9xb - Creating Online Success

4 OLD TRICKS FOR NEW DOGS

The way that some people go on about the internet, it is as if everything you ever knew about business has to be thrown out of the kitchen window. Actually, even though we might all be using websites instead of billboards, nothing has changed that much at all.

Think about the way you build a business offline. Online it’s just the same, only quicker.

Networking

Ever been to a business breakfast? Or a seminar? You probably only go in case you bump into someone who needs your service, or someone offering a service you need yourself (unless you just really like bacon.)

Nothing's changed! Online forums, blogs and messageboards serve exactly the same purpose. It’s just people meeting people, and find that they share some interests and goals.

Advertising

So once you used to pay a couple of hundred quid to go in the Yellow pages, just on the off chance that a few people might ring up and enquire? Or you put your logo on the side of your vans?

Nothing's changed! You can still advertise – just on other websites where you think your customers might be looking.

Customer service

No-one ever made a success of their business by treating their customers badly. One or two dissatisfied customers can make or break a business.

Nothing's changed! If you don’t answer your emails or have a usable website, then that can be that, and no amount of marketing can fix it.

Personality

Do you know a business you use because you just like the bloke behind the counter? They might not even have the best product or prices but you’re always recognised and you can chew the cud about football results.

Nothing's changed! Give your website a bit of personality. Use everyday language – greet your visitors, be topical, maybe even crack a joke. They'll love you for it.

Today's moral?

Don't let all this newfangledness blind you to good old-fashioned principles.

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