Notes from a presentation we gave on why a web presence is so important to small businesses. Pretty basic, but very important information on the basics for setting up your web properties
1. Goals of a web presence
- To create an on-line presence
- To differentiate your business
- To capture leads
- To grow your business
2. Basic Website Elements
- The homepage will generally be the initial point of contact with your consumers. Make it interesting and engaging as you have about 5-10 seconds to grab a visitors attention.
- An “About” page can further reinforce why the visitor should do business with you.
- Finally, create a “Contact” page that includes address, phone number and e-mail address. Make it easy for the visitor to contact you
3. The Blog
- So why is a blog important?
- A blog is an on-line journal about your company.
- It shows that you know what you’re talking about.
- A blog can be easily updated.
- A blog can be a part of your website or is commercially available from sites like Blogger, and WordPress
4. The Newsletter
- A newsletter provides interesting information to your customers about your company.
- Getting consumers to sign up for your email list means you no longer have to wait for them to come to you, you can go to them.
- It’s a low-cost method to advertise specials and/or sales to an already interested group.
- Email marketing is one of the most effective ways to generate sales ($43.52 ROI for $1.00 spent (DMA 2009)).
5. Social Media Accounts
- Great for capturing leads.
- Facebook and Twitter help you connect with and contact your core community.
- Facebook is more Business to Consumer.
- Twitter is more Business to Business and more group oriented.
- LinkedIn connects you with business clients.
