Congratulations, you’ve started your business and you’re now an entrepreneur! You have created your website and, basically, “hung your shingle.” Now what? The Internet can be a large, scary place but don’t be intimidated! Even though there are many other entrepreneurs with websites competing for the attention of every Internet user, it’s not that difficult to get noticed – if you’re willing to put yourself out there. Here are some tips.
Get interviewed – Have you heard of Blog Talk Radio? There’s a podcast for just about any subject, and with millions of people choosing to listen it’s easy to see why landing an interview on a popular podcast can really drive traffic to your website, increase your search engine optimization and build your opt in list.
To find opportunities, first look to the podcasts you already listen to. Who among your favorites would be a good fit? Choose a few candidates, then send a polite email explaining why you’d be a good guest, what you’ll share with their audience, and why it will benefit the podcaster. Include a link to your website and downloadable speaker sheet.
Can’t find a good show? Maybe it’s time to start your own!
Social Media – In order to get your website in front of the people who can benefit from it, you will need to join a social media community such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or LinkedIn. These sites will generate awareness to your site and send traffic directly to you. The best social media site to start with will depend on who your audience is and where they hang out the most. Think of social media as another way for you to be able to communicate with your customers and become known as an expert in your field.
Guest Posting – Linking strategies are important when it comes to your website rank on the search engines. Guest posts on other sites within your niche are an excellent way to receive traffic and links back to your site in order to get it noticed. Once you have established a relationship with others in your target niche, it will be easier for you to submit articles and guest posts for them to use on their site.
Join a forum – These days there is a forum or community for just about anything you can think of. Find a forum that your target market would be likely to frequent and start up a conversation. The key is not to be a spammer, listing your website URL and then flitting off to the next forum. Actually get into the discussion, find out what the people are looking for and see if the information, services, and products you offer can help.
Live Events – This may seem like a strange idea, but you have to understand that even in the online world, the relationships you create will make or break your business. Not only will you be able to promote your business at live events, but you will also meet and learn from some of the experts in your niche. Some of the most successful businesses out there owe it all to the JV partnerships created during these events. On another note, meeting new people, hearing about their successes and failures, and establishing relationships are some of the most beneficial things you can do for your self-growth and the growth of your business.
However, avoid a mistake I see too frequently with the entrepreneurs I consult! Do not let all those business cards you collect set idle on your desk! Enter the contact information in your database and touch base with a well-crafted, email within one week of the event.
The key thing to remember when marketing your website is not to be afraid to try new things and put yourself out there. There are so many methods and techniques you can use to build a foundation for your business. Be yourself, and be genuine to your target market and those you want to help. Although you may not be an overnight success, the time and effort you put into taking your business to the top will make it that much sweeter when you do succeed.
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