Given the state of the world since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are exploring the possibilities of starting their own online business.
It’s pretty difficult to come up with a profitable internet business given the vast competition. It’s also pretty hard to stand out. However, there are a few surefire tips that could put you on the right track if you’re looking to get noticed online.
Some of the most important ones are listed right below.
Fill A Need
Most people approach business building the wrong way in that they look to introduce a product and then market it. A much better way of going about this would be to do some research into what people want and need. Folks are usually after solutions to their problems or simply an easier way of doing something they’re already doing.
Fortunately, social media has made it easy to know what people want. A few minutes on platforms such as Facebook or Twitter should point you to at least one complaint from a disgruntled consumer. You could also conduct a keyword search in order to find what people are searching for that isn’t catered to by the resources out there.
It’s also worth checking out the competition and tracking what they’re doing to fill a particular demand. You’d then be in a great position to create a product for a market that you don’t have to try to create yourself – you’ll also be able to create something that trumps the competition.
Write Attractive Copy
Great copy starts selling your product from the time it is spotted right through to the time it’s purchased. That’s achieved with attractive headlines and a description of the problem your product will solve.
You should also look to establish yourself as a solver of whatever the problem is and testimonials from satisfied customers will help in that regard. It goes without saying, but do speak about the product and make a compelling argument as to how your product will be of great benefit to potential users. Make a convincing offer, a bold guarantee and, of course, ask for the sale.
When writing your copy, think like a potential customer asking what’s in it for them. Focus on how the product will be able to solve problems in a unique way or improve their lives.
You could also check out this guide to writing copy.
Get That Website Up and Running
Ok, so you’ve got that product, as well as the market you didn’t have to go create. You’ve also established how you’re going to sell whatever it is. It’s now time to get your website up and running.
We can’t stress how important it is to keep things simple. You only have a few seconds to grab someone’s attention and, once they’re gone, they’ll likely never be back. So you’ll need to stand out immediately.
A white background is always optimal, especially for a new business. Choose a simple font and only use graphics, audio, or video if they enhance whatever you need to share with customers. If you’re selling a product that requires a checkout then don’t make the process very long – a customer should be able to purchase your product in two clicks. Of course, make the site customer-friendly.
If you have no experience in web design, you could find someone to build your site on the cheap via sites like Fiverr.
Use Search engines To Attract Buyers
Pay-per-click advertising is the simplest way of getting traffic to your new site. Apart from having you show up in search engines quickly, it allows you to test different keywords, headlines, prices, and sales approaches. It beats having to wait for organic traffic.
Stand Out As An Expert
The internet is mostly used for information and if you can provide that to other sites for free, you’re likely going to stand out as an expert. Always add a link to your site in every bit of information you give away, whether it be something on gardening or helping folks find the best sportsbooks.
If you’re providing articles, videos, or any other media, ensure it’s informative. This will help you reach new readers but, more importantly, provide you with very valuable backlinks.
Build An Email List
Never let a customer go with a single experience, whether they make you money or not – offer to send them emails filled with valuable information. By doing this, and should you get permission, you’ll be giving them something they asked for while developing lengthy relationships.
Email marketing is a lot cheaper than print, TV, or radio as it is targeted. If someone visits your website and agrees to share their email address, you’re already halfway there.
