Five Ways to Make the Most of Online Marketing

Marketing online is much more than opening a Website or starting a social media account. While it is true that these things can help you reach your audience, there’s an art to bringing in new visitors. Too many business owners have the idea that an online presence will bring in sales or new clients within a few minutes of creating a Website. It takes time to build a presence. Check out the following tips that will help you get the most out of your online marketing efforts:

1. Check Out Your Competition
No matter what type of business you run, there’s competition. While you may think you have the newest product or service, someone out there has a similar idea or product. It is very difficult to come up with something that has no alternatives in the market. Take the time to look at the people or companies you know or can find that have similar products. See what they are doing, how people are reacting, and take lessons from their efforts. Don’t copy directly, but there’s nothing saying you can’t try out some of their "moves."

Not sure where to start? Look for keywords associated with what you’re selling. Put these into a Google search, then find out who your competition is. By using Google AdWords and their keyword tool you may find new keywords that are working for your competition. It’s all about turning your competition’s success into your success (and avoiding their pitfalls!).

2. Start a Blog
Blogs aren’t just about sharing what you had for breakfast. While many blogs began as personal digital diaries, today blogs are used to inform and educate. The best use for a blog in your marketing efforts is to educate your potential customers. Tell them about your product or service. Let them know what you can do for them. Blogs can hold information, articles, pictures, and they are a great place to showcase videos.