What makes FlashComponents.net a top-notch marketplace are the quality files that buyers find here. In order to keep this high-level, some Flash files that are submitted for approval may be rejected for certain reasons. But don’t get frustrated if your files have been rejected because our staff is here to help you. Unlike other marketplaces, our staff will not only review your files, but also make suggestions on what you can change or improve in order to get your components in the day light.

Taking into consideration the huge amount of files we receive daily for approval, here are the main reasons your file may have been rejected:

1.  The component is not really a Flash file

Sure, there are some objects moving around, but that doesn’t make it a Flash component. At least that’s not what we’re looking for in a file. When we say quality files, we mean mouthwatering design, unique features and, nevertheless, useful. And this is where the second reason appears.

2. The component is not useful

We don’t just approve files so we can fill in the categories in our website. We approve them because we really believe in them and in the fact that buyers will find them invaluable for their websites. When developing a Flash file, you must firstly consider for whom you’re developing it. Will anyone find it useful enough to buy it?

3. The component is better off free

It just doesn’t do you justice. If you already have a brilliant portfolio we’re all proud of, why lower your standards? Why not give it away for free to get more visitors to your author profile? In this case, our staff will give you a suggestion to make it free. You don’t have to accept it, but keep in mind that you can also make money by giving away free stuff.

4. The component’s price is too high

Unlike other marketplaces, you are free to choose the price you think your component is worth selling. On the other hand, don’t overestimate your file. To make sure you’ve got the right price, go through the other files from different developers on FC to make an idea of the right price. Moreover, be the critic of your own file. Do you have some unique features that other files from the same category don’t? Or is it just another “simple slider”?

5. The file’s sample has not been uploaded correctly

This happens very often. To avoid this unpleasant situation, make sure you read the instructions carefully before uploading the sample.

6. The sample contains commercial links

This is also a common reason we reject a file. There are a lot of authors that include links to other commercial websites or to their own commercial/non-commercial portfolio. This is not allowed on FC. If you want to exemplify the usage of a hyperlink, we recommend you include a link to your author page on FC. This is a simple and elegant solution that can also help you promote the other files from your portfolio. For further information regarding commercial links, please see our policy.

7. The file includes images, audio or video files you have no copyright over

In this case, there’s an easy solution. Just check out our Library where you can find some great resources for free image, audio and video files you can use in your commercial projects or samples in order to show the potential buyer how the file works.

8. The sample image is low-quality

Make sure the image you use for the file you’ve submitted is a quality one and that the main elements can be distinguished. Consider this when compressing the image.

9. The file is corrupted

There’s no need for further explanations. This is something you have to fix right away and then re-upload the file for approval.

10. The file doesn’t open with the specified version of Flash

Before uploading the file, make sure to review the source code a couple of times and make sure it opens with the version of Flash you specified in the description. This is a simple thing if you don’t want your file rejected and wait a few more days before it’s reviewed again.

11. There’s another file with the exact same name

Be creative when it comes to naming your file. Try avoiding the same all boring words such as: premium, simple, dynamic, basic, etc. Give it a cool name that differentiates it from other files.

12. The same file is being sold on another website by a different developer

“Borrowing” files from other websites and publishing them on FC is not allowed. Even if we don’t always discover this right away, our visitors or other authors will certainly do. That’s when your file is reported for copyright infringement and you will have to deal with an expensive punishment. Check out our copyright policy for more information.

There may also be other reasons I’ve missed, but be sure we will never reject a file without including a message explaining why it was rejected and what our staff believes you can do to improve it in order to get it out in the open on FlashComponents.net. Good luck!

You don’t have to have an idea from heaven in order to get featured on FC. On the other hand, being featured is no dumb luck. We appreciate a good file and we make sure it gets the deserved attention from potential customers. Since you’ve sent us a lot of e-mails asking how your file can get into the “What’s New” box, here’s a list of criteria we take into consideration when choosing to feature a Flash component.

Your file SHOULD:

1. Be a cool product

Firstly, we want to see original files or files with cool new features. Obviously, the file should also have a distinctive design and good user experience. Keep in mind that by including your file in the Featured box, we’re telling our visitors what they should definitely check out. We will avoid featuring a file that wastes their time, by drawing their attention to a file that isn’t usable or attractive. Therefore, you won’t be seeing just another “simple” banner rotator being featured any time soon.

2. Be different

Even though we choose file based on various criteria, you can always send us an e-mail and give us your pitch. Explain what makes your file special and why we should feature it.

3. Communicate the content with a truly unique layout

Consider developing a well structured file where the information is nicely presented and communicated. An unusual or fresh approach in which the content is presented can get you at the top of the waiting list. Take a risk, while having usability in mind at all times.

4. Have a unique feature

Apart from a top-notch design, your file should be able to stand out in the crowd by including an innovative feature and using cool techniques from which potential customer can benefit. If your file includes a new feature that no other file does, then you have a good chance of being featured.

5.  Boost of creativity

Nowadays, with so many Flash marketplaces out there, competition is huge. That’s why you really need to think outside the box and come up with an interesting and creative file that is bound to be noticed.  And when we say creative, we don’t just think about a “nice” design. We think: novelty, intuitive layout, usability and accessibility. These are just a few think you should consider when creating a new file.

6. Be Wanted

We have certain categories of file that are oversubscribed and that include tons of similar files, which makes it harder for your file to get noticed. That’s why we recommend that you find a niche and develop a component targeting a smaller category. For instance, instead of developing a general Flash website that can be used in about every domain out there, try a different approach. Develop a website that can be used exclusively to present a Spa, or a hotel, for instance. Do some research and figure out the trends and the domains that are flourishing today.

7. Be strategically released at the right time

Even if you might have not considered this until now, the time of the release of a new file is also important. The files or authors featured in our “What’s New” box change three times a week: Monday, Thursday and Friday. On the same page, most files are sold at the beginning of the week, meaning from Monday until Thursday. That’s why you should consider uploading your files one or two days sooner, so you have a better chance to be noticed. On the other hand, don’t rely on this because we sometimes receive a lot of file and verifying them might take longer than expected.

8. Be a Quality File

Even though we encourage  you to develop files often, we’ll never put quantity in front of quality. A good file has a better chance of being featured than one that has been developed in a rush and can have a lot of bugs. We recommend you focus more on the quality of the component you develop, rather than producing file after file. Create the best file you can and keep in mind that, whether you get featured or not, you will get sales firstly because of it’s quality.

9. Be developed in AS3

While AS2 files are still getting sold on FC, this isn’t going to last for a very long time. Consider learning AS3, if you haven’t already, and have a portfolio with more than 80% AS3 files. W e strongly believe you will benefit from this in the near future.

10. Be Part of a Discount Pack

We’re constantly searching to feature discount packs because everybody loves them. That’s why you can also consider using some of your existing files and including them in a promotional pack. It’s a great way to promote yourself and your files.

Your file does NOT have to:

1. Be too complex

Sometimes, this scares off clients because they believe that they don’t have enough knowledge to use the file and they they’ll have to pay extra in order to implement the file into their website.

Consider developing easy to use files or, at least, include a user guide that can help the client use the component without having to spend more.

2. Be BFF with the FC staff

While we enjoy communicating with all of you and make sure you know we like your new releases, you should keep in mind that we only feature files based on its quality and the above mentioned criteria.

Communicating with (potential) customers is a must in every business, even though dealing with them is not always easy. But what you have to keep in mind is that not all are Clients From Hell. After all, they’re the ones putting the bread on your table. Most importantly, you are given the chance to do something you’re passionate about and create a Flash component for a client that is going to enjoy using it.

So here a few suggestions on how to improve your communication skills with regards to (potential) customers.

1. Don’t try to please everyone

“If you try and please everyone, you won’t please anyone.” -37signals.

This one is the golden rule. When developing a component, keep in mind who are the visitors on FlashComponents.net and what they are looking for. Also, if you’re specialized in developing Flash galleries or Flash templates, make an effort to improve your designs and features on that. Focus on what you do best and always bring new features to your files.

2. Encourage feedback

Let customers know that you’d appreciate a comment on your product page with an opinion or a suggestion regarding the file you released. This way you can figure out how much the visitors like/ dislike your file, and what features they would like added. It helps to discover what they like, for future reference.

3. Thank critics

Don’t be afraid of criticism. Be thankful for it and try to get the best of it. Always keep an open mind when it comes to a bad review of your file. Remember we’re all subjective and so are your customers. Some might like it, some might not.

Do your best to discover the reason why some don’t like it and take it into consideration when adding a new feature to your file or when developing a different component. Not all criticism is unfounded. You might even get some great ideas from these reviews.

4. Listen

A very important rule when dealing with clients is listening to what they have to say. Read carefully the information they are providing to you and the things they’d like done, for instance, customizations.

Never say “No”! Instead, if what the client is asking for seems crazy or impossible, try to provide alternatives and advices. They will appreciate you wanting to work it out. That’s in fact what you do: you provide solutions. Also, if you have questions you want to ask to clarify what the client needs, don’t hesitate. He will appreciate your interest to help him out.

5. Answer questions

Make sure you check your client messages everyday, whether they’re in your FC account, personal e-mail or social networks, such as Twitter or Facebook. Most of the clients have questions regarding how the file works, what they should do to change a button, a color, a background. Don’t take too long answering client messages and providing support because they also have deadlines and need fast assistance. Provide punctual and quality support and they’ll definitely appreciate it and return to you.

6. Put yourself into his shoes

Most of our customers are beginners, so you should do your best to understand their point of view. They might not know much and that’s, in fact, why they’re buying your file and paying you for it. When communicating with clients, speak his language. Avoid using jargon or technical language because you risk confusing the client after the first lines. Not only will you be wasting time, but he also won’t understand anything. If you are keen on using them, explain to the client what it means.

7. Mistakes are only human

If you’ve developed a file and it turns out it doesn’t work, it has bugs or other issues, don’t act innocent. Politely admit your screw up and fix it as soon as possible. Also, let your potential customers know that you’re working on that and when it will be fixed, so they can purchase it.

8. Prove you are a professional

Keep in mind at all times that customers are paying you for a service and you are expected to deliver it in a professional manner. That’s why you should:
- offer support in time;
- provide documentation for your files;
- respond politely to criticism;
- thank them for their feedback and suggestions;
- use proper English when communicating with a customer. If your English is not very good, use whatever translating tool you have.

All things considered, you will be a pleasure to work with. Now tell me, how well do you communicate with your (potential) customers?

1. Presentation

The first thing a visitor sees on the FC homepage is the preview image of your file. There are about 20 new released Flash components displayed on the homepage and a self explanatory image of your file can get his attention. People are extremely “visual”, so if your image says nothing about how the file looks like or what it can do, he might just not notice it. Use a clear image that reflects the main feature of your file and make it a good one. Take your time cropping and resizing, because this can convince the potential customer your file is worth checking out.

2. Let him play

If you’ve convinced him to check out your file, he’s going to want to see more. Provide a sample of the file on your component page and show him how it works. Give him the chance to play with the component and see what it can do for him.

3. Provide Documentation

On this same page, you should also fill in the technical details of the file, such as Flash Level, Documentation Level, but also a description of its features and suggestions of use. Basically, it should provide users with the help and documentation they’re looking for. Include a brief presentation of the component and suggest in the first paragraph how it can be used.

For example, if you’re selling an image gallery, can it also be used as a product showcase? Also, you should keep in mind that most of the visitors don’t have advanced knowledge of Flash as you do, otherwise they’d develop the file themselves. That’s why the description should not be too technical.

Use a simple, friendly, clear language so they can understand what they can do with the file. This is not the place to be big-headed by using technical language only you and other Flashers like you can understand. The visitor should be able to understand easily what the file can do for him, and not how smart you are.

4. Write with Keywords for SEO

Most people search for Flash components using Google, so using proper keywords are the first step to get them to check out your file. For instance, if you’ve developed a Flash Video Gallery, make sure to include these words in the name of the component. If you’re offering a Free file, include the word Free in the title of the component.

Let’s take Ngchenghow’s Flash XML 3D Carousel (AS3). He’s included all the keywords that describe its main features and it’s increasing his chances to appear in the first places in the search results. No wonder this file has 160 sales. Moreover, these keywords should also be included in the description of the file. On the other side, don’t include keywords that have nothing to do with your file or its features. It may attract visitors, but you’ll disappoint them because they’re not finding what they’re looking for and they’ll leave in a heart beat.

5. Set the Right Price

The price is also a big factor of decision. Don’t kid yourself that if your file is so awesome that they’ll be willing to pay whatever for it. Set a price taking into consideration the uniqueness and quality of the file, the time you’ve spent  developing it, but also the trends and the range of files on the market. If you’ve developed a file with no special features, don’t expect it to sell like hot bread if you’ve set a high price. If it’s an original file with unique features, you can use that to set a higher price.

On FlashComponents we have three licenses you can set different prices for – regular, commercial and special. If you don’t know what price to set, refer to other similar products with big sales and set a price taking into consideration the elements mentioned above.

6. Have a Brilliant Idea

Speaking of originality, people always want to buy unique files, that are different from others on the market. Don’t sell them the same old slideshow you developed with a tutorial. You can do better than that! Come up with original ideas and impress your customers. Also, develop constantly. Don’t just develop 2 files and take a 2 months holiday. To be at the top of the list, you should get out of your comfort zone and re-energize yourself. Start developing at least 1-2 new files a month and your visibility will increase. Users will notice you and, cha-ching, you get more sales.

7. Put Together Discount Packs

We all love discounts. f you lack creativity, there’s always an alternative. Put together 3-4-5 of you files in a package and watch the results. You’ll be surprised how many people buy Flash components in a bunch. This is a great way to sell files and to promote yourself.

8. Give Them the Chance to Create

When developing a file, keep in mind that people like to customize and personalize it to fit their space. Always consider the customer and his needs. Give instructions on how the file can be modified, from colors and text, to music and boxes. Give them the chance to be involved in the process and make your file “their” file.

9. Update Files Constantly

If you’re having trouble selling a file or the opposite, if the file is selling well, don’t just leave it as it is. Check out the comments from your component’s page posted by your (potential) customers and see what suggestion they have and what other features they’d like included to that file. Take it into consideration and work on that. You will attract new customers and the ones that have already purchased your file and that will benefit from the updates will think they’re getting their money’s worth and will definitely come back.

10. How about some Freebies?

You already know this one. There’s no better way to promote yourself then by giving away one of your files free or charge. You’ll get attention and your users will check out your other files to see the other goodies you’ve got to offer.You don’t really need to create a special file to give away. Use the files you already have in your portfolio, but that are not selling well or a file that is very cheap. This is bound to do the trick.

11. Hit the Flash Catwalk

What a better way to promote your files for free than our Flash Catwalk? Ask your customers for feedback and a link to the website where they used your file. Send us the information and you’ll get a spot in our newsletter, along with and exclusive article and all the promotion you can get.

12. Be the Expert

Show them that you know what you’re talking about and write a tutorial for one of your files. Write an accessible step-by-step tutorial so everybody can use it. At the end of the tutorial, include a link to your profile page to make sure they find out who you are and what you can do.

We experience these things with you guys, so we’re all learning together, side by side. That’s why we’d love to receive your comments on what it is that works for you and how you managed to promote your files on FC. Send us your insights at authors4fc@flashcomponents.net and we’ll be sure to include them in a future article. If you’ve got some great insights, you can even write your own piece with tips&tricks and we’ll publish it here. Join the club!

A personal portfolio page is all about promoting you and your skills as a Flash developer. Here is where you show potential customers what you can do and how good you are, so they purchase your files. Also, this is where you show visitors what you’re made of and use it to build your online presence. It is essential for you to have a good portfolio page if you want to get visitor’s attention and, even become a brand.

We’re going to show you how you can improve your presence on FC, build a credible image and, last but not least, get more sales.

1. Think big!

Think of yourself as a brand, even if you’re just starting off. Be creative with your name and logo. Don’t forget that, like on first dates, first impression matters. Like you choose a hairstylist because his hair looks fancy and well taken care of, this is how your visitors can choose you over other developers.

If you’re trying to promote yourself as a top-notch Flash developer, you should firstly choose a logo. You can even personalize it by including your own name. Make it attractive, yet simple and easy to remember. This will help you stand out and, also, develop a strong identity.

Check out these examples to get a clearer picture:

2. Use colors and design to create your brand

Colors are essential tools to building your identity, just as logos have the same role. This is a great way to brand yourself, by using a particular color for all the files you develop. Let visitors become familiar with your color and, after a while, they’ll become more familiar and connected to you. Here’s how easy these two authors on FC are building their visual identity:

3. Who are you?

Most of the visitors usually have a better look at your portfolio to find out who you are, where you’re from and see other samples of your work. This space is all about you and no one else. That’s why we strongly encourage you include a short presentation on yourself. This should be a short yet catchy paragraph in which you’ll have to summarize the main ideas that differentiate you from other developers. Be professional, yet personal, technical, if you need to, but clear. And remember, less is more, so don’t share your whole life.

Here’s a few things you could include:

* Who you are
* Why you chose to be a Flash developer
* When you started developing Flash files
* Share your professional background as a Flash developer
* What you specialize in: templates, galleries, etc
* Where you’re from
* If you’re available for freelance work.

Take a look at these examples:

This is no place to be shy or secretive. The more valuable information you include, the better your visitors will get to know you, form an opinion and trust you.

4. Organize!

Your portfolio page on FC is very important, as it’s actually a showcase of your entire work and developing skills. People will most probably want to see your other files to decide whether you’ve got potential or not. To give them a better glimpse of your work, include high-quality screenshots to present your files.

Also, include a short presentation for each file, emphasizing on its strongest features, the ones that differentiate it from the other files from the same category. Take your time while organizing this page as it will have impact on the visitor’s purchasing decision.

You don’t have to include all your files there. You can choose to include your best selling files or your best files from certain categories of Flash components, how this author did:

5. Provide contact options

This is also a very important thing you should keep in mind. Aside from the “Send private message” feature that your (potential) clients can use to contact you, you can also provide them with your e-mail address in case they’ve got questions or concerns regarding your files, or just want to hire you for a private project. Just include it at the end of your description.

6. Promote Yourself

We’ve got tons of visitors but with little time on their hands. If you’re not going to show them what you’re capable of, they’re not going to search for it. If you’ve got a non-commercial portfolio or a blog where you talk about Flash or anything related, don’t just keep it to yourself. Put it out there, along with the rest of your description. Not only will this help you promote yourself, but you’ll also gain visitor’s trust as a specialist in this area and show you really know what you’re doing. Use an appropriate message to link to it, like “Hire me”, “Check out my Portfolio”, “I’m also Here” etc.

7. Offer support on social networks

Social networks are the real deal these days. So, if you’re active on different social networks, invite people to follow you on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or wherever it is that you’re hanging. Let them know you’re available to offer support whenever they need it and on whatever grounds they prefer. Let them know where they can find you, this way you can build their trust. Also, this is a great way for you to meet people, make connections and, nevertheless, expose your work.

We experience these things with you guys, so we’re all learning together, side by side. That’s why we’d love to receive your comments on what it is that works for you and how you managed to create your identity on FC. Send us your insights at authors4fc@flashcomponents.net and we’ll be sure to include them in a future article. If you’ve got some great insights, you can even write your own piece with tips&tricks and we’ll publish it here. Join the club!