If you are attending Affiliate Summit West at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas from January 9-11, 2011 make sure to find our Affiliate Manager, Travis Jacobson.

Travis is available to talk about how we strategically manage affiliate programs to talking about strategies for increasing commission with affiliates.

Also, you can pick up a free LiveStrong bracelet if you come find him during the Summit. His schedule is filling up quickly, so make sure to set up an appointment today!

You can also contact Travis anytime during the show at 801-365-0068.

A lot actually.

Yep and I’m pulling a few things out of my back pocket that’ll make you stop and think hard about what you and your brand are doing.

If you’ve ever dabbled with conversion testing on a site, there’s so many opinions about what color works for call to action buttons. Does the color red really give a potential buyer a “warning/alert” feeling? Or does it actually create an impulse action? Truthfully, you’ll need to test to really know.

The point of this quick post today is an attempt to make you change your thinking about what colors do or don’t do to your site or brand itself. Enjoy the visual goodness of the two info graphics below and be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments.

Looking at the Top 100 Web Brands

Thanks to the crew over at Colour Lovers for putting together this masterpiece. Out of the top 100 web brands in the world, you’ll notice that blue and red are quite popular.

A Quick Look at How Color Affects Purchases

Another big thanks to Kiss Metrics for breaking down the color psychology of shoppers.

As you look through this infographic, it gives you a nice breakdown of why to choose certain colors, rather than:

“This color scheme looks good” or “I’ve heard this about this color”

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MadLibs Original Version

We all remember those rainy, boring days as kids, when finding something to do was impossible. Parents around the world cheered as they were thrown a life raft when the Mad Libs books came along. You remember, “The worlds best word game”. Fill in the blanks with words that made the most sense. It was just a mad ‘ol time.

Back in February 2010, those warm, fuzzy feelings we had as a kid all came back when Luke Wroblewski introduced the world to Mad Libs style landing pages. His post about his Mad Libs test generated quite a bit of buzz. By changing the style of the form on the landing page to a Mad Libs narrative type, it lifted conversions by 25%-40% across the board. Pretty impressive results right?

We thought so too.

One of our specialties is Targeted Lead Generation and we pride ourselves in the quality leads we generate for our clients. We’re constantly looking for ways to  improve conversion rates and keep our strategies on the cutting edge. When I came across this Mad Libs idea, I was dying for a chance to test this out on one of our landing pages. Today I’m going to show you what we did to implement this type of form test and share with you our results.

The Mad Lib Form Setup Process

When setting up the test, there are two areas that need to be focused on:

The Design & The Copy.

The whole point of the Mad Libs style form is to bring out the narrative element it offers. With the right copy and layout you can captivate your users. It gives the landing page a much more personal feeling and you can put more emphasis on your offer.

From a design standpoint, be sure to provide a good flow of the form layout and also enough padding so it doesn’t look like complete mess. The first field labled “TO:”, can add a nice touch if you add the logo of the company the user is sending the lead too. Also, in our case we could utilize and re-emphasize the phone number. This not only brings a more qualified/warm lead, it also gives the user trust in the business they’re giving their info to.

Take a look at the example we used below:

PLEASE NOTE: I’ve edited a few elements to the form for privacy reasons.

Landing Page Control Version

Mad Libs Form Style

The Results.

This is what everyone really cares about right? After a few weeks of testing our first landing page, we saw an overall conversion lift of 25%. Amazing.

Mad Libs Form Test Results

For every 100 leads, we are now generating an additional 15 leads above the control.

When you sit back and really look at what this kind of lift does to your bottom line, these are pretty exciting results.

To learn more about Net Media Group’s proven conversion testing services, give us a call at (801) 365-0057 today!

Below you’ll find a complete case study where we ran an A/B test within a shopping cart. We were testing the One Step Checkout Magento Extension against the standard Magento “One Page Checkout”. The results may surprise you

In the words of Bryan Eisenberg, “Always be Testing” is a big motto around here. No matter what we’re doing, we’re always looking to improve our sites conversion rates. With that being said, I wanted to take a quick second to share some results about an A/B test we ran on an eCommerce site using the OneStepCheckout Magento Extension. (Learn more about the extension here.)

One of the perks of using an open source platform like Magento, is it opens all types doors for developers to make the product that much better. Seeing that the eCommerce website that we were testing was using Magento, it allowed us to do some very creative and robust conversion testing.

Getting the A/B Test Setup

For starters, setting up the test was a lot easier than we originally planned. Simply install the Magento Extension, setup the configuration as you’d like and you’re ready to roll. From there, you need to setup the A/B test to track the results. Using Google Website Optimizer, we just setup an A/B test to get the test up quick and start gathering data right away.

TIP: When testing areas throughout your site try to have a method to the madness. In other words, don’t just test something because it looks cool or it’s a lucky guess. At NetMediaGroup, we utilize all of our analytics to make educated decisions on what to test.

The 2 Variations

STANDARD MAGENTO ONEPAGE CHECKOUT:

ONE STEP CHECKOUT MAGENTO EXTENSION:

The Results (Shocking)

To my surprise it was detrimental. It was a negative outcome (-26%). Ouch. Now, let me make it clear though. After seeing these results it DOES NOT MEAN YOU SHOULDN’T TRY this Magento extension. There are several variables that go into account. The demographics that use our site, the type of product, the price point, etc. This was a fantastic solution for a shopping cart. We’re currently rolling out to other sites to see if we can replicate the results or prove our point that it was just the particular site we tested it on.

In conclusion, this is why it’s always best to test everything and yet another reason why we’re consistently testing. There’s always room for improvement.

If you’ve used this extension, I’d love to hear what your results were…

Consider this—according to Facebook Statistics there are over 3 million active Facebook fan pages. On top of that, out of the 400 million Facebook users, 175 million login EVERYDAY.

You got that?

In other words, your company needs to be advertising on Facebook and it’s more than just setting up another pretty Facebook page. I’m here today, to help you change your perspective and show you that when you get creative with your customers you can experience real ROI through Social Media Marketing.

Since Facebook redesigned their pages, all types brands, big & small have flocked to the Facebook scene. While Facebook states they have over 3 million pages, most of these pages are never being updated.

In my opinion, the most common reason a majority of Facebook fan pages fail to become successful is because there was no clear direction or purpose of the fan page. It was more of a re-active move then a pro-active move. Brands are just setting up Facebook fan pages because they feel like they HAVE to without any thought out objectives.

That’s a waste of time. The power you get from marketing on Facebook is you have the ability to reach your customers where they already hangout online. There’s no effort to get them over to your website because your promos, contests & announcements show up right in their news feed.

Now that we’re all in the right mindset of why you should create a Facebook fan page; let’s get into how you do that by reviewing our tips for a successful Facebook fan page.

1. Socialize to promote your page

The social media game is like a giant cocktail party. The whole point is to be social and interact. When you look at that way, as you begin to engage with your customers & fans you’ll see the fan base you’re growing is actually meaningful because you took the time to care. They’re your fan because you engaged them and gave them a reason to interact with you.

What are you doing to promote your Facebook fan Page? Here’s some things you should be doing:

• Simply ask—Suggest people to become fans
• Add Social Icons to your sites
• Promote it through your email newsletters

2. Give your fans something to get excited about

There’s no better way to keep your fans happy and also get them to interact with your page then contests & coupons. Get serious and brainstorm some goals you’d like to achieve for your contests. What Holidays are coming up? You can promote contests and coupons based on the upcoming holidays. Put yourself in their shoes, what would make you want to engage?

• Contests will keep your fans coming back to see updates on the contest or see the results.
• As part of becoming a fan, offer EXCLUSIVE Facebook coupons on to your fans. Provide specific coupon codes for special savings and discounts as a way to say thanks for being a fan.

3. Keep your Facebook fan page fresh

That’s not to say just make an update on your page so it doesn’t get stale. Make sure your updates are useful and actually provide value or interaction. Otherwise you’ll run the risk of losing fans. It’s a balancing act, but with a little creativity and common sense you should be fine.

4. Get to know your fans

If you’re a brand or company, you should already have your demographic locked down. There are two reasons why this element is crucial in your Facebook fan page success.

1. As you’re creating promotions or releasing big announcements you need to know how to best deliver it to your fans. The way it’s presented will directly effect the response you get from you fans.
2. Understanding your demographic can help you decide if Facebook is really worth the time committment for your business

Check out the image below, it represents Facebooks demographics. After reviewing it you can see the biggest demo is Female teens. On the flip side, as Facebook grows more and more everyday, it is becoming more popular throughout older age groups. Keep that in mind as your contemplating how you setup your fan page and how you’re conveying your message to your fans.

Statistics Courtesy of Quantcast

So, what do you consider a successful Facebook fan page?

Although many of us believe that only quantity measures success, the number of fans is definitely not the only yardstick to measure a page’s success.

A successful Facebook page needs to be engaging, updated and rewarding. Each element has to co-exist in order to create a one-of-a-kind page that is meaningful to the fans.

We hope you’re enjoying our 2010 Social Media Guide thus far. Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@NetMediaGroup) and subscribe to our RSS Feed so you don’t miss out on our upcoming posts!

In this installment of our 2010 Social Media Guide, we’re taking a in-depth look at the new real time search functionality that’s being introduced by search engines such as Google & Bing.

First off, the fact that the search engine giant we all know and love—Google, is indexing Twitter tweets into their search results should tell you something. Social media has shifted the way we use the internet nowadays. Take a look at this quick video from Google to see what I’m talking about:

Ok that’s cool, but as a Business Owner How Does it Help Me?

Two words—Listen & Engage.

Let me explain.

Over the past year or so consumer expectations have changed. In a crazy, scary and cool sort of way, ALL internet users can find anything and everything instantly. In other words consumer expectations are at an all time high and their want/need for special attention needs to be met or they’ll go somewhere else.

On the flip side, you also have the ability to find out what’s going on right at that instant. Not only can you drill down to a specific niche but you can drill down to geo-location.

Now keep in mind I said “Listen & Engage“. Say for example, you’re a small business owner and you run a local real estate brokerage. So when I say “listen“, take it literally. Hop on Twitter or Google and use their real time search. What are people saying around your niche? Most business owners think the only way to use their Twitter account is to build 1,000+ followers and blast out mini advertisements. I believe that’s a huge mis-concpetion of how to use Twitter. I know that’s been preached to you but to me that’s counter-productive. Rather then hoping they listen, be sure they listen by “engaging“.

Search for anyone talking about the home buyer tax credit that’s about to expire.

“Hey does anyone know who qualifies for the tax credit?”

What a perfect opportunity to engage with that person and create value. Quick example but you get the idea right?

I get it now, but still… what’s the benefit of this?

1. It’s cost effective—You have access to all this for free. It’s free to listen & engage.
2. Qualified Leads/Prospects—The potential customers you’re engaging are qualified because you’ve hand-picked them. Now it’s time to engage them and earn their business.
3. An Insiders Perspective—Learn about what’s going on with your potential customers. What are they asking for? How can you create a solution for their needs?

What’s Next?

Some of you may be reading this and think this is best thing since sliced bread Al Gore created the internet. While others think it’s a complete waste of time. Either way, you’ve got nothing to loose and you may be surprised with your results.  Don’t be a hater and knock it before you try it.

Before you leave, here’s why I feel like this so powerful. Timing is everything. With real-time search you’re engaging with potential customers who are ready to act now. If you can catch someone within seconds or minutes of them wanting or needing something what more could you ask for? Not much.

Thanks for reading through this installment. If you’re struggling with to grow your business using social media, consider learning more about NetMediaGroup’s proven social media marketing methods, give us a call at (801) 365-0057 today!

Let’s face it, the term and idea of Social Media is trendy and ever-changing. Some business are all over it, while others are ignoring it. I think most business owners truly don’t understand what Social Media really is and what it can do for their business.

Are you participating in Social Media right now? Do you really know what Social Media is? Twitter. Facebook. Youtube. We’ve all heard of these social media sites. But are they useful?

The truth is — social media isn’t a fad. It’s arrived and it’s here to stay.

With the emergence of wildly popular social media networks like Twitter, Facebook and MySpace brands big and small are using these sites to better understand and connect with their customers online.

When you think of social media, envision a newsletter on steroids. Like a newsletter, you can reach out to hundreds or even thousands of your customers instantly. The difference is—the communication is now a two way street. It’s interactive. Your customers can digest your message and provide feedback instantly.

Is it really that big of a deal that people say it is?

Short and sweet, the answer is yes. Here’s a few facts that quickly tell you just how big this medium is getting.

• If Facebook were a country it would be the world’s 4th largest – between the United States and Indonesia.
• % of companies using LinkedIn as a primary tool to find employees…80%
• There are over 200,000,000 Blogs
• 78% of consumers trust peer recommendations
• Only 14% trust advertisements
• By 2010 Gen Y will outnumber Baby Boomers… 96% of them have joined a social network

Bottom line is this, social media is the new tool for keeping a finger on the pulse of your brand. Be it negative or positive, your customers are online right now and they’re talking about your brand. The question is: Are you listening?

Introducing the Social Media Guide for 2010

Times have changed, business’ are evolving and it’s time to catch up with the real time trends. Social media has changed the game and to make sure you’re not left in the dust, we at NetMediaGroup are bringing you a comprehensive Social Media Guide for 2010.

Here’s a quick look at some of the topics we’ll be covering in our 2010 Social Media Guide:

• Leveraging the new real time search.
• Using social media as a customer service tool.
• How your social media campaigns effect your SEO efforts.
• Creating a successful Facebook Fan Page.
• And plenty more where that came from.

Now that we’ve got the introduction out of the way, allow us to pour on the Social Media goodness.

To learn more about NetMediaGroup’s proven social media marketing methods, give us a call at (801) 365-0057 today!

Net Media Group / AffiliateCREW is proud to announce it has been selected as the outsourced affiliate program management company for the LIVESTRONG® Fitness affiliate program.

LIVESTRONG® Fitness is now offering their complete line of treadmills, elliptical trainers and exercise bikes direct from the manufacturer.

And, when affiliates promote LIVESTRONG® Fitness treadmills, ellipticals or bikes, they’re doing more than improving their visitor’s health. They’re  supporting the Lance Armstrong Foundation in its fight against cancer.

The LiveStrongFitness.com Affiliate Advantage

• Launched in the Commission Junction Affiliate Network
• 8% Commission on every qualified transaction
• 30-day commission duration
• Free shipping on all orders

To learn more about Net Media Group’s proven outsourced affiliate program management give us a call at (801) 365-0057 today!

Net Media Group / AffiliateCREW is proud to announce it is the new outsourced affiliate program management company for the  Surf Shelf affiliate program in the Commission Junction affiliate network.

SurfShelf is a secure laptop holder for your treadmill, bike or elliptical. You can surf the internet, watch shows, and check emails while you work out making you even more productive than ever.

Best of all, the SurfShelf holds up to 50 lbs. easily and fits 99% of laptops on the market today, including 17″ models.

Surf Shelf Affiliate Program

• 10% commission rate
• 15% performance incentive for 100 or more sales per month
• Regular promotions such as coupons, free shipping, etc. to boost conversions
• 45 day referral cookie
• Open search policy — we do not restrict the use/bidding of any keywords and we encourage affiliates to use our provided SEM-proven keywords in their search engine marketing and optimization
• Exclusive coupon code available after first sale
• High conversion rate 3.5%+
• Affiliates can join here

To learn more about Net Media Group’s proven outsourced affiliate program management give us a call at (801) 365-0057 today!

Net Media Group is excited to announce that we have just launched the LifeCORE Fitness Equipment affiliate program and will be adding their high quality products to our long list of fitness affiliate programs.

Founded in 1994, LifeCORE Fitness manufactures and distributes club quality fitness equipment including Lifecore rowing machines, Lifecore recumbent bikes, Lifecore ellipticals and weights for home use.

LifeCORE affiliates will be able to earn 10% commission on every qualified sale. A wide range of banners and text links have been uploaded and are ready for affiliates to place on their sites.

To join the LifeCORE affiliate program, visit MoolaMoola.com.

To learn more about Net Media Group’s proven outsourced affiliate program management give us a call at (801) 365-0057 today!