Every day, more and more businesses are realizing the power of the world wide web as a means to find more customers. Setting up a web site takes little time and money, and in some cases, you can be online in a matter of minutes. Despite this, taking your business still requires planning in order to maximize its marketing value. Here are some key components you must incorporate to your small business website.
1. The Lead Capture Page
As the name implies, the lead capture page is the place where you attract potential customers to buy into your business. Often, a lead capture page will include a short sales copy that provides a detail of what your business does and how it can help your customers. Also, and more importantly, it should include a sign-up form asking for the name and e-mail address of the potential client. The purpose of the sign up sheet is for you to update clients on the latest news, tips, and other pertinent information related to your business. In online marketing lingo, this is called E-mail marketing. Many consider E-mail marketing as a powerful tool for businesses because of its ability to maintain clientele relationships.
2. Blog
Any business with an online presence will need a blog, regardless if its hosted on the mother website or on a separate server (i.e. Blogger.com blogs). Like e-mail marketing, blogs help businesses establish and maintain ties with their clients. In addition, it is considered cost-effective because it allows businesses to cut their expenses on some things, such as customer service. Businesses can use blogs to answer common queries about their products and services without having to pay too much on customer service representatives. The ability of blogs to capture comments and suggestions provide businesses with a good idea of what their client base needs.
3. Social Media Widgets
With millions of people wired to social networking accounts, it is no surprise that social media has taken on such a powerful role in the online marketing strategy of many businesses. Social media builds communities and provides businesses with a loyal base of customers. Often, social networking sites will have ready-made html codes that you can copy and paste onto the code structure of your website.
4. Mobile-Friendly About Page and Contact Information
Improvements in the integration of Internet technology with mobile devices has resulted in the increased influence of cellular phones in driving the engines of E-commerce. As a small business owner, you can capitalize on this trend by creating mobile-friendly webpages. Forget the fancy pictures and the elaborate designs on your contact page. Just stick with the basics. All you need are a few simple information such as your business, a phone number, email, and address.
The components listed above are just the basics. If you can, get creative. The web is filled with all kinds of tool tools which you can use at your disposal to create a more powerful and personalized online presence for your business.