By now we've all become accustomed to the "bonus pile on" that's almost a required part of any online offer. But even though it's quite common place, never forget that adding extra value to your offer is essential - especially when you're selling information products.

This bonus concept is so important, I have frequently taken something out that I was originally going to put into the product just so I could use it as a bonus. Bonuses really do sell (if you handle them the right way)!

Most people put some lame bonuses in that have been "around the block". A bonus can't just be an afterthought. It's got to be part of your initial offer strategy.

I know a lot of people struggle with bonuses so here's an easy way to develop bonuses with high perceived value. Just look for public domain works you can repackage.

I love public domain bonuses for many reasons. First, they're completely free - you don't have to pay anyone to write them. Second, they're often truly unique - with millions of pages of public domain material available, you're bound to find a "sleeper" on a great topic.

And best of all, they can jazz up just about any old information product. Even a commonplace how-to course can seem extra special when you've added some "vintage gems" as bonuses. Talk about an underutilized marketing secret weapon!

Here are just a few ways to use public domain materials as bonuses...

Software - Believe it or not, many software developers don't copyright their works because they want them to be free for public use! Check out what's available by typing "freeware" in your favorite search engine. Don't forget to clear the rights with the author first.

eBooks - Even if you can't find a public domain work on a related subject, inspirational and motivational topics go with just about anything. There are thousands of public domain works that fit into this category, from words of wisdom to prayer books.

Government publications - US Federal works (and some state) are in the public domain, and they are an absolute gold mine. For example, when I created an anatomy drawing book for artists (also in the public domain material!), a little quick searching revealed government lists to grants for artist. People love free money, making this an awesome bonus with a high perceived value!

Diagrams, patterns, technical spec sheets - While finding these may take a little more digging, they're perfect for marketing to hobbyists, crafters, or collectors. If you're selling a how-to guide to hand quilting, just a couple of vintage quilt patterns will make your audience swoon. Or what about diagrams or specifications for antique car parts or vintage airplanes? Here's one instance where your audience might grab your product simply to get the bonuses!

Drawings and photos - The copyrights on many old illustrations and antique photos have expired - or they were never copyrighted to begin with. Bundle these graphics into themed sets to complement your product. While scanning in old artwork may be a bit time consuming, this is one of those "work once, reap the rewards forever" products.

Finally, here's a bonus for YOU. Remember that the more unique your public domain bonus is, the more likely you can package or even sell it in its own right! Sometimes something as simple as changing a title can give your bonus even more perceived value.

What a great way to breathe new life into those old forgotten works... and pile on value-added bonuses that justify a premium price tag for your product!

(c) Surefire Marketing, Inc.