Keeping up to date with website marketing strategies

Most small business owners know they need a website, but promoting your website and keeping up to date with all the latest marketing techniques online is a full time job in itself.  If you're lucky enough to have an SEO expert, then you're half the way there - but there's still lots you can do to increase your Google search rankings so customers can find you.

• list your website and company details with the many free directories available online


• build up email lists and send out regular news updates to your customers, with a link to your website


• build links with reputable information-based organisations


• upload press releases to your site


• change the content of your site regularly (having a news section is a great way to do this)

This is just a few of the strategies available, but to be really successful online, you need to keep at it, and use all the available technologies to drive customers to your site, and create/maintain online exposure.

So how do you keep up to date with the latest techniques on the web?  You can always subscribe to online marketing magazines and search their sites for information, and set up accounts with social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn etc.

My preference, in conjunction with the above, is to search for local training in your area.  www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice is a great place to start, and if you can't find a course to suit, email an adviser and you'll get a response within 24hrs.  Usually courses available for professionals in business are tailored to your busy working day, so often there'll be half day or evening sessions in your neighbourhood.  Not only do you gain knowledge, but you'll also be networking and gaining contacts (don't forget to ask if they want receive email newsletters from you - if they agree, add them to your email contact list).

Go on - get out there and get informed!