Sometimes when we are having tepid conversion rates for our products or opt-ins, we begin an all-out search for what in the world could be wrong? Is it the content, did we miss something? Is the color all wrong? Font size? Font type? Any number of minute details? While any of these and much more can indeed have an effect on the conversions that you experience (or don’t), oftentimes there is one crucial element that is missing that if not present, will sink your battleship everytime. Are you asking for the sale?

You may have the best products, programs, or services available this side of Venus, but the truth is that if you don’t ask for the sale, you likely won’t get it, especially in these recessionary times. People are looking for ways NOT to spend money. If you give them a fluffy sales proposition and don’t come out and make a forthright request for their business, you will have given them all the excuse they need not to buy from you.

Instead, what you want to do is lay out your best case for them to take the action you’re seeking, whether that be a sale, email opt-in, free report for more information (also an email opt-in), or any pitch. You give them your best content, explaining all the reasons why they need to do this now and how it is in their best interests, and then you are well within your rights to ask for the sale. In fact, it’s expected! Sales pages that DON’T ask for the sale not only don’t get it, but normally get left by frustrated prospects who are presumably reading your material because they are interested in what you’re offering. Even they expect the sales pitch! Don’t disappoint them!

You need to ask confidently for the sale. You’re in business to make money, so deal with it. It may feel uncomfortable because most humans don’t like to ask anyone for anything, but get over it. In fact, if you’re reading this blog post, the likelihood is that you are selling things online and never have to do this face to face! Which is all the more reason to put on your bold face and get to it. You can only profit from this!