Do You Have High Online Visibility?

April 16, 2009

If you haven’t physically placed any information about your business online, then chances are, your online visibility is practically nonexistent. Having online visibility will soon become a necessity – something you need to have if you want customers to walk through your door.

So, what are some things you can do to achieve online visibility?

1. Get a Web site.
A Web site gives you a Web presence and the ability to tell potential customers about your business and why you are better than the competition. On top of that, you can use it to tell consumers how to contact or locate your facility. Of course, if you want to ensure that your site will be seen by ideal prospects, you must promote your Web site using online marketing strategies, such as link building, search engine optimization and pay-per-click advertising.

2. Blog about your industry.
Blogs seem more time-consuming then they really are. Blog articles are short and to the point, and you don’t have to be a professional writer to write them. You simply must have industry knowledge. You can post more than one blog article every day, but it’s also OK to post just two articles per week. You’ll get exposure either way.  It’s also a good idea to read other people’s blogs and add your comments, along with your URL, of course. This will help you gain even more exposure.

3. Join social networking sites.
Sites like Twitter™ and Facebook® allow you to connect with your target market, showcase your expertise and provide information about your business. Many businesses have also begun to use them as customer service tools.

4. Take ownership of as many online business listings as you can (They’re FREE!).
Online business directories are like the new yellow pages. However, they cost you nothing and they give you more exposure. In fact, studies have shown that today’s consumers regularly use online directories and prefer them to paperbound directories. Therefore, if you aren’t listed, you’re missing out on a great opportunity to reach your target audience.

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Getting a Web Site Is Cheaper Than You Think

April 2, 2009

The cost of getting a Web site for your business is only fraction of what it used to be, yet the benefits of having a site are ever increasing. Sure, your businesses may survive without a Web site, but are you in business to simply survive or are in you business to make money?

We’ve said it time and time again; establishing a strong Web presence will improve your business’s overall performance. If cost-related concerns are still preventing you from getting your own Web site, the following information may help.

Network Solutions® is offering 25% off of their Web site hosting packages. That means you can get Web hosting, a free domain name, email capabilities, and a quick and easy Web site builder tool – all for as low as $7.47 a month! To learn more, go to: http://marketing.networksolutions.com/dms/08Q4/xhp/hosting-25-percent-off.php?channelid=P61C519S512N0B2A1D255E0000V100&promo=OFFER00580

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Isn’t It About Time You Got Online?

January 7, 2009

It’s a new year. It’s time to make some changes. Whether or not you believe in New Year resolutions, you should set some goals for 2009. It’s time to realize that if you want to improve your business, you’ll have to embrace the Internet’s ability to help.

Start By Creating a Free Online Business Listing
No matter what kind of business you have, it is good to have some form of Web presence. So what are some things you can do to develop a Web presence?

The first step you can take is to create an online business listing on one or more local search sites. Popular local search sites include ThinkLocal®, Yahoo!® Local or Yellowpages.com™. Whether you own a fruit stand at the local farmer’s market or a chain of shoe stores, these business listings can help increase your visibility and bring customers to your door.

…Then Build a Website
You’ve probably heard it time and time again, but it’s true; a business Web site can help drive sales, particularly if you promote it. You may have gotten this far without having a Web site, but you will need to create one if you want your business to remain strong in the years to come.

Today, numerous consumers rely on business Web sites when making their purchase decisions. They use the information provided on the sites to determine the businesses’ abilities to satisfy their needs. They even evaluate the visual aspects of the sites to signify the level of quality or professionalism each business can offer.

Business Web sites are influential marketing tools. On your site, you can provide persuasive content that will convince consumers to choose your business over the competitor. In addition, you can announce limited-time specials to stimulate purchases and solicit feedback to ensure that customer needs are met. Lastly, you can use your site to establish your brand.

Retailers can also use their Web sites to increase their market share. By integrating a secure e-commerce platform, these businesses can make their products available nationwide, or even worldwide if they choose. The 2008 holiday shopping season should be proof that the Internet is more powerful than ever. As a result of the poor economy, almost every retail store suffered a decline in sales, but overall, online sales remained fairly stable.

Establishing a Web presence is among the best things you can do for your business. Remember, you have the power to help your business grow. It’s time to take action.

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