How to Automate Appointment Booking and Lead Qualification Using AI
December 16, 2023
Affiliate Marketing • E-commerce • Entrepreneurship
Known for his expertise in native advertising and his educational initiative, Geek Out Education, Van Elswyk offers a unique perspective on the evolving digital landscape.
Van Elswyk began the podcast by addressing a critical challenge in the digital marketing space: the escalating costs of media buying. He emphasized that with the costs rising annually, the profit margins for generating leads are shrinking. His solution? Either be the one closing the deals or find alternative ways to monetize data.
The podcast host lauded Van Elswyk for his genuine expertise, contrasting him with the plethora of ‘fake gurus’ that flood the online marketing world. Van Elswyk’s approach combines practical application with teaching, a rarity in the space. He finds teaching and leading companies fulfilling, seeing it as an integral part of his professional journey.
Van Elswyk discussed his venture into e-commerce, describing it as a learning curve distinct from lead generation. The shift to owning brands and managing customer service, product development, and fulfillment was a significant step for him. He highlighted the freedom and scalability of e-commerce, free from the constraints of call centers and quality reviews typical in lead generation.
A significant part of Van Elswyk’s journey is Geek Out Education, where he educates people on media buying, focusing on native advertising. His training emphasizes the foundational aspects of media buying, which he believes are more quantifiable and less volatile compared to platforms like Facebook.
Van Elswyk is not just about business; he’s also deeply invested in charitable efforts. He shared his experience teaching media buying to people from challenging backgrounds, describing it as a fulfilling experience that goes beyond just making money. His goal is to create opportunities for those less fortunate, leveraging his skills and resources for a greater cause.
Looking ahead, Van Elswyk sees continuous change in the media buying landscape. He advocates for diversification in advertising strategies, especially for e-commerce brands. Van Elswyk is optimistic about the potential of e-commerce, focusing on building sustainable and profitable brands that solve real problems and cater to evergreen markets.
In conclusion, James Van Elswyk’s journey in the digital marketing world is a testament to the power of real expertise, diversification, and the importance of giving back. His insights offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of online marketing and e-commerce.
