Word Count: 721 Date: Sat, 27 Dec 2008 3:40 PM
Doing Business Online Is Not As Confusing As It First Looks
Internet marketing can be quite confusing with all of the new terminology such as SEO, key words, traffic generation, URL links and ISP providers. Whether starting an online business or adding the Internet to an offline marketing program, you may find marketing your web site more daunting than getting it up and running. A few tips about starting a web presence are in order.
Before you create a website, consider your budget and the type of website you need. If you are posting pictures of your trip to France, your best bet is to use one of the free services. These services, however, are not realistic for merchandisers or service providers who wish to sell directly from a website.
Shopping carts are vital to online order processing. There are a number of good services available. Some are free to join and take a small commission from each transaction. Most shopping cart programs, however, are prepaid services with fixed fees.
Once you have determined your needs, the next step is finding a suitable name for your website. Search for a name not in use and with a low price tag. There are alternatives, however.
If you don't want to create a website from scratch yourself, find a service that bundles domain name registration with a ready-to-use site. Many also offer website building packages, so you don't have to master the art of website creation. There is always the option to hire a freelance website designer to build a custom site.
Be sure to check the overall costs versus what you really need before choosing a service provider. Annual costs can range from less than $20 to well over $2000.
Software such as Microsoft Front Page and Adobe Dreamweaver are good choices if you want to keep costs low and design your own web page. Both have built-in templates and "wizards" that will put together a functional website within a few hours.
The drawback to these programs is that the end result may look a bit "canned." It's still a great option if you are short on funds and just need to get your site out there in a hurry. You can always upgrade your site later.
Your website is online; now what? How will anyone find your website?
Internet marketing is a little different than using traditional sales techniques such as network marketing. There is seldom face-to-face contact with customers, so presentation is everything. Your site must be appealing yet easy to navigate.
The biggest hurdle is actually getting potential clients to visit your website. If you are a local marketer with a storefront, get business cards with your website listed on them. Make them easily available to physical customers. It's up to you to promote the website on a one-to-one level.
Many businesses, however, search for wider markets; often including international clientele. If you are among this group, there are several marketing tools available.
You may have heard the term "SEO" (search engine optimization). When a potential client logs into online services, there is a search box available to request information. If your company sells bread making supplies, you will want to ensure that exact phrase, "bread making supplies," is contained within your website. Other "keywords" to increase visits to your website might include "self-rising flour," "cornmeal," "bread makers," "bread recipes," and so on.
Search engines go through your website and position you based on your relevance to your keywords. An understanding of SEO and the most searched keywords for your particular product, ensure that you a better position in search results.
To a first page listing will take some time to accomplish. You want to consider the addition of some form of paid advertising. There are many available: the more popular ones being offered by Google, Yahoo and MicroSoft.
While all of this may seem complicated at first sight, it's really not that bad once you get the hang of it. Find a good, free online marketing training course and you will be well on your way to understanding the world of internet marketing. It's not that difficult to learn when you consider bringing in profits you never thought possible.
About the Author
John Meatte brings a dignified and professional approach to network marketing. He is a top recruiter and network marketing expert who is willing to share his knowledge even with those not on his team. Learn more about Permission Marketing at : http://www.johnmeatte.com/; or call him at 520-744-6786/520-744-4924
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