When a new website is launched or redesigned, you can’t expect a huge spike in visits the day after it goes live. You have to promote it.
In the Internet era, there are more opportunities than ever to tell the world about your new or revamped site, as well as any new products or service your business offers. Of course, some traditional communications can still do the trick, but aren’t always as obvious.
Here are some suggestions on how to get your site the recognition it deserves:
- Social media postings: Do you have followers on Facebook and Twitter? Tell them about the website and how it’s valuable to them. Don’t be shy. Point out a service or feature you offer they might not have known about. Have a LinkedIn account? Post an update or two about the launch.
- Social media profiles: Always make sure you link to your website on your social media accounts. You might be surprised how many people come to your website through social media.
- Email promotions: Do you have an email list? Maybe you sent out a couple of newsletters in 2010 but never did anything more with the list. Now is a good time to start it up again.
- Marketing collateral: Make sure your web address is on your business card, brochures, one-sheets — whatever you hand out to people.
- PPC: Pay-per-click campaigns, such as those run through Google AdWords, can be a good way to get quick traffic. Just remember, they can be costly and don’t necessarily provide a long-term benefit. Unlike SEO, you stop getting visitors the moment you stop paying for the ads.
- Word of mouth: Tell people! Not just random strangers, though. Tell potential clients and others who might find value in your website.
Don’t neglect traditional means. Make routine calls to clients to see how they’re doing. Mention your website makeover as part of the conversation—especially if your website contains information they would find valuable. For major redesigns that include move your company in a new direction, consider designing, printing and mailing announcements on postcards. Small display ads in trade publications or websites can be another way to promote major updates.
There’s really no end to the ways you can promote your site any time it’s updated. Get creative, have fun, and keep trying new opportunities. That will keep your marketing juices flowing as well, and that’s the kind of flow that can lead to more business, more profits.
