Someone said (probably Confucious because he seemed to say a lot of deep things) that a long journey starts with a single step.  Well I can confirm that the world of marketing on the internet welcomed one tiny step from Executive Assistance today.

Seduced into thinking I could get something for nothing - don't ever be fooled by that one - there's always a catch, I've been happily clicking on things and diverting from my true course by following random links and getting nowhere fast!

I did however find a couple of places where you can advertise for free.  Of course they want you to pay money to them for advanced this and better spec that, but don't do it!  Step away from the yes button!  Just stick to picking up what you went there for in the first place!

Instant Buzz was an interesting first point of call www.instantbuzz.com.  This puts a small add on your browser and you earn advertising credits simply for surfing the net or sending emails.  Your website gets maximum exposure as it sits at the top of other members web browsers.  Very simple and quite subliminal (though not intrusive like a pop up advert - I find those really irritating!).

Another site where you could have free advertising was a Canadian community called Adland Pro www.adlandpro.com. Again this provides free and paid for advertising for the small business. 

So the big lesson I learned today is that whilst there is some genuinely free stuff out there.  Everyone has an ulterior motive!  No one does anything for nothing and, cynic that I am, the concept of giving just to make you feel good holds no weight here.

Now, back to Confucious - I'm sure he'd have something to say about all this.....