Article marketing is the next best alternative way of promoting your online business apart from pay per click advertising. The only difference is while pay per click advertising costs money, article marketing is absolutely free.

As I already mentioned, writing articles should be your focal point and first priority when you just started internet marketing. Because once you mastered this, you will develop other marketing strategies such as blogging and copywriting.

Apart from this, here are 9 more tips to help you succeed in article marketing.

1. Whatever you write, you need to be make sure it stays relevant to what you offer. For a start, do some research on other articles related to your niche before writing. Also check that your article is in the appropriate category of the directory before posting.

2. If you are writing about certain events happening around the world, always make sure that your article is both timely and newsworthy. Such as the FIFA World Cup now progressing in South Africa. A great way will be to sign up with a site that gives alerts with regards to certain topics. Sites like Google Alerts will do wonders.

3. Most new writers simply post 1 article and think their work is done. But you have to understand that most readers will read articles two or three times before deciding to click the link. Understanding that other competitors are using the same method, it will be better if you can post at least 3 articles and more pertaining to 1 common topic.

4. Your article should also be made viral. Meaning to say that you should allow others to publish your article so long as you did not change anything and are given credit for it. At the same time, let them know you are writing articles to promote your online business. Who knows in time to come, those same people may engage you to write for them. This will be another incentive to you.

5. Though most directories require your article to be 300 words and more, you should still keep your article to the point. Break your points into short paragraphs, numbered or even bullet points if you have to. When your paragraph is short say up to 4 to 5 lines, people will find your article easier to read and understand.

6. Make sure your article heading stand out and grabs readers' attention. Titles like how to do something and x number of mistakes most people make in doing that are great examples. If it catches their attention, the chances of them reading your article to the end and clicking on the link are much higher.

7. Your article should be original. Though you can do research on other articles, you are not allowed to copy them as your own as most directories forbid such practice. Instead jot down the main points before consolidating them into your own article.

8. You should write at least 3 articles on your product as a trilogy. If you have other products, you can write more just like what I am doing now.

9. Already insert keywords in your title heading and content but do not overdo it. Most directories allow a maximum of up to 2 per cent. So as much as it is important to use keywords, it is equally important to follow the directories' guidelines.

By following these tips, you will achieve success in the long run.