Webmasters, why don't you go to shows anymore??? - Page 2 - GoFuckYourself.com

BT · 01-15-2008, 05:35 PM

50 "the show must go on"

KnightMare · 01-15-2008, 05:36 PM

I have to ask. Why are you asking on THIS board? From what I see, there are no "webmasters" here. *tsk tsk tsk

bausch · 01-15-2008, 05:44 PM

I never went to a show because I'm anti social and am unable to talk to "new people" and socialize. I'd rather hide in my house. I also don't party. I don't drink, and I don't dance. I don't really talk either, I can't talk to "new people" or meet new people. That's why I'm a webmaster, no need to talk to anyone.

CarolCox · 01-15-2008, 05:44 PM

We had booths at the shows for years, starting at the very first IA2000 show, and also sponsored parties and seminars. It just became a waste of money. At first, we did quite a bit of networking and business through the booth and the parties, but that quickly changed. It got to the point that the only people hitting up the booths were sales reps from other companies trying to sell you something!

It just got to the point where the larger shows just weren't any fun anymore. We stopped bothering with the parties, and would spend time at dinner with friends we already knew. Next thing, we just stopped going.

We do intend to start going to the smaller shows again, and see where those may lead.

Carol xoxoxo

PowerCum · 01-15-2008, 05:48 PM

Going to big parties is a waste of time usually. If you fall into the whale category it's even worse. No one pays attention to you unless they finally realize what amount of sales can you send to them. At that moment you get like 5 or 10 sales reps annoying you all the day asking you to send traffic to them.
The funny thing is that they don't even have power to negotiate some decent deal... so it's not only a major annoyance but also it's a waste of time and nerves.

So... if I go to some gathering or party I expect to make business... what's the point of going there if the person who is supposed to make the deals with me is unable to negotiate a custom deal because he has no decision power?

Also don't think that everyone wants to be in the GFY "Bro" club. There are other webmasters "Bro" clubs that are for webmasters only and we do our own parties and business without sales reps and other useless people.
Last one was this last weekend in London... and we did lots of good business as usual

SleazyDream · 01-15-2008, 05:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CarolCox

We had booths at the shows for years, starting at the very first IA2000 show, and also sponsored parties and seminars. It just became a waste of money. At first, we did quite a bit of networking and business through the booth and the parties, but that quickly changed. It got to the point that the only people hitting up the booths were sales reps from other companies trying to sell you something!

It just got to the point where the larger shows just weren't any fun anymore. We stopped bothering with the parties, and would spend time at dinner with friends we already knew. Next thing, we just stopped going.

We do intend to start going to the smaller shows again, and see where those may lead.

Carol xoxoxo

i had soooooooo much fun at your studio party in montreal at webmaster access a few years ago carol!

Gianna_CECash · 01-15-2008, 05:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SomeCreep

As a webmaster, I send the most sales to whatever program converts the best and makes me the most money. After being an adult webmaster for 10 years, I dont need sales reps throwing me sales pitches.

The only reason I'd attend a show is to meet program owners for the first time. But one can only do that so many times, before one has met them all.

at the end of the day I do agree with you, it's all about numbers but it also helps when you have a good rep like me working for you

Michael O · 01-15-2008, 05:53 PM

When I worked full time as a webmaster I never went to a show for different reasons.
To expensive
Going to the US, $200-300 for the pass, the hotel where the show is held is the same price per night. 4 nights, pass, plane ticket and spending money + a couple of extra days now the trip is made quickly gets expensive and not knowing what to expect for a small time webmaster its not worth it.

Get a group of 5-8 sponsors together of different kinds, paysites, cams, dating, pills and so on.
Then have smaller local events focusing on the small to medium sized webmasters and have seminars that are useful:
TGP scripts and how trading is done best.
TGP/Free site submissions how to get the best results.
How to promote cam sites.
How to sell penis enlargement programs.
Filtering traffic.
Know your niches.
And so on you know useful stuff so if someone only doing cams want to venture into something else he could pick up some info.

Have "trade with me" meetings where webmasters can meet and find some new trades, exchange partner accounts and so on.

Have a decent registration fee, no need to have it in a 5 star hotel, keep it simple and at a fair price. Have a few parties but they shouldn't be the main events it should be main focus for everyone to learn how to make more money.

01-15-2008, 05:54 PM

yep the dutch webmaster events are very cool as well, small but loads of business I am told, since I did not get a chance to visit them of various reasons do not flame me if the above is not accurate.
anyway yes I am sure that webmasters ( the lowest of the lowest? ) do not attend because as stated by various webmasters what is the point?
getting a picture taken with JDL?
bombarded by reps?
getting insulted by fat fuck Sleazy?
and so on and so on and so on

RedShoe · 01-15-2008, 05:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bausch

I never went to a show because I'm anti social and am unable to talk to "new people" and socialize. I'd rather hide in my house. I also don't party. I don't drink, and I don't dance. I don't really talk either, I can't talk to "new people" or meet new people. That's why I'm a webmaster, no need to talk to anyone.

Jesus Christ, you and I could be brother and sister.

CarolCox · 01-15-2008, 06:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SleazyDream

i had soooooooo much fun at your studio party in montreal at webmaster access a few years ago carol!

That was a fun, and unexpectedly huge, party. Thank God we had the room, and the alcohol, to handle everyone ;)

I even lost one of my bartenders to a group heading back downtown toward the end of the night. She ended up becoming someone's content!

We did get some great pictures of various webmasters in very compromising positions. Remember the Glory Hole set-up??

Carol xoxoxo

Gianna_CECash · 01-15-2008, 06:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kelli58

Why should real webmasters go? What's in it for them? The seminars are a joke - always have been. Saddly this would be the best reason for them to go but everyone knows they are nothing more than a long winded advertisement for the company putting on the seminar.

If you are small, there really is no real networking because you don't really get all the fancy invites to all the parties. They are treated more like fans but without the perks.

So why pay all that money to go to the show to learn nothing at fake seminars with no real opportunity for networking?

It's a waste of valuable time and resources. I've been saying this for years ... going to shows is retarded. It's such a waste. You can schmooze with me to get my business just as easy over the phone or ICQ than you can at a loud, dirty show room floor.

On my desk I am looking at 4 tickets to "private" industry parties. I got these because I've been in the business for more than a decade but you know what? I'm the last person that should have gotten them! I know these people, that's why they send me the tickets. So I don't need to network with them more!

Instead these tickets should be sent out to all the small guys. They are the ones who are working their booties off to be bigger. You get their loyalty now and *if* they do make it, your gamble paid off and now you have a whale.

But no, instead companies send people they already know and are already established their stupid party tickets. Talk about a total waste.

Think about how much a company will spend on going to a show. Take that money and spend it on ass kissing to smaller webmasters throughout the entire year and I promise you'll be more productive and attract more loyal clients. The last person I would want to do business with is some retard I got drunk with in Vegas.

You are right! attention should be focused on the smaller webmasters, this is what I've been preaching the whole time... they have so much Potential and drive to make it, but the problem is how do you find them??? Guys big or small I don't care I want to get to know you and help you! pls hit me up on icq and maybe we can have our own webmasters only gathering... this is something that I will have to discuss with my team but I really think it?s worth doing

Gianna_CECash · 01-15-2008, 06:11 PM

Kelli58 how do I get in touch with you?

Gianna_CECash · 01-15-2008, 06:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PowerCum

Going to big parties is a waste of time usually. If you fall into the whale category it's even worse. No one pays attention to you unless they finally realize what amount of sales can you send to them. At that moment you get like 5 or 10 sales reps annoying you all the day asking you to send traffic to them.
The funny thing is that they don't even have power to negotiate some decent deal... so it's not only a major annoyance but also it's a waste of time and nerves.

So... if I go to some gathering or party I expect to make business... what's the point of going there if the person who is supposed to make the deals with me is unable to negotiate a custom deal because he has no decision power?

Also don't think that everyone wants to be in the GFY "Bro" club. There are other webmasters "Bro" clubs that are for webmasters only and we do our own parties and business without sales reps and other useless people.
Last one was this last weekend in London... and we did lots of good business as usual

I would love to get invited to one of your next gatherings

scottybuzz · 01-15-2008, 06:47 PM

why didnt i go?

because i would much rather spend 500 bucks on hardlinks and plugs, rather than have somebody saying send me traffic all day long.

oh yeh i am also 19, so vegas would be pretty shit for me at my age. doubt i would even be allowed in the show!

scottybuzz · 01-15-2008, 06:53 PM

having said that though, i would like to go for the experience. there is no denying that. I have never been to vegas. i wonder if its like what they show it is in the movies.

Gianna_CECash · 01-15-2008, 07:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scottybuzz

having said that though, i would like to go for the experience. there is no denying that. I have never been to vegas. i wonder if its like what they show it is in the movies.

everybody has to go to Vegas at least once

c0ld · 01-15-2008, 07:18 PM

Going to a show is pretty expensive and thus you will exclude +- 50% of the adult webmasters..
There are a few big fishes but _alot_ of small fishes which you can't catch via shows but via GFY!

DivaShane · 01-15-2008, 07:25 PM

After talking to a few webmasters I think a number one concern is cost. I mean if one of your sponsors was willing to pay your way to a show would you reconsider going? I know I would, I would also be willing to work a lot harder to send that sponsor traffic (provided of course that it converted).
I agree with the hotel choices being on the pricey side. There are plenty of mid range hotels that would be just as good as the ritzy $200+ dollar a night places.
I only met with a couple of real webmasters at Phoenix Forum and Cybernet, other than that it was "retailers" of some sort or another be it content, processing or other.
All in all it does very much reek at times of favoritism towards the fat cats. I think it's sad that more consideration isn't give to webmasters at shows. I love the idea of a Trade Party, that would be a great addition to any of the shows.
I'm sure there are other things that you could do in order to bring in more webmasters. Better seminars and workshops, events that don't involve booze for the non drinkers and I'm sure there are others...

tony286 · 01-15-2008, 07:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael O

When I worked full time as a webmaster I never went to a show for different reasons.
To expensive
Going to the US, $200-300 for the pass, the hotel where the show is held is the same price per night. 4 nights, pass, plane ticket and spending money + a couple of extra days now the trip is made quickly gets expensive and not knowing what to expect for a small time webmaster its not worth it.

Get a group of 5-8 sponsors together of different kinds, paysites, cams, dating, pills and so on.
Then have smaller local events focusing on the small to medium sized webmasters and have seminars that are useful:
TGP scripts and how trading is done best.
TGP/Free site submissions how to get the best results.
How to promote cam sites.
How to sell penis enlargement programs.
Filtering traffic.
Know your niches.
And so on you know useful stuff so if someone only doing cams want to venture into something else he could pick up some info.

Have "trade with me" meetings where webmasters can meet and find some new trades, exchange partner accounts and so on.

Have a decent registration fee, no need to have it in a 5 star hotel, keep it simple and at a fair price. Have a few parties but they shouldn't be the main events it should be main focus for everyone to learn how to make more money.

A excellent post. Also its not needed to make money I know a webmaster makes 200k he does affiliate stuff does no shows, doesnt post on boards.

dynastoned · 01-15-2008, 07:35 PM

im willing to bet if the affiliate managers had to pay their own way to the show 90% of them wouldn't show up to shows either.

AcidMax · 01-15-2008, 07:43 PM

gains/business/rewards < costs for travel, tickets to the show etc.

It's just not worth it anymore.

the Shemp · 01-15-2008, 08:06 PM

i used to like going to the big shows....the bros' were always nice to me, i got lots of free drinks, got to go to the cool parties/private dinners and even met Gianna at her first show...but my health isn't good now and i cant travel too far...
but i would recommend going to at least one big show, even for the newer webmasters..

Varius · 01-15-2008, 08:07 PM

I really don't see the point for the webmaster to attend a show anymore either.

Firstly, the admission cost (in addition to the travel/hotel expenses), makes no sense. Companies paying to showcase their stuff (ie. a booth) should be the only ones charged anything. Do that and you may just see a few more webmasters at shows. Making them pay however is like me paying a cover charge to enter Wal-Mart.

I think the few webmasters that go these days fall mostly into these categories:

- Vacation
- They like to party
- To see friends
- To collect swag
- They are HUGE affiliates so their main sponsor invited them and covered the costs (rare but still happens)

Shows are pretty much all B2B now.

halfpint · 01-15-2008, 08:07 PM

Im a noob so wouldent even consider going

Christina Muller · 01-15-2008, 08:10 PM

Im looking forward to attending the costa rica bash

OzMan · 01-15-2008, 08:12 PM

I remember at Internext last year or the year before, I was introduced to a company owner and he asked me where I was from.

I said "Australia but living in Vegas"

He said "No no no, I mean what company are you with?"

I said almost apologetically "uh no I'm just a webmaster, a one man show"

"Ooohhh ok!" he exclaimed.

I felt like saying "Is that ok or should I get the fuck outta here?" but
I think sadly he was just shocked that I wasn't yet another sales rep about to start my sales pitch on him.

Daruma · 01-15-2008, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fuzebox

Where's the incentive? I go to shows because I like to party and I can afford to go, but there is no business to be done for me. As an affiliate any information I need is right here on GFY, the last thing I need is a few hundred reps handing me business cards and telling me I should switch all my links to their program and they can hook me up with a super special $30 payout if I can send 200 sales a week.

Also a lot of the affiliates from "back in the day" have started their own programs and hired on new people, so those people are still going to shows, just not the newer webmasters.

When you factor in the lack of value of a show for a full-time webmaster nowadays (no companies doing big sponsored thank you dinners, lack of open bar at parties, no cool events like gameworks), the real question is "why should we go"

exactomondo

myself stopped going to shows over 3 years ago... not sure if I'll go again.. limited time and limited return on the time to go to shows..

baddog · 01-15-2008, 08:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RedShoe

I could accomplish just as much business here on GFY, than I could at a show.

At a show I feel so socially unplugged, but here.. behind the security of my keyboard, I'm much more confident.

I beg to differ. While GFY is a great resource, let there be no mistake, someone with your skills could pick up more long term relationships than you will on a board. The face to face helps a lot.

As far a being socially unplugged, that is your own fault. You are a well-known, popular guy. Your successful avoidance of cameras plays against you. If you introduced yourself to more people (ie: conventions) I think you could generate more biz than you would know what to do with.

JMHO

baddog · 01-15-2008, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GetNaughty

Also, price way too high. $300

You should check out mainstream prices if you think $300 is too much.

Daruma · 01-15-2008, 08:33 PM

One more point

In the old days - there where maybe 2 or 3 shows max per year. Now shows are saturated - I don't know of any industry that averages 1 trade show / event per month - which this is what seems to be the current rate for this biz.

Reduce the number of shows per year to 2 or 3 and the interest may jump up again - and become more interesting for both the established and new-comers alike.

tony286 · 01-15-2008, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by baddog

You should check out mainstream prices if you think $300 is too much.

to walk the floor of nab costs nothing.

mcpent · 01-15-2008, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kelli58

Why should real webmasters go? What's in it for them? The seminars are a joke - always have been. Saddly this would be the best reason for them to go but everyone knows they are nothing more than a long winded advertisement for the company putting on the seminar.

If you are small, there really is no real networking because you don't really get all the fancy invites to all the parties. They are treated more like fans but without the perks.

So why pay all that money to go to the show to learn nothing at fake seminars with no real opportunity for networking?

It's a waste of valuable time and resources. I've been saying this for years ... going to shows is retarded. It's such a waste. You can schmooze with me to get my business just as easy over the phone or ICQ than you can at a loud, dirty show room floor.

On my desk I am looking at 4 tickets to "private" industry parties. I got these because I've been in the business for more than a decade but you know what? I'm the last person that should have gotten them! I know these people, that's why they send me the tickets. So I don't need to network with them more!

Instead these tickets should be sent out to all the small guys. They are the ones who are working their booties off to be bigger. You get their loyalty now and *if* they do make it, your gamble paid off and now you have a whale.

But no, instead companies send people they already know and are already established their stupid party tickets. Talk about a total waste.

Think about how much a company will spend on going to a show. Take that money and spend it on ass kissing to smaller webmasters throughout the entire year and I promise you'll be more productive and attract more loyal clients. The last person I would want to do business with is some retard I got drunk with in Vegas.

Best response in thread. Cheers to you and the well thought out response. You are definitely the kind of person we would like on our team.

Gianna_CECash · 01-15-2008, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by the Shemp

i used to like going to the big shows....the bros' were always nice to me, i got lots of free drinks, got to go to the cool parties/private dinners and even met Gianna at her first show...but my health isn't good now and i cant travel too far...
but i would recommend going to at least one big show, even for the newer webmasters..

It's good to see you on here!!! That first show was the best!!! I am really grateful that you and I met and that we still manage to stay in contact after all these years?. I hope to see you again soon!

All the best!

WarChild · 01-15-2008, 08:38 PM

Because I realized that if I want to listen to a bunch of overweight guys try to convince me of how important they are I can just take my bike for a spin a little too fast. A speeding ticket is only $100 and the whole experience gets condensed in to 15 minutes rather than 3 days.

seeric · 01-15-2008, 08:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WarChild

Because I realized that if I want to listen to a bunch of overweight guys try to convince me of how important they are I can just take my bike for a spin a little too fast. A speeding ticket is only $100 and the whole experience gets condensed in to 15 minutes rather than 3 days.

CarolCox · 01-15-2008, 08:44 PM

The first show I was at was the very first Adult Internet show! That was back in October (I believe( 1995 in Orlando. It was IA2000, which was mainly a "Phone Sex" convention but added an Adult Internet component. There were no booths for "us", and only about 40 Internet industry people showed up. We all hung-out together and had a great time. Most of those attendees became the original YNOT members way back at the beginning.

The early pre-2000 shows were still the best, IMHO. We were all learning, and the networking was excellent.

Carol xoxoxo

baddog · 01-15-2008, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tony404

to walk the floor of nab costs nothing.

These come with seminars, food and much better parties.

fuzebox · 01-15-2008, 09:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OzMan

I said almost apologetically "uh no I'm just a webmaster, a one man show"

This is what I always say and people are either impressed, or the conversation gets awkward

tony286 · 01-15-2008, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by baddog

These come with seminars, food and much better parties.

The seminars are weak at best.I would rather pay $1000 for a real seminar then a weak add on. If Im there its for business not to go to parties.

Altheon · 01-15-2008, 10:10 PM

It's good to hear that I'm not the only one that got a weird vibe when I told people that I'm just a webmaster. I fall into the comfortable range where I'm not a "bro" but I make a decent living.

I'll just confirm that the ROI is too low. The money isn't an issue its really about the time invested and what I get out of it. I can think of two panels that were helpful out of my show experience. The rest of the time was spent eating and drinking. Frankly it's more valuable as a tax write off than an actual investment in improving my business since people are accessible in so may ways online.

Yes it's very clickish but I have yet to have someone tell me to fuck off when I walk up and introduce myself. If I don't meet new people that's on me but I admit to getting swarmed with reps who don't know a damn thing about the biz. They are like networking land mines. You don't know they are one till you shake their hand and get a half-assed pitch and a request for a follow up.

crockett · 01-15-2008, 10:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kelli58

Why should real webmasters go? What's in it for them? The seminars are a joke - always have been. Saddly this would be the best reason for them to go but everyone knows they are nothing more than a long winded advertisement for the company putting on the seminar.

If you are small, there really is no real networking because you don't really get all the fancy invites to all the parties. They are treated more like fans but without the perks.

So why pay all that money to go to the show to learn nothing at fake seminars with no real opportunity for networking?

It's a waste of valuable time and resources. I've been saying this for years ... going to shows is retarded. It's such a waste. You can schmooze with me to get my business just as easy over the phone or ICQ than you can at a loud, dirty show room floor.

On my desk I am looking at 4 tickets to "private" industry parties. I got these because I've been in the business for more than a decade but you know what? I'm the last person that should have gotten them! I know these people, that's why they send me the tickets. So I don't need to network with them more!

Instead these tickets should be sent out to all the small guys. They are the ones who are working their booties off to be bigger. You get their loyalty now and *if* they do make it, your gamble paid off and now you have a whale.

But no, instead companies send people they already know and are already established their stupid party tickets. Talk about a total waste.

Think about how much a company will spend on going to a show. Take that money and spend it on ass kissing to smaller webmasters throughout the entire year and I promise you'll be more productive and attract more loyal clients. The last person I would want to do business with is some retard I got drunk with in Vegas.

You pretty much hit it spot on, as I see it being a smaller webmaster and a one man show. All these companies claim they want to talk to webmasters like me, yet they do nothing but cater to the the few whales or same old crowd they always cater too.

What reason do they give a guy like me to go to a show? A guy whom just runs TGPs and Blogs and isn't a big fish in any way. In reality even if I did go to a show I really wouldn't want to talk to a bunch of affiliate reps anyway.

I mean really what can they do for me other than ask me to send traffic? If I went to a show, I'd want to talk to other webmasters not Reps to programs (sorry). Seems to me the topic is about webmasters not attending shows, so that's a catch 22 all over again.

Personally I've toyed with the idea of trying to put something together for the local webmasters in Central Florida. I'd love to see a simple once a month get together to talk biz and share ideas, maybe in Orlando so it's centrally located.

That's the kinda stuff I'm interested in, not glamor shows in Vegas.. yea would be fun but well, I think I already covered that.

halfpint · 01-15-2008, 10:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crockett

Personally I've toyed with the idea of trying to put something together for the local webmasters in Central Florida. I'd love to see a simple once a month get together to talk biz and share ideas, maybe in Orlando so it's centrally located.

Would be nice to see something like this in the UK

pr0 · 01-15-2008, 10:19 PM

you guys are all just anti-social

i have a blast at shows & meet tons of new people....close tons of deals

free dinners/hookers/shooting range/helicopters/jet fighters......all on the companies comp cards

why not fucking go?

CarolCox · 01-15-2008, 10:22 PM

I've always preferred meeting and networking with the smaller webmasters. They could always do more for me and my sites than the larger companies would or could.

Carol xoxoxo

stev0 · 01-15-2008, 10:28 PM

Unless you're selling something, the only plus I can think of is being able to write off a vacation (or 50% of a vacation, whatever the tax rules are in your area). Otherwise, when I vacation I'm usually trying to get away from work related stuff.

the Shemp · 01-15-2008, 10:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gianna_CECash

I hope to see you again soon!

something to look forward to, even at my advanced age

TDF · 01-15-2008, 10:36 PM

i just go to be the token darkie

starpimps · 01-15-2008, 10:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Christina Muller

Im looking forward to attending the costa rica bash

cant wait =)

Semi-Retired-Dave · 01-15-2008, 10:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gianna_CECash

I was just on another thread and brand0n made a good point - there are way more sales reps and owners then webmasters at shows now a days... What happened to the good old days?? I remember going to internext and it was ALL webmasters... Where are you guys??? why don't you attend the shows anymore???

Very interesting Post.

01-15-2008, 05:35 PM	#51
BT Confirmed User Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Ft liquordale FL Posts: 6,481	50 "the show must go on" __________________ IS Prime Hosting Bald Head Shine "BT" The American Dream, baby! " THE HOST WITH THE MOST!" My ICQ 122994792

01-15-2008, 05:44 PM	#53
bausch Confirmed User Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 3,017	I never went to a show because I'm anti social and am unable to talk to "new people" and socialize. I'd rather hide in my house. I also don't party. I don't drink, and I don't dance. I don't really talk either, I can't talk to "new people" or meet new people. That's why I'm a webmaster, no need to talk to anyone. Last edited by bausch; 01-15-2008 at 05:46 PM..

01-15-2008, 05:44 PM	#54
CarolCox The Original WebGirl! Industry Role: Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Green Valley, ON, CA Posts: 325	We had booths at the shows for years, starting at the very first IA2000 show, and also sponsored parties and seminars. It just became a waste of money. At first, we did quite a bit of networking and business through the booth and the parties, but that quickly changed. It got to the point that the only people hitting up the booths were sales reps from other companies trying to sell you something! It just got to the point where the larger shows just weren't any fun anymore. We stopped bothering with the parties, and would spend time at dinner with friends we already knew. Next thing, we just stopped going. We do intend to start going to the smaller shows again, and see where those may lead. Carol xoxoxo __________________ ~~ iAmateurs.net - the original amateur partnership program ~~ ~~ promote Carol Cox - The Original Internet Amateur ~~ ~~ promote 32 other unique Internet Amateurs ~~

01-15-2008, 05:48 PM	#55
PowerCum CjOverkill Industry Role: Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Woldwide Posts: 1,328	Going to big parties is a waste of time usually. If you fall into the whale category it's even worse. No one pays attention to you unless they finally realize what amount of sales can you send to them. At that moment you get like 5 or 10 sales reps annoying you all the day asking you to send traffic to them. The funny thing is that they don't even have power to negotiate some decent deal... so it's not only a major annoyance but also it's a waste of time and nerves. So... if I go to some gathering or party I expect to make business... what's the point of going there if the person who is supposed to make the deals with me is unable to negotiate a custom deal because he has no decision power? Also don't think that everyone wants to be in the GFY "Bro" club. There are other webmasters "Bro" clubs that are for webmasters only and we do our own parties and business without sales reps and other useless people. Last one was this last weekend in London... and we did lots of good business as usual __________________ CjOverkill Traffic Trading Script Free, secure and fast traffic trading script. Get your copy now

01-15-2008, 05:53 PM	#58
Michael O More Cowbell Industry Role: Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Nakhom Nowhere Posts: 10,607	When I worked full time as a webmaster I never went to a show for different reasons. To expensive Going to the US, $200-300 for the pass, the hotel where the show is held is the same price per night. 4 nights, pass, plane ticket and spending money + a couple of extra days now the trip is made quickly gets expensive and not knowing what to expect for a small time webmaster its not worth it. Get a group of 5-8 sponsors together of different kinds, paysites, cams, dating, pills and so on. Then have smaller local events focusing on the small to medium sized webmasters and have seminars that are useful: TGP scripts and how trading is done best. TGP/Free site submissions how to get the best results. How to promote cam sites. How to sell penis enlargement programs. Filtering traffic. Know your niches. And so on you know useful stuff so if someone only doing cams want to venture into something else he could pick up some info. Have "trade with me" meetings where webmasters can meet and find some new trades, exchange partner accounts and so on. Have a decent registration fee, no need to have it in a 5 star hotel, keep it simple and at a fair price. Have a few parties but they shouldn't be the main events it should be main focus for everyone to learn how to make more money. __________________ Truth Teller

01-15-2008, 05:36 PM	#52
KnightMare So Fucking Banned Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 281	I have to ask. Why are you asking on THIS board? From what I see, there are no "webmasters" here. *tsk tsk tsk

01-15-2008, 05:54 PM	#59
ThumbLord Guest Posts: n/a	yep the dutch webmaster events are very cool as well, small but loads of business I am told, since I did not get a chance to visit them of various reasons do not flame me if the above is not accurate. anyway yes I am sure that webmasters ( the lowest of the lowest? ) do not attend because as stated by various webmasters what is the point? getting a picture taken with JDL? bombarded by reps? getting insulted by fat fuck Sleazy? and so on and so on and so on

01-15-2008, 06:11 PM	#63
Gianna_CECash Confirmed User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: The World Posts: 1,135	Kelli58 how do I get in touch with you? __________________ CE Gianna [email protected] ICQ : 831432

01-15-2008, 06:47 PM	#65
scottybuzz Too lazy to set a custom title Industry Role: Join Date: May 2006 Location: NY Posts: 14,800	why didnt i go? because i would much rather spend 500 bucks on hardlinks and plugs, rather than have somebody saying send me traffic all day long. oh yeh i am also 19, so vegas would be pretty shit for me at my age. doubt i would even be allowed in the show! __________________ $$$$$ MAKE HUGE MONEY IN CAMS - CLICK HERE $$$$$

01-15-2008, 06:53 PM	#66
scottybuzz Too lazy to set a custom title Industry Role: Join Date: May 2006 Location: NY Posts: 14,800	having said that though, i would like to go for the experience. there is no denying that. I have never been to vegas. i wonder if its like what they show it is in the movies. __________________ $$$$$ MAKE HUGE MONEY IN CAMS - CLICK HERE $$$$$

01-15-2008, 07:18 PM	#68
c0ld Confirmed User Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Belgium Posts: 435	Going to a show is pretty expensive and thus you will exclude +- 50% of the adult webmasters.. There are a few big fishes but _alot_ of small fishes which you can't catch via shows but via GFY! __________________ 1:34 my icq: 239730866 Last edited by c0ld; 01-15-2008 at 07:20 PM..

01-15-2008, 07:25 PM	#69
DivaShane Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2006 Location: Kansas - Land of Retards Posts: 370	After talking to a few webmasters I think a number one concern is cost. I mean if one of your sponsors was willing to pay your way to a show would you reconsider going? I know I would, I would also be willing to work a lot harder to send that sponsor traffic (provided of course that it converted). I agree with the hotel choices being on the pricey side. There are plenty of mid range hotels that would be just as good as the ritzy $200+ dollar a night places. I only met with a couple of real webmasters at Phoenix Forum and Cybernet, other than that it was "retailers" of some sort or another be it content, processing or other. All in all it does very much reek at times of favoritism towards the fat cats. I think it's sad that more consideration isn't give to webmasters at shows. I love the idea of a Trade Party, that would be a great addition to any of the shows. I'm sure there are other things that you could do in order to bring in more webmasters. Better seminars and workshops, events that don't involve booze for the non drinkers and I'm sure there are others... __________________ Shane Webmaster Wednesday - Internet Radio For Webmasters

01-15-2008, 07:35 PM	#71
dynastoned mmm yeah! Industry Role: Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: roseville, ca Posts: 5,061	im willing to bet if the affiliate managers had to pay their own way to the show 90% of them wouldn't show up to shows either.

01-15-2008, 07:43 PM	#72
AcidMax Confirmed User Join Date: May 2002 Location: MI Posts: 1,827	gains/business/rewards < costs for travel, tickets to the show etc. It's just not worth it anymore. __________________ Latest MMA news. http://www.mmawrapup.com

01-15-2008, 08:06 PM	#73
the Shemp congrats to the winners Industry Role: Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Echo Beach Posts: 10,891	i used to like going to the big shows....the bros' were always nice to me, i got lots of free drinks, got to go to the cool parties/private dinners and even met Gianna at her first show...but my health isn't good now and i cant travel too far... but i would recommend going to at least one big show, even for the newer webmasters.. __________________ i use Vacares...so should you Submit your picture galleries to my site...Outlaw TGP

01-15-2008, 08:07 PM	#74
Varius Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: New York, NY Posts: 6,890	I really don't see the point for the webmaster to attend a show anymore either. Firstly, the admission cost (in addition to the travel/hotel expenses), makes no sense. Companies paying to showcase their stuff (ie. a booth) should be the only ones charged anything. Do that and you may just see a few more webmasters at shows. Making them pay however is like me paying a cover charge to enter Wal-Mart. I think the few webmasters that go these days fall mostly into these categories: - Vacation - They like to party - To see friends - To collect swag - They are HUGE affiliates so their main sponsor invited them and covered the costs (rare but still happens) Shows are pretty much all B2B now. __________________ Skype variuscr - Email varius AT gmail

01-15-2008, 08:07 PM	#75
halfpint GFY's Halfpint Industry Role: Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: UK Posts: 15,223	Im a noob so wouldent even consider going __________________ Get FREE website listings on Cryptocoinshops.net

01-15-2008, 08:10 PM	#76
Christina Muller Confirmed User Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Canada/Germany Posts: 923	Im looking forward to attending the costa rica bash __________________ Promote A Brand Your Surfer Trusts Playboy No Upsell - No X Sales - No Bullshit !

01-15-2008, 08:12 PM	#77
OzMan Confirmed User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Los Begas Posts: 9,162	I remember at Internext last year or the year before, I was introduced to a company owner and he asked me where I was from. I said "Australia but living in Vegas" He said "No no no, I mean what company are you with?" I said almost apologetically "uh no I'm just a webmaster, a one man show" "Ooohhh ok!" he exclaimed. I felt like saying "Is that ok or should I get the fuck outta here?" but I think sadly he was just shocked that I wasn't yet another sales rep about to start my sales pitch on him.

01-15-2008, 08:33 PM	#81
Daruma Confirmed User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: PandaLand™ Posts: 3,494	One more point In the old days - there where maybe 2 or 3 shows max per year. Now shows are saturated - I don't know of any industry that averages 1 trade show / event per month - which this is what seems to be the current rate for this biz. Reduce the number of shows per year to 2 or 3 and the interest may jump up again - and become more interesting for both the established and new-comers alike. __________________ RIP TD

01-15-2008, 08:38 PM	#85
WarChild Let slip the dogs of war. Industry Role: Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Bermuda Posts: 17,263	Because I realized that if I want to listen to a bunch of overweight guys try to convince me of how important they are I can just take my bike for a spin a little too fast. A speeding ticket is only $100 and the whole experience gets condensed in to 15 minutes rather than 3 days. __________________ .

01-15-2008, 08:44 PM	#87
CarolCox The Original WebGirl! Industry Role: Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Green Valley, ON, CA Posts: 325	The first show I was at was the very first Adult Internet show! That was back in October (I believe( 1995 in Orlando. It was IA2000, which was mainly a "Phone Sex" convention but added an Adult Internet component. There were no booths for "us", and only about 40 Internet industry people showed up. We all hung-out together and had a great time. Most of those attendees became the original YNOT members way back at the beginning. The early pre-2000 shows were still the best, IMHO. We were all learning, and the networking was excellent. Carol xoxoxo __________________ ~~ iAmateurs.net - the original amateur partnership program ~~ ~~ promote Carol Cox - The Original Internet Amateur ~~ ~~ promote 32 other unique Internet Amateurs ~~

01-15-2008, 10:10 PM	#91
Altheon Confirmed User Join Date: May 2004 Posts: 506	It's good to hear that I'm not the only one that got a weird vibe when I told people that I'm just a webmaster. I fall into the comfortable range where I'm not a "bro" but I make a decent living. I'll just confirm that the ROI is too low. The money isn't an issue its really about the time invested and what I get out of it. I can think of two panels that were helpful out of my show experience. The rest of the time was spent eating and drinking. Frankly it's more valuable as a tax write off than an actual investment in improving my business since people are accessible in so may ways online. Yes it's very clickish but I have yet to have someone tell me to fuck off when I walk up and introduce myself. If I don't meet new people that's on me but I admit to getting swarmed with reps who don't know a damn thing about the biz. They are like networking land mines. You don't know they are one till you shake their hand and get a half-assed pitch and a request for a follow up.

01-15-2008, 10:19 PM	#94
pr0 rockin tha trailerpark Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Location: ~Coastal~ Posts: 23,088	you guys are all just anti-social i have a blast at shows & meet tons of new people....close tons of deals free dinners/hookers/shooting range/helicopters/jet fighters......all on the companies comp cards why not fucking go? __________________ __________ Loadedca$h - get sum! - Revengebucks - mmm rebills! - webair (gotz sErVrz)

01-15-2008, 10:22 PM	#95
CarolCox The Original WebGirl! Industry Role: Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Green Valley, ON, CA Posts: 325	I've always preferred meeting and networking with the smaller webmasters. They could always do more for me and my sites than the larger companies would or could. Carol xoxoxo __________________ ~~ iAmateurs.net - the original amateur partnership program ~~ ~~ promote Carol Cox - The Original Internet Amateur ~~ ~~ promote 32 other unique Internet Amateurs ~~

01-15-2008, 10:28 PM	#96
stev0 Confirmed User Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Calgary, Alberta Posts: 6,801	Unless you're selling something, the only plus I can think of is being able to write off a vacation (or 50% of a vacation, whatever the tax rules are in your area). Otherwise, when I vacation I'm usually trying to get away from work related stuff.

01-15-2008, 10:36 PM	#98
TDF Triple OG nigga on GFY Industry Role: Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: in the BP4L family compound Posts: 27,296	i just go to be the token darkie __________________ Sig heil