Marketing is about being in the right place, at the right time and influencing the right people. Where are you putting your marketing efforts? Do the right people notice you? What is their first impression?
This is a great basic list for any business to increase online presence and integrate all the important elements of modern business practices. I take care of a lot of these for my clients and they pick and choose what they need my help with (according to their budget).
- Create a unique business name and purchase a short, memorable dot com domain. Purchase dedicated hosting (and SSL) with a reputable company or hire a web developer to do this for you. If you don’t have the technical expertise to stay ahead of updates, troubleshooting and developments for devices – I’d hire someone.
- Create G-Suite business email hosting using your custom domain – $6/user/month. Set up delivery on all your devices. This is a beneficial and convenient way for your clients to reach out to you.
- Create a Google account:
– You don’t HAVE to have a street address for this!
– Including all your contact info and some imagery makes a huge boost in search optimization
– This is a MUST for a brick n’ mortar business with a street address and walk-in service
– Google reviews are a wonderful way to increase trust in your business and attract the right people - Join your local Chamber of Commerce. Utilize the networking and advertising benefits. Don’t assume everyone knows who you are even if you are a small town business.
- Register and get accredited with the BBB – especially if you offer local services. We all know how rampant scams are and this is a great way to voice your credibility.
- Join your business trend organizations. Potential clients want to see active engagement in your industry.
- Choose 2-3 social media platforms and set up accounts. I generally recommend Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram depending on your business and services. Engage and keep them up-to-date. You don’t need to spend your day on them, but don’t ignore them either. This also helps improve search optimization for your business and website and fulfills your credibility to your industry.
- Create business banking and Paypal accounts if you don’t already have them.
- Develop a client (past and current) contact list with emails, addresses and other info. Utilize an engaging communication via Mailchimp, Constant Contact or other email service. Stay in touch!
- Keep your professional bio and headshot up-to-date. Appearance is a credibility factor whether we like it or not. Especially to recognize accolades, awards, licenses and organizations you participate with.
- Let’s be honest, blogging is a little weird. But don’t discount the importance of sharing your knowledge, tapping resources and providing your clients a transparent view of your world. This also greatly improves website content and traffic generation.
- Set aside time every month to review income and expenses and marketing efforts. A self-check is very healthy and intuitive for growth.
And of course, let me know if you need any help with these things!