We’ve put together a few steps. Of course, if you get stuck. We can help!
Choosing a domain name
Choosing a domain name for your business requires careful consideration. It’s best to register a domain name that includes your business name and what it is you do — this helps to inform clients of your business practice whilst improving your visibility on search engines. It’s best to avoid very long domain names (such as www.maryslondoncleaningservices.com) as people may not want to type this long domain name when typing in your email address. You can purchase your domain name from many reputable providers such as www.123-reg.co.uk & www.fasthosts.co.uk
Setting up your email
If possible, always use your-name@your-business.com rather than using a free email address such as Hotmail or Gmail. Remember, first impressions count!!
You may already have an email service included in your domain name package. If not, you can add the service at low cost. If you’re planning on using other online services such as Calendars, Contacts and Documents you may consider Google Apps for Business. You may require some assistance from a friend when setting up your email with your email client (MS Outlook, Mac Mail etc.) but remember, it’s worth taking a look at your email providers online support section first.
Your web site
It’s now time to get your web site online. The design of your site will be crucial when trying to attract business. Take a look at some of the different web designs we’ve produced for businesses in London by clicking on our web design portfolio section. My company designs many web sites for businesses in the London area but of course we have many competitors and you should find a web design company suited to your requirements. Take a look at some of our our top 10 web design tips for clients
Social Media
I recommend all businesses to start using social media. All it costs is your time and you can produce a surprising number of sales leads as a result. You can set up your business’s page on Facebook and adding all your business details. Add a Twitter account too if you think you have time to post regular tweets. Remember to publish news and information that are relevant to the business services you offer. Take a look at this link of 30 Tips for Using Social Media in Your Business
Getting listed in directories
There are many directories online where it’s free to post your business entry (with your new website address of course). Adding your website to a directory will help Google and other search engines find and rank your website’s pages. The higher your listing within search engines, the greater chance you have of attracting more business. Click here for more information on Search Engine Optimisation.
When adding links to directories, the more relevant the directory is to your business the better, so it’s a good idea to take some time to search for niche directories that cater specifically for your business and services. Don’t forget the larger business directories too. Google Places for business is an important starting point. Also try to include the larger directories as a bare minimum OPD, Yelp, Yell, Thompson Local, Scoot, Free Index, and HotFrog.
Our advice is never to use automated submissions as this can do more harm to your rankings than good.
Advertise
Getting your web site online will not guarantee you a steady flow of traffic and more customers as a result. Always set aside some budget for advertising. This can take many forms, online and offline.
Google AdWords, which is a pay-per-click advertising service charges everytime someone clicks on your web site. This is a good way of improving your web site traffic before your organic SEO listings improve.
Blogging
Updating your web site with regular content will help engage your customers in your product or service and also improve yor search engine rankings. All you need is time, energy, original content and a blogging platform. WordPress is a useful blogging tool which has now evolved into a fully-fledged Content Management System (CMS). Once you’ve written your blog remember to post automatically to Facebook and other Social Networks.
Good luck! Andrew
