2012 Website Tips, a Sneak Preview

I know it is a little early to be thinking about 2012, but is it? It is always a good time to get your website poised for the future and SEO is a long-term project. I came across a minor error on my site and thought it would be a good time to address 2012 site readiness. So let’s make our to-do list together.

1. Give your site a checkup. It’s hard to know where you want to go, if you don’t know where you’re at currently. My favorite sites for checking your rank and visibility are Alexa.com and LocalVisibility.org.
2. Similarly, you’ll want to revisit your keywords. Are you still looking to target the same audience with the same services? You may find that your focus has shifted and your keywords need realignment.
3. Update your content. Content is king, remember! Update your site to include any new products. Update your personnel listing. Add social plug-ins. List any current promotions.
4. Plan your online marketing for 2012 now. Start lists of blogs, articles, and status updates that you’d like to use for the new year. In slower times, build up your articles and posts so they are ready to go when you’re busy. If you’re not sure where to find content, ask the people that answer phone calls and emails to write down questions they receive. Use your online networks to your advantage. Ask your communities and followers what they’d like to see in the year to come.
5. Check your links. Where are your incoming links coming from? Are the sources varied, relevant, and reputable? Do all of your outgoing links still work?

What’s on your list for the new year? Share in the comments below.

Internet Marketing for the Writer

The last “Internet Marketing” class I taught was so successful that the Shawano Area Writers asked me to do it again. Take advantage of this FREE seminar at the Shawano City-County Library Thursday, March 18. Join me from 10-11am in the Engel room. I’ll touch on blogging, websites, and article marketing. I’ll also discuss how your website can be found on the internet, tips to improve your site, and even how you can find more time to write.

How to Write a "Contact Us" Webpage

Your contact information is of utmost importance on your website. Many websites have contact information located on each page of their website, but for ease of finding and to appease short attention spans on the Internet, a “Contact Us” page is crucial. If a visitor to your site cannot quickly find what they need, they will go somewhere else.

Your company name should be clearly visible on each webpage. Usually a universal banner is used. Links to the main pages of the website are often located directly below that banner or they are listed in a vertical column on the left side of the webpage.

Visitors to your site should be able to get to your contact page with one click (without scrolling). Contact information should be clear and prominent. A block format is often used. Include a mailing address, phone number, and email address. You may choose to use a contact form in place of an email address.

When possible use links for email addresses. Include contact information for specific departments such as customer service, tech support, and human resources. Keep all information up-to-date and check links regularly. Having a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Page eliminates excess emails. Ensure that phone calls/emails are answered promptly and professionally.

Retail stores or any business that expects walk-ins should include a map and/or driving directions. A picture of your storefront may also be helpful for those looking to visit.

When you have taken the time to create an informative and attractive website don’t overlook the “Contact Us” webpage. It allows visitors to ask questions, order your product, or find your “brick and mortar” location.

"Thank you!" for website review services

I did a review of Kirby's new website and he sent me this nice note:

“Terra, I want to thank you for taking a look at my website and offering suggestions on how to improve it. I believe I used every one of your suggestions and am sure that the enhancements have added additional value to my website.”

Please be sure to check out his site rkdnconsulting.com

Kirby does training like the one I attended here.

Website review is only $30 until Feb 26th!  Call 715-584-6773 or email terra@fletcherfreelance.com today to have fletcherfreelance.com review your website content.

Internet Marketing 101 - Part II

Website Tips

1. Submit your website to Google Webmaster tools to get analytics on your site.

     a. What isn’t measured doesn’t improve.

2. Add more content to your homepage.

     a. Homepages rank highest in search engine results. It is crucial that keyword phrases (what people will use to search for you) are included on your homepage.

     b. Learn SEO (search engine optimization) or get someone to help you that has experience.

Two Keys to Being Found on the Internet

1. Solid content

2. Link building

     a. Comment on other sites/blogs and your name links to your site. Likely the site owner checks you out, too. NOTE: Comments should add value.

     b. Link to others from your blog/site. Some blogs auto track back.

     c. Article marketing such as eZine allows a link in the resource area.

     d. Link worthy content. Others can’t resist linking to you because you’re so good.

Write your Internet Marketing Plan

1. List your goal and strategies. Start general.

     a. Make this list more specific.

     b. Decide on the tactics you will use.

     c. Get out your calendar and write down when critical tasks will be accomplished.

          i. Many people find it easier to work backwards. Picture your end goal. Now what was the last thing that you did before you got there?

2. Consider your budget.

     a. Most people/businesses have either more time or more money.

          i. Figure out what your time is worth.

               (a) Hire someone to take on the tasks that aren’t your thing so you have more time to do your thing.

     b. Track your expenditures and return on investment.

3. Summarize your plan and refer to it often.