By now we've all become accustomed to the "bonus pile on"
that's almost a required part of any online offer. But even
though it's quite common place, never forget that adding
extra value to your offer is essential - especially when
you're selling information products.
This bonus concept is so important, I have frequently taken
something out that I was originally going to put into the
product just so I could use it as a bonus. Bonuses really
do sell (if you handle them the right way)!
Most people put some lame bonuses in that have been "around
the block". A bonus can't just be an afterthought. It's got
to be part of your initial offer strategy.
I know a lot of people struggle with bonuses so here's an
easy way to develop bonuses with high perceived value. Just
look for public domain works you can repackage.
I love public domain bonuses for many reasons. First,
they're completely free - you don't have to pay anyone to
write them. Second, they're often truly unique - with
millions of pages of public domain material available,
you're bound to find a "sleeper" on a great topic.
And best of all, they can jazz up just about any old
information product. Even a commonplace how-to course can
seem extra special when you've added some "vintage gems" as
bonuses. Talk about an underutilized marketing secret
weapon!
Here are just a few ways to use public domain materials as
bonuses...
Software - Believe it or not, many software developers
don't copyright their works because they want them to be
free for public use! Check out what's available by typing
"freeware" in your favorite search engine. Don't forget to
clear the rights with the author first.
eBooks - Even if you can't find a public domain work on a
related subject, inspirational and motivational topics go
with just about anything. There are thousands of public
domain works that fit into this category, from words of
wisdom to prayer books.
Government publications - US Federal works (and some state)
are in the public domain, and they are an absolute gold
mine. For example, when I created an anatomy drawing book
for artists (also in the public domain material!), a little
quick searching revealed government lists to grants for
artist. People love free money, making this an awesome
bonus with a high perceived value!
Diagrams, patterns, technical spec sheets - While finding
these may take a little more digging, they're perfect for
marketing to hobbyists, crafters, or collectors. If you're
selling a how-to guide to hand quilting, just a couple of
vintage quilt patterns will make your audience swoon. Or
what about diagrams or specifications for antique car parts
or vintage airplanes? Here's one instance where your
audience might grab your product simply to get the bonuses!
Drawings and photos - The copyrights on many old
illustrations and antique photos have expired - or they
were never copyrighted to begin with. Bundle these graphics
into themed sets to complement your product. While scanning
in old artwork may be a bit time consuming, this is one of
those "work once, reap the rewards forever" products.
Finally, here's a bonus for YOU. Remember that the more
unique your public domain bonus is, the more likely you can
package or even sell it in its own right! Sometimes
something as simple as changing a title can give your bonus
even more perceived value.
What a great way to breathe new life into those old
forgotten works... and pile on value-added bonuses that
justify a premium price tag for your product!
(c) Surefire Marketing, Inc.
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Yanik Silver is recognized as the leading expert on
creating automatic, moneymaking websites...and he still
doesn't know how to put up a website.
He is the author, co-author or creator of several best-
selling online marketing books and tools, including his
definitive guide for finding and profiting from public domain:
http://www.PublicDomainRiches.com
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