So you want to start or grow your business in 2012, but you don’t have a website presence, the one you currently have isn’t good OR you’re not tech savvy enough with social media. The task of creating a solid online presence can be truly daunting, especially without a certain confidence and knowledge in technology.
I’m not here to re-invent the wheel and give you advice that’s propagated a million times over across the web. I’m here to give you the core information that’s at the heart of my attaining small business success with your website.
So here’s the top few items for small business website success, from my experience:
- Just START:
Don’t wait for everything on your website to be absolutely perfect. Now if you work in an industry where every detail needs to be in place to be effective, this is obviously bad advice. But if you’re like most industries just get online. Get a basic online presence to start, and then just change and grow as you move forward.I saw a quote recently that stuck with me. Something like, “The world doesn’t need perfectionists, but people who get things done.” While you’re waiting to find the perfect web designer at the perfect price who’s going to create the next Facebook phenomenom for under $100.00, you’re missing opportunities to actually engage in your business. Of course look for deals and someone who you feel comfortable speaking with and working with. After all, your web designer will be your business partner for quite a long time when you do it right. Referrals from colleagues and real testimonials are always the best to find your perfect web design partner to get you started in the right direction.
- Clearly Identify Your Target Business Market:
Nobody knows your clients better than you. When developing your website be sure to check out your online competition, and really get a good handle on who you’re pitching your services to. The younger generation? Senior citizens? Business people or homemakers? All of that information is important to consider so the website you build will appeal to that particular group of users. From my experience, older people tend to like more static and simple sites with very specific information they need or want. The younger-minded generation tends to enjoy the option to access a lot of information, as long as it’s well presented, useful or entertaining.
- Be An Industry Expert:
This is where social media is really important. Why should someone hire your small business services if you have no positive online business presence? Who are you to provide expert services? Yes, it’s definitely time consuming to connect with so many people, but when you connect with them on a professional level about information from your field, your educating others while many times learning new things yourself, and THAT’s what’ll help position you as a go-to-guy or gal in your line of work. Facebook business pages, starting or participating in LinkedIN discussions and/or tweeting your little professional heart out on Twitter to connect with an audience interested in what you have to say. Not sure how to do ANY of things? Feel free to call me, I’d be happy to help out in that area.
That’s all for now. Since this is my first blog post I thought I’d take my own good advice and just get started doing something! Wishing you a happy, healthy and successful 2012!