Article Marketing Is Officially Dead
Article marketing is dead – I know this will ruffle some feathers but I have to say it: “Article marketing is a complete waste of time!” At least, the way it’s usually done.
Which is to say that someone reads someone else’s article and then spits out their own version which sucks slightly less. Then they rewrite their own article, chop it up and send it out to be posted on one hundred different sites.
To be read by thousands of people who don’t give a hoot.
Let’s face it, article marketing might have been a valid strategy five years ago, but every day the internet is getting closer and closer to complete and sickening saturation. There’s more articles out there than you could use to wipe yourself and flush.
Honestly, there’s so much garbage out there that if you only wanted to read the headlines it would take you ten lifetimes of agonizing pain.
You know, in Vietnam they used to blast rock music to scare the Skittles out of the enemy.
These days, when they catch a terrorist, they don’t “waterboard” them, they hook them up to the internet and force them to read articles.
But I know what you’re thinking, “Jason, you write articles every day! You write six to ten articles a week. How can you possibly say that article marketing sucks?”
“How can you say that article marketing is dead?”
Well, it’s because I don’t write “articles”. I talk to people I sincerely want to help. I talk to friends I want to grow with and learn from. I talk to people NOT Google.
Sure, I use keywords, widgets, and diddly-doos, but I never forget that I’m talking to living, breathing, human beings with pumping, loving hearts.
And I never forget that the last thing you want to read is another article.
Am I right?
I mean, do you really want to read more articles? Because I have a pile of them for you. It will take me all of two seconds to search Google.
No.
I don’t think you want to read “articles”. I think you want to reach your dreams of financial independence and personal freedom. I think you want to quit that job or supplement whatever income you have right now.
You want to do what you want to do, when you want to do it.
You want to live your own personal dream.
And believe it or not, that’s what almost everyone else wants too!
So you’re not writing “articles”, that’s the last thing you want to do!
You’re building bridges. Bridges to your reader’s dreams.
You’re not trying to “sell” anybody on your wonderful business like you’re “Mr. Opportunity” knocking on their door. You’re just trying to help them get what they already want.
You’re lending a helping hand.
That my friend, is probably the best advice I will ever give about “article marketing”.
It doesn’t matter how crowded the market gets. As long as there’s new problems… you’ll have something new to write about.
People to help.
Hey, I know this article is a bit more emotional than most, but I’m passionate about helping people out with what I know. I would like to hear from you too.
How do you cut through the clutter these days?
Join the conversation by leaving a comment today. It doesn’t have to be a long one, but we have great peeps here like Dwayne, Mitchell, Rebecca, Adam, Tommy, Kissie, Peter, Hani, Jackie, and David who are always leaving happy little comments that make my day.
I know I missed a few of you here, but I hope you forgive me. There’s a lot of people stopping by every day.
This place is really rocking these days.
See you soon,
Jason The “Better Networker”
The Jason Better Blog
P.S. New Here? Well then, join the circle of friends by signing up for more free network marketing tips delivered straight to your inbox every time I write a fantastically mind-blowing killer post like this one. Hah. It’s real easy to do, just put your real name and primary e-mail address in the little boxes below.
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117 Comments
Twila Jacobs on January 6th, 2010
Good Morning Jason ~ Thanks for the giggle in reference to both the waterboarding and wipe & flush.
It’s gotten to the point that even if one has a simple question and you do a search, it’s an overwhelming sea of information and quite frankly it drives me over the edge at times.
I was raised in an environment where you help others, and that is what I try to focus on, in addition to showing people how to think outside the box at times when needed.
You’re correct, there are so many articles out there that the internet is saturated. There’s even a site out there called Content4Reprint or something like that…c’mon, at least be original and address a problem or concern.
Another great article as ususal!
Have a Great One!
Twila Jacobs
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 11:29 am
Morning Twila,
Haha… just glad it got a chuckle. I’m sure
some people would like to throw things
at me by now… but you can’t please
everybody. 
[Reply]
Brian Moore on January 6th, 2010
Ditto, Bro.
There’s a deluge of poorly written articles out there, and “spinners” are cranking out more by the minute. But thoughtful and helpful content like yours will always be welcomed by thoughtful and helpful marketers.
So keep up the great work!
Brian Moore
[Reply]
Mitcehll Dillman on January 6th, 2010
Well Jason,
You sure know how to stink up the party…
Seems most of my marketing strategy is piling up around article writing. Just last week I committed to no less than 3 per day.
Now I realize I’d better make darn sure I’ve got something other than a pile of waste to share or it’s simply virtual toilet paper.
Thanks for cleaning up behind me 
Mitchell Dillman
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 11:34 am
Morning Mitchell,
I don’t think your articles are your typical
flush fodder. You’re always helpful… and
entertaining.
I think the call here is to make sure we’re delivering
value instead of rehashing the same old… same old.
At least, I hope that’s what people take away from this
post.
Well I hope so anyway…
Is that a mob I see in the distance?
Pitchforks, torches, oh my!
I better run.
[Reply]
Cheryl James on January 6th, 2010
Nice article Jason.
You had me worried at first though. Articles are easier for me than some of the other methods, yet I still think mine tend to be boring. If you have any solutions for that, please throw them my way.
Thanks,
Cheryl James
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 11:51 am
Hey Cheryl,
I had an artist tell me one time that if
you get to pick your subject… you should
paint the lamborghini instead of the bowl
of fruit.
Your topic is half the battle. If you pick the
biggest problem your market is facing… every
word will count.
Much more important than writing style or
copywriting kungfu.
[Reply]
Josh Boxer on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
I have always thought the same thing. I have always been one to try to be as unique as possible and then I thought, “Isn’t everything re-hashed in some shape or fashion?” There is no revelation knowledge anymore unless your a rocket scientist or coming up with the next Goat Flu cure.
And thinking further, I have pumped out hundreds of articles, hundreds of Videos as well as other media rich content over the years. My conclusion is, its all to create relationships with your audience.
If one thinks they are going to drive massive amounts of traffic with social media and articles, etc, they are dead wrong.
If your looking to drive traffic, PAY FOR IT.
Jonathan Mizel just release Traffic Evolution and it speaks for itself. Articles, Videos and social media is not scaleable…At all..Paid traffic is.
Thanks for sharing.
JBox.
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 11:56 am
Josh,
I think you just gave some of the best advice I’ve
ever seen on this blog.
Although I’m now a little worried about goat flu. lol.
I guess people get so caught up in article marketing… which
is awesome… if there’s value or entertainment to share…
I just think they often forget to build those relationships that will
change the entire course of their lives.
With that said, articles will always be a staple of my marketing
efforts. As long as I have something helpful to say.
I think Mike Dillard is the perfect example of this. I’m on his list
and sometimes he doesn’t send out an e-mail for weeks… he only
opens his mouth when he has something earth-shattering or important
to share.
Thank you Josh
[Reply]
Yuriy Anishchenko on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
thanks for the info, you really opened my eye a bit. I am not an expert of online marketing, I used to marker offline before, so I thought articles were really good, guess not… what about back links for a website, doesn’t google want you to have a ton of those and article is a good way to do it?
Waiting to hear from you my friend
You Rock!!!
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 11:58 am
Hey Yuriy,
It’s not that articles aren’t a good way to market.
It’s that too many people pump out worthless content.
If you have something good to say… by all means…
write articles every day of the week.
Thanks for dropping in.
[Reply]
Melissa McCloud on January 6th, 2010
oooh… good to know!
quality over quantity =)
thanks!
~the conscious mentor
[Reply]
Hani on January 6th, 2010
Hi Cheryl,
I am not sure if this is outside your comfort zone, but you might want to consider doing videos to supplement your articles. This way you can add a new dimension to your articles. You will also connect with your viewers on a more personal level with your videos.
I personally like to keep my articles short and sweet and elaborate more in my videos.
Cheers,
Hani
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 12:06 pm
Hey Hani,
Nice to see you this morning.
I think you have an incredible approach. Your
videos, which by the way I love are a good example
of what we should strive for even in our article writing.
This seems to be a sensitive issue for a lot of people.
Can’t wait to see what other people have to contribute to
the dialog today too.
[Reply]
Dr. Bob Clarke on January 6th, 2010
Food for thought, Jason… and I know in my heart that you are 100% correct. But my question is this — if you need to leverage your time and want to outsource some articles, how on Earth do you find someone who writes in your voice?
I have hired a few article writers in the past, and always end up rewriting what they’ve done. Not that they are bad, just not in my voice and style.
Do you recommend outsourcing articles, and if so how would you go about finding a suitable writer?
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
Hey Dr. Bob,
You know, this is a HUGE issue for more
successful network marketers.
It’s almost impossible to find a decent copywriter at
an affordable price that can really mimic your style.
If possible, I would recommend putting together a team
and have the articles come from your team. That way, you
don’t have to worry about your “voice” so much.
I know that other successful business owners have this same
problem.
Personally, I think it’s next to impossible to find a write who can
really replace you. At least, not cheap.
I think outsourcing is a brilliant way to leverage your time. It’s an
accepted practice in almost every business. So I don’t see why
it should be different in our industry.
Thanks for commenting today, Dr. Bob.
Hope to see you back soon.
[Reply]
Tim on January 6th, 2010
Really like your article and appreciate your opinion, I’ve been working to build a blog and researching a lot of article marketing strategies. Some of the best advice I think I’ve accumulated is simply to present quality and value rather than an seo based keyword saturated article that turns people away from your article or capture pages. You can literally consume a day or more reading everything out there. My goal and I think it should be everyones is to be yourself in your articles, show your personality through your writing and you will attract people that are like yourself and more willing to work with you.
Thanks for the opportunity to give my opinion and comment.
Tim Bouchey
[Reply]
bob kellogg on January 6th, 2010
Great headline and yes it did get me a little sick at first
being one to just starting doing and figure out how to do it better the next time, I have been guilty of putting out some “not so content rich, valueable articles” in my first few years as a online marketer
But as with anything… you learn as you do, not as you watch, so with the help of this community I’ve done a much better job of it!
Thanks for the reminder to always give value!
[Reply]
Sue Collier on January 6th, 2010
Hi Jason
My first time here, looks like you have some interesting stuff to rea; I will defo hang around here! Great article, and love the way you answer back to people’s comments. Will give my articles a bit more thought tho…..
[Reply]
Mike Whitfield on January 6th, 2010
You nailed it Jason! I am in the process of building a very rewarding home-based Network Marketing business in the Entrepreneurial Education & Leadership industry. Not only financially rewarding but also in terms of time-freedom, meeting new like-minded people, and collaborating, networking and mentoring with successful entrepreneurs. Further to your point, and for the benefit of all your readers – perhaps one of the single most significant questions I have learned to ask, that really opens up the prospecting conversation is: “Help me understand -what is important to you?”
Cheers,
Mike Whitfield
Calgary, Canada
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
Good day Mike,
Thank you. I think a spirit of helping
out everyone we meet in even just a small
way is exactly what we all need to bring to
network marketing… and our articles too.
In the spirit of…
“Find out what they want and show them how
to get it.”
Gosh, I forget who said that one… even though it’s
always on the tip of my tongue. Maybe it was Dale
Carnegie?
[Reply]
Sekhar Gurugubelli on January 6th, 2010
Jason,
I agree with what you have written in this article. Write articles only when you have something worthwhile to say and adds value to other people lives. I was told that
massive action is the key to achieve results with any marketing method you choose. I believe that’s the reason why many articles lack quality, as people are giving importance for quantity. Instead, if you do the videos, producing 1 or 2 every day, how in the world do you come up with something profound to say everyday which adds value to peoples lives?
If you want to write an article or produce a video only when you have something profound to say, definitely you will have less no. of articles or videos (with great quality). But this contradicts with Guru’s teachings of massive action.
Hope I made my point clear.
Thanks,
Sekhar
[Reply]
Dana Prieur on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
I found your post to be so refreshing, I totally agree with you on this one. I know there are a lot of amazing writers out there and some of the content is a great read, but talk about information overload! This passion can seriously hurt someone’s bottom line, whether you are the writer or the reader.
My focus is making sure that I talk with people on a daily basis, if you’re not one to pick up the phone and prefer to connect online, than make sure you are asking lots of questions about them and really get to know them, find out what their needs are and see if you can help them in any way.
Sure I like to write too but we have to remember there is only so much time in one day so let’s make better use of our time and start making contact and building those relationships, this has made a huge difference in my business.
Thank you for your honesty Jason, I just wanted to give you mine.
I’m off to Build my Bridges!
Dana Prieur
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Hey Dana,
Thank you for your kind comment.
I believe we all have to find that daily balance between
writing artcles and just getting out there.
Your advice about really getting to know your market is
spot on.
In the end, it’s all communication, so much of the same
advice applies to writing articles as any other medium.
I think I stirred up some muck here with my bold statement
but it’s for a good cause.
Like almost everybody else, I feel the weight of information
overload on my shoulders. It’s like every day there’s
a new whizbang thingamabob that we all need to master
in 30 seconds or we’re gonna die.
Maybe, I’m being a bit dramatic, but I thing a lot of people
feel the same too.
Thanks Dana. I hope you have a great day.
[Reply]
Colin Durkin on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
I’m going to have to reluctantly agree with you. But the real question is… who killed article marketing? Isn’t it the same people who have put out all of these “learn the secrets of the pros” ebooks that teach people to become the expert and write articles about how smart they are? To me, these people are the ones left holding the gun. And the worst of it is, they haven’t really taught anyone how to do anything other than repackage what they have been told in the book and resell it. Nobody is really teaching people how this industry really works and how to actually apply the knowledge contained in these books. And if the people writing the infobooks are the murderers, then automation is definitely the gun. Now, not only are people being taught to repackage everything but people have also come up with a way to make it happen without people actually having to do the work… giving them the impression that all they have to do is sit on their computer and push a few buttons and money will come raining down from the sky. If that was the case every pauper would be a king… that just isn’t how it works. As an industry we need to teach people how to evaluate a business properly, and go back to marketing new and innovative products (which is what this industry was based on) instead of repackaging the same old crap, whether it is another health supplement, personal care product, cheaper long distance or can’t miss marketing strategy system.
[Reply]
Emma Tiebens on January 6th, 2010
Hi Jason!
Wow, this is so awesome! I didn’t know you had a Blog too! Yes, I have missed being involved in BN – lots of “evolution” happening in my business life – so I took a bit of a “sabbatical” but I do plan to create more content that will help the community in 2010!
Do I believe Article Marketing is Dead? I truly agree with what you said here:
“Well, it’s because I don’t write “articles”. I talk to people I sincerely want to help. I talk to friends I want to grow with and learn from. I talk to people NOT Google.
Sure, I use keywords, widgets, and diddly-doos, but I never forget that I’m talking to living, breathing, human beings with pumping, loving hearts.”
I love to write… I love writing something that connects, inspires and equips people with knowledge. I do my best to write from the heart. With the onset of video marketing, I find that it’s much easier for me to connect with my audience. Writing is my first love and now video is a close second. Goes without saying that I had to conquer two huge fears – Fear of Video and Fear of Being Transparent.
I love our BN Community… I credit Mike Dillard for starting me on the path of Internet Marketing and now I am coaching people how they too can find hope through Mike’s teachings, BN Community and now your Blog!
This is awesome, Jason! Happy New Year to you and yours!
Best Regards,
Emma Tiebens
[Reply]
Kevin DaSilva on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
Great Great Post dude! This was a great read and very insightful. I’m sure you have accomplished your goal of helping people because they stress on things like writing articles, like I do, for the wrong reasons.
Your Friend,
Kevin DaSilva
Mass Sponsoring
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Good day Kevin,
Glad you liked it man. I’ve been seeing you
around quite a bit lately… online that is.
[Reply]
Ingebjorg Froberg on January 6th, 2010
Hi Jason,
I always enjoy your energetic ‘articles’ (!!??) and comments.
Of course, you are a forerunner and very cutting edge, able to spot another unfortunate manefistation of the copycat-mentality; in this case – nonsense articles.
However, the problem is perhaps not the genre – the article – itself, as much as the ‘authors” misconception of what the article is supposed to be all about; a presentation of a new/different idea or perspective.
I totally agree with you; the socalled sales articles are worse than spam!
Keep up the nice work.
Ingebjorg from Norway
[Reply]
Andrew Peel on January 6th, 2010
I agree focus on the ‘one big thing’ that will help someone along their path to decide and you have done a good job.
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 2:26 pm
Hey Andrew,
Yeah, I think Michael Force was just talking about this
on Better Networker too. The “Big Idea”
[Reply]
Jerome Ratliff on January 6th, 2010
Another great article and one thing I like about JasonBetter.com is you do make it personal.
I thank you for that. I found taking this approach creates better rapport over than article marketing.
Article marketing is one of those areas where if you’re going to use it, it should be true to what you do.
It should be in-line with the message your sending to the world.
It also comes down to what method satisifies your purpose.
Jerome Ratliff
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
Hey Jerome!
Thank you man. That’s why I love blogging. You
get to learn more about people than simply posting
articles willy nilly everywhere.
[Reply]
Ilka Flood on January 6th, 2010
Thanks Jason! A HUGE light bulb went off in my head. We have a saying in Germany “you can’t see the forest for the trees.” Seems I had been so focused on keywords and content that I was totally blind where my real focus should have been. Vow to do better in the future.
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 2:29 pm
G’day Ilka,
That’s what I like to hear. Wow. You make a guy feel
good about himself.
Don’t worry, I get lost in the forest too from time to time!
[Reply]
Dwayne Huggins on January 6th, 2010
Hi J
Firstly, thank you for giving me a mention in your post, means a lot.
The death of article marketing, great topic choice. I recently saw an article on a well known ezine website. It had only been there for 5 days and already had 11,000+ views. I tried my best to have a read of this article and it made absolutely no sense at all. It obviously it had been spun a couple thousand times and was simply geared up for the Google spiders. Even though the shameless owner of the article recieved high views, I am positive his click through rate was lower than gum stuck on the sidewalk.
However, I am developing a love for article writing, admittedly in the beginning I was just doing it as a marketing method, now it’s just about giving value and getting as much valuable content out there.
Building relationships with people will always win over building one with Google.
I look forward to tomorrows installment.
Dwayne
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 2:30 pm
Hey Dwayne,
Man, no need to thank me for that. You’re
such an authentic guy that I can’t help but remember
you and the content you’ve been putting out on
Better Networker.
Awesome.
[Reply]
Scott Love on January 6th, 2010
Profound!
I just hope we all listen and take it to heart. Provide value and meet needs. Sounds a lot like something i read in Magnetic Sponsoring (wink).
Good stuff,
scott…
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
Haha Scott,
Indeed it does. You know, if everyone
read that book seven times… a lot of gurus
might be out of a job!
[Reply]
Neil Little on January 6th, 2010
I totally agree which is why I only write occasionally.
Why waste time writing articles?
It is quite simply the most boring thing to do especially if you are targetting a certain keyword term then this becomes mind numbingly boring.
Try writing 10 unique articles about the same term.
I outsource my article writing, which has given me far more time to concentrate on the other aspects of my business.
[Reply]
Deb Webb on January 6th, 2010
I feel so much better. Started looking into, and decided to go with, article marketing as my main thing – for now. I got the article submitter and was horrified to learn about the ‘art’ of article spinning. I am sick of receiving these regergetated pieces of know how that I could figure out how to do for myself through google, or simply by using my head.
You remember those kids in school who spent all their time studying, not living life and gaining real experience? Sometimes I feel like one of those people. I enter my email to get one thing and end up with a whole whack of emails…. you know the deal. I don’t want to be guilty of doing that to other people! I’m happy I was invited to this blog. Happy Wednesday guys!
>>Deb
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
Happy Wednesday Deb,
I know what you mean. Sometimes you can barely tell
if an article was written by a person or a machine…
sometimes it’s a bit of both!
Glad to have you here Deb
[Reply]
chris owen on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason, I had my son go look for the old pitch fork, but stopped him as I got further down the blog.
I don’t know who said it first between Bernard Baruch and Dale Carnagie in How to win friends and Influence people, but the quote fits perfectly.
Another quote from Bernard is, “If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail”.
I think that is the case with article marketing today, especially with SEO gaining popularity in this industry. Article marketing is one of the most straight forward tools in SEO. The one people seem to migrate to without learning how to actually write an article.
I am still in the learning curve in some area’s and will always be. If you stop learning, you stop progressing.
As for boring articles. An easy fix is to tell a story. I like to go from personal story’s to parables and headlines that make you wonder what the heck is this gonna be.
I have only been on BN for a few days, but I have a couple of blogs up and a couple of articles. The article called Sometimes Motivation Sucks is one that I think would be a great example of story telling and a what the heck headline. This is more in response to Cheryl’s request.
Paid traffic is great, but you still have to have copywriting skills to do anything with it. So either way I think this article applies. No one wants to see yet another capture page that doesn’t make a point. Though I will say that head on PPC guys are much less a part of this problem than unqualified article marketers black hatting for inbound links.
I am after mass quality. Hey, that is a great subject for my next post.
Gotta Go
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
Hey Chris,
Glad I dodged the pitchfork! I was worried
for a bit.
I didn’t know that quote, “If all you have is a hammer,
everything looks like a nail” was from Bernard Baruch.
I’m familiar with it but I guess we learn something new every day.
I think that’s my problem at times. I see everything as a
marketing problem… some times I forget to step back
and look at the human element too.
I guess this is what happening with newbies in SEO. They
try to SEO everything. By the time they’re done, you can
barely read their articles.
Not putting down SEO. It’s a sweet way to get loads more
traffic to your blog… but gosh… enough with the keyword
stuffing! I’m a human being.
[Reply]
Warren Contreras on January 6th, 2010
I figured that out months ago and shifted to writing short tips geared to helping others and posting them places like Qondio.com for free with no strings attached. It’s like throwing breadcrumbs around to attract the birds and it works.
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Hey Warren,
Nice to see you here. I’ll have to look into that. I think
you might just start a new trend…
Breadcrumb Marketing!
You know, there’s a lot to be said for spreading out
shorter articles too. I know a lot of people write incredibly
short blog posts… but they still seem to be doing fairly well.
[Reply]
Mary Thayer on January 6th, 2010
Scary title for an avid article writer! You hit the nail on the head and me as well.
Thank you for that!
Sometimes I think we get stuck in the trying to sound professional that we forget the human factor:-)
I will implement your advice today!
Cheers!
Mary Thayer
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
Good day Mary,
I’ve been hearing that lately… I think sometimes
the only way to cut through the cutter is to inject a
little bit of fear.
I mean, somebody has to say something. Article marketing
has gone from being the easiest way to get web traffic to one
of the hardest… and it’s mostly a quantity over quality problem.
Thanks again Mary. I’m happy you stopped by.
[Reply]
Jared Wiener on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
Being a marketer who’s primary method of driving traffic to my website is with article marketing, I do agree with your post to a point.
I think that the subject matter of the article is very important, however, what’s even more important is HOW the article is written. I can guarantee you that I can take the driest most boring article on the internet (dry to the point that you feel like you just drank sand after reading it) and make it the most exciting, heart-felt article!
Yes, there are more articles out there than ever, but how many are well-written? Far too many times I have come across articles with misspelled words, poor grammar, etc. My point is that although there is a tremendous amount of articles on the internet, you can cut through the clutter but writing a good, quality, thought-provoking article, no matter what the subject it.
Quote from Superman (with Christopher Reeve)
Jimmy Olsen: “How come you get all the great stories Lois?”
Lois Lane: “A good reporter doesn’t get great stories Jimmy. A good reporter makes them great”.
I think the same applie to article writing. Now, how you distribute those articles is another story all together.
Jared
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 6:07 pm
Good evening Jared,
I’ve shaken things up a bit here but I agree. Quite
often it’s the writer and not the article that goes
wrong.
By the same token, I’ve read articles with typos everywhere
and still read every last word. Sometimes sheer personality
and experience can save the day.
I love your quote by the way. Gosh, I love quotes. They
reveal so much about the people who share them.
Thank you Jared.
I really do appreciate you taking the time to comment.
[Reply]
Damayanthi on January 6th, 2010
Hello Jason…
Wow, what can I say?
I wondered whether you came across some of my articles… I intend to give value for sure, but I know they are boring.
Thank you so much for this, as I have started doing at least one article a day.
Have a great day
Damayanthi
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
Good evening Damayanthi,
Your articles are far from boring.
I know your comments aren’t. You always
have something nice to say.
[Reply]
Chuck Bartok on January 6th, 2010
WOW, very impressive group posting comments.
One slant on a well written Article,, communicating to those who care, is to take the same copy, record an audio with sincerity and make a video with similar flow of information…and not aprofessional slick version.
My clients, who are basically Service providers and manufacturers have found this to be a Relationship building Magnet.
This tied to Very Relevant Blog posting in the Niche increased Sales and profit in exces of 50% for some in 2009, and they are looking forward to greater Market share in 2010.
For the past 50 years my business were based on the premise..
People buy from People
Articles written with the premise of providing REAL information to those who want to hear it, WORKS
Thank you for the courtesy of your Time reading this comment
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
Hey Chuck,
I like it!
People buy from people.
I only wish everybody wrote articles for
people too. Although I think we all intend too.
I’ve been guilty of losing sight of people at times
myself.
Thank you for commenting Chuck.
I know there’s a load of posts out there you
could be reading.
[Reply]
Geoffrey Yumul on January 6th, 2010
Hi Jason,
Great topic!
I like the emphasis on “I write for humans not google”. It makes more profit on both parties.
I am looking forward for more priceless posts from you.
Cheers,
Geoffrey Yumul
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
Evening Geoffrey,
Thank you kindly.
I think it’s the only way to write at all.
I’m looking forward to more comments
from you in the future too.
[Reply]
Wayne Wu on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jas,
The best article writers are also the best students.
I think there are too many people trying to be “gurus” out there.
Recently I got an article rejected from one of the big daddies of article directories for being “too controversial” – I’m in the process of toning that one down …
There was a time when I would have got really worried about this… “Am I going to be banned?” “Are they going to delay my submissions?”… not anymore.
You gotta put your heart out there and ruffle a few feathers and take a few shots. That’s how you build decent relationships.
Cheers,
Wayne
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
Wayne!
Nice seeing you back here.
Hah, don’t worry about it. You know, I’ve
had articles rejected too.
Sometimes emotion gets the best of us. But writing
is really a transfer of emotion anyway… we can’t please
everybody every day.
Right on too.
“I think there are too many people trying to be “gurus” out there.”
Yep. Everywhere you turn there’s a guru.
Not that I have anything against them. I think we
can learn from everyone we meet.
Thanks again Wayne. It’s been a little while since
I saw you last. Nice to see familiar faces here.
[Reply]
Daryl Spears on January 6th, 2010
Hi Jason,
I’m new here and to internet marketing. I’ve so much to learn. Article marketing is one of the ways I have chosen to market. With the content I have read here and on BetterNetworker I have already learned quite a bit(excellent content!), but have a ways to go. I have written one article and now I see how it could have been a lot better. Thanks for the heads up on being yourself and adding real value in your writing!
Rock on!, Daryl
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Hi there Daryl,
Thank you for the rockin’ comment.
Everybody starts somewhere… and you know… I still don’t
write many articles that I like. It’s a good sign.
It was Michelangelo who said:
“… may I always desire more than I can accomplish.”
How else can we improve?
[Reply]
Jan Ashby on January 6th, 2010
I agree that at times, sheer personality and wit can “win the day”, & a few typos can be forgiven. I do grow weary of people who attempt to write in english that clearly don’t know the language well (thinking they can “score” a few bucks). Lame. Very lame. Let us have more ingenuity and thinking outside the box. I’m for that!
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
I hear you Jan!
Although, I still fret to call anyone out on their grammar
for fear that mine will be judged too.
Still, I’ve learned an awful lot from some people
who couldn’t string two words together.
[Reply]
Angelica Ried on January 6th, 2010
Jason,
You always write to people and take care of your “bridges”. I’ve learned this before but you brought it to life. Thanks!!
[Reply]
January 6th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
And Angelica,
You paid me the highest compliment I’ve
received in ages. Thank you.
I’m just happy that my ramble has helped
a few people… although… I must admit… it
upset a few people too.
[Reply]
William on January 6th, 2010
Thanks Jason, I’m new to all this and have just written my first article. Thanks for your advice I will take it into account as I proof read and streamline my article before publishing. Cheers. William
[Reply]
Network Marketing Moms | Is Article Marketing oficially dead? on January 6th, 2010
[...] Is Article Marketing oficially dead? Posted on January 07, 2010 by Angelica Ried If you have you been writing articles lately, you probably are wasting your time. Did you know that there is someone who claims that Article Marketing is officially dead? [...]
Peter on January 6th, 2010
Hey Jason,
I reckon you have cracked the code on this post/article; I mean 65 comments in less than a day? this has gone viral!!! (Now all I need is some more time to read the comments so I can spend less time reading the articles)
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:18 am
Morning Peter,
I don’t know if I cracked the code… but I think
it’s a pretty big issue we’re all feeling. Especially
those who write articles.
I think we’re starting to accept that just pumping
out words isn’t enough… there has to be some
“magic” to those words too.
[Reply]
John F. Kennedy on January 6th, 2010
You are correct my friend. There are some article marketers who just assume most people on the internet know what they are doing when marketing or starting a business online. Or assume everyone is looking to buy something. Some people just want to find good quality information. I think article writing should be like having a good conversation with a friend.
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:19 am
Hey John F.,
Truer words have never been spoken.
“I think article writing should be like having a good conversation with a friend.”
[Reply]
Patty Gale on January 6th, 2010
Whew! Now I don’t feel so bad for seriously neglecting article marketing for the last 18 months.
Seriously, though, this post is very timely. People want to know who WE are, what makes us tick, what keeps us motivated, what makes us cry.
That’s why they do business with us or join or team, because of us, not because of some re-written or re-hashed PLR article found on a directory.
Ladies and gentleman, this is about emotion. People need to know that you are approachable and that you can relate to what they’re going through.
Forget the fancy article-writing. Just be you and you’ll be amazed at what happens!
Patty
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:21 am
Mornin’ Patty,
I agree,
I don’t think we should ignore writing. It’s
probably the most important factor in online
success.
However, this is about people, personality,
emotion and proving to others that yes…
…they can trust you.
Just be you. I agree, but work on that “you”
every day.
[Reply]
Keith D Shrock on January 6th, 2010
Personally, it’s not that hard to take 1 or 2 keywords and write an informative article. What is difficult for me–is to add emotion–as is stated above. The article needs to: educate,enlighten,entertain or exhort and be emotional. Does anyone have a list of emotional words? Give me a 5 star (5 E’s) response, please. 85% of people buy on emotion. Not me. I used to be an engineer–just the facts, ma’am.
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:23 am
Hey Keith,
While a list of emotional words might
come in handy… it’s much easier just to
transfer an emotion you already feel.
If you’re angry about something in the industry…
well… vent a little.
If you love the advice someone is giving, then praise
them.
Feel before you write.
[Reply]
Mitchell Dillman on January 7th, 2010
Hey buddy,
I’ve been keeping my eye on this aawwlll day long…
Wow, you have to have set some kind of record
Looks like I’ve been learning from a REAL master.
Heck Jason, you’re my ‘guru’, sage and savant all rolled into one…
your buddy,
Mitchell Dillman
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:25 am
Mornin’ Mitchell,
I think I may have underestimated the controversial
nature of this post. There’s no end in sight.
There’s a lot of factors here… one of the key ones
being that we all see what’s happening with info
overload in our industry.
We’re all a little worried about standing out.
It’s not as easy as it used to be.
[Reply]
Najee on January 7th, 2010
This is what works for me. When I write a significant (to me at least) article on my blog, I also post an abbreviated version on a couple of article directories. The directories get indexed by Google before my original blog entry and also get ranked higher. Google generates traffic to the article in the article directory – those whose interest is now piqued visit my blog from there.
Now posting an article on hundreds of directories, that I haven’t tried. Why would I do that when posting on two directories get’s me first page ranking on Google.
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:29 am
Morning Najee,
Sounds like a solid strategy to me. You
know when it comes down to it… those who
can write and use SEO seamlessly do have a
leg up… all other things being equal.
[Reply]
April Villemaire on January 7th, 2010
Hey Jason,
I sit here as a newbie trying to do this the right way instead of being a magnet trying to attract with similar poles and anyone who knows magnets knows thats a lose lose…. especially with warm markets. Value is attracting but if it doesn’t tickle your belly it’s just the same ole junk. Write a really great article on the mating ritual on Japanese beetles if your intention is to bore people. One thing i noticed already is people who really want to “give without want” wont opt-in every word sentence and article. you gotta make a living, but you don’t have to sell your old dirty shoe laces off your shoes while doing it. The way i see all this is give give give till it makes you dizzy but give something that will excite someone waking up to 33″ of snow that doesnt like snow. Thanks Jason for steering me in the right direction
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 9:32 am
G-mornin’ April,
And thank you for stopping by.
I’ll try not to sell any dirty shoelaces, but giving
is where it’s at.
I hope everybody here understands that you don’t
have to be a “guru” to give.
We’re all here to learn from each other.
[Reply]
April Villemaire on January 7th, 2010
Keith I am new at this but i have been free lancing articles in hard copy for years. Find something you really feel or have a passion about. Are you excited about what money could do for you? Or the freedom? How about if you have kids and could send them to an elite college. The key is think about how that would make you feel, let it sink in and write how you feel and add that to your content. How do you want people reading it to feel after they read it? Put yourself in their shoes. Watch an inspirational movie before and write something right after. Everyone likes to feel good about themselves, everyone likes to be happy or laugh.And you aint gotta be duh purfict reyter to git yur mesage a cros. Have a great day everyone!! April Villemaire
[Reply]
Josh Boxer on January 7th, 2010
Like my momma used to say, if you dont have anything nice to say, keep your mouth shut. If people only realized the damage they do to the web as far as flooding it with junk and diluting the quality content in a sea of muck, they might think twice about clicking the submit button before proofing their work.
I have been guilty of it in the past until I finally got it.
It’s not about driving traffic, it’s about making a difference in the world around us.
After reading through all of the comments on this page, I have to say I am impressed Jason. You are the MacDaddy of comment responses. Way to go taking the time to make a difference and create those invaluable relationships.
Peace my brotha from anotha motha…..
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 11:15 am
Hah Josh,
You found my only weakness other than
coffee. Flattery.
Funny thing is, my momma used to say the
exact same thing… you would swear there’s a
conspiracy at work!
[Reply]
Did Internet Marketers “Screw Up” Network Marketing?Network Marketing Business Blog on January 7th, 2010
[...] Article Marketing Is Officially Dead. [...]
Jeff Lambson on January 7th, 2010
Hey Jason, Your title did get my attention. I had to read it because of my new passion in writing articles. Coming up with good content often is a challenge. My goal is to make the process as “people friendly” as possible. My success will be showing others how to create their own success story. Making real relationships online and still finding time for your personal needs is important. Keep up the good work and providing good content. Jeff in Utah
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 11:50 am
Mornin’ Jeff,
If only I knew that headline would grab so much
attention… sometimes we luck out a little… but it’s
an issue that been bugging me for a long time.
So I figured it would bug other writers too.
[Reply]
Dave Zuro on January 7th, 2010
Article writing is ok, but you have to look deeper at the purpose or motive for the article. Saturation is certainly becoming ann issue with everyone and anyone writing something. Everyone can’t be an expert!
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
How very true Dave,
The good news is that you don’t
have to be an expert to help people
out too.
[Reply]
Ashley Bolivar on January 7th, 2010
You are spot on. I know for me in my early days of online marketing, I would write articles that I just put together to drive a little traffic.
Hey, that’s what I was taught to do. Then suddenly after reading and really starting to understand how things worked.
I quickly realized that it’s not just the quantity of articles, but the QUALITY and VALUE that I bring to the table for the people who are reading them.
churn and burn is not the way to go but valuable content that will enrich another persons life is the only way to write.
Ashley Bolivar
[Reply]
January 7th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
I like that Ashley…
“Churn and burn is not the way to go”
Gosh, I think we all start out that way.
[Reply]
Barry White on January 8th, 2010
Hi Jason as one just starting out in this gig you actually amaze me. Do you not sleep? You have replied to every comment, where do you even get the time to write any articles anyway. You have just shown me how to go about it. Because when you look at all the articles just on ezine articles how was I going write anything that was going to stand out and you just answered the question for me.
I have just written one article I haven’t posted yet with all the learning I’m trying to do with ccPro as well as developing my blog and then overcoming the fear of doing videos. Oh but all the challenges but I am slowly getting there.
[Reply]
January 8th, 2010 at 9:40 am
Hah Barry,
You’ve caught a workaholic at work.
I spend loads of time at my computer so answering
comments on every break… and trust me… I take breaks
helps me stay in touch with everybody here.
Trust me, when this blog was first flooded with comments
I didn’t think I could handle it… I debated going the “guru”
route and not answering them all… but in all fairness… that wouldn’t
do justice to you.
You took time out of your busy day to read this article. Your time is
every bit as valuable as mine. So I show respect by replying whenever
I can.
Although someday, I admit, this might not be possible.
[Reply]
Julie Weishaar on January 8th, 2010
Hi Jason. Like come of the others who commented here on your article, my first response to your title was “uh oh” because I enjoy writing article and reading others’. But only SOME others’. I think the key here is QUALITY – as many above have mentioned. There are some who focus on quantity – akin to those people on Twitter with tens of thousands of followers. Are they in a contest to see how many followers they can get? When I get a notification of an elementary school teacher in Malaysia who is following me, I scratch my head and wonder why. Needless-to-say, I don’t follow these irrelevant followers back. What would I have to gain other than an increase in the number of those I follow. I want to follow those I can learn something from.
I have become quite adept at scanning an artile VERY quickly to see if it has any value or if it is an all-too-common “See Spot run” article. Way too many people write just for the sake of writing when they really have nothing to write. In the same vein, way too many people talk when they have nothing to say. Hence my affinity for the quote “We have one mouth and two ears to LISTEN twice as much as we TALK”!.
Thought-provoking, comment-worthy, witty articles such as yours are what bring value to article marketing. You are to be commended for your responses to each comment – adds to the “quality” of your brand. I am also in favor of your type of article marketing because I am new to this industry and am continually learning from well-written informative articles.
WIth that said, if anyone reads any of my articles and finds them boring and meaningless, please feel free to stop reading. I will continue to strive for offering quality and value in my articles.
Thanks for the post.
[Reply]
January 8th, 2010 at 9:43 am
Hey Julie,
Thank you.
I’m doing my best to reply to everybody…
even though I wasn’t completely prepared for the huge flood
of comments.
Quality and a big heart will take people places they never
imagined. Even in a crowded market place like ours.
[Reply]
Elmar on January 8th, 2010
Wow Jason, what an “article”!
I really see what you mean here and you’re SO RIGHT!
When I started online two years ago I had a “mentor” who teached me about article marketing. He “teached” me everything about how to do keyword research and how to submit your articles and so on…
Then he told me he also tweeted his articles. When I asked him if he knew his followers on Twitter he told me “I don’t know those people and I’m not interested in them either, I only do this cause it helps me with my ranking on Google” SAD, ISN’T IT?
At that moment I didn’t get it completely cause I was a complete newbie and didn’t understand anything about internet marketing, but now when I think back of his words I wonder what people like this are doing online??? Very sad!!!
Thanks again for this great post. I enjoy reading your blog!
Elmar
[Reply]
January 8th, 2010 at 9:50 am
Elmar,
I think this is so typical of people who fail
to understand the value of relationships in our
industry… I bet he was missing out on a
goldmine of leads…
I can’t believe people sometimes.
[Reply]
Innocent Osang on January 8th, 2010
i don’t agree that article marketing is dead. point of emphases should be on “Differentiation.”
One can still get to his audience and provide the needed solution through article marketing. I agree that what is done today is rebranding what is written already but that should be left to the readers to judge. Sooner than later the junkies would be known and would get out of market.
It’s a question of semantics whether it’s called information marketing or article marketing, what is important is how to get to the hearts of prospects and cause them to belief and trust you and how they can see you as someone ready to help them out.
So, create that uniqueness in your articles and you’re a winner and a leader.
[Reply]
January 8th, 2010 at 9:53 am
G’Morning Innocent Osang,
I was waiting for somebody to bring this up.
Differentation and redefinition are two of the most
powerful tools in a copywriter’s arsenal.
Yes, to a large degree, this is a question of semantics.
However, by challenging the status quo, by challenging
beliefs and making new comparisons… we find new ways
of looking at things that can be very profitable.
Thank you for your insight.
I appreciate the feedback.
Keep it coming guys.
[Reply]
Rachel Henke on January 8th, 2010
Hi Jason
I didn’t know you had a blog. Looks great!
I think articles are the same as every other form of marketing..if you care enough to make them stand out from the crowd’s and you live and breathe your subject and niche, people still love articles today. But yes it is ALL about connecting with real people you are right.
[Reply]
Justyna on January 8th, 2010
Great article and really has taught me a lot. I always try to write as if I was speaking to someone. A little bit of facts sup in my own voice, making it personal and many times I ask a question that the reader will have to ask him/her self. I know that I still have a lot to learn but I do enjoy your great posts full of value.
Justyna
[Reply]
January 8th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Hey Justyna,
And that’s the hardest thing to do. Writing in your
own voice. Some people are just natural I guess?
[Reply]
Mark on January 13th, 2010
Jason,
I couldn’t agree more with you here. We are here to build bridges and help our people find a way to financial independence.
When I first started and bought silly programs like Biz in a Box by Jay, “The Muffler Salesman” I was let down by the huckster information it provided… I couldn’t even get $20 for it on ebay when I let it go.. $500 down the drain.
Then, when I saw article marketing where everyone is copy/pasting the latest article, I was embarrassed to say I was involved in this type of industry…
On the sunny-side, we are here to help people succeed and not to make “100 Millionaires by selling pie in the sky generic box DVD’s, weak duplicated marketing booklets for newbies and a poor me story about a looser who alas bought a lamborgini galardo because he found a web cam, a shitty script and a hungry audience!
Copy/Paste Pro?
[Reply]
January 13th, 2010 at 12:10 pm
Hah Mark,
I totally side with you on the crummy
content out there.
Still, there’s a lot to be learned from
being huckstered too.
Some of the worst products I’ve ever bought
have given me the most valuable lessons.
[Reply]
Jose on January 14th, 2010
Hello Jason, I am relatively new in the MLM field, so any thing I read from your “library” of posts takes me to another level as far as starting to grow my business. I do think there are from articles to articles, so we have to be with our mind open to choose the good ones from the no too good ones. Again thanks for all the help I receive reading your articles, and to be honest I am looking forward to learn more so I can be of contribution to my fellow marketers.
Keep your good job and Blessings
Jose
[Reply]
January 14th, 2010 at 7:02 pm
Hey Jose,
Thank you too. I’m always
happy to welcome a new member
to the blog.
[Reply]
Justin King on January 16th, 2010
I read this post, then wrote a post that’s not as good as this one and posted it on my blog.
We’ve got to remember we’re after ears not eyes.
[Reply]
David Wood on January 26th, 2010
Hey great post man… I like what you’re saying. As an FYI, though, right now I generate about 80 leads a day from article marketing, although it’s definitely getting more saturated as time progresses. In 10 years you’ll need a small army in the phillipines to get results for anything with non social based article promotion. Moving things through ‘TRIBES’ of people in social networks is the future of articles, and that can only be done with powerful copyrighting and solution oriented content
-David Wood
[Reply]
January 26th, 2010 at 9:42 pm
David,
I think you’re on to something man.
I’m going hire myself some pigmies.
[Reply]
Justin King on January 26th, 2010
Jason,
Aren’t you already a conglomerate of pigmies writing under the name of a single persona?
[Reply]
January 27th, 2010 at 9:50 am
Hey Justin,
Something like that.
With a good team, you can move
mountains.
[Reply]
Heidi Walker on February 12th, 2010
The points you bring up here has changed the way I blog.
I realized yesterday that we now have FREEDOM!
The freedom to mix our personal life with business!
So when I write I take a part of my personal life and look at what lessons I have learned there and then compare it to my business.
We are the BOSS so we do not have to lead secret lives ANYMORE it is great.
We have been given permission to be a whole person. Now if we can just remember how to be a complete human.
[Reply]
February 12th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
Heidi,
You’re bringing up a VERY important point.
Nobody has time to read dry, boring, corporate speak.
Mixing your personality and stories in with your writing
is the way to go… especially online,
Don’t worry about being formal… most people are way
too uptight.
[Reply]
James Stein on February 16th, 2010
Interesting post Jason …lol I do nto think it is dead though I will agree it is a waste the way many do it but that is because some lame ebook told them how to do it wrong.
Article Marketing can be powerful if done properly and with quality useful content that you write yourself.
But I also agree building relationships are a must in this business..
James
[Reply]
February 16th, 2010 at 8:42 am
Hey James,
Article marketing is powerful if done properly…
The properly part is the problem. 
[Reply]
Tommy DiPietro on March 8th, 2010
I can’t believe I missed this one, better late than never to read and comment .
As far as article marketing, I like to call it a gallery of reusable information? Lol.
When I first started to write articles, I honestly didn’t realize everyone would rewrite the same thing over and over. Maybe that is why I have about 15 unfinished articles.
I do get your point on having something unique is what going to really grab a person’s attention. I mentioned video marketing your article in my previous comment because most of us do not utilize it and if done correctly can give you massive exposure. Your article from this past Friday is a great follow-up read if you are reading this for the first time.
Once again solid content, thanks for the mention at the end of your entry.
Tommy
[Reply]
Hi Jason,
I totally agree with this statement and first came to understand this when I started reading Seth Godin’s amazing books on marketing.
I’ve found that there are a growing number of people out there who write article after article and just end up shooting themselves in the foot because it has no real purpose and meaning other than to drive a bit traffic. Instead of this, I think we all need to ensure we are making the effort to connect and build a relationship with our audience by listening to their needs, wants and problems more than anything else.
What do you think?
Adam Haider
http://Adamhaider.com
[Reply]