If you're not interested in having an affordable website for your small business, don't read this...
What's more frustrating than not being able to find information about a business?
We have all been there. We know about a business or found a listing and want to know: where is it located? what are their hours? whats the latest information? Phone number?
Let's face it. For many of us small business owners, we need to get our basic information in front of interested prospects. We know that having a website isn't going to get people knocking down our door just because we
are on the web. But we also know that if they don't see us on the web, we either aren't in the picture or we lose credibility.
Now there is Facebook, Twitter, Google Places, Google Adwords plus many other programs out there. I think there are places for some or all these programs. For many small business owners, we don't how they all fit together for our business needs
It's not easy figuring out what to do and where to spend your money, time and effort
The 4 Must Haves for any business
I believe for many small businesses, there are a few basics that are 'must haves' in today's business environment and then there are additional programs if needed.
First, you must have a plan. I don't think it has to be elaborate though it may be. I remember reading a small business consulting book a few years ago and the authors found differencing answers when interviewing successful business owners Some stated that they felt they were successful because they had a plan and stuck to it. Others felt they were successful because they had a plan and deviated as necessary. But they had a plan.
When working with my clients, I go through a 3 page interview form that helps define the client's business, their 
existing client demographics and prospective clients. Having this information provides a solid foundation for developing their website and other marketing materials.
Second, claim you place on Google Places (Maps) even if you don't have a physical location. Though Google does not charge a fee, there are a few steps involved.
Third, you must have a website with relevant information about your business. This is minimally like an online brochure. Pertinent information for your clients and your prospects. Give them a reason to call or visit you.
Finally, you must be on Facebook with a Business Page (this is different from your Personal Page). Google frowns on using a Personal Page for Business.
This is what River Oak Technologies does for small businesses - generally for $500 or less! One time charge!
We sit down with you and help you fill out your marketing / business questionnaire. If we don't know what you are selling and figure out why someone should do business with you, the best web site in the world won't help.
Then we get your business set up in Google Places. We need people to find you.
Finally using the information from the interview form, we design a small web site (1 -2 - 3 pages) that has your relevant information. We also help you get a domain name and hosting if necessary. We build in the marketing to get your prospects to contact you.
Please click on the links below for examples for Smaller Websites that work:
| www.SpringCreek-GolfCourse.Com | www.WhiteTavern.Com | www.MyOldOaks.Com |
| www.TeachMeAboutMyComputer.Com | ||
Working with Social Media
In today's environment, we are using video, Facebook links and Twitter to get our message out to out clients. As these evolve, we are adding them to our websites. We can have your Twitter posts appear on your homepage, videos and other links.
For a free phone consultation, please call me at 630.780.5935
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Alan Dean Professional Profile |
Find out if a little time now can save you a lot of frustrations. Available afternoons and early evenings. |
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