By Holly Reisem Hanna

When I first started out, I was so eager to market my business, that sometimes I may have crossed the fine line between self promotion and aggressive marketing tactics. Since then, I have learned that it always better to take things one step at a time and build up slowly.

This is especially true when it comes to approaching individuals for collaborative efforts and partnerships. The whole idea behind a successful partnership or collaboration, is that both parties benefit from the deal, not just one individual.

Ideally, you should start with a soft outreach campaign, what this means is make an appearance and general introduction. This could be done through social media, forums, blog comments or the like. Once you have the initial building blocks in place, then send a brief complimentary email, remember no proposal yet, you’re still building the relationship. Once you’ve established a rapport, you can send a business proposal for consideration. (more…)

By Holly Reisem Hanna

As an blogger and entrepreneur, my inbox is flooded daily with all sorts of requests from a variety of people – everything from guest blogging inquiries, to proposals for partnerships, reviews and requests for free promotion and advice.

While I always appreciate people’s interest in the site and respond to them with respect and dignity, sometimes I just want to shout, “Are you joking”!? You see, my niche is the work at home realm, which encompasses finding work at home jobs, managing your work at home life and/or running a business from home – pretty simple, right? Yet, I have been pitched on everything from fog-less mirrors, to tires, tools and animal insurance! (more…)