Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

Instead of talking to the corporate HQ of a large company, befriend a local outlet of the company, and learn more about the company's needs. For example, FedEx Kinkos would be a potential great partner (as would be Staples, etc.). Ideally, get your relationship with the local outlet would be the testbed.

I would also suggest partnering with the local Small Business Administration or any local small business networking groups. Some of the best groups require a membership fee. Perhaps you could negotiate to pay your membership fee via the $125 kick back that you would have provided the partner company. Through these networking groups, I am sure that you will find complementary small business resource providers with whom you can also partner.

I would get yourself more established before you look for corporate partners -- unless you know people who are at those companies.

To determine which partners, I have my clients write a list of every business they know who has their ideal clients. Then go to their local EDC (economic Development corp) where you can usually gain information on all the companies with employees that are in those industries in your area.

I would also send a letter out to everyone you know .. and include in it, among other things, the fact that you're looking for partners. Goes back to the "ask and you will receive" adage.

Personally, I tried Staples, Sams Club, Kinko's, and a bunch more; they were IMO worthless as many of the mangers can't make decisions to do something different. Instead they got through headquarters. Long process. So if you want to go this route, know it's a long process.

I would start locally... at your library! I know that sounds weird, but I recommend that my clients, at least once, go to the main library in their area and learn more about what they have online. I was amazed at the databases they're paying for, that would cost us small business owners a mint of money.

Now if you wanted to go after zoom, etc. then check linked in to see if you can find people on there, check the web to learn whom in the company would be the contact person (not the gatekeeper) OR call the company to see if you can learn who to contact. Then create a direct mail peice and follow it up with a call and some other drip marketing.

OK lots of individual thoughts above. :)

I do have a few comments about your site. It is very clean looking and great going on the toll free number.

I don't see your affiliate or partnership program posted anywhere. Don't see that you're gathering email addresses for an relationship building ezine or ecourse or anything.

Don't see samples that I can click on and get a really good look at.

Do you provide a content managment program as part of the deal? That's a big plus now a days.

On the site, there is no information that let's me know a human or bunch of them own the site. No information about your company, vision, etc. no photos of the owner(s)/staff, etc. making it more personal.

Don't see an address posted anywhere.

So before you look for partners, I would take a look at your site and add some things. Because if people can see that your work is as good as the prices, some online article marketing and other marketing venues will also attract partners.