To take the online road to success is not, contrary to millions of internet and email ads, the short road traveled. There is enormous revenue potential through online channels, predicted to top $8 billion by 2005. We all would like our piece of the pie, but unfortunately some don't want to work to get to it.

This appears to be a relatively widespread misconception about online marketing.

"5,000,000 visitors to your site in 24 hours."

"$10,000 in 1 week, working only 2 hours per day."

"$1.67 = massive profits!"

And the list goes on and on. These are a few of the ad headlines that I have seen recently that prey on peoples craving desire to make riches quick with little or no work. Don't tell me it ain't so?!

Well, in short it ain't. There is a little secret, the one that nobody really does want to tell you, that makes these headlines true - persistence. You see, leading internet marketers didn't build their business overnight. It is well known them all that the permission email list is what makes "$10,000 in 1 week, with working only 2 hours per day" really possible. The information left out is that it happened after the list was constructed of highly targeted subscribers, and after building a relationship with each and every one of them. only after this process did the repercussions mean large returns on investment.

O.k., so build the stinking list. Well, it's not that easy. You have to be patient. And patience is something that we all probably need to practice more diligently.

But think of it this way. While you are taking the time to build your list, try to learn about what your current subscribers would like to see offered. Create a short online form asking a series of questions related to your site or product, and email your subscribers asking them to simply go and fill out the form. This way you can deliver more relevant information, build trust with the members of your list, and learn how to tailor your periodic newsletters.

Use the time to understand market trends. What is currently working to bring in more site traffic? Are there particular strategies others are using to convert more sales? Any changes in search engine protocol? What can you do to bring in more subscribers?

Take the time to investigate and learn, while building your list. Then, once you have several hundred subscribers you will be set to reap the rewards. It doesn't come before, but only after you have built and cultivated a list of people who trust your judgment. Do it right and success is waiting for you!