There are many ways to make money on the internet. All methods
however, come with a price-tag. For starters, you will probably
need to purchase basic business software and relevant learning
materials. Planning and developing your ideas will definitely
require dedication and perseverance all along the way.

One of the best methods for getting started is to partner with
other marketers so that you can reach larger target audiences.

These joint ventures or "JV's" can take-on many different forms.
Some are as simple as promoting each other's newsletters, while
others may be more complex partnerships with cross-promoting of
complimentary products. Some JV's even involve starting entirely
new projects from scratch.

Joint Ventures are a powerful tool for expanding business in many
areas. So, what is stopping 'you' from using this technique to
expand your business?

For many new marketers, starting a JV can be a frightening task,
especially when it comes to contacting other marketers.
Too often, many marketers appear to be "spamming," when they are
really just seeking other JV partners. Here are some tips that may
help you along the way:

1. Get to know your potential JV partners.

If you start emailing everyone on your list of potential partners,
chances are you will be considered a common spammer. You won't get
the partners you want, or even worse, may destroy your reputation
in the process.

Instead, subscribe to your potential partner's newsletter and check
out their websites and blog. Get to know them a little bit before
approaching them with a proposal.

2. Go slowly when approaching potential partners.

Let's face it, everyone likes a little flattery. When contacting
your potential JV partner, treat them like your "first date." Be
courteous and complimentary. Tell them the things you like about
their business. Join their newsletter and tell them you think it is
awesome, and why. You will be surprised at how much attention you
receive by using a little well placed flattery as you proceed to
develop your relationships with potential JV partners.

3. Your financial estimates should always be realistic.

Don't promise what you can't deliver. Be honest with your potential
partners. Explain your proposal and benefits in realistic terms,
but don't hype. Be honest, open and sincere.

4. Online forums are a fantastic way to introduce yourself and your
business.

Using forums to connect with your market is a natural progression.
Forums are online communities where individuals can discuss topics
ranging from fly fishing to breast feeding to internet business.
Discussions are conducted by posting notes to the forum. A single
discussion is called a 'thread' and most forums have several - even
hundreds - of threads going at any time.

What is truly remarkable about the use of forums is the personal
quality of the discussions. Read some of the posts on forums such
as ivillage.com and you'll soon see that the members become more
like neighbors (and even friends) than strangers connected only by
the keyboard and monitor in front of them.

Where brick and mortar businesses used to prosper based on their
involvement in the community - online businesses now have a
neighborhood all their own - online forums.

How can participating in a forum help YOUR business?

NETWORKING:

Online forums are a fantastic place to connect with others who are
knowledgeable about your business. You probably cater to the same
audience and share a common interest. If your businesses compliment
one another you might just find a highly profitable partnership or
joint venture.

Even if you don't find a working relationship you may find the
referrals or discussions highly beneficial.

TRAFFIC BUILDING:

Along with the referrals you may get when you've developed a
trusted online presence with other members of the forum, you are
also likely to attract targeted visitors to your website.

If the forum permits you to post a signature (your website URL)
onto the posts then you can be sure that some of the members and
quite likely some of the 'lurkers' (people who view but don't post)
will come check out your site.

Getting a Joint Venture off the ground doesn't have to be scary if
you start by following the simple steps given above.

Get going and get growing today!