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Larger Than Life: No Business is TOO Small to Market on the Internet - Rolling Out Your Web site
When you launch a new Web site, the key is to let people know that it's out there and to motivate them to visit it. By using a little creativity and developing your own customized Internet marketing strategy, you can make your audience as excited about your Web site as you are. Below are six ways to help you roll out your Web site.
- Leverage Snail Mail and e-mail
Develop a creative look and feel for a roll-out flyer, fax or e-mail--create some hype. Regardless of the way you choose to announce your Web site, your announcement should include: the Web site address, the launch date and special features of the Web site, such as rotating content or the ability to view account information.
- Use Your Voice Mail System
If you offer directions, e-mail support or other helpful features on your Web site, let callers know via your voice mail system. It may even help to clear up the phone lines.
- Refresh Your Collateral, Stationery and Business Cards
Your brochures, stationery and business cards should include your URL (Web address), as well as any special features of the site. If you can't get new stationery right away, consider designing a label to use for the short term.
- Get the Word Out
Contact your local newspaper or any trade magazines that your customers might read. Let them know about your Web site and ask them to list the link in their directories, or to make a brief announcement about your site in an appropriate area.
- Advertise
Paid advertising, whether traditional or online, is expensive. But a well-placed online advertisement may be well worth the expense, particularly for e-commerce sites. Check with other sites that your customers may visit and inquire about advertising opportunities. Don't forget that some sites will "trade" ad space or links on their site for ad space or links on yours.
- Promotional Products
Design and distribute a compelling promotional item (magnet, pencil or sticker) that will help people remember to visit your Web site. Distribute it at events, or just send it to your current marketing list.
Putting up a Web site can be a big step for most businesses, but that's only the beginning. Nobody will visit your site if they don't know it exists. By using some basic tried and true methods for promoting your site, you'll be growing your online business in no time.
Next Topic: Drive Traffic to Your Web site
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