Five Important Tips to Create an Effective Online Presence

According to the International Telecommunication Union, the total number of Internet users has increased from 1.5 billion in 2006 to 2.3 billion in 2011. This growth encourages businesses to have an online presence to reach potential customers. Although an online presence costs little, businesses must invest their time in order to make sure it is effective. Fortunately, tips for creating a successful web presence are available and ready to implement.

Five Helpful Tips

The following tips will help businesses to be easily and conveniently found online by prospective customers. They can create an online presence by:

1. Sharing remarkable content

Business owners with a blog can share their expertise to attract visitors. Many people search the Internet for a solution to their problems. When they find a blog with high quality and helpful content, they often bookmark/share/like/tweet it and return later to read more. Additionally, they may share the link with friends on their social media wall, resulting in more incoming traffic for the blog.

2. Optimizing websites for search engines and mobile devices

Businesses can strengthen their online presence by having their site indexed by the search engines. One way to achieve this is by optimizing the site layout. For instance, the navigation menu should be coded with HTML and CSS instead of Adobe Flash format. Sites also need to have relevant keywords and keyword phrases. This makes it easier for potential customers to find the site through the search engines. Furthermore, business owners need to use a responsive website design to make it viewable in a tablet and smartphone.

3. Connecting with customers on social media

Being active on social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, increases the opportunity for businesses to be found online. These venues are ideal for interacting with potential customers. Owners can respond to followers’ tweets or answer questions on their Facebook wall. When done consistently, visitors will appreciate the owner’s time to respond, and are more likely to engage in a meaningful conversation. Nurturing two-way communication will make a pleasant experience, and increase the opportunity to turn visitors into leads.

4. Maintaining a positive online reputation

Unlike traditional media, online information spreads like wildfire. Thus, it is necessary for businesses to have a positive image. If customers are not happy with products or services purchased, they often tweet or post their grievances. Business owners should respond professionally and offer a solution. By handling all negative comments professionally, businesses will earn respect and generate more leads.

5. Integrating Quick Response Code

In order to attract more traffic to a website, owners should add Quick Response Code, or QR code, to their printed materials. Smartphone users are able to browse the site after scanning the code. This code is convenient and ideal to move businesses offline marketing online.

The result of implementing the tips mentioned is to increase website traffic. This prompts the search engines to view your website as a popular and authoritative information source. As a result, it will rank high in the search engines. When this happens, the businesses’ online presence strengthens and so does its revenue.

 

Posted on: August 23, 2012