eBooks are everywhere you look, ranging from free to hundreds of dollars.
David Meerman Scott, marketing guru and author of World Wide Rave, believes strongly that you should give away your eBook for free, without requiring so much as an email address. Naomi Dunford of IttyBiz, marketing guru and co-author of How To Launch the S*** Out of Your eBook made $12,000+ in a day with the launch of a $37 eBook (hint: she tells you how to, too).
So what’s the answer?
The answer, as always, depends on who your market is and on who you are.
David wants to be recognized as a thought leader on viral marketing by C-level executives (CEOs, etc.). Naomi needed to pay her rent and had valuable, useful information to teach her loyal readers (ittybiz owners) in her irreverent way. David’s approach is a more global outreach, Naomi’s is laser-targeted.
David’s approach still leads to sales, albeit in an indirect way. By spreading his ideas far and wide he becomes a trusted expert on his niche, corporate marketing and PR.
Which approach makes the most sense for you and your goals? I’d love to know.
I don’t sell information products (at least not yet!) but I don’t think I’d go with the free approach. I don’t like catering to the masses. I like working with people who I resonate with. So among other things, payment acts as a barrier.
Maybe I’ll change my mind down the road, but that’s where I stand right now. Great thoughts!