Starting out with a new business venture can be nerve wracking. There’s so much to consider in those early days; it can be hard to know where to start. On top of everything else, modern day businesses have to get internet savvy fast to attract customers. But when you’re trying to juggle everything else, the internet can be the last thing on your mind. There’s no need to worry, though. The internet is often a lot easier to negotiate than it first seems. It’s well worth taking the time to work out the basics. It’s crucial that you have an online presence. Here is a list of quick and easy things to get your head around.
WEBSITES
First thing’s first. Your business, whatever it is, is going to need a website. Even if you don’t intend on doing any online trading, a website is a must. The first thing people do when they hear about a company is search the name online. If they can’t find a website for you, they’re much more likely to forget about you all together. Getting your website right is a crucial step towards attracting business. Aim for something straightforward and easy to navigate. Online customers are looking for speed. If they have to trawl through pages of unnecessary information, you’ll lose their interest. Keep it short and snappy. If the world of website design leaves you completely at a loss, a company specializing in e-commerce website design might be the right choice for you. That way, you can hire someone to do the hard work for you!
Your business will be nothing if it hasn’t got its own Twitter account. On the plus side, Twitter is much easier to get to grips with than website design. If you dedicate a little bit of time to understanding this crazy social media, you’ll pick it up in no time. Twitter is a world of hashtags and @ symbols. It’s also the world where you have to say it all in 140 characters. For that reason, Twitter can be an excellent way to hone your sales pitch. It might end up helping you get to grips with your website, too. If you can’t say it in a tweet, it’s probably too long for the attention span of the internet.
COMPETITION
The internet isn’t just useful for driving customers to you. It’s also the most insightful way to keep an eye on your competitors. There’s no other way to delve so intensely into the workings of the companies pitted against you. Keep an eye on their website and social media accounts to see what strategies they use. That way, you can always stay one step ahead of the game. Whatever they do, up your game to keep the customers coming back to you. You can also take inspiration from their online presence to help boost your own.
Never underestimate the power of the internet. Getting that online presence right can really make or break your business.
