Yowzas, some of these folks need a kick in the hiney (sp?) for being flat-out stupid.

Note to such people: Engage brain before using mouth!

The problem with common sense is that it’s just not that common!

I think Joel Comm’s was the killer for me! What did you say to her Joel, or was it too rude to reprint?

I guess the closest I came to such a situation was a guy I dealt with who contacted us at work (I work as a search engine marketing consultant for one of Australia’s top SEO firms) and wanted a quote for us to help promote his new ebook.

Upon asking him a selection of tough questions, it became apparent he thought his ebook (targetting the health & wellness industry) was going to revolutionise the entire world, and he somehow had been granted divine wisdom that millions of medical professionals didn’t have (my sarcastic interpretation lol).

Naturally, he wanted US to take the risk. His preference was for us to get him world fame and help him sell (literally!) 1,000,000 copies of this product on an commission-only basis!

Suffice it to say we declined his “generous” offer and wished him well in finding some other firm (sucker) who would take on his plan!

Sheesh! Some people just need a smack around the ear to wake them up!

Anyway, I enjoyed your post (and your blog). Keep up the great work

Eran

PS: If you’re gonna write this ebook, how about calling it “JV Etiquette For Newbies: How To Not Make A Damn Fool Of Yourself Before You Win Big!”

And then people like me at times rush to create opportunities…apparently forgetting the Internet should not be any different from face-to-face business.

We need to be out & about meeting people, looking for ways to help other people. Once I came to my senses, I try to:

1. Make friends;
2. Be honest & sincere;
3. Honestly try to help other people
3. Do what I say I’m going to do when a friend offers to help or refer me.

I don’t know why I try to make “online” business building more difficult than it needs to be.

Of course, I know the reason: I’ve tried to take shortcuts by doing what you’ve described…and getting the results you’ve described.

None of us should ever aspire unintentionally or intentionally to be a “one-night stand.”

Thanks, Donna.

Mike

So my suggestion…
The JV Dating Rule Book: How not to be a JV one-night stand”

I too love the idea of a gender section of the rules of engagement. We interact differently, which is a point I try to highlight in my Marketing To Women program at Why She Buys

At some point, Seth Godin’s going to come to YOU and ask for a podcast

Ok, your comment convinced me. I’ve scheduled this project as something to work on while I’m traveling in Asia.

I LOVE that subhead

Do I dare? LOL

“Donna Fox’s Joint Venture (JV) Rules of Engagement”

- 7 Things Which Will Get You on the S*** List Fast

I get calls/emails like that now and then too and I will admit I’ve helped some people here and there even though the approach was really, really bad, but when I am speaking with someone and I feel they’re genuine (albeit they are misguided and confused) and just trying to do ’something’ to get started, then I am often happy to help in some way.

I have to admit that some of the stories in the replies here are scary though lol and some bring up bad memories so let’s not dwell on those anymore and instead I chose to move forward

I do commend those that are at least trying to take action instead of just sitting on the fence and I think your guide can help those that are actually giving it a ‘go’.

Xavier

I probably learned the hard way, by being clueless at first. However, the people I asked were so gracious the way they pointed out to me the inequity of what I was requesting. Early on some very amazing people literally let me “practice” on them. And now I almost never have anyone say they don’t want to be on my show. The only person who ever told me no, was also very gracious. Seth Godin very politely told me he was not doing podcasts for his book Meatball Sundae. Ahh, maybe someday.;)

Write the book, Donna, I’ll read it. There’s always more to learn.

My worst JV story is I don’t have one, from either side of the fence

Great article, and great content in the comments. It’s rare to see a blogger so active down here. Props to you.

I vote for:
Donna Fox’ll Swat You Upside The Head If You JV Like This

Seriously: Donna Fox’s Rules of JV Engagement