To quote Jack Nicholson in “A Few Good Men”…
“You want the truth? You can’t handle the truth!”
The truth is making a 6 or even 7 figures online is NOT easy. And despite all the new “Internet marketing” products that flood the market on a daily basis (by people who have no right teaching you how to make money), this world is not for everybody.
Making a few hundred bucks a month? Pretty easy.
Sitting on your ass and playing video games all day while the money just rolls in and you become rich.. a pipe dream.
I have, arguably, the best track record for success stories on the planet for people who have gone through my programs and created massive online businesses.
Here are a bunch of random “truths” I’ve discovered over the years and have taught my students… Some are common sense and others are the things the “gurus” will never tell you…
TRUTH #1: It takes work to build an online business. Don’t expect to install shitty software, push a button and become a millionaire. Sorry, ain’t gonna happen.
TRUTH #2: Work like a sprinter… and this relates to the first truth. Working 20 hours a day and working “smart” are two different things. Be ruthless in guarding your time and eliminate ALL distractions. Learn how to say NO. Work hard in sprints, then take a break. You’ll get much more done.
TRUTH #3: Build a strong brand. Don’t create generic products with generic names that just blend in with every other product. Stand out.
TRUTH #4: You either have to kiss the asses of other “big players” in your marketplace to get them to mail for you OR you focus entirely on the customer. The second path takes longer – but it builds a stronger, more sustainable business over time.
TRUTH #5: Most of the old ways you’ve learned about marketing are DEAD. Social media has changed everything. Focus on caring about your customer, NOT trying to “extract” every dollar from them.
TRUTH #6: You won’t make any sales without traffic. Either you learn to do it yourself OR you hire someone to drive traffic for you. And if you choose to learn it, then you will focus on traffic most of the day – which may (or may not) be fun, depending on your skills and personality.
TRUTH #7: It’s not what you “make” that matters, it’s what you KEEP. If you have 40% refunds, it’s time to create a better product before you worry about traffic.
TRUTH #8: If you want to run an Internet business full-time, then you better love being online. If you aren’t committed to spending hours on your computer – then don’t even bother. Seriously. It’s not for everyone.
TRUTH #9: Promoting a product purely for commission or “reciprocation” might pay off in the short term – but it can harm your business, your brand and your relationship with your subscribers over time.
TRUTH #10: Stop focusing on the small, details. Who gives a sh*t what microphone you use – just get out there and start speaking the truth. Be honest. Be open. You don’t need to buy a $2,000 course on “how to podcast”. Get real.
TRUTH #11: Building a long-term online business takes time. Don’t expect to make millions in days, weeks or even months. I launched my first site in 1999 and didn’t leave my full-time job until 2002.
TRUTH #12: Design DOES matter. Make your site and products look good.
TRUTH #13: Before you buy any products (especially one on “how to make money”), find out who they have helped make money (aka PROOF!).
TRUTH #14: The BIG money is made by building a loyal group of buyers and treating them like family. It’s much easier than always trying to find new people and just “turning them over”.
TRUTH #15: You must be prolific. I’m sorry, but putting up one blog post 3 months ago ain’t gonna cut it. Show your subscribers you care and you are in this for the long haul.
TRUTH #16: Buy from people you have heard of. If someone claims to be a “Facebook” expert and only has 350 fans.. then don’t buy from them, no matter how good their sales copy is.
TRUTH #17: You are NEVER done learning. I’ve been doing this a long time and I still invest in new products, books and seminars every week. I read 2 new business books a week. The minute you think you know it all – you are in big trouble.
TRUTH #18: You gotta REALLY, REALLY want it. You must live and breathe your topic and your market. It’s what separates the top tier entrepreneurs from the rest.
TRUTH #19: If you are desperate for money and need it fast, the Internet is not the place. Go out and get a job to make “guaranteed” money to pay your bills. I have a cousin who was in a rut and got a job delivering pizza at night to pay the bills – and there’s no shame in that.
TRUTH #20: Be YOU. Don’t try to be me or Frank Kern. People can smell when someone is not being themselves a mile away.
TRUTH #21: Always GIVE first. Pretty simply, huh?
TRUTH #22: Get off your ass and go to events in your niche market. Meet people face-to-face. Connect. There is nothing more powerful.
TRUTH #23: Always, always, always make every product and offer an absolute no-brainer. Make it so good people won’t be able to take their credit cards out fast enough to order. Most people don’t come close to offering a no-brainer offer. What can you do to make yours irresistible?
TRUTH #24: Trust your gut. If you get a bad feeling about someone or a product – trust your instinct and stay away.
TRUTH #25: Many marketers (not all) offer low-price front-end products because they sell your name to “coaching” companies that try and sell you $5K to $30K coaching programs. Say NO to those cookie-cutter programs.
TRUTH #26: You do NOT need to join $30,000 “mastermind” programs. Just start your own. I created one in NYC with 15 incredible marketers.. and it’s free for us to come and share for one day every 3 months.
TRUTH #27: You will never reach your highest level of success until you get into great physical condition. Eat better and exercise more. You’ll think clearer and have more energy. There’s no excuse.
TRUTH #28: Never be boring. Make teaching in your niche market fun and exciting. People will not come back and rally behind you if you are boring.
TRUTH #29: Keep your overhead low. Work from home or from your public library. Outsource staff instead of hiring employees. Buy used office furniture on craigslist.
TRUTH #30: Only YOU are responsible for your success. Man-up (or woman-up), take responsibility, stop making excuses, spread your message to the world and leave a legacy!
There you go.
A bunch of random thoughts, truths and ramblings.
Live it. Breathe it. Enjoy it. Share it.
QUESTIONS? COMMENTS? WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE?
HAVE MORE TO SHARE? SHARE BELOW!
P.S. If this resonates with you, please “like” “tweet” and “+1″ it.
P.P.S. Registration is coming next week for the NEW Industry event for online marketing… DCX is coming…
Awesome article filled with TRUTH…
Thanks for sharing!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks Chris – you know how I roll…
Ryan
Thanks Ryan…just what I needed right now. I am in the process of changing my focus to my true passion and this list is right on target with my plan. Some things new and some things you have already shared with us in the past – it is always good to get the refresher. Sometimes just have to knock us in the head with it…
Just keep the message coming!!
Sharon
Hey Sharon,
You know I’ll always keep the message coming!
Ryan
Ryan,
Of course I agree with everything you said above, but for me Truth #17 really is the difference between success (and continuing success) in not just business; but everything in life.
- Brian
Absolutely Brian.
The most successful people I know are constantly sharpening their mind. It’s an ongoing journey!
Ryan
My favorite above is #30… Seriously, in the end, it just comes down to whether not you are gonna “make it happen” or just “make excuses”…
Thanks Ryan!
-Troy
Hey Troy
I’ve been saying that forever – just hoping it “sticks” with everyone.
Ryan
Ryan,
I think many people get caught up in the instant gratification syndrome. I also believe people need to be aware of “dream stealers” or “emotional vampires” who tell you it cannot be done and suck out your positive energy.
That could be friends and family (personal experience) – spend less time with them!
Warmest regards
Mike
I think “dream stealers” and “emotional vampires” also show up (and for me, more often) in the form of marketers spinning tales of fulfilling your dreams and resolving all your fears with the simple purchase of their $2000 product, which inevitably does little more than confuse us about the path forward even further.
Ryan, I appreciate this laundry list of hard facts — a welcome counterpoint to the usual hype over making money “easily” with an online “business.”
You are right Jen – that’s why I always suggest that you get off their lists if they provide no value.
I’m glad you liked this list!
Ryan
I agree 100% Mike!
It’s important to keep them away (or, at least, minimize exposure to them!)
Ryan
Great list Ryan! I couldn’t agree more, there are so many distractions that come at you daily that if you don’t say NO and guard your time you will never make it! I only listed to a handful of people (including you of course) that I resonate with and ignore EVERYTHING else!
No one mentions that you will spend most of your day driving traffic but it’s the Truth!! Glad I am not the only one : ) Thanks for another great post!
Hey Scott!
You definitely have to learn to say no – it took me a while to really get that one.
And yes, traffic is the lifeblood of your business.
Thanks for your comments,
Ryan
And the truth speaks. Ryan, I hope people really realize how much wisdom you just shared in this post. This post was so good that I had to print it out and put it on the wall in front of my computer. You better believe that I am going to follow every bit of advice that you just shared. It’s obvious that you know what it takes to be successful online and only a real fool would ignore your teachings.
Thank you Fred – I appreciate your comments.
I live and breathe these every day!
Ryan
Hey Ryan – when are you going to roll that info into a book – a major seller in my opinion. There were so many that were spot on and the two that hit home the most were #8 and #30.
I went from a practicing chiropractor to doing online work and it took a toll on my body – from being active to stagnant. I guess I should look closer at #27 (working on getting in better physical condition).
In regards to #30 – it is all up to me and I am manning up! It ain’t easy, but the good things in life never are “easy” to acquire – work hard now and enjoy the fruits later.
~ Derek
Derek, create a standing desk! I had the same issue with the sitting for hours until I rearranged my workspace to stand at my computer instead.
It’s a start.
Jen – I also listen to my audiobooks or call conference calls when I’m taking hikes!
Ryan
Derek – I’m working on a new book right now :)
We all slip when it comes to activity – sometimes just a little push can get you back on track (and maybe this post was the push you need!)
Ryan
Hi Ryan,
As always you are spot on. Glad to hear that your father-in-law is doing better. I’m excited to find out the details of your conference next week. You are the reason I’m in online marketing.
Thanks,
Susan
Awesome Susan – and the details are coming soon…
Ryan
Right on Ryan. I particularly like #19. I’ve been in the pizza business for over 35 years and recently retired. The pizza money pays the bills while I get my online business on track. Thanks for all the info and honesty about online business. The pizza business like online business is simple, but not easy!
Hi Bob,
You always have to pay those bills first!
Simple, but not easy :)
Ryan
Well said my friend. There is a lesson for everyone in there!
Thank you Charles!
Wow that is awesome! I love it love it love it!!
My pleasure Georgette – I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Ryan
Great stuff as usual. Feel like this is the main points I have learned from you over the past 6 months put into one kick-ass blog post!
Hey Florian,
It is kind of a summary of some of my best “hits”
:)
Ryan
Great post…so many good ones:
“TRUTH #24: Trust your gut. If you get a bad feeling about someone or a product – trust your instinct and stay away.
TRUTH #27: You will never reach your highest level of success until you get into great physical condition. Eat better and exercise more. You’ll think clearer and have more energy. There’s no excuse.”
Great!!
Thanks Rafael,
I’m glad you found some that hit home for you!
Ryan
Truth #31: Ryan Lee is awesome!
Thanks Nick :)
Ryan
Got most of them (been online since 1996, full-time since ’97), but need to work on a few (especially the work smarter not longer bit).
Jim,
The working “smarter” is a BIGGIE!
That’s one of the best things you can do for your biz AND your life.
Ryan
A great one Ryan!
Sorry I missed IC yesterday….hooking stuff up in California…
Thank God there is you….keepin’ it real!
Keith
Thanks Keith – and we missed you in the IC!
The recordings will be up soon and kick ass in Cali :)
Ryan
Hi Ryan,
Random thoughts” work. Thanks for the straight forward, shoot ‘em right between the eyes approach. Really, I don’t think you can hammer this message and these points home too many times. Eventually, everyone will get it!
Best,
Clay.
Hey Clay,
I will continue to hammer these home – and I have some new stuff too :)
Thanks for your ongoing support…
Ryan
Great article Ryan! Especially #27 – the get fit part- this is something that I’ve been wanting to do but not gotten really serious with yet- but guess what I just ordered(I mean I JUST ordered!), the thinmist weight loss supplement AND YOUR 4 min. workout DVD from Healthy Back Institute- this coupled with my passion for my market and determination to make it big time and help tons of people will be a BIG turbo boost to my success- so THANKS so much for telling it like it is! ANd I’m glad your father-n-law is better!
Beverly
Beverly,
I’m really glad #27 can you the little push you needed.
It’s so important to your success – and please keep us all posted on your progress!
Ryan
This post is a reality check for many well meaning folks who are taken in by the razzle dazzle of all the Hype in the Internet Marketing world these days.
The bottom line is – an Online Business is a “BUSINESS”. The basic fundamentals apply. Treating customers right. Focusing on fundamentals. Providing great Value. Keeping expenses low.
Too many people treat it like a magic bullet and not like a REAL business. The “Truths” you list here help shift the focus back to thinking like a real business owner.
Best wishes.
Jay
You nailed it Jay…
“The bottom line is – an Online Business is a “BUSINESS”.
Exactly!
Ryan
In 30 swift notes Ryan has summed up some of the most compelling TRUTH’s that I have been telling people for years. We did a mastermind in Vegas with some of the top marketers in the industry. Even though each of us were highly successful in our own right, we got more out of that session in one weekend that you will get from one of those $30,000 “Cookie Cutter” sessions…
So, to add to this excellent list… Associate yourself with people who are experts in your market, develop and nurture those relationships, provide value and be a study of their success and see how it can apply to what you do as well.
All the best
Sean Donahoe
Sean,
Great point about associating yourself with other experts– just make sure they are not just good business people, but good PEOPLE too :)
Rock ‘on
Ryan
Spot on baby!
Thanks Donovan!
Ryan
GMTA! I just posted today about folks on Twitter who use direct messaging as a way to blast away sales messages without so much as a hello! Crazy. Oh, and I really like #12, Design DOES matter. Of course, I am a designer, so naturally I feel that way. But for the doubters, read the Steve Jobs biography and see how Apple feels about the matter.
Hey Keith,
I hear you about #12. And I’ve been recommending more and more that my clients focus on design.
Ryan
Telling it like it is – as always. Thank you Ryan. :-)
You’re right, though, most of the time we don’t want to know The Truth, because The Truth is that you have to put some effort in, if you want to earn a living, regardless of what you do – and I’m not talking about making millions, I just mean earning a good living, whatever that means to the individual.
Of course, most of us believe we would rather be sitting by the pool, drinking margaritas – but unless Daddy is rich, that’s not going to happen. And it would probably be very boring, even if it did!!
Julia,
It’s much easier to “sell the dream” – but I just can’t do that anymore.
The truth is it does take work.. and the people who really “get it” are the ones who have massive sucess.
Ryan
Way to keep it real my man..
Always keepin’ it real here Scott :)
Ryan
Dang – these really hit home.
Number 30 resonates with me the most. Back in my early days I didn’t “get it”. I had the unrecognized belief that I thought “someone” was just going to hand me my business and it would be that easy. Boy what a chump!
The funny thing is – it is kind of easy, especially if you enjoy what you do. For me that is key.
Great post Ryan!!!
Hey Steve,
No one will just hand it to us.. and it ultimately falls on our own shoulders.
Keep on rockin’
Ryan
I love your point about attending live events. It’s funny how as much as the internet has changed our lives it still can’t replace what happens when you meet someone face to face and have dinner with them. There is a connection created that could take many months in “internet time”. Attending your SAM event was exactly that experience for me and I can’t wait to attend the next one!
Kent,
Attending LIVE events is a biggie. And just that 10 minutes in the lobby you and I spent chatting really connected us (much more than email can do)
See you at the next event…
Ryan
P.S. Don’t forget we have http://www.dotcomxpo.com coming in October…
Ryan – You are an inspiration. Thanks to you, I’ve taken #17 to heart and have lost 22 lbs. since February just by eating right and exercising. I hear excuses from everyone why they can’t do the same. I chose to take action because of your “no B.S.” approach.
That is so awesome Dennis!
I LOVE to hear these stories.. keep up the incredible work.
Ryan
Another gooder Ryan..I have adapted the sprinter model I learned from you in the Ryan Lee Methhod. It’s to east to dick around an waster 12 hours in a day. I am now laser focused on my game plan for the day the minute I get up. My productivity has skyrocketed.
Dave,
Isn’t it incredible that the change in how you approach your day can have such a large impact?
Keep rockin’
Ryan
Well said Ryan. I love the short sprint analogy, the proof element before you buy, building your community and the honest truth that this isn’t for everybody.
Building a brand is worth way more than making a quick buck. But everyone wants quick results don’t they?
Albert,
Yes, they do want quick results.. the only difference is they don’t realize it takes some effort. But the payoff is massive!
Ryan
This rocks. I am going to print it out and keep it in front of my face to keep kicking my butt!
Thank you,
Jen
That’s what I’m here for Jen – a daily butt kicking :)
Ryan
Wow! This post really resonated with me. Being a newbie in the field, I really needed these honest, from the trenches, no holds barred truths that you shared. I’ve been working hard on improving my physical health so #27 resonated with me the most. I’ve found that now that I am eating right and exercising, I am jumping out of bed at 4:30am every morning, no alarm needed, with tons of energy! I have more discipline with my schedule because I know I need to burn 600 calories before 7am! Thanks Ryan for the awesome advice.
Hey Anh,
It starts with your health. Keep on the path and never stop moving forward on your journey…
Ryan
Ryan,
Absolute truth and makes total sense in every point that you have mentioned. Sometimes it can be so simple yet so many people still miss the points (guilty as charged as well).
Thanks for this post which gives me another good reminder to stay on track!
Cheers,
Lester
You got it Lester!
More TRUTH to come :)
Ryan
Truth applied changes lives. Thanks Ryan. There is a lot of misleading people who market misleading products leading people in the wrong direction with wrong information. We are glad you have a great purpose in proclaiming truth to help steer people, who are serious about online marketing, on the right path to financial freedom.
Dino – I’m just glad to have a place where I can share my thoughts with the world.
Thanks for your ongoing support…
Ryan
Seriously, great information Ryan!
Thanks Bret!
Ryan
Another great post Ryan!
“Stop focusing on the small, details. Who gives a sh*t what microphone you use – just get out there and start speaking the truth.”
That is so true, I’m always surprised at how much time (I’m talking several weeks) some of my customers and follows take to make decisions about what hosting company to use, what membership script to use, etc.
Ryan,
It is amazing how we can get caught up in the small details – I suffered from it a little bit at the start, but got over it quickly.
-Ryan
Great list Ryan, I always wonder how people believe and buy crappy push button stuff. Its simple logic if pushing a button makes millions then why would one sell it for $47. or if there was anything like that then he would not have been making millions him self instead of wasting time in selling crap. Come on guys if someone was not able to put up a great website buy investing few bucks how can you believe that he would have put together a great program for you. plz plz plz be logical dont just read the offers but examine them :)
Abu,
I’ve been saying that for years.. but the message is finally get out about how absurd it truly is!
Ryan
Ryan,
This is an amazing post. You are spot on with this one. Can’t wait to see you at your event in October.
Sam – looking forward to seeing you too!
Rock ‘on
Ryan
As always Ryan great post! I have to agree with Troy about #30 being the most powerful. It comes down to you! As they say in the south “Get ‘er done!”
Dave,
It really does come down to YOU. No one can do it for you.
Ryan
TRUTH #26: You do NOT need to join $30,000 “mastermind” programs. Just start your own.
This one hit home as I have created a facebook page called Ryan Lee’s 1k per day mastermind group. 2 in it so far! Anyone else want to join my free mastermind group?
Ryan- I’ll let you join too! ;)
Marshall – way to take action.
Go out, connect and make an impact!
Ryan
Well, Ryan. I love that the bee is in your bonnet again! :) I love your points and the truth in them and I especially love your integrity. Thank you for having the courage to speak your mind as it is often easier to say nothing. This message needs to be blasted all over the internet for potential marketers so they know that the six figure income won’t happen in a weekend (for most of us). ’30 Truths’ needs to be required reading! :)
Thank you Jacqlyn!
Please help spread the word…
Ryan
Post these on your wall everyone, and follow the suckers!
Absolutely :)
Ryan
God bless you Ryan! You hit the nail on the hammer my friend! Keep it up!
To your fitness, health, success,
Travis
Travis,
You rock and thanks for your continued loyalty.
Ryan
Great article Ryan!
My favourites are No 10 & No 27 (which I only started adopting recently and my productivity has already risen tenfold!
Sharing right now!!! :)
Awesome Jo.
And thanks so much for sharing!
Ryan
As always, great content Ryan. It’s music to my ears. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Serge!
Ryan
Ryan, I reckon that’s your best post yet!
Thank you Colin – it just flowed from my heart.
Ryan
It is a truth of internet marketing and I really like it a lot. Real work must be done to improve our business. I love every single truth but truth 8 and 10 seemed to make more sense. If people hate looking at computers for hours, I don’t think there is a need for them to start their online business. At least a decent microphone will enable the speaker to portray their ideas clearly. It does not need a really high quality mic, your idea matters the most.
Hey Wilson,
I’m glad you liked 8 and 10.
I’ve done so many calls with people who tell me they don’t like being on the computer – yet, they want to start an online business??
Ryan
Truth #17 – Your post inspired me to go to the book store and buy 2 books to read.
After working with the help desk to locate some books, I left with nothing.
Could you please recommend some books.
Hey Dave,
Depends on where you are in your business… tell me more and I can recommend the right book for you.
Ryan
Awesome article Ryan! The honesty and transparency that you teach with is refreshing! Thanks for keepin it real and especially pointing out in #27 the importance of being in shape! I love when experts bring this point up! Thanks again man!
Nick,
Thanks for your comments.
Believe me, it’s just as refreshing for me to be able to speak the truth.
Ryan
I haven’y commented on a post in many months.
This rocks!!!!!
Love it love it LOVE IT!!!!!!!!
Totally on the money.
Go get em
Warmest
Phill
Welcome back Phill – keep on posting, we missed you!
I’m glad this resonated with you, more to come…
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
Great thoughts about what people should be doing. It really is hard starting out in this market. Again thanks for the tips,
Duane McLaughlin
Hey Duane,
It’s a challenge starting an online business – but just by following this blog, you will be WAY ahead of the curve.
Ryan
“Only YOU are responsible for your success. Man-up (or woman-up), take responsibility, stop making excuses, spread your message to the world and leave a legacy!” – Ryan Lee
BOOM!
Great article!!
Right back at you Billy!
Ryan
loved this post! Too many wanna-be broke ass,
traffic starved marketer’s are selling make money crap
that don’t even have ANY rights to.
gotta work on the being more physical and eating healthy part :)
keep it coming!
Shaqs
Shaqs,
It really is frustrating – but I believe more people are starting to see the reality.
And congrats on taking the step to better health!
Ryan
Ryan,
Thanks for the post!! You keep it 100% real and I appreciate that about you.
You are welcome Oliver – and I’ll continue to keep posting the truth…
Ryan
Ryan, you have the most amazing knack of saying the right thing at the right time which helps keep me motivated and on track. Thank you.
Alan
Alan,
Didn’t I tell you – I can also read minds :)
Ryan
Ryan…I applaud your integrity and willingness to tell it like it is. Your insights and wisdom shatter the myths and are grounded in authenticity. YOU ROCK!
Thanks Paul – you can never keep a New Yorker quiet :)
Ryan
Solid stuff Ryan! I was trying to pick my favorite but it’s not possible pick one. Everyone that reads your stuff knows you have a lot of integrity, this list will make newcomers see that right away.
Thank you Shanon – I’m glad you liked this post.
Keep on spreading the word…
Ryan
Amazing information! Whilst some of these truths I already knew from previous posts on some Internet Marketing forums, I often forget some of the most crucial truths like truth 30. what we must all remember is that we are responsible for our Internet Marketing successes, and I would be lying if I didn’t say that I needed help along the way to my own success! One site in particular which helped immensely was http://www.wsitime.net/. This site not only showed me the intricate details and strategies to developing a successful website, but also helped me grasp the concepts of social marketing and SEO.
I would recommend it to anyone who is starting in their online businesses, or is contemplating ‘upping’ their level of Internet marketing dominance dramatically!
You actually created quite a few good stuff with your article, “The
30 Truths for Marketing Success | Ryan Lee | Continuity Income | Internet Marketing”.
I may wind up returning to ur website soon enough.
Thanks a lot -Celeste
r u certain which is accurate?