So here it is…the ultimate formula in 36 words and 6 bullets:
- Identify your ideal target market.
- Demonstrate you understand the problem(s) your ideal target market faces.
- Present your solution.
- Share the results (success) of your solution.
- Explain what makes you different.
- Provide a meaningful call to action.
The first thing you will notice is that no tactics are involved. If you nail these 3 steps, whatever tactics you use will work.
If you can’t fulfill these six steps – do not capitalize SEO, do not invest in re-designing your website – don’t spend money on anything. Be clear on these six steps and then chose the tactics based on how your ideal target market prefers to receive information.

Dawn,
Concise and accurate. Reading this short post made me consider several items that I need to improve in my marketing.
Mack
Thanks for the comment Mack – let me know how you do on your improvements.
[...] work required figuring out all that is involved in the sales process but I like how succinctly that Dawn Westerberg has summed it up in her “Secret to successful marketing in 36 words”. I know that this blog [...]
[...] See the original article from Dawn Westerberg regarding “how to be a saleperson“ [...]