.
Just deliver value – and then shout it from the rooftops!
Ryan
Ryan you are right on point. People are tired of the hype and dishonesty. With the current economy and crooked business men and politicians everyone has become a watchdog.
The people are beginning to use their voice and speak out. Within close, online circles its even easier to call people out.
I’ve always maintained that if I could not be 100% enthusiastic about a product or service I would not share it with my readers or recommend it to my clients. The truth always comes out and my integrity is on the line!
Hey Samantha,
Thanks for your feedback.
And I’m glad you always stick behind the products you promote. Way to go!
Ryan
Ryan I don’t call that 2012 predictions I call it just good business practice! Thanks
Good point Glen!
Ryan
Very well put, Ryan. :)
Thank you :)
Ryan
Glad you’re still sticking to tried and true business principles. Many of the IM Guru’s have completely lost their way by just promoting one product after the other without and content and relationship building.
I spent 20 years in the corporate world and I’m glad to see some of the time tested business models are now ingrained in some of the IM crowd.
Thanks for being one of the thought leaders in this industry.
Hey Joe,
Those same business principles have always worked – and will continue to work. But too many people got seduced by the fast cash.
It’s getting straightened out now :)
Ryan
Second that Ryan. Good old customer service will rule in the end. Google are pushing hard to stop this stuff too.
You are right Quentin – Google is pushing hard to get all the crap off their engines.
Ryan
I saw the writing on the wall decades ago. My last question to the world is this…Why has it taken us so long?
I am glad we are slowly recovering and rekindling our Humanity.
I hope we are finally moving to a different and better place…spiritually speaking?
Keep up the good work Ryan, you deserve nothing but the best.
Best wishes for 2012, may all your good predictions come true.
Hey Andrew,
The money was too easy and it took the massive reach of social media to finally put the nail in the coffin.
Ryan
Ryan “Throws Coffee at my Face” Lee – you’re the man, GREAT stuff!!
I respect your honesty my man and TRUTH…… I AGREE with ALL, and, to those reading, it takes TIME to build it up with integrity and honesty but as Ryan said, work hard at it, be YOU and be HONEST
You’re the man, looking forward to making it to your next live event! It’s been a LOOOONG time!!!
Arm Wrestle you soon my man!
–Z–
PS: Me versus you: http://youtu.be/JBTXsR6d-ys
Yo Z!
It has been a long time, my brother.
You’ve been building your business the right way and now it’s paying off, big time.
And since I did beat you the last time we arm wrestled, I’ll let you train for a few more months before you earn a rematch :)
Ryan
GREAT List, Ryan. Nicely done.
Here’s a test I usually advise our clients to take: have you treated your new customer, client, or patient the way you’d treat a good friend?
Personally, I’ve given up the The Golden Rule and replaced it with The Platinum Rule – don’t treat people they way YOU want to be treated (Do unto others as you would have them do unto you) but rather treat them the way THEY want to be treated.
If someone leaves you a message (even if it’s a birthday wish on Facebook), reply to them or, at least, LIKE it. (Here’s a note about birthdays on Facebook – posting ONE thank you note after getting 100 “happy birthday” wishes is NOT the way to go – look what Ryan does here: he replies to everyone individually. Hey: each person on FB sent you a note, take the time to send one back.)
It’s all about the relationship. Treat people well, treat them the way THEY want to be treated, and then see how high your business can grow.
Thanks again, Ryan – sweet list!
Charlie Seymour Jr
http://ExpertMarketingAcademy.com
Great points Charlie.
Treat EVERY person the way they want to be treated!
Thanks for your ongoing contributions…
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
As a new start-up, (not quite on lift-off yet), I am grateful to be attracting the cream of the crop in mentors. You have my attention. I will learn, watch, and listen in to this new world, (new to me anyway…as a recent defector from the corporate world), and do it right…do whatever it takes, morally, ethically, and spiritually to assist my new customers to raise their vibration to live in joy. We need to be truthful, honest, and inspiring to others, and, I believe, life is all about building solid relationships. We need to be completely present and focused on the person we are with…whether it is a customer, an associate, a friend, our family, and yes, a stranger. (You know that old tune…love the one you’re with!)
Love your message. And a call out to Charlie…thank you for your great thoughts here.
Thank you, Ryan, for your article and inspiration, and to your list for good, solid responses. You all rock!
Excellent! Very refreshing. Thanks again for telling it like it is!
Thanks Marie – and I’ll continue to keep “telling it like it is”
Ryan
Here, here Ryan, great post as ever and spot on too.
Unfortunately we are seeing many businesses in different markets adopting bad tactics that they have been exposed to, for their own online efforts products because that is the way it is thought these things are done online.
Like you I’ve become a prolific writer of BLOGs and constant communication to my lists, and I must say that it is way nicer than constantly SPAMMING them with sales pieces.
Know, like and trust, with as stronger emphasis on TRUST than ever before!
Tim
Hey Tim,
I agree that some shady tactics have spilled over to other markets.
I’m all about marketing – but there’s a way to build a great business and still think long-term too.
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
Loving the checklist. It’s like the 13 commandments of running a successful online business or any business for that matter.
Thanks Dan!
I always thought this stuff was common sense – but I guess it’s not :)
Looking forward to a big shake out this year.
Ryan
TOTALLY ON POINT MY FRIEND!!
Social media is changing the game in all industries Ryan!
I’m inspired to write my next blog post with this same prediction.
Stay Amazing,
K.L. Horne
Thanks K.L.
Social media has definitely sped up the process.
Rock ‘on
Ryan
Well done Coach Ryan! Keep up the good work and i am looking forward to seeing you at SAM 2 in April….
Thanks Chris and I look forward to seeing you too!
Ryan
Hey Ryan you are spot on when you say “It’s what you keep that matters.”
I ran a successful offline business in the building business, homes and light commercial. In the 90′s money was flowing easily, in the early 2000′s as the market saturated with everybody jumping into the game the margins began to tighten and creeping up to 2010 you had to have a VERY SHARP PENCIL!
Right now projects, for the most part, in building are extremely low or NO profit margins. Guys out there losing their butt’s or barely, if at all, eeking out a living. I was fortunate enough where I didn’t lose everything like some mainly due to the decision to keep my overhead and debt low in the early 2000′s.
Just like Online Marketing where everybody is jumping in, value and quality drops like a rock. The huge difference with internet marketing it is global. (Bigger pie)
Keep your overhead low, stay out of debt, be generous with others and sharpen that pencil!
It is what you keep that matters and will determine if you will stay in business.
- Bret
Hey Bret,
Absolutely!
It’s funny when people say they did a “$50,000″ launch, but forget that they have 40% refunds, delivery costs and 1/2 go to affiliates.
Keep sharpening that pencil…
Ryan
wow Ryan.
Everything you pointed out on that list I’m a firm believer in.
Two things that really stood out where this:
“Never, ever lie to your list. Never” …. This is key… as trust is everything in business (and life).
and
“Learn to say NO more.” … man this is big also. you create more freedom and opportunities the more you say no…. so this is a big one for me for sure!
It’s always fun getting great free posts like this one from you Ryan… feel blessed I get to learn from one of the best everytime you post.
Thanks Lewis.
And you are one of the handful of marketers I trust 100%. You care about your clients and you always deliver incredible value.
Looking forward to more great stuff with you in 2012 and beyond…
Ryan
Ryan, I firmly believe that YOU have been one of the key reasons BS is dying.
You have been bold and fearless in campaigning against it for years. You have always spoken up for honesty and transparency.
You have been a major factor in setting the standard for the industry and other leaders have seen your amazing example. Thank you for being such a great role model.
I appreciate your comments James.
I’ve definitely been saying this for years – and if it’s helped make an impact, then I’m pretty happy about that.
If we all get on board (and stop buying all the crap), many of these “marketers” will have no choice but to change.
Ryan
Nice post, Nostradamus.
I’ve never told you this before, Ryan, but I look up to you and consider you to be a mentor. And it’s because of the character you show in this post. I’m not saying that to blow smoke up your ass, just to send some bro-love your way
Keep it up and Happy Holidays.
Ben
Thanks Ben.
And I’m sending that bro-love right back to you.
You rock!
Ryan
good prediction for 2012. and good advice to go by thanks Ryan
Thanks Ben.
And I truly believe this will be the case.
Ryan
Amen.
You rock Rachel!
Ryan
Ryan,
Just a simple thank you for keeping it real and honest. Having followed you for a while (over five years) you are true to your word and consistent in message. Not only that you are as in person as you online and that is priceless. Thank again for keeping it real.
Once again the timing of this post is awesome and your examples of quality and customer service are bang on.
Thanks again
Cheers!
Mike
Hey Mike,
I appreciate your kind words and loyalty over the years.
I’m just being true to myself and trying to teach others to be true to themselves too.
Here’s to a great 2012!
Ryan
Hello Ryan,
Amazing!
I agree! The message I’m getting here is…
“Dang it! Just treat people RIGHT, the way you want to be treated!”
There’s always going to be people who don’t live by this rule, but as individuals we can all try to do the right thing.
If we all make our goal to give far more value than the $ we are asking for our stuff the better we’ll do, the better our customers will do!
Thanks Ryan! I’m printing our post out and pasting it near my monitor.
Jeremiah
Hey Jeremiah,
It’s really so simple – and the “marketers” have just lost their way.
But it’s coming back and this will be a great year for everyone who provides value.
Ryan
I agree Ryan. I have an internet travel show and have found the cloud computing saves me big time in storage space, back up security with access and the ability to render in the cloud and not tie my computer up during that time.. I wonder if you think that this is another area that will be big this year?
Hey Debbie,
Stay tuned for my next prediction :)
Ryan
Ryan,
I agree with you totally!! Let’s rock in 2012.
Dave
It’s on in 2012 Dave!
Ryan
Great post, Ryan,
preparing to implement your suggestions
Thank you
Looking forward to seeing your progress this year…
Ryan
Love it Ryan, excited to get my self-help business up and running! Authentically me. Been doing the affiliate marketing thing for too long, and not making very much with it.
Hey David,
I can feel the enthusiasm in your post.
Take action. Be you. And keep us posted on your progress…
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
Awesome, dead-on list, my friend!
Here’s a couple more you could add to the list…
* “No Frauds Left Behind”: The days of responding to customer- or tech-support tickets after many days, and not responding to refund requests, are gone-baby-gone! Word about poor support, fraud and delays in giving refunds is spreading FASTer than ever before. I’ve actually been scammed myself by more than one “big name” marketer! You’ll be shocked if I revealed the person’s name, as you know they too. These scamsters were somehow able to hang on in 2011, but they’re going to get steam-rolled in 2012.
* “Rabid-Fan Marketing”: You no longer need a ‘magical’ sales page written by a $10,000 copy writer to sell like the “gurus”. It is easier than ever to build a rocking business with just a great product and great customer service. You can easily rely on your greatest asset – your rabid evangelists – your “Affiliates”. All other forms of marketing is just a bonus, really.
Here are the “inconvenient” and some funny truths from your article that had me both chuckling and nodding fiercely…
“THE YEAR OF THE BULLSHIT ENDS” (lol)
“…even merchant account providers are watching very closely”
“…it’s what you KEEP that matters”
“…When you screw them – they will tell EVERYONE”
“Never promote a product you haven’t tested…”
And the best one yet…
“Learn to say NO more…”
“Rock on”, Ryan!
- Ravi Jayagopal
Thank you Ravi!
I’m glad you enjoyed my list and you added some good ones yourself.
Especially the one about building your own fan base. Then, the copy isn’t quite as important.
I like to use examples of rock stars. If you are a U2 fan, you are going to buy their next CD, no mater what the “sales copy” is. You love U2 and you buy their stuff.
Rock on
Ryan
Ryan,
Great stuff as always! I totally agree… I think people are starting to get more savy. They can see through the BS
Awesome stuff
Brian
Absolutely Brian.
And I’m working hard to make sure they see the difference too :)
Ryan
Me parece exelente lo escrito!!
Muchos gracias :)
Ryan
Nice Points Ryan! I would expand further on the poison. It’s not just forums you need to set boundaries on but also your friends and family too. Other wise unnecessary doubt gets built up. Keep up the awesome work!
To your success,
Travis
Right on Travis.
And for those people that you cannot escape (some family members), just limit your time as much as possible with them.
2012 is your year!
Ryan
Here Here, I’ll drink to that Checklist!!!
Cheers:)
Drinks on me Trish!
Ryan
Ryan you rock. I’m thrilled that I’m not the only one who wants and sees the bullshit ending. Thanks for being transparent.
Hey Sandra,
You are not alone. There are a lot of people who also want the BS to end :)
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
Tried to pick a favorite bullet or two, but their all excellent!
This one is a PRINT OUT! Goes in the hard copy pile.
And well put.
Thanks for the no B.S.!
Howard
Thanks Howard!
Print it. Live it. Breathe it.
Keep on rockin’
Ryan
Wow top notch list, thanks for sharing!
Thank you AJ.
I love sharing this stuff.. please help spread the word.
Ryan
I have a man-crush on Ryan Lee. Is that wrong? (ps don’t tell my wife…)
Hey Chris,
It’s only natural you have a man-crush on me.
The feeling is mutual, you crazy Brit :)
Ryan
Hi Ryan,
I have been a subcriber of yours for some time now – and for the very reason that you are ALWAYS honest and treat me with respect. Thank you.
Libby Kalis
P.S. My mentor Chris Farrell has a man-crush on you! Hmm I hope he gets over it during the holiday season :)
Hey Libby,
Thank you for your support over the years.
And unfortunately, Chris’s man-crush on me will only get stronger over the next few years…
Ryan
Priceless! I love it! My website leads to free music downloads 150% original. Peace, and wonderful predictions!
Agree 100%
I see people who show most personality and transparency being the top ones
I also see YouTube being a bigger source for media, and people making their own shows
Also see Podcasts getting bigger and Social Media just exploding even more
and see more people offering products optimized for mobile usage (possibly as an upsell)
can;t wait for part 2!
Luis Carrillo
Hey Luis,
Great point about YouTube. I used to do more videos and I’m going to make sure I add that to my list in 2012.
Rock ‘on
Ryan
Great post Ryan – and great to see that your ethos with those predictions is to lead from the front! Looking forward to the next part :-)
cheers
Hey Tanya,
Thanks for your continued support and comments here.
Next part is coming soon…
Ryan
Some good points in there but I would add the following:
1) Don’t email me every day unless you have something relevant to say and are not just flogging another affiliate product. I’ve removed myself from several lists because all they post is other peoples tat!
2) Don’t tell me “this is the end of the Internet” or “it’s a gamechanger” as this just tells me you are overselling something that is useless tat that could not sell itself. If it’s that good I’ll be able to draw my own conclusions.
3) Don’t tell me that your product can double / triple etc my income and then put a disclaimer on your site. That just tells me you can’t or won’t back up your own claims.
I think your list does cover the above but it will be interesting to see who does and doesn’t do it in 2012.
There is money out there – but people can now choose what to spend it on!
Richard,
I will say, legally you MUST put disclaimers on your site and pages. It has nothing to do with hype or lack of belief in your product – if you didn’t have it, you’d be in big trouble with the Govt…
Rock ‘on
Ryan
Really enjoyed this Ryan….
You remind me of a Steve Jobs quotation…
“Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.”
In IM the past few years, excellence really hasn’t been expected – as if the product doesn’t matter and simply makes a profit.
40% returns only work in fashion and apparel.
What new folks don’t get is that by increasing the amount of the same marketing – same tone same process same products – the customer begins to frame you, and everyone else, as the same thing.
And same things don’t convert.
Looking forward to a market that has copycatted itself to mediocrity rise in 2012.
Thanks Declan,
YOU were one of the first guys I followed when I first started. You always had great marketing content without the hype. And it just flat-out works.
Keep on rocking in 2012 and let’s take back the web, my friend :)
Ryan
Hi Ryan,
Once again, thank you for useful, heartfelt content. And for me, one of the greatest things ever is that you take the time to respond to our comments; that’s HUGE in terms of the “know-like-trust” factor for me. So thank you very much for that; basic decency goes a LONG way with me!
Here’s my question for today, Ryan: I know I recently asked you (& got your reply) about IC vs. the Ryan Lee Method program. But money is a little tight right now, and I recently saw your Nanocontinuity program promo on your site. Since the price for it is more within my current budget, was wondering if this would be a good (simple, yet complete enough) start for a beginner to the continuity arena.
Thanks for taking the time to read & respond, Ryan.
Best regards,
Joanne
Thank you Joanne – I appreciate your feedback.
You can still jump on the “Ryan Lee Method” for payments of just $97. That’s still the program I’d recommend as it’s everything you would need.
http://www.ryanlee.com/method
Best
Ryan
Thanks for clarifying the answer for me, Ryan. Much appreciated. Hope you & your family enjoy a great Christmas holiday and an awesome 2012.
Best always,
Joanne :)
It’s my pleasure Joanne!
And a Happy Holiday to your family too :)
Ryan
PS guys….have you noticed how Ryan walks the walk. Note how HE personally has RESPONDED to ALL the comments above. This is EXTREMELY rare in this business.
That’s why we all LOVE THE LEE.
Rock on Ryan.
:)
Chris,
You, my friend, are one of the shining examples of how to market the RIGHT way.
With integrity and great value.
And even though you are not quite as funny (or good looking) as me – I still got much love for you too :)
Ryan
This was the best thing I’ve read in a long time.
Business is about exchanging value, not scamming hopeful consumers. The more people like you scream that from the moutaintops, the better off we’ll all be.
Thank you, Ryan, for leading the way down a new and better road.
Thanks Jason.
I appreciate your comments – and you are 100% right about “exchanging value”.
Here’s to a great 2012…
Ryan
Absolutely correct. I am putting a video program out to folks who are recently unemployed as a networking group our church has started for folks in distress and since I have some modest success in online and work from home products I was invited to speak regarding what to do and not to do, especially with the, knee jerk “gotta do something now”, “new shiny object ” symdromes. This is a great prediction/advice piece for buyers as well as promoters.
Keep it up
Bill Joyce
Thanks for the tips Ryan – Question – you mention letting people try out your programs for $1 but I thought that tactic was not in use…I offer a reocurring monthly workout program, and I’m trying to figure out how to let people in for $1 or free, but I thought we weren’t able to gather any credit card info at the time….trying to get them to purchase after the month trial has been a nightmare. Thoughts? (PS I use Pay Pal and they sign up for $19/month)
You could definitely see your enthusiasm in the work you write. The world hopes for more passionate writers like you who aren’t afraid to mention how they believe. All the time go after your heart.
Hey Ryan: Is it ok if I copy and print that 2012 checklist? I want to hang it on my wall…and share with others.
karen