My host does not require it but I was wondering if saying who you resell for is the proper thing to do. Could someone please fill me in on the proper way to present yourself as a reseller. Thanks, Andyc

well doesn't really matter but many people will dig it up anyways so my view on it is to just be honest and admit you're a reseller

Hey Dex

This is ACrofford from the MaxPC forums. Good to see you. I agree with you. I added this to my opening paragraph:

"Not only do we offer inexpensive web design services, we provide affordable, reliable hosting solutions through ***, an industry leader in the web hosting business."

What do you think?

Though if I did not disclose that I was a reseller it wouldn't be because I was trying to deceive my customers. I just want opinions on this and appreciate yours.

Andyc

Well, to be honest, I don't think I'd advertise it, unless you really think the name will help you, and your prices are lower than those listed on the provider's site.

"Not only do we offer inexpensive web design services, we provide affordable, reliable, discounted hosting solutions through ***, an industry leader in the web hosting business."

Not that that sounds good either, but you get the point.

If asked, I wouldn't lie, rather I'd promote the reasons that someone should sign up with you instead of them. A discount is a powerful advantage of course, but also personalized support and web design is another strong selling point. I'm sure you can think up 3 or 4 other reasons why as well...

Thanks for your input Chicken.

I am interested in hearing others opinions on this before I make my final decision. Thanks again, Andyc

Andyc:

I don't think it is a good idea to post who you resell for. The objective is the brand. You are the brand. Why would you give more branding options to the upline? They aren't going to give you a break for it.

1. In your marketing, your focus needs to be on you as the brand. Otherwise you are throwing away advertising dollars and effort.

2. Unless the upline host is the equivalent of say, McDonalds or American Speedy, it really holds no weight.

3. Senario: Host X gets wierd, and wiggs out. What do you do? Well, you move, of course. Now, do you tell the end user you moved? And why? What if they are hosting with you only because they wanted to be with Host X?

4. What if a better deal comes along? What if you want to try out different host? Ethically, you can't, since you told the end user they were on Host X machines.

5. With my host, if an end user hits them for support, they are certian to turn around and charge me for thier time. Those that resell to resellers, almost always want to be as transparent as possible.

I think you get the picture :D And if they find out, no big deal. Like was posted below, don't lie about it. Honesty is always good.

If you aren't convinced yet, here is something to think about. If you were to go to the corner printshop, and ask for nice glossy full color printed folders, you don't really think they print those in the back do you?? (Its almost always resold) Just something to chew on.


sPoT! :cool:

Thanks spot. You have helped me make up my mind. I definately am not out to deceive anyone. Thanks again. Your input is appreciated. Andyc

Oh, anytime.

;)

sPoT!

Hello Andyc,

I am a new reseller and I honestly inform all my site visitors about it even I make an offer here or elsewhere. It is better for you to inform those visitors or prospects that you are a reseller as my personal thought is sooner or later some of your clients will know. Think about if one of your clients know after signing up, terminate your service due to you covering the fact and spread about it, it does hurt your business even more in long term.

Well... It does affect your sales in some senses but there will be people appreciate your honesty and chances are you will gain trust to a certain extend from those people who sign up for your service.

There are many factors about closing sales especially the prices but I would rather choose to be honest to all of my clients and prospects than trying to cover this fact.

Just my thoughts ;)

Regards,
Choon

You can have your own business and be a reseller.

If they ask, tell them. But even then you can just say that you lease space on servers and resell it. You don't have to send them to your supplier. How much you tell is up to you. You can be honest and not give away the business.

But really your grocery store is a reseller and so is your gas station.

You are providing a service. If they ask what brand you are selling, tell them. Otherwise, they are probably looking at what YOU will be giving them.

Chris

I agree PageUSA and that is the stance I am taking. I talked to the provider about it and he said that either way is acceptable. Thanks for your feedback. Andyc