Reflections on Building your Digital Online Presence
Staking Your Claim Online
In going digital, there are some steps you have to take when staking your claim online. When it comes to options for building a digital presence, there are many options, including things like;
- Local directory listings,
- Websites,
- Mobile apps,
- Progressive web apps
- And social media.
One of the initial things that people can overlook is the reasons for creating an online presence and the outcomes that we are hoping to achieve by going online. Over the years, the number of times I hear someone say that "we have a website" as though it is the end of the journey. Unfortunately, it can be the beginning of a very long journey.
Build it, and they will come.
One of the battler cries in the industry can be that cover all; "build it, and they will come. It couldn't be further from the truth. In the beginning, it can be a matter of getting the basics right; if you get these basics right, it can make a world of difference to outcomes moving forward. These days it's easy for anyone to make a home online.
When we think of an online presence, we automatically think about a website; initially, that may not be the starting point. It is possible to list on local marketing directories; most places have chambers of commerce. Suppose you are involved in a niche business. In that case, most types of businesses have associations that you can become involved in and list your online presence. Doing a Google search can yield many opportunities.
If you have a local business, it is possible to create a listing with Google my Business ( GMB ). One of the benefits is that if someone searches for a service or product in your area, you have a chance to appear in the results. With social media, an entry point could be to create a Facebook page dedicated to providing a glimpse into your business, what you do, and the services and products that you provide. These two options do not cost money to create, so they offer a good entry point when creating that online presence. One of the real positives is that they allow the business to present testimonials from happy customers. In our connected age, that is very powerful; we all look for reviews before making that purchase.
There's a lot you can do without a website, but at some point, you might want to build your own home online. One of the drawbacks of building on other's platforms is that you are subject to their terms and conditions. Build your own online presence, and it can be on your terms; that can be empowering. One of the things that can make a difference can be providing all a potential customer needs to know about you in one place.
Planning is key
As you start to plan your site or presence, the most important thing is to think about what you want people to do when they visit. The key can be to focus on the outcomes you want to achieve.
- Do you want visitors to connect with you via phone or email?
- Do you want them to find your place of business?
- Do you want your customers to make an online booking or make a reservation?
- Do you want your customers to make online orders to click and collect?
If you are looking at creating an eCommerce presence, you might want them to actually buy products from your online storefront; by placing an order or submitting a payment. With e-commerce, there is a range of options, from simple to more complex. Planning is vital, and the focus on outcomes can be the place to start.
At each phase of the planning cycle, the key is to focus on workable solutions. If you want someone to call, put your phone number across your presence, and providing an email makes it easy for someone to connect.
Traditionally websites were the only online homes for businesses and organizations to present their messages to customers and audiences. We have come a long way. These days, many companies create mobile-focused websites, progressive web apps mobile apps for customers to load on their smartphones and tablets. The way we connect is changing.
Apps are opening digital doors.
There are many benefits to developing a mobile-focused approach.
- Accessibility across devices for users.
- Customization for different devices.
- Integration with other systems.
- Maintenance becomes more.
- Increased flexibility and scalability.
- There is security; your data is protected; through encryption.
- Using other web-based applications.
- Your application or site can be loaded directly onto your customer's devices.
- Functionality when not connected.
More Possibilities.
There are many possibilities you can create loyalty programs or automatically send reminders about upcoming appointments. Automatically send and schedule push notifications that can present offers and reminders to your users and visitors. Create online in-application bookings and reservations. Create a presence on social media and provide the ability to share your presence easily.
There are so many options available. Whatever direction you choose, remember this is where people will find you and get to know you, a place where you can create connections and build relationships. Hopefully, your visitors become your customers and, over time, loyal supporters.
If you want people to find you on the web, you must stake your claim online and promote your presence; it is a journey that takes time and patience; the rewards are well worth it.
As always, enjoy the journey.
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