5 Ways to Generate More Business Online

Previously, we've talked about ways to start Going Paper-Less and introduced some of our favorite apps for Productivity and Personal Improvement. This time, we'll lay out a few easy and cost effective ways to get a leg up on your business competition and increase visibility and sales.

1. Make your website mobile friendly

An excellent website is an invaluable tool for every business. How many companies do you reject because their website isn't modern, user friendly, or professional? But having an effective site isn't just about being visually appealing.

As more people use their phone as their primary way to browse the internet, having a website that's easy to navigate on phones is becoming increasingly important. Also, if your site isn't mobile friendly Google won't rank it as highly as websites that are, which means less business coming to you and more going to your competitors.

Fortunately, there are some great options available to help you create a clean, professional website. Services like Squarespace and Weebly make it simple to build your website and won't break the bank.

2. Show the right information

Having a website is vital, but if a potential customer gets to your website and can't figure out how to contact you, you've just lost that customer. Have a contact phone number visible on every page, list your service area so people know where you operate, and include a contact form to make it easy for them to reach out.

3. Build name recognition with retargeting

Ever wonder why you're haunted by ads for that new pair of shoes you were looking at on Amazon, on every site you visit?

That's called retargeting and it's easier than you think. Check out services like Perfect Audience and AdRoll and start showing your ads to people who are likely to use your services. Spend as much or as little money as you'd like, and once someone lands on your site they'll start to see your ads on many of the other sites they visit. Your prospect might not be ready to buy the first time they reach your site, but constantly seeing your name and logo means you'll stay on top of their mind when they are ready to move forward.

4. Build an audience on Social Media

Your Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn profiles aren't just other places your customers can get ahold of you. They're perfect for sharing helpful tips and content with your audience. Posting informational (not just self-promoting) content shows that you're an expert in your field and can be trusted to provide your audience with useful information.

Make sure to check out your competitor's pages and the content and offers they're promoting. It's a great way to get ideas for your own material. (It should go without saying, but if you'd like to share their information, give credit where credit is due. Don't try to pass it off as your own work.)

5. Find new leads with targeted advertising

Once you've created your profile and have started posting updates, use Facebook Ads to highlight upcoming offers and any content you've created. Take advantage of Ad Targeting to build an audience of people who are more likely to be interested in your services (for example: homeowners, age 20-60, who have shown an interest in home improvement).

Implementing even one of techniques can generate more business for you. What are some tools or strategies you've used in the past to give yourself a leg up on your competition? Let us know in the comments, or on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!