Businesses use advertising to allow consumers to learn about their companies and the products and services they provide. Whether the business is an internet enterprise or a brick-and-mortar business, it will not reach its full potential without effectively using advertising to gain potential customers. With so many people taking the plunge and starting their own businesses, advertising is essential to compete with the already established companies in order to attract customers. Here are some basic advertising tips to help online businesses achieve success.

Tip #1:  Obtain a domain name for your website that will be easy to remember. Try to relate it to what your business does, sells or provides. If no business names are available, consider using your real name. You could at least brand your own name which might give you credibility.

Tip #2:  Try to create a great first impression. You will certainly not be able to sell many products if your visitors see your website as less than professional. Utilize sharp images, appealing color combinations, readable textual content, etc.

Tip #3:  Use graphics on your website that spotlight or support the product or service that you are offering. Your graphics should give your visitors a clear picture or understanding of your product, its benefits, etc. You might also consider using ‘before’ and ‘after’ images.

Tip #4:  Explain to your target audience exactly what type of assistance they will receive after they buy. It might be free consulting, technical support, free maintenance and so forth. This may answer several of their purchasing concerns in advance. No one wants to buy products without knowledge of future help if they have problems.

Tip #5:  Develop a helpful, on-going relationship with your customers. Practice good customer service and follow up with your customers on a regular basis. You might follow up with coupons, special offers, helpful advice, etc. Be sure to let them know just how much you appreciate their business.

Tip #6:  Make your purchasing process very secure and inform your prospective customers of that fact. Explain to them what you are doing to protect them on your site.

Tip #7:  Take your business cards with you wherever you go. Have your web address printed on them and give them out to anyone you meet, plus leave your cards with other local businesses where potential customers or prospects gather.

Tip #8:  Incorporate a signature file into all of the e-mails that you send out. Include your business name, phone number, e-mail and web address, etc. Also include a brief description of your business or the product you are selling.

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